Surf Instrumental Review: Agent Octopus-Blue Eyed Surf

 Release Date: September 7, 2019

Label: Independent

Website

Over six years ago, Agent Octopus arrived on the surf instro scene. Blue Eyed Surf began a string of impressive releases, cementing their place in the community.

“Cape Fear” begins this eleven-track journey of fun in the sun. Their retro sound captivates your senses from the start. This is guitar-driven music. Three members contributed. The echoing notes flow, while the bass and drums hold down the backend nicely.

"Ghost Orchid" offers a mellow contrast to the opening track. Clocking in at 3:13, it features warm, resonant guitar sections that create an atmospheric effect, drawing the listener into its soundscape.

"Blue Eyed Surf" refers to its cover art, with island sounds and steady bass and drums supporting a guitar that evokes gentle waves on the shore.

"King Kong’s Revenge!" signals a tempo change at once. With notable work, guitars are taking various directions, growing more aggressive midway through. The hooks are catchy and memorable, reinforcing the track’s bold character.

"Sleeping With The Fishes" returns to mellow tones and thoughtful guitar parts. The bass is more prominent here, while cymbals and drums maintain an effective, supporting rhythm.

"Avalon" continues the band’s steady rhythmic flow. Surf influences continue as the group transitions between tempos. Bass and drums provide a strong foundation, allowing lead guitar lines to shine and exemplifying the group’s consistent rhythmic interplay.

Continuing, “Moonlight Over Mavericks” gently highlights the guitars’ soft touch, restraint, and tastefulness. There are moments when the guitar does a little staccato-like dance and then goes back into the more stretched-out leads.

“The Theme to the “Sun Chasers" reminded me fondly of what The Ventures would do covering themes to TV shows or movies. This is a bright sound, with a strong bass effect. It moves along quickly from start to finish. They do it all so well and are tightly knit with their instruments, using them to their fullest potential.

"Sandy Point" evokes a beach scene through expressive guitar and a solid rhythm section. This slower track uses their finite instrumental textures to evoke a scenic atmosphere, demonstrating the band’s ability to set a mood.

"Baby Octopus Walk" introduces a funkier rhythm, with Latin influences and familiar melodic elements, expanding on the album’s diverse range.

“Sleeping With The Fishes Too” closes the album by showcasing the band’s melodic strengths and cohesive sound. The shimmering guitars and well-crafted atmosphere provide a fitting conclusion to the track list, leaving a lasting impression.

Blue Eyed Surf continues to sound fresh regardless of the passing of time. Great music always holds its value, and Agent Octopus’s debut highlights their many talents.

Credits:

Jim Colby - Bass, Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Keyboards

Art Svrjcek - Lead & Rhythm Guitars,

Piano (Sandy Point), Bass (Blue Eyed Surf)

Bill Bates - Rhythm Guitars

Drums - Lew Bobbitt & Jeremy Carlson

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder

January 27, 2026

Tracks:

01. Cape Fear 02:53 

02. Ghost Orchid 3:13

03. Blue Eyed Surf 2:39

04. King Kong's Revenge! 2:37

05. Sleeping With The Fishes 3:13

06. Avalon 3:11

07. Moonlight Over Mavericks 2:58

08. The Theme to the "Sun Chasers" 2:42

09. Sandy Point 3:25

10. Baby Octopus Walk 2:35

11. Sleeping With The Fishes Too 2:47