This brings up the question about debut albums. There is a rawness and realness about debut albums that I find exhilarating. Often not musically a bands best work but there is something about the exuberance and innocence that I find fascinating.
Nothing wrong with novelty pop indeed. That isn't the same as liking every novelty pop record ever made ;). It is about quality well written music regardless of genre. Love Cats is well written novelty pop imho. Love the bass line too.
The Cure have the ability to write amazing pop songs like Love Cats and terrible terrible dross like Friday I'm in Love. That is what makes them the band they are.