Every now and then, an album comes along that is able to sweep its listener off their feet and send them somewhere unexpected. Josh Rouse’s El Tursita does just that. The listener is sent on a tropical albumcation, where warm feelings and careless thoughts transpire.

El Turista starts like a paradise-based weekly sitcom with its opening track acting as an introductory theme song that greets the listener. Bienvenido, or “Welcome” in Spanish, moves seamlessly into Duerme, a South American bosanova, sung entirely in Spanish. Each track from there on is mostly in English, yet radiates exotic influences. The album offers a sense of vacation and relief. The standout track on this album is quite obvious and likely undisputed. I Will Live on Islands is an upbeat song that is catchy and complete.

Song Standouts
- I Will Live On Islands
- Sweet Elaine
- Cotton Eye Joe

Grade: A