Father John Misty compels on “Just Dumb Enough to Try,” a promo single from his highly-anticipated fourth studio album, ‘God’s Favorite Customer.’

Father John Misty returns sooner than later! That’s exciting. Following his 2017 Grammy-nominated alternative music album Pure Comedy, Josh Tillman returns in 2018 with God’s Favorite Customer.  With the excellent “Mr. Tillman” arriving prior to the album’s announcement, Tillman drops two more singles, including the song at hand, “Just Dumb Enough to Try.”

Heavy piano chords at the onset serve as the backdrop for Father John Misty on this alternative ballad. Josh Tillman delivers beautiful, nuanced vocals.  As always, he’s firmly in command. After a short span as a piano ballad (verse one), drums and rhythmic guitar join the piano (verse two). On the first verse, he sings about being aloof about love.  On the second, he sings about his ability to write a song and compel his audience, but he knows very little about ‘her.’ On the third and final verse, he ‘knows women,’ but sort of suggests he’s ‘easy’ and simple.

The chorus, which first follows the second verse, is clearly the centerpiece of “Just Dumb Enough to Try.”

“Oh, but I’m just dumb enough to try

To keep you in my life

For a little while longer

And I’m insane enough to think

I’m gonna get out with my skin

And start my life again.”

Following the chorus, there’s an instrumental bridge section. The aforementioned third verse and the final chorus follow.

Final Thoughts

A new Father John Misty album is always a treat.  Early indications suggest that God’s Favorite Customerwill be more accessible than the Grammy-nominated Pure Comedy from 2017.  “Just Dumb Enough to Try” is another triumph for Tillman, though it doesn’t eclipse the more fun “Mr. Tillman,” released prior to the announcement of his new album.

Father John Misty • God’s Favorite Customer• Sub Pop • Release: 6.1.18

Photo Credit: Sub Pop