When I think of Josh Ritter’s greatest songs, “Snow is Gone,” “Girl in the War,” and “Thin Blue Flame” immediately come to mind. I have no problem adding, “Lantern” off his latest album, So Runs the World Away, to that list.
“Lantern” is one of those songs that doesn’t need a minute to warm up; its heart beats from the start. If you’ve seen Ritter live, you know he’s always freakishly smiling. I would imagine he was also beaming when he wrote today’s JOTD – it’s a tune that can carry an album and a career. Put it on an episode of any popular TV show, and you’ve got yourself a hit.
Turn this one up, and hold it high.
I’ll hold it high for you cause I know you’ve got
I’ll hold it high for you your own Valley to walk
I’ll hold it high for you though it’s dark as death
I’ll hold it high for you and then gets darker yet
I’ll hold it high for you though your path is blocked
I’ll hold it high for you through the thieves and the rocks
I’ll hold it high for you keep you safe from harm
I’ll hold it high for you until you’re back in my arms
Josh Ritter – Lantern