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Order the new CD, Josh Rouse & The Long Vacations by Josh Rouse and get a limited* autographed CD insert with purchase!
Josh Rouse's new album, his ninth overall, with the simple title, Josh Rouse and the Long Vacations, eludes to both his history and what is to come. All highlighted in a musical collection that also rejects the current day, and the here and now for the artist. This is the world of Josh Rouse circa 2011: An American, born in the Midwest, who has over his life called many parts of the United States home, but an American now living a more cosmopolitan existence in modern Europe. Joining him for this excursion is two native Spaniards, Cayo Bellveser and Xema Fuertes, who accent these songs in an exquisite manner unlike other previous albums.
While the tone of this new album may be largely looser, and more upbeat, and distinct from the earnest seriousness of the artist's early work, there is no denying that the same level of skill and care and attention has gone into its creation. As a result, Josh Rouse and the Long Vacations marks a new peak in achievement for the Artist.
Upon first hearing, the listener will note with interest, that for example "Movin' On" sets the tone for the whole album. It is light, and airy, with a shuffling easy-going tempo, reminiscent of a summer breeze, accentuated by layers of smooth and melodious harmony vocals, while lyrically it echoes the themes of change and transformation, discussed above. In some ways the song can be seen as providing a bridge between some of the Artist's older material, and those inspired by the present day.
The playfully loping tune "Lazy Days" looks to The Kinks "Sunny Afternoon" as a kindred spirit. Indeed, a nod to the past again. And the words relay a tale of a carefree life, which the Rouse draws from his time in 21st century Spain. But, it could be the third cut on the record, "Fine Fine," which really encapsulates the new and old worlds. Distinctive, it could not be mistaken for anyone but 'Josh Rouse,' but at the same time, melodically it is the most ethnic. It is a song steeped in the musical movement known as Bossa Nova, made popular by the classic '60s recordings of Antonio Carlos Jobim, which featured the guitar work of Brazilian legend, Joao Gilberto.
And let us not forget to mention the opener "Diggin' In The Sand." Musically reminiscent of the
carefree folk of Simon and Garfunkel, in words and music, it predicts the tone and feel of the entire album, and the themes within. And in simple terms, to quote the Artist's lyrics, it indeed references the "future and the past."
Josh Rouse And The Long Vacations is a stellar collection of new recordings; a set of songs, thoughtful, melodious, and indeed enjoyable. An album that is likely to bring a summery feel to any time of the year. It is an album of great feeling and unity, encapsulating a full moon of ideas and ideals - that are fashioned, and continue to inhabit, the past, the present, and the future.
Also Available with Autographed CD Booklet:
Best Of The Rykodisc Years
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*Offer valid only with purchase of Josh Rouse & The Long Vacations. This special offer is valid for both domestic and international orders. CDs shipping with promotional material are limited to (5) per customer. Booklets will be available while supplies last, newburycomics.com will post information when autographed booklets are sold out. |
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