Surf Instro Review: The Cave 4 in... Bikini Crash

When you look at the titles of the songs on The Cave 4 in...Bikini Crash!, you begin to think that they are typical surf CDs. Words like banzai, malibu, and beaches are used.

One listen, and you feel you have heard two separate groups playing on different CDs! There are your typical twanging, reverb-filled tunes, and then the group surfs off into punk-garage-rock territory. It is, for the most part, great.

A few tunes, primarily the garage tracks, are on the low end of the recording spectrum. The surf tracks are much cleaner for the concerned audiophile. With that exception, it was a perfectly enjoyable listen.

This group has heaps of talent, and it's apparent in their ability to change from one type of music to the next quickly and convincingly. That is what impressed me.

The songs were recorded in the Netherlands, where the group resides, between 1994 and 96. Hopefully, they can record the next CD stateside, and we can hear a more precise and cleaner production. I enjoyed listening to this and believe any surf instro enthusiast would!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

April 1999

TRACKS

01. Shockwave  

02. Surfin' Cat  

03. Malibu Run 

04. Bonneville Stomp  

05. Blast Off  

06. Tribute Pt.1   

07. Unknown

08. House On Haunted Hill  

09. Alfred E. Goes Surfin'   

10. Slow  

11. Bikini Crash  

12. Let's Go To The Beach

13. Same All Over The World  

14. Cave 4  

15. Banzai Washout
  

Kick—ASSS Surf, Garage, and Desperate Rock n' Roll Review - Achtung Spitfire Schnell Schnell!!! DEMO 99'

 http://achtung-spitfire.de/

Note: For some reason, I did not note the track titles when I wrote this review; however, I did find a good stream on Bandcamp with Rarities and Demos that is worth checking out, and their website is active!

The group has coined its music as Kick—ASSS Surf, Garage, and Desperate Rock n' Roll, a unique blend that sets it apart. Hailing from Germany, it has crafted an exceptional demo to captivate prospective record labels.

 

This enhanced CD features six tracks, each a testament to its distinct sound, and includes QuickTime video clips and other surprises for your enjoyment.

 

The group has enormous potential, and I would be shocked and disappointed if they weren't recognized as the spirited and energetic group they are. They rock and roll, bang, twang, and burn the house down on this impressive debut.

 

Considering this is a demo, I was impressed with the sound, professionalism, and all the efforts to make it an actual multimedia experience.

 

The group has a strong following overseas and is very active on the concert circuit. Playing many gigs is the best way to hone your chops and make a name for yourself. ASSS is fired and ready to come to the U.S. and cut a full-length CD.

 

I've recommended the group to my friends at Del-Fi, and there's a chance you'll hear a track from them on Del-Fi's second Surf Monsters release this Fall. I'm eagerly anticipating this and keeping my fingers crossed for them. So, get ready to engage with the group on their website and be part of their journey.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

April 1999

1. Soul Time 04:19

2. Amazing Disgrace 05:24

3. Forrester Of The Rabbits 02:10

4. Rockit Fuel 02:24

5. Target: Dr. Mabuse 03:51

6. Nutshell 02:58

7. Link Tiene Los Huevos Como Sandias De Grande 04:28

8. I Refuse 03:49

9. Follow Me 04:26

Surf Instro Review: Untamed Youth - Untamed Melodies

linktr.ee/untamedyouth

Untamed Melodies by Untamed Youth is a rollicking adventure of 32 tracks, each promising fun in the sun. It's a musical journey that will keep you entertained and in high spirits.

It offers a delightful mix of instrumentals and vocal tracks, each with unique intensity. This CD is a treasure trove of musical diversity within the surf genre. It's a fun group; you wouldn't want to miss out on this musical journey.

This is a great package. I hope you have plenty of time to listen! When was the last time you picked up a single CD with that many tracks on it? Even for a surf album, this is a lot of music. It's a double dose full of reverb and party tunes.

