David Dondero

Though the cover of David Dondero's seventh LP looks like that of Robbie Fulks' Revenge!, he still insists on warbling like Conor Oberst. But with Simple Love, Dondero's twangy indie songs are more endearing than clever, especially on his advice to a brokenhearted pal on the almost catchy "When the Heart Breaks Deep." The title track boasts hayseed harmonies before Dondero breaks into the quivering Oberst affectation again. WTF? Seriously, dude worships Bright Eyes so much, he should just part his hair to the side and wear a thin, black, leather choker around his neck.