There's nothing quite like an acoustic record topped with a healthy layer of dust. A bright acoustic sound can be a little jarring; in contrast, a worn-out guitar can have more character than the newest and nicest Taylor or Martin in the music shop window.

Anthony Newes' self-titled record has plenty of this character throughout its 11 tracks, with very little filler slowing down its jaunty gait. Newes and his band – which includes Charlie Quade on bass and Chad Deboer on drums – keep things simple, which helps these folk-pop songs go down easy.

"Couches" is the record's highlight, emanating both warmth and melancholy. Newes' guitar work is understated and effective and Deboer quietly thumps on his bass drum, giving the song a sense of turmoil. Other songs succeed for similar reasons. "My Friend Ani" is a relatively simple love song, but Newes' careful fingerpicking, added to Deboer's clicking drumsticks, brings some urgency.

Then there's Newes' voice, a honey-sweet little thing that catches you by surprise. Like Ron Sexsmith with less of an edge, Newes glides effortlessly through songs without dropping any emotion along the way.

When Newes stumbles, the cause is usually a lack of melody, such as on the forgettable "Golden Sun." Overall, however, Newes has a tight hold on his melodies, whether he's singing about his dog in "Deathsong For Casey," or crooning the short and sweet lullaby "Pleasant Dreams."

The latter is the record-closer and it does a fantastic job. Here, Newes especially sounds like Ron Sexsmith, and this is a very good thing. His strengths – capable but un-showy guitar playing, soft voice, a penchant for catchy melodies – all combine on "Pleasant Dreams" to make a great little goodnight song, and you'd be forgiven if you nod off. In fact, it would probably be a compliment.

myspace.com/anthonynewes