There’s a perfect simplicity to Josh Rouse’s music; it’s never overbearing or pretentious, always celebrating the things that make life good: wine, warmer weather, etc.  And while he delves into things like alcoholism and reconciliation (or lack thereof), there’s a similar ambiance to each of his albums – one of perpetual hope for improvement.  Maybe that’s a lot for me to lay on a singer/songwriter from Nebraska, but Mr. Rouse’s music has meant a lot to me over the 10 years or so that I’ve been aware of it.

So when I got an email about a free 25-song sampler available from Noisetrade (which is really a pretty cool site if you like the whole singer/songwriter genre), I went right over and downloaded it.  Sure, 10 of the songs are already in my collection, but for the 14 rarities I didn’t own – and for this new track, “Diggin’ In The Sand” from his forthcoming album Josh Rouse & The Long Vacations – it is more than worth it.

“Diggin’ In The Sand” is a nice reminder of what Rouse does well.  It’s upbeat and summery, and at a little over two minutes, easy to lose yourself in.  Josh Rouse & The Long Vacations is due out on September 27th.

Connect with Josh Rouse // Facebook | Twitter | web

Josh Rouse & The Long Vacations // Diggin’ In The Sand [mp3] from the forthcoming Josh Rouse & The Long Vacations

In our inbox yesterday we got news from Josh Rouse that he’s been in the studio working on a new album which he’s planning on releasing next fall.  No word on a title, but it seems like things are pretty early on in the planning stages as far as the album is concerned.  Rouse is going to be performing a couple of his favorite Bob Dylan songs at Dylan’s 70th birthday celebration with the likes of Rosanne Cash, and he also has a few dates lined up in the UK in the new year as well.  You can head over to his website to check those dates out.

But the real news of the email was the enclosure of a new track from Mr. Rouse entitled “Movin’ On.”  The track is what I like most about Rouse and his music: it’s honest and easygoing in the storytelling and the music.  It’s familiar and comfortable, and there are sometimes there’s nothing more that I want from what I’m listening to.  Today, when it’s cold and the snow has finally tapered off, is one of those times.

Connect with Josh Rouse :: MySpace | Facebook | Twitter | web

Josh Rouse // Movin’ On [mp3]

I’m in a summery mood, which is apropos since Memorial Day is the unofficial start to the season.  My girlfriend and I forged our way south into the Finger Lakes yesterday to Watkins Glen State Park and made our way through the gorge, then stopped at a couple of wineries on the way back through.  I hope everyone’s long weekend is progressing nicely.

Today’s installment of this project features a couple of songs that are reminiscent of warmer weather for me.  They came up during our drive yesterday, and both find themselves on my list today.  Unfamiliar with what’s going on here?  Get yourself up to speed over here.

115. Josh Rouse – Nothing Gives Me Pleasure (mp3) from Under Cold Blue Stars (3:16) [Time Remaining: 472:34]

There was a point, right around 22, when I was big into the whole singer/songwriter thing; guys with nine letters in their first and last names are generally most accessible (John Mayer, Jason Mraz, Elton John, Billy Joel…), and Josh Rouse was one of my favorites.  I’ve since grown weary of the sensitivity – or perhaps more jaded – but Mr. Rouse’s easy soul still comes around to calm me down every so often.  Take this song out for a drive; it can’t miss.

116. Girls – Lust For Life (mp3) from Album (2:25) [Time Remaining: 470:09]

I think this is, to this point, the most recent song to make this list.  Despite the downer subject matter, it’s a perfect pop song; quick and longing, it sounds like how the wind blowing through your hair feels.  It’s sunburned and weary from drinking outside.  After this, I no longer need a summer jam each year. I have a song for every summer.