Instrumental Rock Vinyl Review: Los Straitjackets-Somos (Ltd. Edition Yellow Vinyl - 1,000)

Release Date:  September 19, 2025

Label: Yep Rock

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After a decade-long break, the iconic Los Straitjackets have made a triumphant return with Somos (Are). The fact that the limited-edition yellow vinyl is nearly sold out as I write this only adds to the excitement. I am lucky to have secured my copy before the official release date.

 

Los Straitjackets have made a captivating return with Somos, offering a rich tapestry of 15 tracks that blend instrumental rock with surf-tinged elements. Throughout the album, you’ll hear echoes of retro sounds and be treated to some exceptional guitar work, showcasing the band’s diverse musical influences.

 

Listening to Somos, you’ll find yourself transported back to the golden era of music, with memories of The Ventures and Shadows (“Genesee River Rock”) flooding your mind. Los Straitjackets’ ability to evoke such nostalgic feelings is a testament to their musical prowess and connection with their audience.

 

“Bumper Car” kicks things off on side A with some melodic twang and a smooth rhythm section. This is a toe-tapper (and there are many of those) with some tasteful leads on the guitar (there are many of those too!).

 

“Polaris” resonates with reverb as the “island vibes” grab you, then the warmth of the sun's rays is imagined hitting your face. There is an acoustic rhythm guitar that is nice and steady, along with the bass and drums. Some shimmering leads from the electric guitar set the tone and atmosphere nicely.

 

“Genesee River Rock” is a throwback to the sound of The Shadows with some swinging leads and good rhythm guitar to accentuate all of that activity. Then the occasional drum rolls add their excitement to this retro classic.

 

“High Wire Act” steps up the pace and tempo significantly. Some rapid picking on the six-string is featured here with some reverb for extra measure. I enjoyed the transitions. Some great bass lines are added. You get the best of both worlds on this, as today and yesterday are combined. 

 

They shout “Numbskull” as the drums fire off, and then some hook-filled riffs, and that legendary “Whip Out” callout is perfected. Some crafty guitar is featured, and the switching up of tempos is good.

 

“Two Steps Ahead” brings on the heavy bass lines as the guitar provides a good riff (which at times recalls “Secret Agent Man”). The drums and cymbals play their part, adding some excitement and emotion.

 

“April Showers” closes out the first side with some catchy riffing, then a melodic lead as the rhythm guitar and bottom end are solid once again. Some tasteful playing and reverberating leads are excellent.

 

Side B opens with “Cry for a Beatle” as the energy level feels good to start. The bass part is fantastic, and the drums are very melodic. Strong leads coming from the lead guitar make it another winner.

 

“Catalina Farewell” slows things down but with a catchy riff on guitar. The tune is mellow and relaxing, sounding dreamy like a lullaby.

 

“Copy Cat” Returns to the more upbeat sounds. The guitars engage in a call-and-answer session, with the back end always providing a foundation. There are some drum rolls briefly and a bass solo.

 

“Sentimental Fool” brings the tasteful guitar leads back in focus. The rhythm section is very measured and timely as the guitar leads perk things up, then revert to the original melody, then back to the energy. The back and forth showcases the bands’ ability to be so diverse within one track.

 

You hear a girl’s voice say “Bad Apple” to start this track. The sound is entirely different than any other track on the album. Almost like something a band would add as a bonus track. The guitar’s bluesy leads are not something you would expect to hear on a recording like this, but the takeaway here is that it’s good. Some heavy bass lines are also featured—another example of their exceptional talent and diversity.

 

“Wicker Park” has some twangy leads and a toe-tapping rhythm—a very catchy track with smooth instrumentation.

 

“Spinout” is their all-out rocker on the album and one of the early tracks released. The drums start the engines, and you hear them holler Spinout! Twang and reverb dominate, and then that crazy “Wipe Out” laugh again. The bottom end is like a locomotive, and the rhythm guitar is exceptional.

 

“Virgon” closes out this return to greatness for Los Straitjackets. It starts slow, then they crank it up and go back again to the solo mellow guitar. The back and forth is great, and a super catchy song.

 

Somos is a satisfying return to form for Los Straitjackets. Lovers of instrumental rock will appreciate this recording. The mixture of rock, surf, and tracks that transition from slower to faster makes this a diverse listen without any filler. It’s solid and consistent from start to finish.

