Surf Instrumental 7" 45 Vinyl Review: The Divine Wind Brotherhood - Banzai Blue/Jo, Surfing

Release Date:  August 23, 2025

Label: Yaquina Break

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This is a unique release from The Divine Wind Brotherhood. Now you must love that name!

The 7” 45 is translucent blue, a visual representation of the “Banzai Blue” theme, and comes with a set of 3D glasses to view the back cover, which adds an interactive element to the experience. “Banzai Blue” is B/W “Jo, Surfing.”

The front cover is very colorful, keeping with the tradition of combining art with music in surf instrumental. The addition of keys and woodwinds was an interesting enhancement to their sound. It is another element that will give the listener more to focus on.

“Banzai Blue” achieves the “far east” sound with its guitars, incorporating elements of traditional Japanese music and culture, as they transition to sharp leads that will catch your ears. The steady rhythm is always there as the foundation for the guitars to take off. It is something you expect with surf instro music. The drums and bass are strong, with the continuous melodicism serving as a highlight.

“Jo, Surfing” starts with a more traditional surf sound, reminiscent of the classic surf instrumental tracks of the 1960s, and once again, the guitars are melodic with a nice flow. Some breakaway leads are crisp and clear, offering the listener an additional dimension to enjoy in their music.

The Divine Wind Brotherhood has a great sound, and their instrumental prowess is evident on this special release. With only 100 copies available, this is an infrequent and exclusive item that will likely sell out quickly, making it a highly sought-after collector’s piece.

The Divine Wind Brotherhood Is:

Bob Shade - Guitar

Isaac Jones - Bass

Jim Tucker - Guitar

Debbie Love - Keys & Woodwinds

TBone Empey – Drum

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Reviews Founder

August 28, 2025

 

Surf Rock-Psych Instrumental Review: Insect Surfers-Infra Green

Release Date:  June 12, 2013 (Vinyl Released October 2024)

Label: Green Cookie Records

Website

The Insect Surfers Are:

Guitar: David Arnson

Guitar: Michael Abraham

Bass: Jonpaul Balak

Drums: Jeff Utterback

The Insect Surfers, after a significant 15-year hiatus, released Infra Green. This kind of return often raises questions about how a band can pick up where they left off. Yet, when they do, it’s like witnessing a magical resurrection of their musical prowess.

 

When I heard “Bay of Bengal” on Can’t Surf On A Gas Giant vol.1, I was mesmerized. The song’s guitar playing and rhythm section are excellent. I kept playing the track over and over. I had to see what the rest of the album sounded like, continued to listen (stream), and I ordered the vinyl (which was released in October 2024).

 

“DelMarVa” features a great melody line, with guitars transitioning back and forth. It sounds like the perfect combination of traditional surf as the anchor with progressions of psychedelic runs and heavy reverb effects. Excellent!

 

“Space Park Drive” starts quite differently, and it rocks along nicely. Many layers of guitars with one off in distance, letting you know it’s still there. This is a wild ride of freaked-out psych elements, with dissonant chords and experimental effects, and a steady bass and drum holding down the main melody—more rock than anything, but very cool.

 

“Orion Canyon” is the longest track so far at 4:32. It has a surf western slant to it. Very atmospheric, with epic guitar rhythms and leads that create vivid imagery. Think spaghetti western with rock and psychedelic mixed in. This band is not easy to put in any box; they make their unique sound that is sure to intrigue listeners.   

 

“El Diablo Habanero” kicks into high gear immediately. Guitar-driven music with so many things going on makes for an enjoyable listen. This is the hallmark of this band. They are using the traditional surf elements with a lot of spice and flavor from the guitars that take everything in a different direction. Tasty and full of surprises.

 

“Pinto Pacer Duster Gremlin” is car nostalgia! If you are old enough to remember those cars, you should have an inner chuckle, as they were all on the low end of the spectrum for car ownership. Just under the two-minute mark, they shout out the track title several times. It moves right along, probably faster than all those cars! Great guitar again, with some laser-sharp licks!

 

“Plankton Dance” takes you out to the ocean depths with the driving rhythm section and layered guitars. Infectious melodies and hooks stake their claim to your inner sea explorer. Guitars merge to create a sound that is both full and exciting.

 

“Sea Scorpion” explodes right out of the gate and multiple trips down the guitar neck as the locomotive rhythm section kills it yet again. Music muscles flex and stretch throughout as they transition to a crazy ending with some glissando and biting leads. Almost 3 minutes of straight-ahead rock and surf psych instro.

 

“Par Avion” takes off with a hook with rhythmic guitars, pounding bass, and drums. Guitars are in sync like a well-oiled musical machine. The echo with reverb and sustain holds and makes a complete circle back to the initial melody. Not your typical surf instrumental by any means. The complexity and constant movement in different directions keep it interesting.

