aeblog

infectious

Josh Ritter is a happy guy. Or perhaps Josh Ritter simply smokes a lot of pot. Like I said, he's a happy guy. As soon as he came out on the stage at Paradise on Saturday night, it was impossible not to feel his excitement, energy and sheer gratitude for having the opportunity to perform for us. I found myself not even caring if it was all an act. He was super-smiley and it seemed 100% genuine and I was happy to give in to it.

Josh Ritter isn't breaking any new ground musically; he isn't blowing anyone away with his technique; he isn't even doing anything that is all that different from many other folk rockers. So perhaps it is some magic combination of song-writing talent and natural exuberance that makes him such a joy to see.
He has written some really beautiful songs and his voice is truly perfect for his brand of folkiness. He performed with a backing band of drums, bass and keys, though perhaps the most powerful song was played with no amplification on voice or guitar. The band was fine, but I wasn't too impressed with anyone other than the bassist, Zack Hickman, who had such a grasp and understanding of the music that his lines and sound felt like they were born at the same time as the songs themselves. He did some very tasteful backup vocals as well.

Though I am extremely jealous that this mid-to-late twenty-year-old (conflicting internet information) has three albums under his belt and is rising fast, I will gladly admit that he deserves every bit of fame. And it is great to see that a semi-major label (V2) would support this kind of music.

I'd be happy too...