C.J. Ramone, ToyGuitar
Recommended
On their sophomore record, Move Like a Ghost, Bay Area punks ToyGuitar deal in sharp blasts of jangly pop that belie their street punk credentials. Comprised of members from Swingin’ Utters, One Man Army, and other SF punk stalwarts, ToyGuitar’s melodic sensibilities shouldn’t appear too big a departure, considering vocalist/guitarist Jack Dalrymple’s songwriting talents. On tunes as catchy as “Stoned Under a New Moon,” Dalrymple’s croon lets a fussy garage foundation lay the groundwork for a satisfyingly upbeat love song. The somber “Turn It Around” was written in memoriam of former One Man Army bassist Heiko Schrepel, who died last year at age 39. The 10-inch’s six lithe tracks conjure the slick spirit of 45 RPM EPs, glossing brilliant pop cuts at a short-and-sweet clip.