Josh Ritter on writing his new album

Josh Ritter’s seventh studio album, The Beast In Its Tracks, was a startlingly personal affair, largely inspired by the break-up of his marriage. With album No. 8, however, the vivid storyteller we’d come to know and love has returned – and how.
“It was very easy to write about these things,” he says, reflecting on the familiar themes of Americana that flow through Sermon On The Rocks. “Writing about going home, and the places that I can remember – as long as you don’t put in too many specific details – can speak to a lot of different people’s experiences.”
Indeed, in conversation with Colm O’Regan, the singer-songwriter admits that much of the process flowed naturally; having become a father for the first time, the biggest problem may have been finding the chance to work.
“Being the parent of a new baby means your hands are always full. Ideas are rolling around your head like marbles. You’re trying to hold onto them but they’re getting rounder and smoother.
“But when you have a couple of hours its joyful, because you’ve been looking forward so much.”
For the full lowdown on the new record – including the inspiration of the sights and smells of New Orleans, and the importance of the guiding hand from production queen Trina Shoemaker – pick up the new issue of Hot Press, on shelves Thursday October 15. To purchase your copy of Hot Press 39.18 right now, order online direct from hotpress.com.
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