Artist description Josh Ritter is a twenty-two year old songwriter from Moscow, Idaho who now tours out of Providence, RI. Ritter's music is a decidedly fresh take on the American folk tradition, fusing vibrant and imaginative lyricism with raw, sparkling musicianship. While much of his repertoire is rooted in acoustic guitars, bass, and drums that recall early recordings of The Band, the inclusion of the cello and Indian tambura moves Josh's music into more experimental, sonic waters, making a nod toward artists such as The Silver Jews and Tom Waits.

Music Style Folk/rock/indie/country

Musical Influences Silver Jews, Nick Drake, Tom Waits

Similar Artists Silver Jews, Tom Petty, The Mother Hips, Nick Drake

Artist History Josh first discovered Ledbelly and Johnny Cash as a junior in high school, and now, as agraduate of Oberlin College, Ritter's lyrical and performing abilities are packing aloyal following from around country into venues ranging from bars and coffeehouses to the Kent State Folk Festival.Josh has opened for such folk luminaries as Gillian Welch and Carrie Newcomer. Josh now tours out of Providence, RI.

Group Members Josh Ritter: vocals, guitar; and on select tracks: Zack Hickman: bass, organ, harp;Darius Zelkha: drums, percussion, spooky sounds;Tom Graves: cello

Instruments Guitar, bass, drums; occasional cello and Indian tambura

Albums Josh Ritter (self-titled debut)

Press Reviews "It may seem strange to call someone playing a style of music that's decades old "alternative," but like neo-punk honky tonker A Bullet for Fidel, Oberlin's Josh Ritter takes the sounds of the past and re-enlivens them with sheer passion and a modern lyrical sensibility." - The Cleveland Free Times

Location Providence, RI - USA

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