Surf Rock Instrumental Review: Various Artists-Deep Eddy Records New Music Sampler 2026

 Release Date: February 24, 2026

Label: Deep Eddy Records

Website

Ted James’ label, Deep Eddy Records, has put together a 10-track sampler for surf instrumental fans. It also features his bands, The Nematoads and Squid Vicious.

The KBK kicks it off with a real rocker titled “75878986-26 (Initialize Transmission).” This is a powerful blast of rock to get the blood and waves flowing. Man or Astroman? came to mind a few times, with the background dialogue going on and the way the guitars combined surf and rock elements so impressively.

RAHMUS – “October's Theme” continues the high-energy surf rock.  This one has a different tone and atmosphere with some good echoing reverb. It’s an in-your-face rocker that says Listen! And you will. Tight and musically superb!

The Neptones – “Bikini Atoll” changes direction entirely, taking on a more thematic, western-flavored surf-rock flavor. Then it shifts into a more traditional surf sound, with twangy notes. Solid sounds that create an atmosphere of the first wave, with newer technologies woven in for effect. Very cool.

The Nematoads – “Abdel Jafar, Middle Eastern Spy” flips the script in another direction. After all, this is a sampler of different styles and sub-genres of surf instro. The guitar lures you into another world with a Middle Eastern motif of mystery. This is not your typical two-minute drive; it’s five minutes and four seconds full of complexities and guitar fireworks. The layers of instrumentation keep you captivated from start to finish. This is the best of surf and rock combined.

“Squid Vicious - Ink Jet” is a rhythm-filled, twangy, fast mover with some organ fills here and there. The tremolo parts are very good, and the drums and bass thrive in this environment. Impressive with no filler.

The KBK – “Dare Not Speak Its Name”  is a superb surf rocker that moves at tremendous speed, with tempo changes that highlight its diversity and strength. This is the kind of track that has everything I enjoy about surf instro,

RAHMUS – “No Acceptable Compromise” begins with a quick political statement that is quite humorous. And the track title falls right in line with that opening dialogue. This one is heavy with a pounding bottom end. The guitar’s resonating tones are a highlight.

The Neptones – “Majestic (La Mesa Grande)” goes spaghetti western with rapid picking and runs that keep it all moving, while the drums and bass are restrained, letting the guitars take the lead and painting the necessary scenario.

The Nematoads – “Fleas of 1000 Camels” returns to the desert scenery, with atmospheric sounds as the guitar is the paintbrush and the drums and bass the canvas, all the colors take shape quickly. Here, they take surf instrumental and morph it into something different and mysterious, thanks to excellent musicianship.

Squid Vicious – “Overlord” closes things out with another long stretch at five minutes and four seconds once again. It is interesting how that ended up lasting the same amount of time as the other long burner! The sound begins with hints of days gone by, with many more complexities and layers, including the organ, which complements everything else so well. This is an excellent rocker with all the trimmings. There is no window dressing here; it’s a flat-out rocker with great musicians giving their all on one track. Towards the end, you hear some tremolo, then another switch in tempo, and it takes things into an entirely different direction. Very progressive!

Deep Eddy Records' New Music Sampler 2026 delivers a vibrant journey through 10 tracks that capture the full spectrum of surf instrumental music. With relentless energy and impressive variety, this collection highlights the genre’s evolving sound while staying true to its roots. If you’re looking for a sampler that embodies the spirit and excitement of surf instrumentals, this release more than delivers.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder

March 16, 2026

Tracks:

01. The KBK - 75878986-26 (Initialize Transmission) 03:49

02. RAHMUS - October's Theme 02:22

03. The Neptones - Bikini Atoll 02:45

04. The Nematoads - Abdel Jafar, Middle Eastern Spy 05:04

05. Squid Vicious - Ink Jet 02:16

06. The KBK - Dare Not Speak Its Name 03:14

07. RAHMUS - No Acceptable Compromise 02:05

08. The Neptones - Majestic (La Mesa Grande) 02:15

09. The Nematoads - Fleas of 1000 Camels 03:45

10. Squid Vicious - Overlord 05:04

Surf Rock Instrumental Review: Lords of Atlantis-Self Titled

Release Date: June 26, 2023

Label: Tabu Recordings

Website

The self-titled Lords of Atlantis recording is now one of those recordings that carries an air of lore in the surf instrumental community. Featuring the lead guitarist Ivan Pongracic (The Madeira, The Space Cossacks), it ranks as one of the finest releases of the genre in recent years.

