Not too long ago, I walked into the Beacon Hill joint Clock-Out lounge, bought a drink, found a seat, and, after about 30 minutes, Michael Lee appeared on the stage. He was alone, and held a guitar. The place was packed. He sang five of his own songs, and one cover. Now, how can I describe the music by Lee, who is also the guitarist for Young Evils? (His current solo project is called Babie, and he's set to release a full-length album under the moniker this summer.)

It's a pop that is as brutally honest as it is beautiful. And in this sense, it disarms you as much as the singer exposes himself: his hurt, hopes, hunger. His set ended too soon. One hopes that the next one at Chop Suey this upcoming Monday will not do the same.