Reissue review of the week...

Josh Ritter

The Animal Years

Independent Records ****

This is undoubtedly a collector’s item, complete with design work reminiscent of the heyday of long player gatefold sleeves. It’s a double album that pushes Josh Ritter one step closer to that plinth reserved for the most searing songwriters: Springsteen, Waits and Orton (Beth). The third in a series of reissues of Ritter’s platinum-selling originals, The Animal Years comes with its very own Nebraska: a cold-plated, bare naked acoustic partner to its more studio-friendly older brother. Ritter’s lyrical honesty has sacrificed none of its value, and in their stripped-down state, everything from Girl in the

War to Idaho amplify the intimacy of their storylines. Ritter’s voice gains from the acoustic setting, as well, so that this limited-edition release copperfastens his reputation as an artist whose ace card is still his live performance. Speaking of which: Ritter tours Ireland from this week. www.joshritter.com

Download tracks: Girl in the War, Monster Ballads