 

“Pineapple Skies” made me think of SpongeBob SquarePants immediately. Things take on a mellow, tropical atmosphere at first, then build and shift to a more rhythmic guitar playing, with the bass and drums keeping time. This is a real toe tapper with a prominent bass running through it.

 

“Vaquita” is a species of porpoise endemic to the northern end of the Gulf of California, Baja California, Mexico. So, with that in mind, the guitar is making porpoise sounds to kick it off (and more during the track). This is a long one at 6:51, so expect a lot of changes. The bass is strong and prominently displayed as the guitars go through all its paces. Effects are the key here, and it all works very well. What a masterpiece of sound and color-Ahh, the magic of guitar pedals!

 

“Crab Crusher” continues with its energetic openings, with the rhythm section spot on as the guitars enter with authority. Catchy hooks populate their sound as the second guitar wails away, taking its path. This is what makes their music so multidimensional. This is an excellent example of that virtuosity.

 

“Kitsune,” in Japanese folklore, is a fox or fox spirit known for its shapeshifting abilities and supernatural powers, including the ability to bewitch other beings. It starts in a very apprehensive way to create a feeling of mystery at first, then kicks right in. They do not waste any time in getting things moving at their normal fast pace, with a multitude of changes and guitar effects to reflect the meaning of the track.  The bass is fantastic once again; you can feel it go right through you. Bewitching sounds that any fox or fox spirit would recommend.

 

“Radar Road” is their magnum opus, clocking in at 9:27! It begins with a familiar spy motif, with the bass providing that atmosphere. The guitar jumps in with some biting, albeit smooth licks, then transitions several times for different effects and atmospheric touches. Get ready for all kinds of guitar wizardry as you move through nearly 10 minutes of prime Insect Surfers music. There is just too much going on here to discuss; you must hear it for yourself. Chances are, you have never heard anything like this on an album that fell into the surf instro genre. And if you did, I want to know about it!

 

“Infra Green,” the title track, closes this incredible recording. The bass begins its powerful presence right away as the drums join in. Then a subtle guitar line comes in as you are just waiting for the whole thing to cut loose and explode. Surprisingly enough, it never does; the tempo that is set down initially holds on as the guitar’s effects take precedence and bring it all to a close. That was a surprise ending considering everything that came before it.

 

Despite being released 12 years ago, Infra Green sounds as fresh as if it were released yesterday. This timeless quality is a testament to the band’s musical prowess. In the realm of surf instrumental rock and psych, it is a masterpiece that will be revered for eternity.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Reviews Founder

August 21, 2025

Tracks:

01. Bay Of Bengal 03:38

02. DelMarVa 02:23

03. Space Park Drive 03:35

04. Orion Canyon 04:32

05. El Diablo Habanero 03:21

06. Pinto Pacer Duster Gremlin 01:53

07. Plankton Dance 02:34

08. Sea Scorpion 02:58

09. Par Avion 04:18

10. Pineapple Skies 04:02

11. Vaquita 06:51

12. Crab Crusher 04:28

13. Kitsune 04:37

14. Radar Road 09:27

15. Infra Green 03:06

Surf Instrumental Compilation Review: Can't Surf On A Gas Giant vol.1 - Various Artists

Release Date: August 1, 2025

Label: Hitchslap Records

Website

There is nothing like a surf instro compilation to “wet” your appetite for the genre, and one with some eye-catching artwork that pulls you right in.

Hitchslap Records has put together a 14-track taster titled Can’t Surf On A Gas Giant vol.1 to discover some bands that may be new to you and to revisit some that are not.  This will resonate with listeners and bands all over the world. The variety and genre-bending tracks never let up. Take it for a test drive, but beware, some twists and turns come up on your fast!

 

The first band to receive instant recognition is at the top of the list, with track #1, the Insect Surfers. They were one of the leaders of surf rock when they arrived on the scene. They formed in Washington, D.C., in 1979. The group bills itself as “Planet Earth’s Longest-Running Modern Surf Band!” I would not argue with that!

 

Insect Surfers - "Bay of Bengal" kicks things off, and it’s a fantastic start! This is genuine musical artistry at work. Their sound is clear, sharp, and with the shifting guitar notes, it makes for an enjoyable listen — not your typical surf instrumental track, clocking in at 3:40. I had to listen twice; it’s a wave of sound with a powerful rhythm section. Their position in the community was established decades ago, and this track confirms they haven’t missed a step and are a flexible group of musicians. This fleeting surf rock instrumental will resonate loudly and clearly! To my ears, this is progressive surf.

 

Surfer Joe - "Sunset” - Is an excellent addition to this comp. Everyone knows who this man is! He does a lot for promoting the community and records some great surf instro music. This is a sample of his sound, which is a reach back to the first wave with some new pop and crackle.