Credits:

Eddie Angel – Guitar (Bass on “Cry for a Beatle”)

Greg Townson – Guitar

Chris Sprague – Drums, Voices (Guitar on “Cry for a Beatle”)

Pete Curry – Bass (Drums on “Cry for a Beatle”)

With:

Simon Heeran – guitar on “April Showers,” “Virgon” and “Catalina Farewell”

Alex Hall – Vibes

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

September 5, 2025

Tracks:

Side A:

1. Bumper Car

2. Polaris

3. Genesee River Rock

4. High Wire Act

5. Numbskull

6. Two Steps Ahead

7. April Showers

Side B:

1. Cry for a Beatle

2. Catalina Farewell

3. Copy Cat

4. Sentimental Fool

Surf Rock Instrumental Review: The NovaRays: Another Date With The NovaRays

Release Date:  June 26, 2025

Label: Independent

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The NovaRays, a trio comprising John Ashfield on Fender Bass IV, Rob Jacobs on drums, and Lewis Bailey on guitar, showcase their individual and collective mastery in this band.

"West of Eureka” begins with the sound of a horse galloping away, then the music kicks in.  The bass is powerful and upfront, with the guitar positioned in the background, which I found interesting —a kind of switch in positions you rarely see. The drums are tight and right there with the bass. They add some other sound effects to make it feel like you are starring in the latest Western.  It is very panoramic, as it ends with the sound of a whip cracking, ‘Yee-haw!’ The next episode of Rawhide will begin after these messages…

“Space Hero” begins with a funky bass riff, as the drums join in for the ride, and the guitar arrives with a touch of twang and reverb. This time, the guitar’s volume is turned up for your pleasure. This is a combination of rock and surf with an irresistible hook and beat. A nice tempo is held consistently, and it’s a very tasteful ditty, I might say.

 

“Wooden Horse” is very melodic right out of the gate with some skillful guitar playing. And that bass, oh my goodness, it is just excellent - how strong and accurate it is. The drumming also receives praise for consistently maintaining exceptional time. There is something about the melody that sounds familiar to me, maybe something I heard years ago from Wishbone Ash—a very steady track with some clever transitions.

 

“The Creeper” is a classic many folks are familiar with from the Ventures; however, this is an original. It has a Halloween feel to it, which helps bring the subject matter to life. Well, after this is creepy, right? They nail it down nicely with perfectly paced rhythms and some “cuts like a knife” leads from the guitar for further emphasis. Well done!

 

“The Haunting of Bath House B” continues with our Halloween theme. This time, it’s much more upbeat, with some killer guitar lines accompanied by a throbbing bass and drums to carry it along. Some cool effects kick in as the guitar enters full gallop mode, then it transitions back to the leads, with the rhythm guitar following along, and finally, the epic, resonating finish.

 

“Pink Slip” goes into hyperdrive immediately with some lightning-fast guitar riffs. The bottom end is once again strong, as the guitar is diverse and accentuated with front leads, as well as in the background. A lot is going on in this track, and they pack it all into 3:03. I liked the quick transitions and layered guitars, with one keeping the rhythm and the other just ripping it (although they do that a lot on this album).

 

“Three Blue Stars” takes you back to the first wave of guitar sounds, then transitions to a more prominent lead guitar, holding on to the roots of surf instro. It’s a nostalgic journey, sounding very retro but crisp, clean, and precise due to the use of good recording methods. The different types of guitar sounds you would hear from a band in the heyday of the early ’60s are what you will be able to enjoy with this one!

 

“Phantom of the Jetties” gets you into the full reverb and twang mode, but this time, spy sounds dominate the atmosphere. As the paint it out with the guitar lines and rhythmic bass and drums, laying down that solid foundation. The bass has a few standalone moments with some funky lines. It’s the guitars that make this real for the spy vs. spy sounds—one of the best tunes on the recording.

 

“Mr. Covington’s Wild Ride” wraps things up on the wild instrumental ride. A spiffy guitar line kicks things into high gear with a solid rhythm guitar chugging along, and the bass and drums doing their things like they do. The guitar weaves its magic throughout with many transitions. Almost three minutes of pure rock instrumental surfy greatness to close the curtain on one hell of an album!

 

Another Date With The NovaRays is a date you will want to keep. This is a solid outing with a diverse array of tracks covering the gamut of surf instro and surf rock. They give you a taste of it all and a few looks back to where it all started to complete the circle. It’s an exciting journey that you wouldn’t want to miss.

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

August 31, 2025

Tracks:

1. West of Eureka 02:57

2. Space Hero 02:44

3. Wooden Horse 02:31

4. The Creeper 04:10

5. The Haunting of Bath House B 02:36

6. Pink Slip 03:03

7. Three Blue Stars 02:29

8. Phantom of the Jetties 02:50

9. Mr. Covington's Wild Ride 02:58

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

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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 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

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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

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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