Pertinax – a word meaning to persist, stoically. A divinely interesting title, which quite perfectly represents the mystique and depth of the music within. UK alt-pop band and united couple SURIS return this year, with a full-length album that’s boldly artistic, unexpected, and brilliantly gripping.
Thirteen original tracks, a creative atmospheric production style that’s unique in both its melodies and tones, Pertinax is a fascinating independent album, from a dream-pop experimental duo whose songwriting consistently explores the unknown in a fresh, poetic fashion.
As an introduction to that approach, Mended is superb – an unorthodox set-up, with intimate vocals and a strong groove, a long-form melody blending folk and power-ballad qualities, building towards a simple, snappy and satisfying hook.
It’s a huge, momentous opening moment, a rising energy that showcases both the versatility of our lead singer, and that of the ever-evolving sound-design and musicianship that supports her. The music is a joy to escape into, genuinely imaginative and original, and then there’s the lyrics – the final resounding sentiment, that nothing is more beautiful than a mended thing. The idea and sound are wonderful, and quickly prompt you to listen back through the full arrangement, to dive into the warmth and concept all the more so.
To describe this band in a shorter frame, SURIS is mysterious but relatable – modest and light to impassioned female vocals, a profoundly colourful array of synths, drums, keys and other instruments, cascading through the airwaves in an ambient to energised way. Meanwhile, the songs and stories meander from unpredictable to pure and catchy, always gathering a momentum and groove that’s uplifting to lose yourself within.
This description suits the opener, but even more so, it suits the following song Last Train Home pretty perfectly. We begin with intrigue, and wind up amidst an all-together-now explosion of unity and catchy optimism. The unusual and the satisfying walk hand-in-hand, and that makes for a brilliantly refreshing listen. All the while, these concepts and musings, the thoughtful depth and provocative poetry of songs like Now, with its welcomed twist of saxophone (from the very talented Felix Flower), are incredibly moving, inspiring, and effectively linger in the mind – long after the melodies have settled.
“Did you think a beard would hide your shame” is a sensational opening line, Eruption fearlessly diving into a scornful and confronting story, which again feels as poignantly original, quirky, and catchy as ever. Then we move into something uplifting and hopeful, for Whole, before the soaring rock swagger and snappy lines of Take all she brings inject a vibrancy and an earworm that’s addictive to let play.
The creativity of the project continues to exceed itself, as Huma delivers an other-worldly, atmospheric gem of a track, with a depth of both design and concept that’s powerful. The song tips its hat to the likes of Pink Floyd, Queen and Kate Bush, in its poetic and powerful scene and artistry. We then move into a more familiar, calming sense of reflection and piano-led intimacy, for Still Life – ultimately an energised anthem, which is no doubt superb to witness in the live setting.
During the album’s second half, a touch of something Tori Amos-like leans towards a more classic ballad, for the unforgettable and impassioned Armour of Love. Then we’re taken on a more stirring journey, for the again provocative and intriguing Listen – a big-band crescendo elevating the progression of the song in an unignorable and impactful manner.
At the penultimate moment, Born to be with you is divinely performed – piano and voice, riding bass, a rising rhythm, a self-confronting introspection and resulting brightness and power that’s euphoric. Then to finish, unique keys and natural-world fragments lay down a compelling new scene and story, for the creatively poignant poem and supreme musical build up of Fugue; one of several personal favourites.
Of all the albums to cross the airwaves this summer, Pertinax is easily the one that most notably prompts you to spend more time with it. A single listen does not suffice, and these ideas, melodies and outbursts stay with you, and leave you wanting to re-explore the intricacies of the full journey.
Why this title? What connects these ideas and feelings? There’s so much to unpack, and yet at the same time, the cinematic presence and performative charm of the project lets the music simply engage with and entertain its listener. In short, Pertinax is stunning, and impressively free in its artistic and playful creativity.
Visit the Suris Website for more music & info.
