Who Will Be Next

Released in 2016, Who Will Be Next represents a significant thematic pivot for Joe Purdy. While his earlier catalog cemented his reputation as a master of intimate, melancholic folk often featured in television dramas, this album leans heavily into the tradition of the American protest singer. Drawing clear sonic parallels to Pete Seeger and early Bob Dylan, Purdy utilizes a minimalist toolkit of acoustic guitar and harmonica to address contemporary social and political anxieties. The recording quality is intentionally raw, emphasizing analog warmth and room acoustics over digital precision. Tracks like 'Children of Privilege' and 'Cairo Walls' showcase a more observational, narrative lyrical style compared to his previous confessional work. Despite the weight of the subject matter, the album maintains Purdy's signature gentleness, creating a unique tension between the urgency of the message and the serenity of the delivery. It stands as one of his most cohesive and purposeful artistic statements.