Rainslicker
Josh Ritter · Hello Starling [2003]
your face was turned up into rain as you watched me
and I was crossing I was crossing
the street like my own Rubicon
coming back home to ya coming back Rome
and your eyes were so patient and calm
and green as the grass that might grow on the 23rd Psalm
the last forty days have been rain
the sun is a prodigal one that seems bent upon
giving itself a bad name
and leaving us deep in the lurch as we walked down the lane
it's a long time oh such a long time
and I hope for your sake I've changed
and I hope for my sake you managed to remain the same
is it raining for you raining for you now
like it's raining for me raining for me now
you tied your old bike to a tree
came in from the weather though not yet together
I felt your hand light on my sleeve
as light as a bird that might offer a sinner reprieve
we don't know too much I know we don't know too much
but love rains mysteriously
and behind every cloud is a purpose only now we can see
that it's raining for us raining for us now
raining for us raining for us now
raining for us raining for us now
raining for us raining for us now
Rainslicker
Rainslicker stands as a defining track from Josh Ritter's 2003 album, Hello Starling, capturing the songwriter's signature blend of literary storytelling and melodic folk-rock. During this period, Ritter was establishing himself as a vital voice in American roots music, known for weaving complex narratives into accessible song structures. The recording reflects the atmospheric depth found throughout the album, showcasing Ritter's ability to balance intimate acoustic textures with broader, sweeping arrangements. As part of a discography that includes earlier works like Golden Age of Radio, this song highlights his evolution as a composer who draws heavily from traditional forms while maintaining a distinct, modern perspective. The track remains a testament to his enduring influence on the genre, offering listeners a glimpse into the rich, evocative world he crafted during this pivotal era of his career.