There is quite a mixture of talents with Ivan from other well-known bands, including the following:

Jeremy DeHart-Rhythm Guitar, Bass Guitar, Lead Guitar (The Manakooras, Aqualads, The A-Men).

Jonpaul Balak-Bass guitar (Insect Surfers, Tikiyaki Orchestra, The Scimitars).

Dane Carter-Drums and Percussion (The Madeira, The Troubadours).

A wealth of experience and talent converges to create this surf instro supergroup, setting them apart from other, more popular acts from other genres that often receive all the credit and attention. What distinguishes this community is its humility and genuine appreciation for one another. Rather than following trends, they set them—driven by a true passion for making music.

Success is measured not by fame but by the satisfaction of one's art. This humility and lack of awareness may contribute to the genre’s underappreciation, but it hasn’t hindered its global growth. Ultimately, the ongoing need to spotlight this music—no matter when it was created—inspires me to raise the consciousness of music lovers and celebrate its significance.

“Chariots of the Gods” begins in a mellow way, then explodes for a time, then reverts to the original melody. After that segment, you will hear more defined lead guitar runs jump out front before all the instruments move the tempo to the next level. Towards the finale, the drums take the spotlight and segue into the next track seamlessly without pause. This is a good example of surf instro on fire!

“Temple of Poseidon” picks up instantly after the previous track and has a nice mellow surf sound with the necessary twang and reverb. The bass sounds rhythmic as the drums keep time with crashing cymbals for effect.

“Leading Edge” kicks it back into high gear again, with tremolo taking hold, the bottom end is strong and tightly woven into the guitar’s movements. This is another instance where the guitar playing shines, with its tempo shifts and an aggressive yet tasteful push forward. Nearly three minutes of musical perfection.

“Libertas!” carries a more traditional surf vibe and pace, slowing things down with an island-in-the-sun atmosphere before the tempo picks up. The guitar is superb, and the tremolo is the highlight, showcasing that style of rapid-picking artistry. The bass and drums at the beginning have a jazz feel before shifting to match the guitar's pace, which I found interesting.

“Long Live the King!” resonates with the rock aspects of the genre and a classic first-wave sound and rhythm. The King of Surf Guitar is Dick Dale, and it is a great tribute to his legacy and sound. The power and majesty of surfing, the culture, and the music that became intrinsically connected to it rock here! A great group effort and message received.

“Eye of the Sahara” takes things in a different direction. The guitar's resonant tones create the necessary scenario in your mind. As you traverse the desert, the band takes you there in a heartbeat. Some of the passages are sheer beauty, and others grab your attention with a sudden, powerful change. The explosive guitar that enters on occasion makes sure they have your full attention.

“Seaglass” has an acoustic guitar backing with some lovely, crisp, ringing licks from the electric guitar. This composition shows how the band can pull back and deliver some tasty playing that holds at all positions. That “island surf” feel returns, reminding us how beautiful this music is, like waves shimmering in the sunlight.

“Maroc 7” is where Ivan draws on his lifetime of love for The Shadows and incorporates it into his style and approach. The strumming guitar has a Latin essence, pushing it along as tremolo and reverb rules the day. Excellent change of pace and overall sound, showcasing more diversity.

“The Bastion” is one of two tracks over four minutes. The layers of instrumentation and guitars are a highlight. It felt like a Mediterranean influence was at work here, with the drums and bass in line with the guitars' transitory nature. This is one of the more complex presentations because of how the bottom end responded to all the changes.

“The Fiery Trident” takes off into more rocking territory straight away, once again changing course entirely, then switching over to a more mellow guitar strumming and picking. The key to this music is hearing all the changes, textures, and overall mood they can create. Nearly halfway through, the tremolo kicks in, and the trajectory of the entire composition changes, emulating the word 'fiery,' then back again; it goes in a circle with these changes. Amazing guitar work once again with tremendous support from the rhythm section.

