1995 Island (PR). Beggars is a promising young band from Cheap Trick’s home town of Rockford, Illinois. The quartet’s self-titled debut is no-nonsense Midwestern rock, bringing to mind Rick Neilsen and crew as well as Zion’s celebrated Shoes. He may have been an unlikely choice, but Michael Been of the Call gives the album a playful but understated ’60s production. One listen to the layered harmonies and swirling hooks of tunes such as “Lovely Soul Detonator” should be enough to convert any fan of smart guitar pop. –Jim DeRogatis