Well, its official. Spain took the cup. And to celebrate, we are highlighting music from Valencia. Well, at least music influenced by Valencia. Josh Rouse – an American singer/songwriter who has been living in Spain for the last 5 years - just released a new album called El Turista. The album reflects the culture that he has absorbed. And it is also a case study for the direction that music is heading. Josh’s last 3 albums have all released to critical acclaim but more importantly, each album was self-produced and self-released. He grew up in the American South, now lives in Spain and sells his music to fans all around the world. It truly is a small world after all.

Speaking of a global sound, we are thrilled to showcase Citizen Cope’s new album – The Rainwater EP. Cope is one of my favorite artists – has been since I first heard his debut album. He has more soul dripping out of his voice than the traditional music labels know what to do with. And like all too many artists in the industry, he has produced masterpieces that have not performed the way their labels expect. Sometimes a sound just can’t be pigeonholed and marketed. And so, after 3 labels, this new album is also self-produced and self-released. It is amazing when artists can connect directly with their fans!

We also are highlighting even more music from The Vans Warped Tour – with some of the hardest working musicians on the scene. That is not an easy tour to be on – all the musicians on the roster hustle to make it happen. So congratulations are in order for Artist vs Poet. Keep on keeping on.

Until next month!