“Barbary Corsairs” takes on a different tone, with a meatier beginning, then quickly switches to the more explosive, resonating guitar notes. This kind of guitar playing reminded me of why I loved The Space Cossacks so much and still do to this day. There is a brief, quieter transition on guitar, then directly back to the powerful pinpoint bursts of notes that make tracks like this so exciting and memorable.

“Atlas” keeps the rock essence flowing with an energetic opening, then steps back a pace as the guitar focuses on more accentuated notes, with strong rhythms from the bass and drums, and then the quick transitions to the power base this band commands at the flip of a switch. Tremolo and reverb are superb as things take off into yet another direction with the tempos! Killer surf instro with a lot of oomph!

“Sands of Mauritania” is the closer and their longest track, clocking in at 5:13. It is an atmospheric composition tastefully executed. It has all the elements of the mellower side of surf instro that we all can appreciate. The drums and bass move along with an easy touch, as I have previously noted, in a more jazz-influenced style, accentuating the guitar tone and maintaining an even pace. Musical bliss from beginning to end.

The Lords of Atlantis' self-titled recording is more than a collection of remarkable tracks—it's a testament to the enduring spirit and innovation of surf instrumental music. Each song is a musical journey, blending tradition with fearless creativity, and together they form a vibrant tapestry that both honors the genre’s roots and carves out new territory. This album doesn’t just invite listeners to experience surf music; it compels them to feel its pulse, celebrate its evolution, and recognize the artistry that will keep it alive for generations to come

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder

March 9, 2026

Tracks:

01. Chariots of the Gods 3:21

02. Temple of Poseidon 2:22

03. Leading Edge 2:54

04. Libertas! 3:11

05. Long Live the King! 3:31

06. Eye of the Sahara 3:15

07. Seaglass 3:20

08. Maroc 7 2:35

09. The Bastion 4:07

10. The Fiery Trident 3:58

11. Barbary Corsairs 2:45

12. Atlas 4:12

13. Sands of Mauritania 5:13

Surf Instrumental Vinyl Revew: The Jagaloons-Forbidden Words (Sea Blue Translucent LP)

 Release Date: November 1, 2024

Label: Tabu Recordings

Website

According to The Jagaloons, as stated in their Bandcamp message. Their 3rd full-length album, Forbidden Words, is on the finest portable digital disc form factor humans have been able to produce in the past 45 years. I am listening to the sea blue translucent vinyl edition, which I believe is a mighty fine disc as well.

As depicted in the colorful album art of the ravenous headhunter, this suggests it is a boiling musical stew of instrumental surf rock. And that is exactly what you will hear.

“Disco Volante” kicks things off with a bit of intrigue and anticipation. The bass and drums are chugging along nicely, then a nice slice of tremolo comes in. The organ adds another element to the mix, patiently adding its own special touch in the background. The guitar goes down different roads, keeping the atmosphere of spy vs spy, albeit with plenty of twang and reverb.

“Huevos con Salchicha” brings on the twang of the western theme. It moves at a good tempo, then slows for a short while, then jumps back to a higher but subtle energy that this sub-genre is known for. Lots of rhythm and hooks grab you.

“The Goggles Do Nothing” continues that flavor from the last track with tremolo and reverb. The lead guitar cuts through the air with a polished elegance that my ears recognize. Along the way, there are bursts of energy and power, with the bottom end keeping things consistently strong so those guitar notes effortlessly float over the top.

“Forbidden Words” goes off in another direction, with a retro sound and some rapid picking, to remind you of the first wave of surf instro and why it was so important to the genre's core sound and building blocks. A jump back to the early 60s surf instro.

“Soggy Bottoms” gives you a taste of their laid-back Tiki island sound. Tasteful instrumentation at all levels here, and some good tremolo gives you yet another dimension of their sound.

“Ghosts of the Sargasso” brings the energy level up several notches again, with the guitar taking the spotlight through rapid picking and resonant notes as the band comes together, reaching peaks of combined sound. The western/country influence, combined with twang, makes for a solid mix of colors.

“Red Sunrise” finishes side A with a flourish of instrumentation and a quick spotlight for the bass. Tremolo rules the day here, and it is done very well.

