In Josh Ritter’s latest release, “Bringing in the Darlings,” he trades in the long sprawling narratives for some sweet pop songs coupled with the word darling. Recorded in mid-October of last year, this release highlights producer Josh Kaufman music talent alongside Ritter’s vocals. The resulting mix of singer/songwriter tunes doesn’t vary much, but then again that’s not it’s purpose.

Ritter describes these songs as “lullabies” and in doing so makes a perfect winter night time listening experience. The backing vocals do a great job of tying the songs together on the EP. The only track that full deviates from the album’s mode is “See Me Through” which trades in the acoustics for electrics and a more crisp drum sound.

The resulting mix of happier tunes is one that may take a bit of getting used to, but one that doesn’t overwhelm or bog down the EP. Perhaps this is a new direction for future Ritter albums, but until then, the resulting mix is a joy to descry.

Album Rating (Modified Rating): Stream It or Digitally Download It

Listening Co-efficient: Active Listen

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