What makes Hello Starling by Josh Ritter notable?

'Hello Starling' received critical acclaim upon release, with tracks like 'Kathleen' becoming fan favorites and helping Ritter gain traction on college radio. The album is often credited for solidifying his reputation as a skilled storyteller and songwriter within the folk genre, leading to a dedicated following and multiple subsequent releases. When Josh Ritter released 'Hello Starling' in 2003, he was still an emerging artist, having released his self-titled debut album the year prior. This sophomore effort marked a significant step forward in his songwriting and musical maturity, positioning him as a notable figure in the contemporary folk scene.

Who is Hello Starling for?

Hello Starling works well if you're into steady mid-tempo storytelling, warm instrumentation for reflection and lyrical exploration of love.

How many songs are on Hello Starling?

Hello Starling has 11 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Hello Starling

Josh Ritter · 2003

43 min · 11 tracks · country · folk

A lyrical exploration of love and longing wrapped in folk melodies and warm instrumentation.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo storytelling
warm instrumentation for reflection
lyrical exploration of love
for afternoon listening

Maybe skip if you want

seeking high-energy tracks
prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

Career context: When Josh Ritter released 'Hello Starling' in 2003, he was still an emerging artist, having released his self-titled debut album the year prior. This sophomore effort marked a significant step forward in his songwriting and musical maturity, positioning him as a notable figure in the contemporary folk scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Sufjan Stevens· Iron & Wine· Fleet Foxes

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Bright Smile 3:01
2 Kathleen 4:08
3 You Don't Make It Easy Babe 2:32
4 Man Burning 2:47
5 Rainslicker 4:13
6 Wings 4:07
7 California 3:10
8 Snow Is Gone 4:03
9 Bone of Song 5:30
10 Baby That's Not All 5:59
11 The Bad Actress 3:39

What to play next

Listen next

The Animal Years

2006

Go back to

Golden Age of Radio

2002

Full Josh Ritter discography Artists like Josh Ritter

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata