By Alex Muhindura/reporter

Singer Robert Smith’s unique voice valiantly attempts to rescue the bland and formulaic musical arrangements with mixed results on The Cure’s latest album 4:13 Dream.

The CD is not terrible, but it keeps listeners on their toes patiently waiting for a flurry of creativity that never arrives. It’s like spending all of Christmas Eve eagerly awaiting that new video game, only to find socks in the disappointing box.

Perhaps the letdown stems from the first song “Underneath the Stars.” The sprawling, melodic number mixes various instruments and sounds. It also sounds nothing like the prefabricated remaining 12 tracks that rely on simplistic chord progression. The songs just don’t have any groove.

On the bright side, Smith’s vocals, while melancholy, do jump out of the speakers and drip with authenticity and emotion. He may not brighten any days, but he might make the gloomy ones more bearable.

The only problem with the vocals is that the instrumentals lack the same energy and emotion. They clash to make an odd mix of pop and pain that’s palatable if not appetizing.

Aside from the opening track, “Freak Show” stands out for its bouncy guitar and punchy attitude. The rest of the songs, while OK, blend into a homogenous playlist.

4:13 Dream is worth a listen, especially for Cure fans, but don’t hold your breath awaiting a classic.