The Smooth Sounds of Josh Rouse is an awesome accompaniment to Rykodisc’s 2004 DVD by the same title. The set comprises 10 previously unreleased outtakes from Rouse’s personal collection and 13 live songs recorded from New Year’s Eve 2003 during his world tour of the much celebrated 1972 album. The intimate acoustic ballad “Michigan” opens with Rouse’s whisper-textured voice singing beautifully over a singular guitar, setting the tone with increasing intensity. With an effortlessly natural transition, “Princess On The Porch” segues from a heartbreaking folk tune into an upbeat indie-pop number catchy enough to stay in your head for days on end. “I Just Want to Live” is easily the most upbeat song that was ever written about a fatal surgery mishap, and his jazzy reworking of the Kinks’ “A Well Respected Man” becomes Rouse’s own tune. The laid back “Sunshine (Come On Lady)” becomes anthemic as the buildup unfolds layers of impassioned sing-alongs, but it’s the wistful “Rise” that truly showcases how Rouse’s live performances can sometimes rival his studio recordings.