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From a fellow in southern California named Paul Kaloper, a.k.a. The Gold State, comes this CD-R collection of home-recorded popcraft, and at first blush it doesn't sound a whole lot different from other stuff in the lo-fi bedroom-pop genre. You've got your acoustic guitar, your twiddly keyboard bits, your close-miced "don't want the neighbors to hear" vocals...you know. What sets it apart, however, is some truly outstanding songwriting. There are 12 songs on this disc and they are all great, with no boring filler or self-indulgence, with the one possible minor exception of the closing track, "Won't Look Back," which is just a little silly. Tracks which particularly stand out for me are "We Are the Same Age Now," which has a similar feel to the poppier Wilco songs, and the hilariously-titled "Crap Dracula," which has a distinct Elvis Costello flavor. The only complaint I have, which isn't a fair one, is that these songs deserve better recording and production values, but Paul has done the best he can with what he has. You'll have to contact Paul directly to get a copy of this disc, but it's totally worth the effort. This album is a total under-the-radar gem. If I had a bunch of money and a record label I'd sign this guy and get him in a studio (or get him some better home-recording equipment) in a heartbeat. (mike.08.05)
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