A remarkable four-disc set of B-sides and rarities, JOIN THE DOTS serves as a sort of alternate history for the Cure, one of the world"s most beloved post-punk/alt-rock bands. Painstakingly compiled by Cure frontman (and the group"s only constant member) Robert Smith, DOTS provides dozens of glimpses into the literal flip-side of their singles by collectingmany long-lost tracks, including the classic songs previously featured only on the cassette version of STARING AT THE SEA: THE SINGLES. Disc one begins in the late 1970s and consists of early tracks that show the Cure in a wildly adventurous mode--tearing into the punky "Pillbox Tales", driftingthrough the gloomy "Descent", and bouncing along to the oddly danceable "Throw Your Foot". By disc two, Smith and the lads have become college-rock heroes, and despite their goth looks, they move steadily into poppier territory on songs such as the synth-laden "Breathe" and the upbeat "Hey You!!!",eventually settling into their dreamy post-DISINTEGRATION era on "This Twilight Garden", "Halo", and "Home" on the third and fourth discs. Also included are cover tunes and remixes, topping off an impressive collection that features many could"ve-been A-sides (particularly "The Exploding Boy", "Harold and Joe", and "Signal to Noise") and reveals why a younger generation has become entranced by the Cure"s dynamic sound.