Something about Six Mile Grove’s new album says rural summer.

The band’s sixth album, “Secret Life in a Quiet Town” blends smooth melodies with free and easy alternative country.

The group that formed in Lyle in 1997 remains true to its roots, singing predominantly about rural living and love.

Throughout, there are multiple references to summer. The album opens with “Sunshine in the Pouring Rain,” a mellow love song with lyrics like “I just want to see the sunshine, look into the blue eyes, hold you in the pouring rain.”

“Century Farm” keeps the summer themes rolling, but also paints a picture of life on a long-time family farm, with images of the Fourth of July, farm work and life in southern Minnesota.

Much of the album is written for people living in small towns in southern Minnesota — or really anyone in a small, rural community.

With relaxed love songs like “This Morning” and “One of These Days,” the album is definitely one to listen to on a summer cruise with that special someone or during a night at home by the grill.

“Secret Life in a Quiet Town” shows Six Mile Grove is a veteran band confident in its own skin, but its brightest moments come when the band stretches its comfort zone.

Don’t be fooled by the small-town roots, Six Mile Grove can stand up with the bands frequenting the alt-country charts.

The songs are easily likable, but the band largely plays it safe and takes few risks. At times, the songs become a bit familiar and repetitious.

The album closes on a high note with “For Crying Out Loud,” which opens with a boisterous intro and chorus of pianos, accordions, clapping and a lingering harmonies. The song ends with a bluesy piano solo.

The band saves its best moment for last, as the players seem to come out of their shell.

It’s an ending that leaves you wanting more and sends you back to Track 1 for another listen.

Six Mile Grove has traditionally been an active summer band, performing live across the area. The songs on “Secret Life in a Quiet Town” play like songs primed and ready for live performances. Keep an eye out for an upcoming performance from the Mower County natives.

 Six Mile Grove

Six Mile Grove is releasing its sixth studio album, “Secret Life in a Quiet Town.”

Prior releases: “Steel Mule” (2008), “Bumper Crop” (2005), “Friction” (2000), “Long Distance Everything” (1998), “A Day’s Work” (1997)

 Upcoming shows

•12 p.m., June 4: Noon Hour Concert Series on Peace Plaza Downtown Rochester

•6 p.m., June 30: Diamond Jo Casino, Northwood, Iowa. Opening for Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. (Shalo Lee performs at 4:30 p.m.; Nitty Gritty Dirt Band plays at 8:30 p.m.)

•8:30 p.m., July 3: Spam Town USA Freedom Fest at Bandshell Community Park.

•6:30 p.m., July 5: Thursday’s On First on the 1st Avenue Stage in downtown Rochester.

For more dates, visit ww.sixmilegrove.com