Search - Terry Malts :: Nobody Realizes This Is Nowhere

San Francisco's Terry Malts follow-up their ace 2012 debut ''Killing Time'' with the brilliant new album, ''Nobody Realizes This Is Nowhere.'' Recorded by the band and mixed by long-time associate, Monte Vallier (Weekend, Wax Idols, Soft Moon), this is a punchy record packed with buzzsaw guitars and surprisingly catchy melodies. Pop and punk in equal measures, but not pop-punk. Reminiscent of forebears such as The Undertones, Buzzcocks and Descendents, ''Nobody Realizes This Is Nowhere'' is packed with upbeat tunes, but don't let that fool you; the lyrics are smart but very, very dark, allowing bassist/vocalist/lyricist Phil Benson to fully explore the madness of his life and these times. Guitarist Corey Cunningham just plain shreds - there is no other adequate description for his layered attack of buzz, howl and scree. And holding down the bottom is the rock steady drumming of Nathan Sweatt, a true rhythmic anchor amid the chaos. From ripping opener ''Two Faces'' through alienated first single ''I Was Not There'' right down to closer ''So Serious'', ''Nobody Realizes This Is Nowhere'' is a bold next step for Terry Malts and one of the great punk records of 2013.