Some bands survive the passing of time; the Cure transcend it. On what will likely prove the hottest day of 2026, The Cure deliver the perfect soundtrack for over 30,000 fans. Everyone from enthusiastic teens to ill-advisedly black-clad veterans of the post-punk era have assembled at Blackweir Fields, and are treated to a breathtakingly energetic performance that underlines why they’re one of Britain’s most beloved live rock bands.
Excellent support comes from The Joy Formidable and The Twilight Sad, both personally selected by Smith, but this is undoubtedly The Cure’s night. Playing their biggest ever Welsh headline show, a relaxed and smiley Robert Smith and band take us on an emotional journey, with a setlist drawn from six different decades.
Atmospheric opening number Plainsong sets the tone beautifully for a remarkable two-and-a-half-hour set in which The Cure effortlessly balance melancholy and euphoria, moving from moments of haunting beauty to bursts of pure joy and fun.
Some lesser heard songs – Treasure, From The Edge Of A Deep Blue Sea, Prayers For Rain – are greeted enthusiastically by devoted fans, whilst the familiar anthems – Pictures Of You, In Between Days, Just Like Heaven, A Forest, Disintegration – are received by the whole field like old friends, each song prompting huge singalongs from an audience that seemed to know every word.
Smith is known as a musician who cares deeply about his fans, and the connection between band and crowd was a highlight throughout. An amazing, joyous 10-song encore yields an apt Hot Hot Hot!!!, The Walk, The Lovecats, Friday I’m In Love, Close To Me, Why Can’t I Be You? and Boys Don’t Cry. Blackweir Fields is transformed into one giant celebration.
The Cure demonstrate exactly why they continue to resonate with audiences old and new. Their music may often explore themes of longing, loss and heartbreak, but in Cardiff it brings happiness, joy and a sense of belonging.
The Cure, The Joy Formidable + The Twilight Sad, Blackweir Fields, Cardiff, Wed 24 June
words SARAH EDWARDS photos TIM ALBAN
