Review

Adam Hurt started his musical career studying classical piano, then picked up the mandolin to learn the mysteries of bluegrass, and finally drifted to the banjo to explore old-time music. With such a background, one might imagine Hurt turning into the Béla Fleck of old-time banjo, but that isn't the case. While he's not a purist, the young clawhammer specialist manages to keep firmly rooted as he explores contemporary sounds. Featuring multi-instrumentalist Brian Wicklund, fiddler Anni Spring, and guitarist Bill Cagley, Intrigue displays a full, though mellow, sound. A gentle version of "Cumberland Gap" makes way for the danceable "Half Past Four," which merges into the banjo/guitar duet "Forked Deer." Looser, experimental pieces like the waltz-flavored "Metsakukkia" and the easygoing, spacious "Snowdrop" fit snugly with more familiar fare. Hurt plays with clarity and emotion, and the success of this project speaks to his ability to bridge both traditional music and newer sounds. While many acoustic players get lost in new age vagueness, Hurt relies on original arrangements to spice up familiar pieces. This approach imbues "The Red-Haired Boy/The Musical Priest" with an organic quality and "Sally in the Garden" with a tender delicacy. Intrigue is the perfect name for an album that will fascinate aspiring banjoists on both ends of the spectrum.