19th Century English writer and philosopher John Ruskin was once quoted as saying, “One can’t be angry when one looks at a penguin.”

That quote has nothing to do with what I’m about to review, other than the fact that I feel the same sense of ease when I’m listening through Rome & Duddy‘s new six-track EP, Cactus Cool.

We’ve given you glimpses of this one over the past few months — most notably, the tender ode to friends and family, “I’ll Be Right Here,” and the breezy getaway vibes of “Coast of Mexico.” Before those, the duo released lead single “Cannabis Tree,” an upbeat, lively joyride that introduced us to the sun-kissed Americana to come.

Those three tracks are now joined by the soul-drenched “Good Times,” which is a cheery, piano-driven reminder to appreciate the moments we get to share with loved ones (and which has some downright exquisite sax tones in the mix). And, in case you don’t want those “Good Times” to end, “Soft on the Water” has an unconventional solution to keep you close to the sea just a little bit longer.

To close things out, Duddy takes a solo turn on “Whisper Song.” With nothing more than his acoustic and a gentle melody, the Dirty Heads’ half of this island country super duo sings of the comfort we feel from the unconditional love in our lives — even when we’re apart from those who share those bonds with us.

Track listing:
Cannabis Tree
I’ll Be Right Here
Coast of Mexico
Good Times
Soft on the Water
Whisper Song