Curve (band)
Curve was a British alternative rock and electronic music duo formed in London in 1990. The band consisted of Toni Halliday (vocals, occasional guitar) and Dean McNamee (guitar, programming, keyboards). Noted for their blend of distorted guitars, industrial textures, and Halliday's distinctive vocals, Curve were a prominent act in the shoegaze and alternative music scenes of the early 1990s.
The duo met while working in different bands on the Anxious Records label. They initially released a series of acclaimed EPs, including "Blindfold" and "Frozen", which established their signature sound. Their debut album, Doppelgänger, was released in 1992 to critical and commercial success, reaching the UK Top 30. The album showcased their ability to combine aggressive, guitar-driven tracks with atmospheric, electronic soundscapes.
Following Doppelgänger, Curve released Cuckoo in 1993, a more experimental and challenging album. Although commercially less successful than its predecessor, it further cemented their reputation for innovation and sonic exploration. Internal tensions and burnout led to the band's initial split in 1994.
Curve reformed in 1997 and released Come Clean in 1998, followed by Gift in 2001. These later albums saw the band exploring different sonic territories while retaining elements of their signature sound. Following Gift, the band largely ceased activity, though reissues of their earlier work and occasional remixes continued to appear.
Throughout their career, Curve were known for their strong visual aesthetic and impactful live performances. They toured extensively, supporting acts such as The Cure and My Bloody Valentine. Their influence can be heard in the work of many subsequent alternative rock and electronic artists. The band officially disbanded in 2005.