The Cult

The Cult are an English rock band formed in 1983, led by vocalist Ian Astbury and guitarist Billy Duffy. They emerged from the UK post-punk and gothic rock scene with brooding, atmospheric records before reinventing themselves in the mid-to-late 1980s as a hard rock band steeped in classic rock and metal influences.

Their breakthrough single «She Sells Sanctuary» (1985) remains a goth-rock and alternative-radio staple, while the album «Electric» (1987) and its follow-up «Sonic Temple» (1989) — featuring hits like «Love Removal Machine» and «Fire Woman» — pushed the band to mainstream rock success in the United States. Duffy's riff-driven guitar work and Astbury's Jim Morrison-influenced delivery became the band's signature.

Despite lineup changes and periods of hiatus, The Cult have continued releasing albums and touring for decades, remaining respected as a bridge between the post-punk underground and arena hard rock, influencing later alternative and gothic rock acts.