Surf Instro Review: Los Straitjackets-Self-Titled

 https://losstraitjackets.com/

What do you get when you put a bunch of veteran instrumental rockers together, put Mexican wrestling masks on them, and let people wonder who they are? Well, Los Straightjackets, of course! Their self-titled album is terrific.

Some people have an idea of who they might be, but only they know for sure. Remember what Kiss did?

It is an excellent attraction; the excitement of the music, coupled with the unknown, is a perfect combination. 

Is anybody for "Brains & Eggs"? What a brilliant title. If you listen to the music, it goes with the song. That is one example of many.

These guys are so good! I wish they had more music available. I picked up some neat colored vinyl with a few neat tunes, but I want more!

You know, that's another thing about Surf music that's so cool; they have tons of stuff on vinyl in different colors, 45s and 33s, and elegant artwork as well, emulating the 1960s tradition, as the artwork is well known in the Surf Genre.

Check it all out. It's a wonderful world just waiting for you to enter. Dionysus Records or Double Crown Records has some great stuff!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

1998

Tracks:

01. Cavalcade   

02. The Casbah   

03. Wrong Planet  

04. Lonely Apache  

05. Outta Gear  

06. Pascifica

07. Espionage 

08. Swampfire   

09. Lawnmower   

10. Lurking In The Shadows  

11. Brains & Eggs

12. Venturing Out  

13. Tsuna   

14. Nightmare In Monte Cristo

Surf Instro Review: The Human Tornados - Self Titled

The group's versatility is a standout feature of this album, covering several types of surf with finesse. 

The crisp sound from the top-notch production assures the listener of the album's professional standards. 

What truly impressed me was the range of the group's sound, from energetic surf to beautiful soundscapes that would be perfect for a soundtrack. 

The first track, "Pugsakuk," immediately captivated me with its unique sound. It set the perfect tone for the album, which I soon realized was a gem from start to finish. This is not just another surf album, but a standout in its genre.

This album is a must-have for any surf music enthusiast. Phil Dirt, the Surfmeister himself, has given it a glowing four-star review. He even compares the group to the legendary Aqua Velvets, a testament to their exceptional talent. This album is a strong contender for the top ten surf albums of the year.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

June 2000

Note: In my first few years of reviewing, I had people like Phil Dirt to look to for guidance on what was happening in the community. He was one of many who helped me! Does anyone know if he is still around?

Tracks:

01. Pugsakuk   

02. The Man From N.O.R.K.A.   

03. I Surf In Black   

04. Del Surfin'

05. Incident At Broken Wind   

06. Princess SFWS   

07. Shadow Of The Rangemaster

08. Theme For Young Lovers   

09. Shempin' Surfari   

10. Hotel Loneliness   

11. Petey Kross The Merzey

12.Twister   

13.Wave

Surf-Rock-Instro Review: Melenhead - Self-Titled

Let's talk about Melenhead's self-titled CD, a game-changer in Surf-Rock-Instro. The pumping and driving saxophone, just like it was meant to be, has redefined the genre's formative years. The sax, a welcome addition to the instrumental scene, has changed how the music is played forever, and Melenhead is at the forefront of this revolution.

Melenhead is a band that's not just good but exceptional. James Dziubia's horn skills (tenor and baritone saxophone) are nothing short of awe-inspiring, and he's backed by the equally talented Colin Kenny (lead guitar), Doug Leibinger (bass, baritone saxophone), and Stewart Jean (drums). Their collective talent serves up a well-balanced attack of rock and intro that's a testament to their skill and dedication.

The saxophone's poignancy is prevalent in each song, changing the feeling and atmosphere with a richness and flavor that I find beyond compare. The saxophone's soulful sound, often associated with R&B and Soul, flows like a river through the elemental foundations of surf and rock, adding emotional depth to the music.

It's interesting when you listen to such simple and free music, how it can become so ever-changing and complex with adding one instrument. When one looks at that one aspect it doesn't change the fact that it remains, and is, kick ass rock n' roll music. Alas, many facets are found within the music if you can listen well enough.

I could feel the warmth of the sun and a cold glass of lemonade traveling down my throat. Oh, the visionary power of music—isn't it beautiful? This set my soul free. It may be temporary, but it felt terrific while it lasted.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

March 31, 2000
 

Tracks:

01. Millions of Tiny Bubbles  

02. Mantilla  

03. Chrysanthemum and the Sword  

04. Party Time! With the Little Big Horn 

05. The Melen Mambo   

06. Framed In Shadows  

07. Jack Lord Is Bored 

08. Rave Up!   

09. Hole in the River   

10. Psych A-Go-Go