Josh Rouse
Where: The Triple Door, Seattle, WA
When: April 18, 2005
Who: Josh Rouse with Tim Seely
Always one of my favorite artists, the pop-country Nebraskan Josh Rouse writes songs that are perfect for those lazy summer days where you can just enjoy the day slowly creeping into twilight. I finally saw him perform live tonight in support of his excellent new album, Nashville. He’s finishing up his tour right now, but lucky for us in Seattle and Portland, he came by himself. The crowd at the luxurious Triple Door, a sort of cabaret room that hearkens back to old-time dinner entertainment, was treated to a top-notch performance by one of today’s most underrated singer-songwriters.
Dressed in a nicely tailored suit befitting the upscale venue, the bulk of Josh’s set was culled from his most recent albums: the quiet, slow country-tinged Nashville and the AM-pop of his 2003 album 1972. In between were a cover from one of his heroes (Neil Young’s “For the Turnstiles”) and some choice tracks from older releases including the plaintive “Directions” and the jaunty “Under Cold Blue Stars.” The song collection put Josh somewhere between Neil Young and Lyle Lovett. Intelligent, groovy Nashville pop for those of us who enjoy the late-day sunshine.
With just himself and a guitar, the subtleties of Rouse’s songwriting and guitar work were readily apparent. Rouse constantly straddles the line between country and traditional pop, and in that way he comes off very much like his idol Neil Young. Writing songs that project a sort of universal Americana, the music translated particularly well to this setting. I love seeing a musician like Rouse who is known for his well-produced pop albums, but then can take only his songwriter’s tools of voice and guitar and bring the songs back to their roots. The highlight of the show for me was a song I hadn’t yet connected with on the album. “My Love Has Gone” features a bittersweet harmonica and a melody that immediately inspires images of the open road, grassy fields and glowing orange sunsets. A little cliché? Maybe, but listen for yourself and see what I mean.
Next time Josh Rouse comes to town, it’ll probably be with a band. It’ll be interesting to see how the songs are recreated that way. Until then, I’ll have the memory of this fabulous performance.
Grade: A
Setlist: (not in order) It’s the Nighttime, My Love Has Gone, Winter in the Hamptons, Love Vibration, For the Turnstiles, James, 1972, Directions, Under Cold Blue Stars, Sunshine (Come On Lady), Sad Eyes, Comeback (Light Therapy), Feel No Pain, Under Your Charms, Slaveship