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Josh Ritter
The Animal Years
(V2)
V2 isn’t the most likely home for Idahoan singer-songwriter Josh Ritter, but he certainly intends to make an impression.
Utilizing Chicago’s Brian Deck (Califone, Modest Mouse) as producer, Ritter’s fourth album and first in three years — aren’t these guys supposed to be prolific? — roots out his usual playfulness and gets damn determined to make itself an important outing. Among the tricks in his bag are conversational religious references (“Peter said to Paul . . .”), passing mention of places seen (Missouri, Idaho, Illinois), women’s names, and why not Hamlet (“Thin Blue Flame”)? Ritter’s gentle way with arrangement and melody conspire to make sure things don’t stick out, but since part of his message is his anonymity, it works.
— Steve Forstneger
Appearing: April 21st at Double Door in Chicago.
Click here to download “Girl In The War.”
