Seven Nations is a Celtic band, formed in New York, based in Florida and primarily associated with bagpipe rock.

The Cure is an English alternative post-punk/new wave pop band known best for gothic angst.

Who would have thought one would cover the other?

Seven Nations makes it work on A Celtic Rock Tribute to The Cure. Sure, the album's title lacks imagination, but the execution of the music -- with 7N's lead singer Kirk McLeod doing his best interpretation of The Cure's Robert Smith -- is fantastic.

It's tough to know just who to credit with the music, however. Besides McLeod, the album's terse liner notes fails to name any performers -- I'm not even sure it should be considered a Seven Nations project. Various references to the album online suggest McLeod collaborated with various musicians along the way. (Amazon.com, not always a reliable source of information, sells the MP3s under the Seven Nations banner, but lists the CD under "various artists," so don't look for answers there.)

The unnamed fiddler in particular deserves credit for giving this music a Celtic flair. I'm surprised, on the other hand, that bagpipes aren't a driving force here.

Bottom line is, the album is fun. Look for plenty of Cure favorites here, including "Just Like Heaven," "Love Song," "The Love Cats," "Friday I'm in Love," "Let's Go to Bed," "Fascination Street" and "Boys Don't Cry."

[ visit the artist's website ]