Release Date: October 30, 2026
Feline Fast and Reverb-Drenched: A Prowl Through New Heights on El Gato
San Diego’s The Tourmaliners return with El Gato (The Cat) on Pacific Records and Colorado Instrumental Fanzine.
Artist Brian Bent created the cover art, and the
background is from one of his paintings in his “Singing Cowboy” series. It is a
superb mix of textures and color, and it reflects the music you are about to
hear.
John Gianini shot the back-cover photography.
“El Gato” kicks things off; the first wave rolls in (in both retro sounds and tempo), then the wind twists around like a sea breeze, just strong enough to blow sand into your eyes. It has a spy-vs.-spy vibe, and the tempo kicks up a notch, with some good tremolo emerging.
“Phantom Break” takes off into surf instro hyperdrive. The fast picking gives it that original sound we all love. This one is a real mover that maintains strong energy from start to finish.
“Creeky Door” jumps into another world just in time for the devil’s holiday. The creaky door sounds immediately as the music creates a feeling of the unknown right around the corner. Do you dare to look? The guitars shift through many changes on this track, and the bass and drums follow, steering it away from the wrong exit, or should I say door. Great spooky effects and excellent musicianship!
“Velvet Tide” features the sound of waves washing over you, with soft bass and drums accompanying the twang and reverb. The rhythm guitar has a rhythmic backbeat, and the resonating guitar lines are beautiful. Where is the beach? I am ready to jump in! A nice memory comes to mind of my recent visit to Del Mar Beach in San Diego, and the water was so warm. The longest track is at 4:15 and one of the best!
“Monaco '66” changes the scenery once again to match the title. It feels like a scene from an early James Bond movie. The instrumentation is tasteful, punctuated by an equally restrained rhythm section. The rhythms are catchy, and the guitars always pull you into this sound-built world.
“Something Like That!” continues with the continuity and flow set down by the previous track. Punchy, vibrant guitars and a rhythm section cut loose, then pull back again for those tasteful licks we have heard before, then letting it fly again. I liked all the transitions here with a lot of color and maximum energy; one of my favorites.
“Blonde & Blue” opens with a smooth, reverberating guitar as the bass and drums come in precisely, following leads that transition and weave through the air. Like a warm wave hitting the beach, we drift into atmospheric sights and sounds. Nicely layered and textured with a catchy melody.
“Wahini Walk” starts with a short, energetic guitar intro before jumping into those tasty guitar notes you have enjoyed so far. This is yet another example of how well this band blends retro surf-rock instro. The rock is subtle, always inviting you into the vivid picture they paint.
“Zombie Girl” starts, and the horror-tinged notes hit the air; you are transported back to one of their worlds. The sounds blend for maximum effect, with the drums and bass locking in. Sound effects add drama and color, and you become a believer as the character comes to life.
“Midnight Curl” has a distinct western Latino atmosphere, with perfected twang and slow, strummed acoustic. Did I hear someone say, Ennio Morricone? It felt that way from the start, with a mild pensiveness lurking. Subtle but impactful guitar movements bring the scenery to life.
“Try M3” leaned into retro sounds. The in-the-tank reverb is heard clearly here. It has a funky sound and many different layers, and the guitar effects rule here. It always felt on the edge of spooky, creating trepidation as the tempo rises. They do it all with absolute excellence. Lots of color and drama!
“The Surfliner” has rock and twang that separates it from the previous tracks. A blues-influenced guitar line emerges, with just enough twang and reverb. Very cool with plenty of energy! More validation of why this is called guitar-based music!
“Waltz Noir” is, as you would expect, a slow burner, just like a waltz. The guitar work is tasteful and perfectly balanced, with a restrained bottom end that complements it. This musical dance is over.
El Gato is a superb showcase of surf instrumental music, offering a dynamic journey through a wide range of styles and transitions. The album ebbs and flows like the tide—sometimes soothing, sometimes exhilarating—and consistently transports the listener through vivid sonic landscapes. Just when you think you’ve settled into the sun-drenched comfort of their sound, The Tourmaliners surprise you with a powerful shift. El Gato is a testament to the band’s understanding of the genre and their ability to keep the experience fresh with just enough salt and wet from beginning to end.
Credits:
Deven Berryhill - Guitar
Joe Dameron - Guitar
John MacElwee - Drums
Matt Clowminzer - Bass
Originally Published: December 3, 2025
Keith “MuzikMan”
Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder
September 28, 2026
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