Overall, this is a magnificent effort by one of the best American surf music scene groups today. The album has high-energy tunes that make you want to grab your sandals and surfboard. This music will transport you to the summer and sandy beaches in Alaska or anywhere else. 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

April 1999

Tracks:

01. Some Kinda Fun  

02. You've Got To Understand  

03. Laughin' Linda  

04. Pabst Blue Ribbon

05. Beer Bust Blues  

06. She's So Satisfying  

07. I'm Going Away  

08. Haulin' Honda  

09. Go Go Ferrari

10. Santa's Gonna Shut 'Em Down  

11. Santa's Midnight Run   

12. Little Miss Go Go  

13. The Hearse

14. Hey Elly May  

15. Angel Face  

16. Contentment  

17. California Street  

18. I Live For Cars And Girls

19. Supercharged Steamroller  

20. The Gasser  

21. Overcast  

22. What'll You Have  

23. She Cares

24. Hey Little Girl  

25. Drag Race Tradgedy  

26. Russian Roulette  

27. Adam And Evil

28. Land Beyond The Moon  

29. Kapo  

3O. Sour Grapes  

31. Rollerland  

32. Some Kinda Fun Radio Ad

Surf-Rock-Western Instro Review: Cadillac Hitmen-The Assassin

The Cadillac Hitmen's album, The Assassin, is a fantastic blend of surf and Western influences blaring through loud and clear. The unique combination of these two genres, catchy hooks, and slick guitar licks make this effort a gem.

 I have listened to this repeatedly and hear more with each listen.

I appreciate the diversity of the musicians. The transition from fast riffs on electric guitar to nice and smooth acoustic rhythmic guitar is impressive. It sounds just delightful, right out front or in the background. 

Those changes are perfect for the Western sound, which they can incorporate with the surf instro.

The more I listen to various surf groups, the more eclectic the music can be. The talent involved in making such an excellent album is truly commendable. This is a must for any surf collection. Their new album will be out soon; I can't wait!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

April 1999

Tracks:

01. Black Hills  

02. Desert Floor (Mirage)  

03. Fistful Of Amphetamines  

04. Lonestar State Of Mind

05. Eldorado  

06. The Stalker  

07. The Assassin  

08. The Downhill Side  

09. Flowmaster

10. Bullwhip  

11. The Incident At Nacho Grande

Surf Instro Review: Brazil 2001-Fistful of Sand

Brazil 2001, a standout in the surf genre, has left me in awe with its unique and captivating sound. 

Each spin of Fistful of Sand unveils new layers of brilliance. Bernard Yin's mesmerizing guitar and quirky yet charming vocals are the heart and soul of this group.

The instrumentals are a true testament to the group's diversity and talent. Their ability to master the surf sound with vocals in their unique style is fantastic. It's this diversity that truly sets them apart.

In the traditionalist sense, vocals are rarely heard in surf instrumental albums, as the focus is usually on the instrumental elements. However, Brazil 2001 defied this norm and did it with style. Their rendition of "One Note Samba," complete with a catchy whistling number, is evidence of their unique approach.

Their version of "Penetration" is outstanding, a testament to their talent. I'm a fan of the Ventures, but Brazil 2001's take on this classic track truly rocks!

In a nutshell, Fistful of Sand is a unique and fascinating CD that I thoroughly enjoy every time I listen to it. 

I recently chatted with Bernard, who shared some exciting news. Brazil 2001 plans to release an unreleased/rarities package, which will surely be a treat for their fans. Additionally, Bernard is working on a new project with his band, which is not a surf band, but will undoubtedly carry the influence of their surf roots. I can't wait to see what they come up with next!

Note: Although I wrote this review in 1999, I still have the CD within arms' reach and listen to it to this day. I will always love it!
 
 Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

April 1999

Tracks:

01. Shaved Ice  

02. Double Overhead  

03. Fog  

04. Penetration 

05. Should Have Known Better

06. Fist Full Of Sand  

07. Aloha Oe  

08. Haloe Girl  

09. Bikini Summer  

10. Be An Idiot

11. Dressing Like A Girl  

12. Cactus   

13. Another Time  

14. One Note Samba  

15. Fog

Surf Instro Review: Glamour Puss - Self Titled EP

How could you not want to listen to a group named Glamour Puss? Very humorous. They are the essence of surf music, laughter, and fun.

