One album from last year that slowly grew on me until becoming a favorite was Josh Ritter’s The Animal Years, with “Girl in the War” being one of my top songs of the year. Now, Ritter is back with The Historical Conquests of Josh Ritter, and from the songs and clips I’ve heard, it’s a major step for him. It still has all the folk heart of his first three (great) albums, but he’s expanded his sonic palette without falling into the typical “hey! I’m maturing!” problems. He obviously has a larger recording budget, and he’s put it to good use. Really good use.
The album comes out tomorrow, August 21, and I’m hoping it gets all the attention he deserves here in the U.S. This guy is, in my opinion, the best thing out of Idaho since Built to Spill and he merits all the praise he gets. He just writes solid songs rooted in American folk and rock traditions, and in such a way that I feel almost anyone can enjoy them. Below are two tracks off The Historical Conquests and the amazing “Girl in the War” from The Animal Years. I particularly love the piano attack on “Rumors.” Enjoy!
“Rumors” | Josh Ritter
“To the Dogs or Whoever” | Josh Ritter
“Girl in the War” | Josh Ritter
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i’m so, so very happy you posted this. i love girl in the war. i’m pretty excited to hear more.
I just saw him two nights ago when he opened for Grace Potter & The Nocturnals. I wasn’t too impressed right off, but he’s growing on me, and he seemed to really have a fun time on stage.