Montreal-based the Dears released their fourth proper album, GANG OF LOSERS, in 2006. The theme of ostracization is one that is constant throughout the record, as lead singer and songwriter Murray Lightburn reflects on love, love lost, and generally feeling left out. It's not an entirely sad-sacked affair, however, as he offers redemptive and inclusive solace in songs like "Death or Life We Want You." Where the Dears' previous record featured ambitious structures and sundry instrumentation, this effort is a more stripped down affair, which allows the lyrics and Lightburn's vocals alone to carry the weight. Consistently melodic and pleasant, his voice is classic-indie: a little Morrissey, a little croon, with an almost velvety smoothness. This make his subjects sympathetic, and adds some depth to the mostly straightforward indie rock found on GANG OF LOSERS.