After the superb return to form that was 2013’s “The Happiness Waltz,” Josh Rouse finds himself in a time of reflection on “The Embers of Time.”

Lead single “Some Days I’m Golden All Night” introduces the new album in that signature Rouse sound with a cheerful shuffle with overlying lyrics of reflection. “Some days I’m golden, other days I’m bad. All depends on the weather and how many drinks I’ve had,” sings Rouse.

The lyricism, for the most part, is on point for all of “The Embers of Time” and a good deal of them focus on the theme of self reflection and memories. “Just the other day I stopped by my grandfathers grave. Died at thirty way too soon, I forgot his face,” sings Rouse in “Time.”

The vocal delivery is excellent, as always. While most tracks find Rouse in a laid back or timid state, there are a few spots you can find him turning up the volume like on “Crystal Falls.”

Musically, “The Embers of Time” has a lot to offer as well. From the harmonica and pedal steel drenched “New Young” to the stripped back acoustic charm of “Ex-pat Blues” and “Coat for a Pillow.”

“You Walked Through the Door” is expertly crafted folk-pop and showcases Rouse in both his songwriting and vocal prime. “Dumb drunk kid, never knew what love was for. And I try to think back to where I was before you walked through the door,” sings Rouse as he launches into a blissful falsetto.

“Pheasant Feather” is another highlight and brings the volume down to open the second half of the album. Rouse is joined by Nashville’s Jessie Baylin in this duet, making it one of the best vocal tracks on the album.

“Am I a hunter or a fox?” sing Rouse and Baylin together. The track also features yearning keys and strings to accompany the vocalists, making it one of the most inviting compositions in Rouse’s catalog.

While not as immediately satisfying as 2013’s superb “The Happiness Waltz,” “The Embers of Time” is less hook driven, more song focused and is sure to age gracefully.

Many tracks are definite growers, so if the album doesn’t appeal too much on first listen, multiple listens are recommended. As is though, Josh Rouse’s “The Embers of Time” is a smooth taste of americana and is an excellent collection of songs from a master of the craft.

Recommended tracks: “You Walked Through the Door,” “New Young,” “Pheasant Feather,” “Some Days I’m Golden All Night.”