Disregarding appearances, Dublin, Ireland's Republic of Loose could be mistaken for an American hip-hop collective. With a 12-strong roster, seven core members, and five "associates," the group has done little to play down the association. Like the Rolling Stones (an admitted influence) before them, Republic of Loose's key influences are unashamedly contemporary and unashamedly American, their music a curious blend of gangster rap, smooth popular soul and classic funk, with a healthy dose of the surreal thrown in for good measure. Yet, as ridiculous as seven Irishmen sporting cute pseudonyms and masquerading as gang-bangers may appear, Republic of Loose have the musical chops to pull the illusion off.