Search - Adam McIntyre :: Per Ardua

Through Adam McIntyre's jubilant debut and somber sophomore effort ran a thread of longing; of yearning for something more. McIntyre finds the first missing piece of the puzzle on his new EP "Per Ardua", the first in a series of increasingly experimental pop EPs planned for the next two years. Following a whirlwind year in which he toured extensively as a sideman, became a father, lost his father and underwent throat surgery, McIntyre took his music in a new direction with a new voice (literally -- thanks to the throat surgery -- but also as a songwriter and arranger). Per Ardua, a McIntyre family axiom meaning "through struggle", represents a more individually defined sound for McIntyre. From the deceptively gentle beginning of "Together and Alone" to the primal climax of "Proscription Day", this six-song EP traverses a winding course between emotional baggage and light-hearted comic sensibility. "America", a song about a nearly disastrous trip to England, is angular pop featuring classical guitars and counter-melodic bass over frantic drums. Devo's "Girl U Want", while faithfully recreated, draws more from British Invasion-cum-punk than new wave. "Liquid Girlfriend" sees McIntyre behind vintage keyboards and manning harmonized guitars -- the effect is pleasantly surreal. Once again, Adam covers most of the instrumental bases on the record, and this also marks his first self-produced effort. With strength of voice and a focused sonic vision, McIntyre raises his own bar with Per Ardua. But what Per Ardua really has in spades is great songs. We really hope you enjoy it.