Surf Instro 7" 45 Vinyl Review and Interview (Bernard Yin): Par Avion – Featuring Paul Johnson and Friends - Mr. Moto/Squad Car

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Par Avion – Featuring Paul Johnson and Friends is a one-time special limited-edition release on black 7” vinyl with the classic surf tracks “Mr. Moto” and “Squad Car.”

The guitars on “Mr. Moto” were played by Paul Johnson, who originated the music with his band The Bel-Airs; John Blair (of Jon and The Nightriders); and Bernard Yin and his band Par Avion.

 

On bass, Rebecca Ramirez, piano, Marc Doten, and drums, the excellent Dusty Watson.

 

For “Squad Car,” the lineup includes Paul Johnson, Bernard Yin, Sys Malakian, and Ferenc Dobronyi on guitars. And DJ Bonebreak on drums, Rebecca Ramirez on bass.

The retro artwork is perfect for the release. Dirk Braun provided the front cover, and the back illustration was from the Rick Griffin estate; the layout comes courtesy of Kustom Deluxe Design and Printing.

These are all the various elements that came together to make this project complete. As Bernard said in his introduction packet, “It takes a village.”

 

Listening to these two legendary tracks in the “Longboard” style, as Bernard explains, is a treat for the ears. The sound is crystal clear, thanks to the high-quality vinyl, which ensures the best listening experience.

"Mr. Moto" has several guitar variations running throughout. I continue to listen in amazement at how these musicians can pack so much into a short running track. The drums and bass provide solid support, while the transitions are so intricate that kudos are due to the backend for keeping everything on track. I appreciate how they paid tribute to the original music and vibe before it fades out. It was a brief reminder of the value of looking back at where it all started with Paul Johnson.

"Squad Car" has a slower tempo, and the cymbals are subtle yet keep time with grace. The guitars resonate with reverb and pinpoint accuracy, featuring stinging leads. The melodicism is superbly done, and you get to hear a brief run of glissando towards the end, where the bass also peels off some strong notes.

 

Par Avion – Featuring Paul Johnson and Friends will be available online and at SG 101 2025 by Frankie and The Pool Boys (check in with Ferenc). Also, at Par Avion’s upcoming Mountain Mini Tour, and The Tiki Oasis poolside at noon on August 9th. Don’t miss out on this special release!

 

These are the kind of releases that the surf community loves to see, and they become instant collector’s items. I appreciate how the artwork is integrated into this music, and that is what makes the surf instro genre so special to the artists and fans.

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

August 5, 2025