 

Los SuperAvengers (yes, they spell it that way) - "Perfect Wave”- Is another nearly 4-minute exercise of musical prowess. They are all geared up like the legendary Los Straitjackets with their Mexican wrestling masks. They were formed in 2007 in Austin, TX, according to their Facebook page. They have a melodic, fast-moving sound that is very smooth and catchy. This is their own “Perfect Wave” of surf instro that is sure to raise a few eyebrows.

 

RAHMUS - "Dracula’s Castle" – Is the band with the interesting name and look with their “Ghost” masks, etc., as seen on their banner on Bandcamp. Just one look at that and you’re thinking that they will probably be on the fringes of surf and beyond. And they have a very cool sound! They take rock and reverb and set it to a steady beat with plenty of oomph! Their sound is irresistible and contagious.

 

The Invincible Speed Holes - "The Plague" -They are all out rockin’ surf comparable to Man or Astroman? Some serious guitar explosions occur during this track. It was like punk meets surf rock, with a crushing rhythm section that was powerful.

 

Nuclear Juarez - "Spy School Dropout" – Here we go with some surf spy music! Have to love these surf variations you can listen to. A band with another great name! Here we get back to the little over 2-minute jaunt, jam-packed with high-energy surf instro. Fast-moving and full of melody, they get it done. Their nuclear reaction ticks, and the bomb explodes to end the track, how appropriate considering their name.

 

Bat City Surfers - "The Lazer's Edge" – Are flat out rockers on this track. Drums and cymbals crash as the guitar cuts away its parts, razor sharp, with some use of a pedal for effects, making it more interesting. They move at hyper speed without coming up for air, then a quick transition to stopping for some commentary and back to their heavy surf rock sound to close it out.

 

Frank Mustard Project - "Fireball" – Wins the day for weird band names! They get it done in under 2 minutes with a fine guitar run with effects. Twangy and surfing on a monster wave of sound, I love it! The melody is familiar, and it certainly rocks hard.

 

Matagorda - "They Called Him Raven" – If you’re ready for some surf western spaghetti twang, then this band is your ticket to ride to that atmosphere, and they paint that picture well. Almost 5 minutes, this is the mega track of the comp. They take you through all the paces with their talents and get you right in the mood to go to your TV and look for a good Western! Well done!

 

The Nematoads - "Difference Engine"  -  I recently had the pleasure of covering this recent release. This one is a real rocker with a soundscape that would fit a movie with intrigue, mystery, guys and dolls, and fast cars. The music is full of cutting-edge guitar licks and effects. Thanks to Ted James at Deep Eddy Records and the guitar player for the band for recommending this fantastic compilation!

 

JUDODOJO - "First Wave" -Dismisses any idea that surf instro is one-dimensional. The guitar playing is superb on this track, and the rhythm section roars along to complement that transitioning guitar sound. The pedals for guitars are so crucial for this genre, and they make good use of those tools. One wave after another of amazing sounds that will have you diving in for another swim in their massive sound!

 

Northern Tides - "Route 32" -Has a confident sound with a traditional twist to the approach. A little bit of glissando peppered in there with some excellent guitar runs, all supported by the “surf beat” we are all familiar with. A blast from the past to remember how this all started, thanks, guys!

 

Sys Malakian - "Old Jaguar Twist" – Brings us back to the first wave with some killer sound. Sys has been making his mark and has the respect of fellow musicians from all over the planet. This is so good! I feel like I just jumped into a time machine, and I am in SoCal on the beach listening to all the favs of the day! Extraordinary musicianship, Sys!

 

AKAW! - "Invasion Eminent" – This band ends this comp with a bang! I love the way it starts with the voice of an announcer coming on to warn us of a full-scale attack! This is the fun and colorful surf instro music, taking all the elements and wrapping them into one track. They get it done in a little over 2 minutes, which is no easy feat. This is an explosion of sound!

 

Can’t Surf On A Gas Giant vol.1 is fourteen tracks of great music that are consistent, varied, and stay within the surf instrumental arena and sub-genres, which is always great fun. This kind of music injects energy and color into your day, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it again - I can guarantee it!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Reviews Founder

August 19, 2025

Tracks:

01. Insect Surfers - "Bay of Bengal" 03:40

02. Surfer Joe - "Sunset" 02:52

03. Los SuperAvengers - "Perfect Wave" 03:41

04. RAHMUS - "Dracula's Castle" 02:56

05. The Invincible Speed Holes - "The Plague" 02:09

06. Nuclear Juarez - "Spy School Dropout" 02:09

07. Bat City Surfers - "The Lazer's Edge" 02:47

08. Frank Mustard Project - "Fireball" 01:39

09. Matagorda - "They Called Him Raven" 04:50

10. The Nematoads - "Difference Engine" 03:45

11. JUDODOJO - "First Wave" 04:01

12. Northern Tides - "Route 32" 02:39

13. Sys Malakian - "Old Jaguar Twist" 02:12

14. AKAW! - "Invasion Eminent" 02:05

Surf Instro Review: The Breakers-Triple-Sided Single

Release Date:  July 19, 2025

Label: Independent

The Breakers Catalog

As The Breakers gear up to release another full-length recording, they decided to give us a taste of what is to come. And they are doing it with a unique concept-the Triple-Sided Single, a collection of three distinct tracks that showcase their versatility and creativity.