Side B opens with “Space Junk,” a step away from what you heard on the first side. The title hints at the change right away. Reverb and twang resonate fully as the sci-fi scenario develops within the music. This one is a straight-ahead rocker with plenty of tremolo periods, keeping it surf instro.

“Sayonara, Sucker Motherfucker” reaches back to familiar ground with the spaghetti western fills as the guitar’s notes holler out to that MF! This is the music's color and drama, creating the necessary scenery. Tremolo is king once again, and I love it! The bass and drums are excellent as usual.

“The Rising Surf” is the only track under two minutes. You will hear something you will recognize at the beginning and throughout as they mix legendary tracks from the genre with their own style and changes. This is classic meets modern surf instro,

“Showdown at the Doublecross Ranch” is as western twang as it gets. I can see Clint Eastwood riding off into the sunset now. This is picturesque with the themes they are projecting resonating with my mind's eye. The guitar is excellent, and the bass and drums are always so tight and in sync, making it easy for the guitar to stand out.

“Under the Fiery Moon” is another throwback to the drip of the 60s. Soft notes with just enough twang as the bottom end is restrained enough, so the guitar still holds its place upfront with its sound. More tremolo to remind you once again how they own it.

“Don't Bother Me” begins like you might hear in a '50s pop song, with the organ arriving with that retro sound. The guitar is pumping out some ear-catching chords that won’t let go. The drums and bass pound out an irresistible chorus of rhythm as the guitar folds into it all with a bit of tremolo and memorable runs. Lots of crossover rock appeal on this one.

“Vacation” rounds out this set with their instrumental cover of The Go-Go’s hit. I thought that was an interesting way to end the album with a good dose of pop and sunshine. This also shows their diversity and abilities to switch it up quickly to keep a listener interested.

The Jagaloons have truly outdone themselves with Forbidden Words, delivering an album that shines on vinyl. The dynamic range of styles and influences ensures there’s never a dull moment, keeping listeners engaged from the opening track to the closing notes. By building on classic surf instrumental foundations and weaving in their distinct flair and genre-bending touches, the band serves up a vibrant, memorable collection that stands out in the modern surf scene.

Credits:

Geoff Kelley - Drums

Kurt Stegemann - Guitars

Josh Welf - Bass

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder

March 5, 2026

Tracks:

Side A:

01. Disco Volante 4:00

02. Huevos con Salchicha 2:43

03. The Goggles Do Nothing 2:30

04. Forbidden Words 2:25

05. Soggy Bottoms 2:27

06. Ghosts of the Sargasso 1:57

07. Red Sunrise 2:02

Side B:

08. Space Junk 2:22

09. Sayonara, Sucker Motherfucker 2:30

10. The Rising Surf 1:43

11. Showdown at the Doublecross Ranch 2:24

12. Under the Fiery Moon 2:31

13. Don't Bother Me 3:09

Surf Rock Instrumental Review: The Surf Hermits Jam!! Volume 1

 Release Date: January 17, 2025

Label: Independent

Website

The Surf Hermits Jam!! Volume 1 is an album of Surf Hermits tunes featuring special guests trading off with Jason Deatherage over brand new original songs and some great guitarists from all over the international surf scene including special guests Sam Williams, Sys Malakian, Arno De Cea, Rodd Keen, Mark Nicol, Chris Stewart, Max Gonzo, Sean Eddy, Jim Colby, and The Breakers (Members of The Breakers, Underwater Bosses, The Surf Junkies, Agent Octopus, Black Valley Moon, Sys Malakian, The Angry Red Planet, S.H.A.R.P., The Eddys, and Arno De Cea).

All songs written, performed, and produced by Jason Deatherage.

“Sayulita Swell - feat. Sys Malakian" gets things going clean, and crips leads from the guitar. This is a smooth rocker with resonating twang throughout. The rhythm section is tight as the guitar navigates its many transitions. Lots of hooks and rhythms. Some nice tremolo comes in as you are heading towards the end. The perfect track to get this started.

