Back in Harmony? The Civil Wars Return with New Recordings

Thirteen years after their last release, The Civil Wars have returned — at least in part. In May 2025, the duo surprised fans with a newly recorded studio version of If I Didn’t Know Better, one of their earliest and most beloved tracks. A second re-recording, The One That Got Away, is set to follow in June.

The Civil Wars formed in 2008 after an impromptu songwriting session revealed their rare musical chemistry. Known for their haunting harmonies and emotionally raw lyrics, they blended folk, Americana, country, and blues with a minimalist, intimate sound. Their 2011 debut album Barton Hollow earned them two Grammy Awards and widespread acclaim. But, despite this success, personal and creative differences led to their breakup in 2014.

If I Didn’t Know Better holds a special place in their story — it was the very first song they recorded together. “We didn’t know it would lead to The Civil Wars,” the duo wrote on their Instagram page. Originally released on their 2009 live album Live at Eddie’s Attic, the track is a slow-burning ballad of forbidden desire and emotional tension. Rooted in folk, soul, and blues, it tells the story of a love both irresistible and wrong — full of longing, temptation, and shared guilt.

Meanwhile, fans in the comments are wondering: do these new releases hint at a reunion? And while there are no clear indications yet, the release of these tracks can be seen as a hopeful development.