Three Imaginary Boys is The Cure’s debut album, released in 1979, showcasing their early post-punk sound. Unlike their later atmospheric and gothic work, this album is raw, energetic, and minimalist, with sharp guitars, driving basslines, and punchy rhythms. The record reflects punk’s influence while hinting at the darker, more introspective direction the band would later take. Though Robert Smith later expressed dissatisfaction with the label’s control over the album’s tracklist and production, Three Imaginary Boys introduced The Cure to the world, featuring live favorites like "10:15 Saturday Night" and "Fire in Cairo". The album would soon be followed by the compilation album Boys Don’t Cry, which included additional tracks like "Boys Don’t Cry" and "Jumping Someone Else’s Train", further cementing their early success.

Tracklist:

Side A:
A1. 10:15 Saturday Night
A2. Accuracy
A3. Grinding Halt
A4. Another Day
A5. Object
A6. Subway Song

Side B:
B1. Foxy Lady (Jimi Hendrix cover)
B2. Meathook
B3. So What?
B4. Fire in Cairo
B5. It's Not You
B6. Three Imaginary Boys
B7. The Weedy Burton