"A Tower In The Distance - feat. Rodd Keen" is a change of scenery with an island in the sun, relaxed like tempo. Tasteful guitar licks, with acoustic strumming in the background, set the pace, along with the drums and bass. Some fine lead lines are featured here, then around three-quarters of the way in, the volume rises with another layer of instrumental voices as the lead really takes off into a great solo, then it fades out. One of the longer, more complex cuts.

“To Fall From The Kingdom Of Air - feat. Arno de Cea” brings you back to a faster tempo and more traditional surf rock sounds. Twang works well here, with explosive transitions that keep the excitement high. Then, as you head three-quarters of the way in, it really takes off with some serious guitar jamming with effects and fireworks. It goes from a surf instro to a full-on rocker.

“The Town Without A Frown - feat. Sean Eddy” is a classic surf instro sound with crisp guitar runs and the rapid backend featuring some equally fast drum rolls. It morphs into a first-wave surf rock sound with all the trimmings. Then there is (what sounds like) the Eddie Van Halen finger-tapping technique, which was a surprise. Excellent and bursting with unrestrained energy!

“Hurricane Watch - feat. Sam Williams” is what you would anticipate with what the title would suggest. A driving rhythm from the bottom end and the resonating notes. This is the kind of surf instro that got my attention many years ago. As soon as that thought entered my mind, it changed into something else. More layers of guitars are merged with a fuller sound, and the tempos get higher as the lead continues through all kinds of transitions. Then it gradually fades out.

“Shark Salad - feat. Max Gonzo” begins with a reggae guitar, then switches to a rocker, then back again. This is one of the more interesting tracks for differentiating between genres. It really takes off eventually, with some guitar runs and a locomotive drum-and-bass behind it all. It is surely a tasty salad and a great appetizer for any surf instro meal you may be having.

“Laser Brain - feat. Chris Stewart” is a real toe tapper with some tremolo bursts and pinpoint leads done well. A strumming guitar provides the perfect partner for the lead to stand out. It’s the rhythms that catch your ear, and that includes the lead guitar work. Laser-like guitar right to your brain, as the title would suggest. I loved the way it ended and faded out.

“Return To The Valley - feat. Jim Colby” takes you into some different scenery and a more laid-back pace. Think bluesy licks with a picturesque landscape entering your mind’s eye. Lead guitar is fantastic with a steady strumming acoustic behind it (which I always find important), while the bass and drums are restrained enough to hold their own without overpowering the focus. This is one of the most atmospheric and beautifully layered tracks on the recording.

“Dropping In - feat The Breakers” is entirely different from all the previous tracks because of the way it starts. The drums kick in, then horns, and suddenly it switches right over to a rocker. All the while this is happening, and right from the start, the bass is killer. Some slick guitar work is going on here with some cool effects. The longest track at 4:45, and it does not waste a second; they bring all their powerful talents to bear. The saxophone makes an appearance, giving it a first wave, early-60s touch. This was a great track, a continuation of the previous track’s longevity and superior musicianship.

“Telegraph Beach - feat. Mark Nicol” winds up this incredible instrumental mix. This one is another real rocker, with a guitar that explodes with colorful transient lines, while the drums and bass are solid. I heard a touch of western flair in an almost spaghetti-western way. This is a great way to finalize all this music. It takes you rockin’ with the music resonating and reverberating in your ears after it’s all done.

The Surf Hermits Jam!! Volume 1 stands as one of the most exhilarating and memorable albums I’ve experienced this year—a testament to the electrifying heights surf music can reach when world-class musicians unite. This record isn’t just a showcase of talent; it’s a rallying cry for the genre, demanding the wider recognition it so clearly deserves.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder

March 3, 2026

Tracks:

01. Sayulita Swell - feat. Sys Malakian 3:52

02. A Tower In The Distance - feat. Rodd Keen 4:09

03. To Fall From The Kingdom Of Air - feat. Arno de Cea 3:03

04. The Town Without A Frown - feat. Sean Eddy 3:34

05. Hurricane Watch - feat. Sam Williams 3:05

06. Shark Salad - feat. Max Gonzo 4:03

07. Laser Brain - feat. Chris Stewart 3:33

08. Return To The Valley - feat. Jim Colby 4:18

09. Dropping In - feat The Breakers 4:44

10. Telegraph Beach - feat. Mark Nicol 4:02

Surf Rock Instrumental Review: Atomic Drag-Rave from the Grave EP

                                                        Release Date: October 25, 2024

Label: Black Tragick Records/Doom Bat Records

Website

Atomic Drag is run by Lee McDaid, who is a solo musician from Northern Ireland. I reached out to him regarding all his work, and he kindly granted me access to his entire catalog on Bandcamp.

