Terry Malts: Killing Time

Terry Malts
Killing Time
Slumberland Records [2012]









Fire Note Says: Terry Malts is another quality lo-fi band from Slumberland Records.

Album Review:
If you are into the lo-fi garage pop scene then Slumberland Records has another band for you in San Francisco's Terry Malts. The trio has self-described their sound as "chainsaw pop" which is weirdly accurate as their fuzzed out catchiness cuts out 14 tracks here in just over 30 minutes.

It is this quick pace that drives Terry Malts debut Killing Time as it hits you with everything it has throughout the entire record. The sound of the album is fairly as advertised but it does hold a few surprises like the last 20 seconds of "I'm Neurotic" closing with a distorted slowed down chorus from the Beach Boys "California Girls" or the 30 seconds of feedback that rings out at the end of "No Big Deal" before ending with a spoken word sample. Terry Malts also flashes some of the punk undertones with the band's Ramones style delivery on the memorable foot tapper "No Good For You".

Overall Terry Malts have released a solid debut but may have a hard time finding a consistent following as this genre has become very crowded over the last several years. It is an album that has its moments but does need repeat listens to sink in. Given the chance, Killing Time brings the right carefree attitude to make it successful and even though they may not immediatly stand out, Terry Malts shows potential here that could blow up on a sophomore effort.

Key Tracks: "Tumble Down", "No Good For You", "Nauseous"

Bands With Similar Fire:
Crystal Stilts
The Undtertones
The Vaccines

Terry Malts Facebook
Slumberland Records

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony