Carmen Rasmusen, “Nothin’ Like Summer”

Carmen Rasmusen, “Nothin’ Like Summer”

Sweet and nostalgic, the debut single from season two American Idol finalist Carmen Rassmusen bounces along pleasantly. Her vocal is actually stronger when she isn’t squeezing in the high note trilly runs that are supposed to be the hook. Unlike last year’s summer anthems by Kenny Chesney and Faith Hill, “Nothin’ Like the Summer” is a lot more about looking back at summers gone by than getting ready for the one ahead. It’s a bit like Wynonna’s “Flies on the Butter” without the melancholy.

Grade: B

Listen: Nothin’ Like Summer