I first fell in love with Good Old War when I heard their debut single “Coney Island” on Stephen’s Untitled Rock Show (may it rest in peace). It was a unique twist of twangy guitars accompanied by clapping hands and stomping feet. Throw in a mellow, sweetly distorted guitar and I was sold.
Their third major release is titled “Come Back as Rain” released on Sargent House, a place the boys have called home for the past 4 years or so. “Come Back as Rain” contains a lot of those ‘Third Release’ qualities you find in many band’s third albums. They have matured, they have found their sound, and they have become masters of their craft. The album as a whole is a culmination of years of belting out some of the cleanest harmonies in music today, as well as bright, enticing guitar riffs.
The band has something for everyone this time around. The songs range from upbeat and fun, like “Better Weather”, to some old fashioned, broken hearted folk, like “Can’t Go Home”. But no matter what you listen to, the band shines with Keith Goodwin’s golden pipes leading the heavenly harmonies. Drummer Tim Arnold holds it down with some of the best rhythms in music today, not to mention Dan Schwartz’s intricate plucking. The trio comes together like no other. I can always expect quality, and this time around, I get nothing but that.
Good Old War certainly came back as rain, saturating their uncommon genre in music that is effortlessly loved by fans of old-fashioned folk, as well as those of us who just appreciate good, well rounded music. I highly recommend getting a hold of the band’s entire catalog, as they are beyond talented. This is music that will never age. There are not many bands that can produce a timeless sound like Good Old War can. They are one of my favorites for a reason, and “Come Back as Rain” alone is reason enough.
You can find their music on iTunes or at their website: http://goodoldwar.com/
Article by: Mike Montgomery