Their self-titled EP is knee-deep in the warm sands of the ocean surf. This group will appeal to people who like the sounds of rock, punk, or surf.

I hope to see more from this talented group soon. A full-length CD would be the next step. These guys are ready to rock you and surf their way into your instro mental psych.

Keep your eyes on Glamour Puss, the best is yet to come. With their EP already making waves, the band is gearing up for more exciting releases and performances. This is just the beginning of their musical journey, and I can't wait to see where they'll take us next. 

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

June/July 1999

Tracks:

01. Bumble Bee Surf

02. Wobble Knees

03. Space Race

04. Enter The Dragon

05. Lounge Man

06. Surf The Abyss

07. Spinout

Surf Instro Review- Get Wet - Self Titled (Les Fradkin)

 https://lesfradkin.com/

Les Fradkin and Get Wet surf at hyper speed! Whew, this cooks! Several tracks on this CD are soaked in surging saltwater reverb. It's getting plenty of attention on the MP3 throughway. (MP3.com was on fire then, and some artists were making good money!)

Les Fradkin plays guitar like there is no tomorrow on this release.

It starts with a killer rendition of "Bombora" and maintains momentum until your CD player takes a break. The covers are skillfully crafted, offering a unique take on familiar tunes. It's a treat to hear a cover version that surprises and delights.

When artists choose to cover a song, they can infuse it with their unique style, and Les does this with convincing flair.

The cover art perfectly captures the essence of the Surf genre, with its picturesque ocean view and charming palm tree hut. Be sure to visit their website to enjoy more of their music. Ready to get soaked in reverb? Dive in headfirst! 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

June/July 1999

Tracks:

01. Bombora   

02. Surfin The Classics Pt. 2   

03. Apache   

04. Surfin The Classics Pt. 1   

05. Body Surfin'    

06. Telstar

07. White Sands   

08. Walk Don't Run 2000  

09. The Cruel Sea  

10. Sandblaster   

11. Walk The Nose   

12. Reverbia              

                             

Interview With Ivan Pongracic

After all these years, since the 90s, I finally got the chance to speak with one of the most admired guitar players in the world, Ivan Pongracic! He is well known in the surf instrumental community for his work with The Space Cossacks, The Madeira, and Lords of Atlantis.

Give it a listen to find out more about this remarkable man and musician!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

Surf Instro Review: Surf Monsters - Various Artists

The tsunami called Del-Fi comes crashing back with an incredible testament to the talent flourishing in the surf music community today. Surf Monsters, a compilation of various artists, is not just another surf album.

It's a unique blend of vintage and modern surf music, providing fresh sound waves that intrigue and excite any surf music enthusiast. It comes rumbling through on the latest sonic delight, adding to the music's ever-growing popularity.

Del-Fi is the unequivocal king of the surf comps. What makes it interesting are the essential ingredients of vintage surf from the sixties.

Let us not forget the music's forefathers, but can we? True to form concerning surf culture, the artwork of Surf Monsters is not just colorful, it's a vibrant reflection of the sixties. It's a visual journey that will make any surf music enthusiast feel nostalgic and connected to the era.

Flaming, pounding, savage, and manic guitars fill this disc. The second time around, I realized I was listening to one phenomenal group of songs.

If this is where surf music is headed, I'll be along for the ride. I hope it lasts forever! This is a brilliant foray into reverb-soaked twang, characterized by reverb and a distinctive guitar sound.

Like the wild and untamed wave, surf music takes you for one hell of a ride, magical and timeless like nature itself.

