What the label says: Recalling The Grifters' perverse soul, the sad pop aspects of Sparklehorse, an overall vibe of someone who is losing it à la Skip Spence, and happily in the shadow of the Pet Sounds legacy, Goldcard is truly a beautiful piece of work over which fans of mysterious, innovative pop music will drop to their knees, look upwards and thank the heavens the day these rare recordings were made available to the public.

What this reviewer says: I'll admit that I am biased and that Pond, of which Charlie Campbell aka Goldcard was a founding member, is one of my all-time favorite bands. With my bias admitted, this album is a work of genius. Campbell revels in his shyness and the album is a wonderful collection of songs about dogs, rabbits, "IT" and instrumental interludes featuring his guitar "gimmick." With appearances by Grandaddy, Pond and Quasi, this album is a pop lover's must have.

Similar artists: Pond, Quasi, Pretty to Look At

Sample lyrics: "It bent down in a street to pet a dog/ A stray that might remember once it had somewhere to sleep/ It bent down on one knee and looked into the eyes of love/ Then it went back home/ Left the dog alone" - "If I Could Help It"

Best song: "If I Could Help It"

Worst song: "Birthday"

Rating: 9/10