Ignore MTV pop-punk; those somewhat catchy jokers that lack the balls-out thrust and skills of pioneers such as The Jam, Weirdos, Clash and Buzzcocks. Columbus, Ohio two-guitar quartet Gaunt’s second LP-a marked improvement in sound over I Can See Your Mom From Here- recalls early ’80s melodic hardcore greats, such as D.O.A., Descendents, Zero Boys and Bad Religion, before thrash ruined everything. Gaunt’s songs and artillery kick, and horns fit for a king’s procession on “Hope You’re Happy” add a “hell-yes!” dimension. There’s variety too: see the hushed “Deranged.” Finally, name checking Aussie heroes RADIO BIRDMAN and (I think, by association, if I am a detective) THE SAINTS’ ’78 Prehistoric Sounds horns-laden opener “Swing For the Crime” on “Transister Sister” clinches it. – Jack Rabid