Pedro the Lion established themselves in the indie-emo scene with their debut EP, Whole, and its fluid melodies and dynamic changes. But if the band's full-length debut is any indication, band leader David Bazan's heart lies closer to the singer/songwriter ethos. It's Hard to Find a Friend is at once confessional, intimate, and honest, with clean melodies and simple arrangements (bare bones guitar, bass, and drums; few overdubs or accouterments). These songs belie an underground awareness perfectly fused with pop sensibilities. Bazan's understated baritone voice and simple guitar technique deliver heartbreaking ditties that resonate on an emotional level. And his sad love songs take on an Old Testament quality as they play out the story behind them. --Brad Caviness