Greg Mendez has always been an economical songwriter he wields restraint and simplicity as tools, the core of his songs sharpened into simple, cutting truths. On Beauty Land, his new album and debut LP for Dead Oceans, were guided by a wry but forgiving narrator, an underdog who has learned to balance cynicism and faith. These songs are self-effacing without self-pity, carefully constructed altars of ifimperfection channeled through pop melodies, shimmering but urgent guitars, and a voice that reaches for choir boy innocence.