Former Get Up Kids and current New Amsterdams frontman Matt Pryor knows his way so well around a break-up song that he could teach a course. On "Dear Lover," class is in session. During his days with the emo-pioneering Kids, Pryor scored make outs, make ups and break ups with a tossed-off ease and youthful flair. Now grown, Pryor's life experience floats above acoustic fingerings on "Dear Lover" as he implores, "Hard living's the only way I can get by."

Sounding both worn-down and oddly self-assured, Pryor baldly confesses infidelity, warning knowingly against the hazards of smothering a free spirit -- you may get older, but love doesn't get any easier. The other Amsterdams take a breather, leaving only a simple strum pattern to hold the weight of crushing claims, dictated in letter form, on this take from the band's sessions for their sixth studio long-player. At the Foot of My Rival lands this week via Curb Appeal and the band's own Elmar label. 

Now Hear This
The New Amsterdams - "Dear Lover" DOWNLOAD MP3

On the Web:
The New Amsterdams at MySpace

Talk: 'Dear' New Amsterdams fan: does this B-side 'rival' the band's past achievements?

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