THE BREAKERS ARE:

Jim Abrahams - Guitar, Effects

Marc Lockett - Drums, Percussion

Jayson Slater – Bass

 

Creating music is not just a passion, but also a labor of love. All of us working stiffs must set aside time for this kind of work, so it is a process to get everything together. Just about anyone who is an independent recording artist is leading this double life. So, listeners are required to have some patience as they strive to deliver the best music possible.

 

So, if you have a craving for more killer surf instro to digest, I have just the remedy for you with these three tracks.

 

“Injection” gets your motor running right from the starting line. Fueled by a locomotive rhythm section and lead guitar that offers a mix of first wave and today’s tech to give it a clear and crisp sound. Melodicism is the word of the day here. There is some slick guitar work going on here with Abrahams doing some quick slides down the fretboard, kind of like a surfer taking a massive wave and getting in a sustained tube. (Check the track video provided)

 

“Facing The Sun” marks a shift towards more complex compositions, incorporating a touch of psych garage influence. Some cool transitions are found within this number. Then the old school sounds jump out suddenly for the ’60s organ sound (*which I suspected was a guitar), kind of like The Munsters’ intro if you can remember that or are familiar with it. This was a big step away from the previous track, reminding you of how eclectic surf rock can be if you have the talent of this remarkable trio.

*I asked Jim Abrahams, and he confirmed that the organ sound was the Eastwood Backlund Model 100 DLX Guitar through the Electro Harmonix C9 Organ Machine.

“Adios, Consciousness” takes another turn on the musical road. This track is a journey, with a mellow start, a prominent bass line, and a 60s psych vibe. Then, it surprises us with a heavier, meatier sound, complete with a sax and trumpet. The guitar, switching to tremolo mode, adds to the variety. It’s like listening to several songs all rolled into one session. No wonder they go past 3 minutes!

 

If the Triple-Sided Single is a taste of what’s to come with the whole album, I, for one, am eagerly awaiting its release. If you’re a fan of The Breakers, you won’t want to miss this!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Reviews Founder

August 15, 2025

Tracks:

1. Injection 02:32

2. Facing The Sun 02:50

3. Adios, Consciousness 03:26

Surf Music Review: The Deweys – Search for Surf

Release Date: July 2025

Label: Independent
Website: Bandcamp

The Mother’s Tavern in Sunset Beach, California, is a cozy little pub where thirsty bikers gather. It’s one of those quaint places where the walls are lined with mementos and scribbled banknotes. Here and there, you’ll find car parts, and even bras, hanging from the ceiling. They serve Corona and English brown ale, and local hot rod bands perform at weekends. In late July 2025, it was the Deweys who presented their album Search for Surf in this worthy setting.

The somewhat simple graphic on the record sleeve depicts the silhouette of a lifeguard cabin, a typical feature of California’s wide, sandy beaches. A “Catalina” maritime patrol aircraft circles in the sky above. We read the label “sixteen surf instrumentals” as well as the promising listener note “recorded in full dimensional deweyphonic sound”.

The Deweys are Armin (guitar), Jeff (guitar), Dave (bass), and Johnny (drums), who all call themselves “Dewey” by their last name. A band is like a family. Their mutual passion for surf music bonded them together, and we can smell the beach with every beat. They look neat on stage in their Henley shirts, like the ones Californian surfers wore in the early 1960s. Might they be setting a fashion trend?

Straightforward, no-frills surf music is what we hear, and it immediately captivates us. “AMX”, the album’s opening song, has us cruising the boulevards in a sporty coupé. The sound is homogeneous throughout; unpretentious yet sparkling.

Track 2, “Surfa Nova”. We check in at the Hotel California and meet Martin Cilia in the lobby. He has just arrived on the “Flight of the Surf Guitar”. This isn’t unpleasant at all.

“Victory at Mr. C’s” recounts a fortunate purchase at Mr. C’s Records, a renowned record store in Orange, California — the band’s hometown. A lucky fellow acquired an original Dick Dale record there.

