Surf Rock Instrumental Review: The Chi-Tones-Salsipuedes

Release Date: August 12, 2025 

Label: McClean Music Publishing

Website

Chi McClean, a lifelong surfer and the one-person show (except the drums) of The Chi-Tones, is a rare gem in the surf instro genre. His versatility, not just in playing instruments but also in understanding the culture and sport, is evident in his album Salsipuedes.

 

“Salsipuedes” is a Spanish phrase that translates to “leave if you can” or “get out if you can” in English. The term is a contraction of “sal si puedes” and is used for places or situations that are difficult to escape, like a street that becomes impassable when it rains or a difficult-to-traverse creek. In the context of this album, 'Salsipuedes' could be interpreted as a metaphor for the unpredictable and challenging nature of the surf. 

 

Chi plays the following instruments: Electric + Resophonic + Acoustic Guitars, Bass Guitar, Electric Pianos, Mellotron, Toy Piano, Glockenspiel, Banjo, Electric Sitar, Whistle, Shouts + Hand Percussion. And Production.

 

The drums on this album are performed by the talented Miles McPherson, whose rhythmic contributions add depth and energy to the music. Buckley Miller was the mixing engineer and Ryan Smith the mastering engineer.

 

“Undercover Surfer” starts with a great beat, some guitar, and the electric sitar—a delicious way to kick things off. Everything sounds right on the edge of exploding, keeping you on the edge of your seat. Very cinematic and colorful.

 

“Tres Banderas” is a Spanish-influenced track that transports you to a different cultural landscape. The sounds of the Spanish guitar and the whistle reminiscent of a Spaghetti Western film soundtrack by Ennio Morricone create a unique and intriguing atmosphere.

 

“The Enforcer” is a high-energy track that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The infectious guitar grooves and driving rhythm build to a crescendo, creating an exciting and engaging musical experience.

 

“Salsipuedes” draws Chi back to Spanish influences by balancing the power of the guitar with the keyboard. The percussion is steady and done with conviction. The title track should always be a highlight, and he succeeds in accomplishing that.

 

“Odd Todd” is a funky, twangy number under two minutes. The feeling is light with plenty of rhythm for just enough spice. Diversification on the guitar is a specialty of this artist.

“Bad Vibes Bob” sounds eerie at first, evoking a sense of trepidation. The guitar briefly moves away from that, with some reverberating guitar lines, then returns to maintain that feeling.

 

Nearly 3 minutes this time, with some interesting sounds like the Glockenspiel.

“County Line “is a real mover, a boogie guitar kicks into action before changing into more stretched out sounds and some slide guitar. A lot is coming into focus here. This is very catchy and well done!

 

“Los Federales” is easy enough to understand without translating—the bass thumps along with a definitive Spanish flair and irresistible guitar and toe-tapping percussion.

“Down The Line” jumps right at the starting line, sounding like vintage first-wave surf instro. The drums are right in sync along those lines as the guitar does a great job creating that surfing sound. This is perfectly fun in the sun stuff!

 

“Mystic Maverick” returns with electric guitar staccato style as another lead is added with some bluesy slide. The backbeat is like a metronome for the guitars. Excellent.

 

“Eagles” shimmers like a wave in the sun. The guitar sounds like an invitation to the beach and a cool drink while watching the surfers fly through the waves like eagles. Very atmospheric and relaxing. I am continually impressed with the variety Chi delivers in all these tracks.

 

Being a surfer and ending with “Big Sur” was most appropriate. And it is the longest track at 4:13. This one begins with a leisurely tempo and slide guitar resonating as the rhythms backing it are right in step. It starts building in layers, then you hear the electric sitar with its unique sound. Once again, I am totally impressed with the diverse array of sounds and instrumentation found in one track.

 

The Chi-Tones is an excellent name for Chi’s one-man band because of all the ground he covers. I appreciate the coverage of surf instro and beyond. The many sub-genres make things a lot more interesting, and to perform at such a high level while also producing all the music is genuinely remarkable.

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

September 22, 2025

Tracks:

01. Undercover Surfer 02:08

02. Tres Banderas 02:03

03. The Enforcer 01:51

04. Salsipuedes 02:42

05. Odd Todd 01:50

06. Bad Vibes Bob 02:53

07. County Line 02:25

08. Los Federales 02:33

09. Down The Line 02:20

10. Mystic Maverick 02:31

11. Eagles 03:15

12. Big Sur 04:13