Enjoying the Smooth Sounds of Josh Rouse


Josh Rouse is a singer-songwriter who I feel is truly underrated.  I first discovered Rouse's music in 2006, when a friend sent me three albums of his - 1972, Nashville and Subtitulo.  Admittedly, it took me some time to appreciate how good his music is, but after gradually downloading his back catalogue (he has just released his ninth studio album), I realised how much I had grown to love his work.  His songs have a timeless, classic feel, with beautifully crafted lyrics.  I now consider Rouse to be one of my favourite, and most played musicians in my music collection.

What I admire most about Rouse, and what I feel sets him apart from the average singer-songwriter, is the way in which he experiments so freely with different genres in his music.  Each of his studio albums touch upon varying themes and concepts, meaning that no two of his albums could ever be accused of sounding the same.  This creates an interesting and exciting listening experience for fans.  

Rouse's exploration of different genres, has seen his music evolve through each new release.  His first two albums Dressed Up Like Nebraska and Home are more downbeat than later releases, with darker, but beautifully haunting lyrics.  Rouse made a departure from his alt-country roots on his fourth release, 1972, a concept album full of soulful, melodic pop songs.  In 2006, he moved to Spain, and his sixth album Subtitulo reflects this, with light, catchy tunes.  I feel this album is a suitable transition into Rouse's most recent offerings -  2010's El Turista and 2011's Josh Rouse and The Long Vacations, where the Spanish influence is more present than ever.

In addition to his studio albums, Rouse has also released a series of EPs on his Bedroom Classics label.  Furthermore, his website offers a Bedroom Classics Archive, where these EPs, along with other rarities compilations and also live recordings, can be purchased.

Below, are tracks which I think best show the diversity of Rouse's music.


                                      From Dressed Up Like Nebraska
                                       

                                                        From 1972


                                                     From Nashville
                                                                 
                                                    From El Turista
                                                                      

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