Born in Jefferson City, Missouri, home of the exploits of outlaw Jesse James, Ryan Auffenberg has since made California his base and recorded his debut album with former members of San Francisco’s American Music Club (Tim Mooney on drums, vibraphone and a radical sound effect called a “Function Generator,” Danny Pearson on mandolin). Auffenberg’s music haunts a world filled with slow, dark songs that carefully unwind with luminous beauty. His hushed voice perfectly compliments the unhurried feel of the title track where Hollywood dreams are left broken and life’s greater questions come into focus. As he steps up the rhythm for the slightly brighter “Undercover,” it’s clear that this 26-year old possesses a seasoned veteran’s presence. The ache of painful experience traces these tunes. The descending notes of “Waking Up Alone,” the chin-up pop groove of “Half Forgotten Love,” and the mid-life crisis underlying “Curtain Call” reveal empathy and a warm sonic companion to the sorrow that is quite notable in its simple, unencumbered use of piano and acoustic guitar. Nothing too flashy, but everything in its rightful place.