Saturday, June 21, 2025

Surf - Rock Review: The Torpedoes - Good For The Country

http://www.thetorpedoes.com/

The Torpedoes, a power trio of surf enthusiasts with heavy-laden guitars, are a force to be reckoned with. Their unique blend of surf and rock, as showcased on Good For The Country, is a refreshing departure from the norm and a testament to their innovative sound.

It's hard to tell where they fall. The guitar progressions I heard are on the fringes of alternative rock, yet the port from which they carry out each mission is undoubtedly anchored in the surf!

The unconventional methods of groups like this have pushed an entire genre to the edge of creating an entirely new type of music. It has become so inviting and so aurally pleasing that I crave more. 

One striking aspect that caught my attention immediately was the distinct appearance of the three members of this trio. In contrast to the typical surf group aesthetic, each member exudes a unique style.  The guitar player, 'Big B', has a rock star/hippie look, the bass player, Jason Brown, could easily be mistaken for a Stray Cats tour member, and the drummer, Brandon Watson, resembles a jazz musician from the 50s. This visual diversity adds an intriguing layer to the band's persona.

One aspect that I rarely discuss but was impossible to ignore is the unique way The Torpedoes present themselves. The most notable track, "Theme From The Ipcress File (A Man Alone)", is a testament to their style.

With 17 tracks of crunching primitive power, Good For The Country is potent, high intensity, and outright gripping. It's like a wave of energy from the murky deeps, slashing and snapping at you, leaving you exhilarated and wanting more. 

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

April 1999

Tracks:

01. Manta Ray  

02. The Hornet  

03. Interplanetary  

04. Spanish Main 

05. Nebula 33-7  

06. Green Light  

07. Half-Pipe

08. The Mummy 

09. Midnight Surfer (Ode to Mark Foo)  

10. Gyro-scopic Control 

11. Theme From The Ipcress File (A Man Alone)

12. Secret Agent In Berlin  

13. The Naked Spur  

14. Stockyard-250  

15. Torpedo

16. Tarantula  

17. The Snake

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