Well waxed we continue on to “C.C. Slider”. “Slider” is surfing slang for a dude who rides a longboard. Honor to whom honor is due. There are handclaps for Curt Culver (C.C.), the band’s best surfing buddy.

The band is very compact yet still has a youthful vibe, reminiscent of a school band from the economic miracle era. The dynamic is thoroughly massaged and deeply relaxed. There’s no bandmate hopping around on stage thinking he’s in a heavy metal band.

Bob, an enthusiastic attendee of the release party, describes the foursome’s delicate Showmaster roaring in detail: 

“With Armin on his clean Jaguar and Jeff on his lush and drippy Jazzmaster, they form the perfect two-guitar surf attack.” 

Fullerton, where these electric instruments were manufactured initially, is nearby. 

“All the guitars and amplifiers are by Fender — just how God intended it”, Bob raves, deciding that very evening to start his own surf band and learn the guitar.

In addition to the aforementioned division of tasks, it is the sequences featuring dual lead guitar that particularly delight. However, the most beautiful thing is when Armin and Jeff’s guitars flow together like ocean waves. This is where the band’s most significant potential lies. (Keith and Ron from the Stones would call this “guitar weaving.)

With every note, you can hear that the band members live by the Pacific Ocean. With their streamlined signature sound, the band has created a repertoire that listeners can enjoy all the way through for hours. (The band performs the entire album live in one set.) However, certain elements provide variety:

They strike some off-key notes in “Woe to Woe Fat” and “Off the Rails”, while “War Path” is based on an ancient Amerindian rhythm. The Tex-Mex interlude “Uncle Stanley” is a memorial to a colorful family member, who enjoyed drinking and dancing in a local country music bar.

In “Oasis”, the Deweys relish oriental scales in a sashay step change. “Talkin’ Tiki” is a gentle hammock song with a rimshot beat and a plenty of exotica flair. The moody “The Hidden Beyond” leaves us feeling deeply satisfied at sunset after a fulfilling day at the beach.

The catchiest song is perhaps “The Last”, which certainly would have deserved a more auspicious title. The album’s track listing could also have been arranged better. Two interesting cover versions round off the album: 

One is by Neil Diamond — not the resounding stadium anthem, but “Solitary Man”, one of the singer’s earlier works. The choice of this song as a cover once again highlights the band’s elegance.

“Major Tom (Coming Home)” is likely to surprise German-speaking listeners in particular. Peter Schilling topped the German charts in 1983 with this robotic Neue Deutsche Welle pop song, which reached number 14 on the US Billboard Hot 100 charts the following year.

Although Search for Surf is their debut album, the band has a long history. The Deweys more or less emerged from the Torquays, a band formed in 1964. Armin Dewey took over on guitar in their later phase. He’s the surfer in the band and writes the songs, which let us smell the beach air with every beat. 

This is how the Deweys emerge from the transfiguration of surf music history as if nothing had happened in between. Undoubtedly, this is not a mimicry of the first wave — this IS the first wave! It’s bands like the Deweys who make traditional surf music the lively folklore of California in the here and now.

Jimmy Dee, Staff Writer at Surf Music and Art

August 14, 2025

Tracklist:

01. AMX
02. Surfa Nova
03. Victory at Mr. C’s
04. The Hidden Beyond
05. C.C. Slider
06. Oasis
07. Overhead
08. Talkin’ Tiki
09. War Path
10. Solitary Man
11. Woe to Woe Fat
12. Uncle Stanley
13. Major Tom (Coming Home)
14. Off the Rails
15. The Last
16. Deweys Theme

Surf-Garage Rock Vinyl Review: The Knights-I Don't Need You

Visit Artist Website

I Don’t Need You is the kind of music that reaches way back to another time, another world. Before the 60s became tumultuous, there were surf instrumental bands like The Ventures with a worldwide fan base. Then the mop tops in 1964 ruined all their fun.

Some bands emulated those wonderful Ventures like The Knights, led by guitarist Dick Stewart (AKA King Richard). Dick, who will be turning 80 this July, is more than just a musician to me. I met him when he was around 60, and our friendship has spanned decades. He was one of the key individuals that I met while developing as a writer and my “MuzikMan” persona. I just needed to say that because he became a friend, and I was a regular contributor with my Pick of The Month to his fanzine The Lance Monthly.

As time passes, people move on and get involved in other projects, as we both did. One day, I got a box in the mail from Dick with his most recent literary excursion and the LP by the Knights titled I Don’t Need You. I hadn’t heard this music in years, so I gave it a spin. The familiar tunes brought back a flood of memories and reignited my original love for the genre. This is how I ended up meeting Dick and folks like Merrell Fankhauser and a host of other similar artists. Many fond memories came flooding back with this great music!

