Watch the Cure Debut Two Dynamic New Songs Live

The Cure debuted two expansive new tracks during their Tuesday concert in New Orleans, which kicked off their first major North American tour in eight years. The songs, unofficially dubbed “Step Into the Light” and “It Can Never Be the Same” by the Cure Mexico’s Soundcloud, showcase the band’s signature, brooding post-punk approach, with mastermind Robert Smith moaning over waves of ethereal electric guitar and throbbing bass. As Pitchfork reports (via Overblown), fan-shot footage has also emerged on YouTube. 

“Step Into the Light” is the brighter – relatively speaking – of the two, defined by its melancholy, high-octave bassline. “You don’t really know / You can only believe,” Smith sings, building to a dynamic climax. “It Can Never Be the Same” explores vintage Cure textures, layering guitar harmonics, synth pads and distorted bass into a six-minute storm cloud. 

Stream the Soundcloud recordings below:

The band’s North American tour will encompass 27 dates in 22 cities, concluding June 26th in Miami. These concerts mark the Cure’s first major North American jaunt since 2008, promoting their 13th (and most recent) LP, 4:13 Dream. In a statement announcing the trek, the Cure promised to “explore 37 years of Cure songs,” including hits, deep album tracks and new material.

Over the last eight years, the band has performed at numerous major festivals, including Coachella, Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits, Riot Fest and Voodoo Experience.