Singer-songwriters are a dime-a-dozen at the minute. It seems every bloke (and let's face it, most are blokes) in a plaid shirt whose ever had his heart broken has picked up a guitar to tell the world of his woes. Mostly we don't care, but sometimes we do. Good singer-songwriters, on the other hand, are hard to find. They lurk in local pubs, have shitty little myspace pages, and next to no money to promote their craft.

That the Saloon gives me the opportunity to be exposed to such unknowns is often all the reason I need to keep doing what I do.

In 2009 I was introduced to Ronnie Fauss - an amazing artist from Dallas who plays understated and, to an extent, self-deprecating country/folk heavily influenced by Todd Snider, Neil Young and the late, great Townes Van Zandt. I reviewed his EP and single here.

I reference Fauss now because Baltimore-based Paul Masson reminds me of why I'm a music fan in the first place - much in the same way Fauss does.

Masson's debut and independently financed and produced EP is a fine slice of alt.country that captures the colours of life's dreamy moments and applies them to a canvas of hurt and regret.

The performances here have been recorded live with few overdubs, making an intimate listening experience. Masson's vocals are full of heartfelt warmth, a little whiskey-soaked around the edges, and a sincerity that major-label financing often kills.

'Gold' is probably the standout track, with it's clunky Harvest-era Neil Young sound; plodding bassline, a little banjo-picking, some heart-wrenching lapsteel, and a sing-along chorus. 'Gold', according to Masson, is about "money and the troubles it brings us", whereas the Hank Williams-esque 'Red Morning Sky' is a pondering of the Earth's destruction; topics not usually covered by heart-broken, plaid-shirt wearing singer-songwriters. But then again, it's the ones that break the mold that usually inspire the most.

The EP closes with an unlisted track. It's almost a capella, save for a few quietly strummed notes, and showcases Massons' malty vocals. There's something in this track too that reminds of Springsteen - though to pinpoint it would be impossible.

Masson's music compels the listener to think beyond what is expected, and at the same time, bathes us in a sound familiar and warm. Such a feat is the sign of a true artist.

Raise a glass!