Seven Nations is made up of five guys who make great alternative rock music. However, not to be stuck in the rut of sameness, they have a couple of interesting twists: a fiddler and a bagpiper. Both fine traditional musicians in their own right, Scott Long on pipes and Dan Stacey on fiddle have helped Seven Nations to create a whole new sound. With most of their songs written by lead vocalist and guitarist Kirk McLeod, their material is not terribly traditional. However, four instrumental sets are sprinkled throughout the album, including a super high-energy rendition of "Scotland the Brave."

Completing the line up are Ashton Geoghagan on drums and vocals and Struby on bass, guitar and vocals. McLeod's gravely vocals, driving guitar and crashing drums may sound an odd place to find Celtic music, but there it is and it's great. Prior to releasing their self-titled album, they released The Pictou Sessions, an entirely traditional album, which includes some of the same tracks. Though this album is far from traditional, it doesn't hide or hamper the talent of any of the musicians.

The original songs on the album are all well written and arranged with such an understanding of the music that they have managed to make the bagpipes and fiddle seem part of the music, not something totally independent, detracting from the rest of the sound. The final track deviates from the others, as "Trains" is a slower song, with only guitars and mandolin as backup. It is a beautiful end to the album.

The group is truly cohesive and the music is high-spirited yet professional. A note of caution, however, is in order. This is not a dance band or a folk band. They are not very traditional on this album, though they do have moments of traditional purity. They border both Celtic and rock, but often lean towards rock. Do not go looking for "a band with a piper," because you will be disappointed. If you are looking for a group not afraid to bend the boundaries a bit, you may be pleasantly surprised!

- Rambles
written by Jean Emma Price
published 8 May 2004