Side one kicks off with some beautifully perfected surf instrumentals like “Precision,” “Cut-Out,” and “Moonbeam.” I had forgotten how good this music was, and it reignited my original love for the genre. This is how I ended up meeting Dick and folks like Merrell Fankhauser and a host of other similar artists. Many fond memories came flooding back with this great music!

Side two offers up some garage and frat rock, a term used to describe the rock music popular in fraternity houses, as they called it back in the day. The vocal tunes are a step away from the surf instrumentals, but just as significant historically for their legacy, and quite enjoyable. It is everything a compilation should be as far as I am concerned.

I am deeply grateful for the relationships I have formed in the music industry, and Dick Stewart is one of the special people that I will never forget. His music will live on long after we are both gone from this planet. That is the beauty of music that made a difference and still does.

I Don’t Need You is a trip back in time when things were so much simpler with no internet, cell phones, social media, and everyone wasn’t worried about “offending” someone regardless of what they said. 

I sometimes wish I could go back to that time when I was a little boy, when all this music was so popular, but then again, I wouldn’t be who I am today, with an ear to the sounds of yesteryear and getting the word out to people who need to hear it!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

February 16, 2020

Surf Rock Instrumental Review: The Fathoms-Hard To Fathom

Release Date:  August 8, 2025

Label: Musick Recordings

Website

After an astounding eighteen-year hiatus, the return of this Boston-based band, The Fathoms, with a new album, Hard To Fathom, is a special occasion for surf instrumental fans. The album features eight tremendous tracks that cover all the sub-genres that make surf instrumental so enjoyable to listen to, marking a significant return to the music scene. 

Featuring lead guitarist Frankie Blandino, Rob Amaral, Sax Gordon, and the return of the original Fathoms rhythm section of Johnny Sciascia on bass and Stan Kozlowski on drums, this reunion is a complete circle for the band. Their previous work has left a lasting impact on the surf instrumental genre, and their return is highly anticipated.

 

The time they spent apart had no impact on them, based on what I heard.

 

The title track “Hard To Fathom” begins with power and conviction, followed by some smooth as silk tremolo, then the saxophone announces its entrance, albeit softly, in the background in comparison to the primary instrument’s strengths; however, it would eventually rise in volume in the mix. They could not have announced their return with a better sound.

 

“The Right One” is a country-flavored number that is a big step away from the opener. However, you will find that each track is a separate entity as the band uses all of their experience to keep your interest right until the end. Eclecticism is the rule of the day. The sax returns once again, offering more of its distinctive sound, and there is some excellent picking going on continuously as the drums and bass hold down the foundation. These flavorful twists in sound reminded me of the late great Danny Gatton’s music.

 

“Funny Farm” features a drum intro as it transitions into a different playing style. It is that retro ’60s sound, complete with the recognizable organ, that instantly transports you back to a time when all the sitcoms were on TV. There is some good string bending going on here that gives it that offbeat sound.

 

“Giddy Up” returns to the surf instro straight away with some biting licks, rapid drum rolls, and twang to give it the western feel. They circle back and forth with pinpoint precision as the sax adds its sauce to the musical stew. This is another eclectic mixture with many transitions worthy of note.

 

“Sea of Glass” transports you to a deserted island in the sun, where the tempo evokes a sense of warmth and smooth waves of sound gently caress your consciousness. The music sweeps you away as it cleverly paints the necessary scenes in your mind. There is a nice blend of acoustic and electric guitar, and good layering of each instrument. This was one of my favorites for all-around musicianship.

 

“Escape From Wormtown” will bring Davie Allan to mind and The Ventures’ track “2000 Pound Bee” with that definitive fuzztone sound. There is an air of mystery created in this musical atmosphere, like a scene in a James Bond movie. The steady bottom end is their rock to count on as each instrument is added to the mix. A good rhythm guitar melds well to complete their sound, then towards the finish line, a shift in sound again and a fade out.

 

“End of the Trail” is their ode to the Spaghetti Westerns. I envisioned a scene from The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly in my mind’s eye with this picturesque auditory experience. The guitar is the narrator here, and it sings the song so well. There is a surprising transition to the fuzztone, and then the drums sound like a call to arms to march into battle as the sun sets on the final scene.

 

“Planet of Rain” is the curtain closer on this cinematic journey of sound. And it’s off with a bang, just the way it all started with some rapid playing from all positions. The retro Shadows sound permeates your surroundings. If Hank Marvin were listening, he would be smiling. Cymbals play an essential role in different segments, once again proving how important the drums are in every song. They are the engine that drives this locomotive down the tracks.

 

Hard To Fathom is a superb recording and a fantastic return to form after a protracted absence. Let’s hope this is the beginning of another chapter in the history of one of the greatest surf instro bands of all time.

 

Besides a download and CD, it is available in excellent “Jazz master” colors splatter vinyl LP as well. I have the vinyl on the way!

