Although The Ridges released their self-titled studio album in the spring, the orchestral-folk band did not spend its summer basking in the rays of success. Instead, it went right back to work writing music.
“We’re always working on new songs and stuff, so it’s an ongoing process,” lead vocalist Victor Rasgaitis said. “Since we often play with new lineups, we’re always working new parts into the established parts too.”
Performing with guest musicians has always been an integral part of The Ridges.
Though the three-person core includes Rasgaitis on guitar, Johnny Barton on drums and glockenspiel, and Talor Smith on cello and dulcimer, the group regularly features instrumentalists on the cello, viola, trumpet, mandolin, upright bass and accordion.
Guest musicians, Rasgaitis said, allow the band to take its music to the “next level.”
“We let them do their own thing, and that’s why we like having guest musicians so much,” he said. “They bring their own thoughts and ideas, making every show a unique experience.”
Tonight, The Ridges will play at Casa Nueva, 4 W. State St., in its first show in Athens since the CD release in May.
“It’s going to be a really fun show, and it’s Homecoming so it’s perfect,” Rasgaitis said. “It’s like it’s totally our homecoming, too. We’re coming home for Homecoming.”
The show will feature several musicians who have played with the band before in addition to a new violinist.
The Ridges will also give several songs their Athens premieres.
“It won’t be a first performance of the songs, but we haven’t played them in Athens yet, so it will be pretty great,” Rasgaitis said.
Tonight’s show will also include performances by Columbus-based Indigo Wild and South Carolina’s Joel Hamilton. Indigo Wild opened for The Ridges last spring at the band’s CD release show.
Rasgaitis said the combination of the new musicians and songs, the opening acts, and the venue have him eager to return to Athens.
“Casa is a great place to play in, and it’s really going to be a great night,” he said. “Plus, everyone knows Thursday is considered the weekend at (Ohio University).”
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