A Re'Ward'ing experience By Jennifer Johnson, Staff Writer Musician Adam Ward's recently released self-titled debut album puts everything out there, exposing all the power and depth that this young artist possesses. On this eight-tracked effort, Ward, a UNH junior from Hinsdale, New Hampshire, proves himself to be a serious musician and talented songwriter. He puts forward an impressive first effort, disproving the theory that independently released CDs are rough works in progress. The sound of Ward'ss voice on this CD is effective in its simplicity. It's pleasant enough, slightly gritty, and more comforting than amazing. Ward reminded me of a Jerry Garcia connection I can'st quite illustrate, except to say that the rougher qualities of Ward'ss voice allow his lyrics to come through unfettered, in much the same way that the Grateful Dead's front man allowed his words and ideas in his songs to shine through. The lyrics come through first and foremost, accented by easy vocals and smooth harmony (provided on the CD by Ward's father, David). There is no pomp on this album, and it's refreshing to know that Ward is not trying to stun listeners with studio tricks or vocal explosions; he sticks with his strengths and does not overstep his range of comfort. Ward's guitarmanship bears none of the simplicity of his vocals, and his style echoes such legends like Carlos Santana. There is an amazing diversity to his style. On the opening track ("Quebec") the sound is pure rock, and the guitar drives the song while stronger vocals and accompanying harmony pulls it all together. And then on track eight, "How We Are," it becomes clear that Ward can pull off a meandering, sweet, and understated acoustic style with equal ease and finesse. I was blown away by Ward's lyrics. He writes with an honesty and candor, rare from any artist but especially surprising given his young age, plus the fact that this is his premiere album. He covers subjects running the gamut from love gone sour ("Push You Away") to human nature and happiness ("How We Are") with a pit stop in summer fun ("Lazy Days"). The listener will laugh along with Ward, commiserating, as he psyches himself up to talk to his dream girl. "I wish she would sing for me. Like a siren she feels the beat. I want to hear her music. I want to be a part of her beat," ("Girl Downstairs"). You can hear the pain dripping off of "Six Stories Down," knowing exactly how it feels when: "Night has fallen and I feel so alone. Without you by my side. And I'm miles from home." There is a great narrative quality to Ward's style, similar in many respects to folk legends like Bob Dylan. Check out "Far Away," an ode to a friend who he lost: "Thinking about all the times you know. You were there for me and you were my friend. Far away from where you are now. In heaven, In heaven's unearthly estate." Ward does not date himself or limit himself with his lyrics, he writes music for people to enjoy not music geared towards a specific group. Who hasn't had the loss or the euphoria that Ward captures so well in his songs? With each track I listened to, I decided to write that track up as my favorite. There is one word for this CD: seamless. There is not a single song that does't stand on its own as entertaining and emotive. For the total package- understated vocals with soaring, supporting harmonies, impressive guitar playing and lyrical genius, listen to "Far Away" and "How We Are." Adam Ward is just getting started and is already a force to be reckoned with. If you're looking for a breath of fresh, musical air, or perhaps the next big thing, check out Ward's CD or go listen to him live at one of his frequent area gigs. Kill two birds with one stone, support a fellow UNH student, and make you ears happy.