Inspired by the memory of his father, who died from cancer while Witmer was working on another musical project, The Ones Who Wait is an extremely personal and cathartic work of acoustic introspection. The lyrics are heavy with insights into life and loss, expressing Witmer's mourning in no uncertain terms. "One More Day" starts as a dark madrigal before lifting Witmer's soul ever so slightly with simple and beautiful accompaniment. The chords spiral down for "Cursing," where an ominous piano crashes past repetitive acoustic guitar lines. The country-rock lope of "Hold On" is further informed by Witmer's philosophical waxings on being both a son and a father. Though Witmer sounds musically like he's found the sweet spot, lyrically he's clearly still in shock, fighting to make sense of his new life. "Your Friend" reaches out for a response and a wish for open arms. A banjo kickstarts "Influence" into the sunshine for one of the album's rare upbeat moments. "I Live in Your Ghost" closes the door with a final fingerpicked acoustic guitar elegy. - iTunes