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Reviews Founder

August 11, 2025

Tracks:

1. HARD TO FATHOM 03:32

2. THE RIGHT ONE 02:49

3. FUNNY FARM 02:20

4. GIDDY-UP 03:03

5. SEA OF GLASS 03:44

6. ESCAPE FROM WORMTOWN 03:06

7. END OF THE TRAIL 05:24

8. PLANET OF RAIN 03:11

Surf-Rock-Garage Review: The Boss Martians - Move

www.bossmartians.com

“The Boss Martians” are boss; there is no doubt about it. This group has mastered the art of playing sixties rock-pop and surf-instrumental on Move. It’s unusual to find a group that does both, and very well. Well, let me rephrase that…they have it down better than some of the originators of the genres.

Move features the pumped-up leader Evan Foster (vocals, guitar), who has a good set of pipes on him, and he plays the guitar like he had one in his hand at birth. He must be reincarnated from the sixties; that’s the only logical explanation. The rest of the group is equal to the task. Nick Contento (organ, piano), Jason Reavis (drums), and Steve Esquerita Davis (bass) stay right with Foster and inspire him to rock that much harder.

Although Foster is unquestionably the leader, the group’s sound quality would be significantly compromised without the support of each member. There must be magic and cooperation on all levels of the creative process for an album to sound this good. Move is a great rock and roll album.

This CD goes from first to fifth gear in a heartbeat with the rockin’ “She’s In, You’re Gone.” It’s the classic AM single format, clocking in just over two minutes in length. Actually, except for two tracks, every song’s runtime is radio-ready, keeping the standard two-minute timeframe in mind. This music is all about cars and chicks…check out “Introducing-The 1971 Dodge Charger Super Bee.”  All the dudes get a warning with “Never Trust a Chick (In a 3 Window Coupe)”, and then there is plenty of fun in the sun with the instrumentals tucked in between all the vocal tracks.

Hey, if this stuff doesn’t get your ass off the couch and shakin’ that booty, I suggest you check in with your local undertaker. If you desire a break from all the vocal activity, then there are some fine instrumental numbers to satisfy that urge.

“The Last Ride” is an energized traditional surf-instro tune, and “Trouble On Two Wheels” is the most interesting track on the entire album. It starts with a country flavored guitar run ala The Hellecasters and then quickly switches over to a quick foreign (maybe Lebanese?) dance-like tempo and then back again, all in the space of three and a half minutes. It’s an awe-inspiring display of virtuosity. You must listen to it a few times to catch everything that they are doing.

I love this group; they have got it covered for the sixties as far as I am concerned. It’s refreshing to hear simple, no-frills rock and roll that creates a clear picture of a time gone by. This kind of music never gets stale or boring. So, what are you waiting for? Get off that couch and get a copy of this now! 

You can find one here if you are interested in Discogs, which is priced reasonably.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

February 12, 2002

Tracks:

01. She's in, You're Gone (Foster) - 2:14

02. I Want More (Foster) - 2:47

03. The Last Ride (Foster) - 2:29

04. Introducing-The 1971 Dodge Charger Super Bee(Foster) - 0:18

05. Bad Ass '71 Dodge Super Bee (Foster/Trueblood) - 2:05

06. Trouble on 2 Wheels (Foster) - 3:29

07. This Time Around (Foster) - 2:37

08. Intermission (Foster) - 2:05

09. Move! (Foster) - 2:25

10. Never Trust a Chick (In a 3 Window Coupe) (Foster) - 2:20

11. Chihuahua del Diablo (Foster) - 2:26

12. Mugs O' Plenty (Foster) - 2:10

13. Little Sally Tease (Valley) - 2:45

14. Pandilla en Motocicleta (Foster) - 4:28

Surf-Progressive Review: California Guitar Trio - Rocks The West

Listen On Pandora

Rocks The West, a 2000 live release from the California Guitar Trio, features Tony Levin on the Chapman stick bass and a fretless bass, and Bill Janssen on the saxophone. This unique combination adds an esoteric feel to the music, transforming the trio’s sound into a more layered and complex progressive free form experience.

The classic influences come through on Beethoven’s "Symphony No. 9." The creator would have been delighted if he heard their version. The one song that just knocked my socks off was "Bohemian Rhapsody." I have never listened to an instrumental version of this song; it’s gorgeous and so intricately played. The Ellington jazz classic "Caravan," which has several popular surf-instro interpretations, is heard in an entirely different musical domain.

 

The group does have the surf influences courtesy of Hideyo Moriya. Still, bandmates Paul Richards and Bert Lams allow the song to take on a life of its own due to the cooperative spirit of each player, allowing all their influences to meld into one big, beautiful, and stunning sound.