Surf Monsters is where music meets art and combines for a complete cultural experience. 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

June/July 1999

Tracks:

01. Man Or Astroman?-Flotation Devices For Frequencies Yet To Be Detected

02.The Bomboras-Planet Of The Apehangers   

03. Satan's Pilgrims- Harem Nocturne 

04. The Original Sufaris- Bombora

05. Huevos Rancheros- Beach Blanket Blackout  

06. Dave Myers & The Surftones- Church Key

07. The Centurions- Bullwinkle Pt. II  

08. The Cocktail Preachers- Alabatross Joe   

09. The Sentinals- Exotic

10. Barbacoa- Northern Sky   

11. The Tike Tones- The Island Of Lost Soul

12. Dave Meyers  & The Surftones- Moment Of Truth  

13. The Dynatones-Devil's Martini

14. The Space Cossacks- The Apes Of Wrath   

15. The Impacts- Wipe Out  

16. The Sub-Mersians-Dr. Yes

17. The Lively Ones- Miserlou   

18. The Sentinals-Big Surf   

19. Powerjive-Surf Session At Sunset

20. The Lively Ones-Surf Rider

Surf Instro Review: The Knights-Surfin' The Web

Another Surf group from the '60s emerges from the ashes with a new recording, The Knights. This group of songs consists of mellow, twang-drenched surf.

The group fast-forwards to the 90s with their recording Surfin' the Web, complete with all the high-tech sounds of getting online. The first cut jumps out at you, then quiets down a bit after that with a softer approach. This group has the talent to do a full-length CD with all original material, which many groups in this genre need to do.

I don't mean to take anything away from the Knights, but they do a fine job with this release, and I enjoyed it. Their versions of the classics are done exceptionally well. I also appreciate a nod to the past. However, one or two cuts from the '60s suit my taste. Many folks may enjoy hearing all of the older tunes again.

I am happy that some of these groups are seizing the moment, getting web pages up, and reconnecting with their past. The Internet has breathed new life into groups that would otherwise have been forgotten.   

Note: My opinion today about doing surf covers is entirely different from what it was then. I was just starting out writing and was hungry to hear new bands' original material. Of course, I would soon find out that many of the bands would enjoy doing covers on their releases!       

Tracks:

01. Surfin' The Web  

02. Mother Load  

03. Bull Dog  

04. Sleep Walk 

05. Surfin' The Rio  

06. El Nino

07. Sea Of Love     

08. Here Today, Gone Tomorrow   

09. Cool Links  

10. Walk Don't Run

Surf Instro Review: Jon & The Nightriders-Raw & Alive '98

Jon and The Nightriders' incredible, electric, bona fide surf played live is realized on their iconic album, Raw & Alive '98. This album, a testament to their live performance prowess, solidified their reputation as Surf Music's only super group.

 

Jon & The Nightriders is a group of exceptional talents. Dusty Watson, who plays drums, and Dave Wronski, who plays rhythm guitar, also lead the group Slacktone, which makes up two-thirds of the ensemble.

 

What is impressive to me is that Wronski plays rhythm guitar! His lead playing with Slacktone is nothing short of phenomenal.

 

It's loud and pounding surf with a guitar that sounds like a machine gun, delivering rapid and intense notes. There is plenty of the trademark reverb sound and a distinctive echo effect that adds depth and texture to their music.

 

Jon Blair is a legend on lead guitar who plays like it was his last night alive. Fresh and invigorating like a swim in the ocean. This is a wave that must not be missed.

 

Don't miss the chance to experience the unbeatable Jon & The Nightriders live in action, captured in Long Beach, California. The energy, the sound, and the atmosphere are all there, waiting for you to be a part of it.

 

This is a legendary surf music supergroup in their element, and you won't want to miss it.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

June/July 1998                                          

Tracks:

01. Thunder over Rincon   

02.Geronimo   

03. Boogie Board   

04. Moving Target  

05.Molokai Cocktail

06. Rumble At Waikiki    

07.Horror Hayride 

08. Hurricane      

09. Twitchin'   

10.Grommet

11. Shake'N' Stomp

12.Storm Dancer    

13. Banzai Washout