For some time now, Indie Rock players within a broad genre range have explored the acoustic Folk side project to somehow prove their diversity, depth and authenticity. Good Old War doesn’t really fit that construct; guitarist/vocalist Keith Goodwin and drummer/vocalist Tim Arnold decided against revisiting their Prog/Pop direction when their previous group Days Away collapsed. Instead, the duo crafted a contemporary Folk/Pop sound and with the addition of Unlikely Cowboy guitarist/vocalist Dan Schwartz, the trio Good Old War was born.
(The band’s name comes from the players’ surnames; it’s a word puzzle, figure it out).
GOW’s 2008 debut, Only Way to Be Alone, enjoyed more than a little acclaim, but the band’s eponymous sophomore album, released this past summer, might not only be the better of the two but could find plenty of support in the coming weeks as critics compile their end-of-year lists.
Good Old War plays 20th Century Theater Tuesday with Joshua Radin and Kelley James. Go here to read Brian Baker's full Sound Advice recommendation and to get ticket/club details.
