We've gotten so caught up in hit-single culture that focus has been taken off the album, the LP, as a whole body of work. Whether or not there's an intentional musical theme or lyrical narrative by an artist on any given record, that's how it's listened to - front to back - and engrained in your brain. The pre- and post-ambles that surround a song are as important as the song itself. That's why we're seeing bands present shows dedicated to an album in its entirety. Judas Priest just did it this summer with "British Steel," and The Cult is doing it now with "Love." Though "Love" is the album that brought the British band to everyone's attention in the 1980's with hits like "She Sells Sanctuary," "Phoenix," and "Brother Wolf, Sister Moon," it was actually the band's second release. Formed from the ashes of Southern Death Cult in 1981, The Cult is built around lyrical mysticism, danceable arrangements, and heavy guitar. Singer Ian Astbury's powerful high-priest baritone wail is majestic and unmistakable.

The Cult

Saturday, November 7

Main Street Armory, 900, E Main St.

8 p.m. | $25-$30 | 232-1900