April 08 2026

Nick Justice

Rain Dancing
(Tres Pescadores Records)

A veteran singer-songwriter, Nick Justice has released some six solo albums since 2016, each of
which is typified by his rustic, rootsy sound and a seemingly effortless, easy-going ambiance.
His latest outing, Rain Dancing, is no exception, a decidedly down-home effort that makes no
demands on the listener other than offering the opportunity to simply bask in his supple style.
All in all, Rain Dancing boasts a decidedly unassuming collection of Americana melodies that
occasionally bring to mind The Band circa their Big Pink period and Townes Van Zandt in a
more reflective mode. The easy amble of “Bide Your Time” is as unfettered as the title suggests,
while “Something in the Milk Ain’t Clean” purveys certain pleasantries despite a name that
seems to indicate otherwise. All in all, Justice makes it a point to share a comforting caress,
although the steady stride that accompanies “Need To Be Free” provides some slight uptick in
energy. So too, there’s a bit of a twang inserted in the sound of “Runnin’ With the Blind” and a
kind of Byrdsy blend circa Sweetheart of the Rodeo stirred into “Terms Of My Surrender. That’s
aside from the softer sentiment of songs such as “Only the River,” “Sycamore Grove,” “Juarez,”
and the title track.
All in all, Justice comes across as a knowing troubadour, devoid of pretense but obviously eager
to convey his reflections and observations. He’s obviously tied to the heartland, at least in terms
of his shared instincts and intents. His vocals ring with softly shared emotion, and on songs such
as “Outside Lookin’ In,” “Time Passing By,” and “At Least Another Day,” Justice conveys an
honesty and humility that belies any hint of self-importance or, for that matter, an overly inflated
ego.
Ultimately, Justice has given listeners a tender and touching series of songs, all of which tap into
the timeless singer/songwriter tradition. Given his mellow musings, he’s created the ideal
example of a genuine country caress.

Lee Zimmerman- is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. A former promotions representative for ABC and Capitol Records and director of communications for various CBS-affiliated television stations, he lives in Maryville, Tennessee.

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