CD REVIEW: Spanish-American duo’s joyful jingles spread smiles

The side project – She’s Spanish, I’m American – of roots/indie
singer-songwriter Josh Rouse is a self-titled 2007 debut EP, which
is both a work of love and craftiness.

The project defies the norm in today’s shifty world of cheaply
arranged duets, even if it lasts only 17 minutes.

The band features three musicians, including the Spaniard
mentioned in the album’s title – she’s Rouse’s girlfriend, Pz Suay.

With an innocent voice and Castilian accent, she adds an irresistible
flavor to Rouse’s tunes.

Almost effortlessly done, the album grooves well and is thoughtfully
arranged to include elements of pop, orchestral and electronic
music without overdoing any one element.

The layering of voices and textures would serenade any listener
to bed if it were at a slower tempo, but the tight drums and funky
bass in songs like “The Ocean Always Wins” and “Car Crash” keep
the listener involved throughout.

Based on Rouse and Suay’s experiences together, the songs’ lyrics
are as light-hearted as the EP’s harmonic mood.

“Car Crash” seems to be about speeding around in the back seat
of a New York City taxi cab, expecting death to come at any second
while simply trying to reach one’s next destination.

In the tune “These Long Summer Days,” Rouse laments over not
having anything to do during the summer. The strings, flutes and
vocal layering are very dreamlike and help to convey relaxation while
not boring listeners to the point of tears.

“Answers” features a catchy drum and bass beat that resembles
Radiohead-frontman Thom York’s style of writing. Suay takes the lead
in this song while Rouse sings over the chorus. Electronic elements
are prevalent throughout but do not irritate – they turn out to be
very stimulating.

Good CDs should get better with every listen, and this one stays
true to that mantra. Completely worth checking out, this group’s
possibilities are very promising, and their EP should be purchased
upon reading this article.

Who doesn’t have 17 minutes to spare?

Grade: A+

Download (don’t steal): “The Ocean Always Wins” by She’s Spanish,
I’m American