Surf, classical, jazz, rock, folk, progressive…it’s all present and accounted for on each track. The liner notes are very cool; they track their dates and venues with insightful and humor-filled commentary. There are also some good snapshots of the band.

 

The entire world is a stage at a CTG concert. The players are the puppeteers, and we are the puppets, allowing every note to transport us to a dimension free of worry and filled with happiness and wonderment.

 

This music is not just powerful; it’s a transformative experience that you owe it to yourself to have. You have to hear these men play to truly understand the impact and importance of what they do. Their music has the power to inspire and uplift, leaving you with a renewed sense of wonder and joy.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

January 24, 2002

Tracks:

01. Scramble

02. Symphony No. 9

03. Bohemian Rhapsody

04. Caravan (Moroccan roll w/drum solo)

05. Punta Patri

06. Waters of Eden

07. Blue-eyed Monkey

08. Pathways

09. Pictures at an Exhibition

10. Happy Time In Fun Town

11. Misirlou

12. Rokudan

13. Blockhead

Progressive-Surf-Instrumental Review: California Guitar Trio- With Special Guests Tony Levin and Pat Mastelotto-Live At The Key Club

Tony Levin Website

California Guitar Trio came into being in 1991 after Bert Lams (Belgium), Hideyo Moriya (Japan), and Paul Richards (USA) met at a Robert Fripp guitar seminar in England. Fripp was impressed enough to take the trio on tour with him on the now-famous Fripp’s League of Crafty Guitarists Tour, a tour known for showcasing exceptional guitar talent. The result of that successful internship helped the three men decide to break off from the Fripp troupe and start their group. CGT was born, and the rest is history.

Live At The Key Club features very special guests Tony Levin, bass player extraordinaire, and the in-demand percussionist Pat Mastelotto (Mr. Mister, King Crimson), delivering an indispensable performance with the group.

The combination of awe-inspiring jazz-inflected surf-progressive-rock sound is a rocking example of genre amalgamation. A notable inclusion to this set is the classic Surf tracks "Miserlou" (Dick Dale), "Apache" (The Shadows), and King Crimson’s phenomenal ‘Discipline’ to wet your diverse musical palette. If that isn’t enough for you, then John McLaughlin’s “Dance Of The Maya” will set your soul afire.

This group sounds like a literal guitar army. Keep in mind this is all acoustic guitar, although it doesn’t keep the sound down at all. With the addition of the incredible Tony Levin and the rhythmic percussion of Mastelotto, CGT is given more depth and breadth in their sound, and quite simply put, it’s out of this world.

Wizard engineer Ronan Chris Murphy mixed the recording, so they got the very best in that department; it’s more than obvious right from the start of the first track that Murphy’s stamp is on the mix. They do an ultra-fast version of “Heart Of The Sunrise” (Yes), and according to the group in the liner notes, it’s true to form when you listen to it.

Three dueling guitars at warp speed is something to witness. This recording will be just like being there. It will be as captivating as anything you have ever heard. Intricate notes are woven in multiplicity to create their three-man guitar sound. I have to give full credit to the rhythm section; it must have been complicated to keep pace with and make the proper exchange between the drums and bass without allowing the guitars to drop out of sync. They couldn’t have chosen a better duo than Levin and Mastelotto.

As a reviewer of progressive bands, my introduction to the California Guitar Trio was a revelation. Their name kept cropping up in my research, and I was not disappointed. Their sound is a masterclass for musicians, a sonic journey that I urge you to experience.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

January 23, 2002

Tracks:

01. Train to Lamy (4'56") - Lams, Richards, Moriya

02. Zundoko Bushi (3:43") - unknown, arr. Moriya (w/ excerpts from 21st Century Schizoid Man - Fripp, McDonald, Lake, Giles, Sinfield)

03. Blockhead (3'36") - Richards

04. Apache (3'26") - Lordan, The Shadows (Atlantic)

05. Sketches on Sunset (6'48") - Mastelotto, Levin, Lams, Richards, Moriya Improvisation

06. Discipline (4'51") - King Crimson (BMG Music)

07. Miserlou (1'58") - Tauber, Wise, Rubanis, Leeds (Campbell Connelly, & Co. Ltd)        

08. “Many people ask us..." (3'05") - Richards

09. Melrose Ave. (2'15") - Moriya

10. Dance of Maya (5'54") - Mclaughlin (Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp.)

11. Heaven’s Bells (6'56") - Mastelotto, Levin, Lams, Richards, Moriya Improvisation

12. Heart of the Sunrise (7'22") - Anderson, Squire, Bruford (Atlantic)

13. Caravan (5'28") - D. Ellington, I. Mills, J. Tizal (EMI Mills Music Inc.)

14. Eve (4'02") - Richards, Lams, Moriya, Levin