I’m not sure exactly what “Artifex Pereo” means, but I know enough about the band to know that they are the best band Tooth and Nail Records have added to their roster in years. Time in Place is billed by the band as an album of “experimental art rock”, which paints a slightly different picture in my mind than what the music actually is – although they aren’t lying. Time in Place ought to win over many new fans, yet I wouldn’t call this an album of instant gratification.

This is a record where it legitimately is easier to talk about the whole thing rather than individual songs. That sounds like a cop out I know! But I will try to point out a few things.

As I said before, “experimental art rock” might not be the descriptor I’d use for Artifex Pereo. There’s an obvious Circa Survive/Saosin influence that emerges throughout, although to compare the vocals to Anthony Green would be at best controversial in the music enthusiast world. This isn’t to say that the vocals aren’t excellent – they are. Yes, excellent. Strong, diverse, and on point – in an alternative universe vocalist Jamie Davis may have fronted a pop punk band. Goodness, I’m glad he chose this route. “No Stranger to Worry,” if you really pay attention, actually shows off his range quite well.

Post-hardcore influences (a proverbial brushstroke here and there) emerge as well. This is notable on “Hands of Penance,” the single chosen for testing at RadioU (it remains to be seen at the time of this writing whether the song will be added to regular rotation).

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One thing I like about this record is that while it certainly isn’t anywhere near being devoid of emotion, I can choose to just rock out without worry if I desire. Some songs just DEMAND you feel every emotion and thought the writer is portraying. Artifex Pereo does not. The message and feelings are there if you look for them – and they are genuinely placed in a way that makes me appreciate them. But, the emotive aspects of songs (i.e., “To Listen and Say Nothing”) do not jump down my throat.

Another thing I enjoy about the record are the periodic curveballs it throws in song structure. Tempo changes most obviously from the norm in “Tied to the Sunset”, while the mellow “Overview” at times feels like an extended interlude, although it could rightfully be called a ballad as well.

Kids, don’t skip out on Artifex Pereo. I eagerly await the day I experience these songs live.

Score: 4.4/5

Artifex Pereo is on Facebook, and you should buy their record from iTunes!