The Rave from the Grave EP came out around Halloween in 2024, and based on the cover art, title, and tracks, it looks as though he hit the mark.

The title track “Rave from the Grave” gets the blood pumping (no pun intended). Right away, there are the melodic, twangy guitar lines, and the bass is heavy and strong. A nice transition is made with some melding guitar lines, then the organ joins in to accentuate the creepiness of the concept we are focusing on here. Things come to a head towards the end, with everything merging.

“Dogman Vs. Dobhar-chú” moves at a frenetic pace with rapid picking, and bass and drums pair up to keep that intensity as Lee takes that pick and goes down the strings from top to bottom for that wow effect. It all happens so fast, but that is the idea; this is a fight between creatures of the unknown.

“Once a Dead Man...” stretches things out for over three minutes. There is more time to establish all his ideas within a single track, and he does so effectively. The atmosphere is one of spookiness and anticipation. The organ gives it that horror edge as he adds some talking to the mix, so you get the feeling you are watching it on the big screen. Excellent track!

“Beyond the Valley of the Drag” maintains the EP’s continuity with nonstop energy. This is yet another fast mover with all the trimmings, rapid picking, punctuated guitar placement, the bottom end moving along just as quickly, and that tremolo guitar work and the creepy organ notes are for the final touch. It’s all there in one potent package.

Atomic Drag’s Rave from the Grave EP is more than just an adventure-packed instrumental; it’s a vivid, cinematic journey that exhibits the power of one artist’s vision. Lee McDaid’s ability to craft such dynamic and immersive tracks on his own is nothing short of remarkable. This EP doesn’t just entertain you from the first note and refuses to let go, leaving a lasting impression long after the final track ends.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder

March 2, 2026

Tracks:

1. Rave from the Grave 02:21

2. Dogman Vs. Dobhar-chú 02:01

3. Once a Dead Man... 03:26

4. Beyond the Valley of the Drag 02:19

Surf Releases March 2026

Surf Music Releases March 2026

Here’s an updated list of the surf instrumental (or closely related psychedelic/instrumental surf) bands with confirmed new music releases in March 2026, now including direct links to their official pages, Bandcamp (for pre-orders/streaming), or relevant release announcements where available:

The Mermen — Psychedelic instrumental surf legends from Santa Cruz, CA. New album Akwa Mmiri releases March 8, 2026 (CD pre-order and release show at Great American Music Hall in SF). Official website (with pre-order and details): PRE SAMPLE LISTEN HERE: https://mermen.net/albums/akwa-mmiri 

Main site: https://mermen.net/

The KBK (listen on the Bandcamp Player) — Instrumental rock & roll/surf project is releasing Human Sounds Volume 2 on March 6, 2026 (long-gestating transmission, featured on Storm Surge of Reverb radio). Bandcamp (for listening/pre-order): https://thekbk.bandcamp.com Facebook page (with announcements): https://www.facebook.com/thekbkal

Surf Through Death (listen on the Bandcamp Player) — Desert-tinged instrumental surf/psych trio from Phoenix, AZ. Album III digital release February 27, 2026, but vinyl/release show March 7, 2026 (at The Dirty Drummer). Pre-orders tie into March events. Bandcamp (pre-order digital/vinyl): https://surfthroughdeath.bandcamp.com/album/iii

Event details: https://www.thedirtydrummer.com/events/surf-through-death-vinyl-release

Surf Spy Rock Instrumental: Music For Alternate Realities: Vol. 1 by The Other Timelines

Just released today. This is very cool music! 

The Other Timelines is a Canadian/American instrumental band. Members are located in British Columbia, Alabama, and Louisiana. Featuring members of Man or Astro-man? and Seratones, their music is best described as a blend of 60’s and ’70s-style spy themes. They are signed to Double Crown Records.

The vinyl 7" is available on Tabu Recordings

Visit https://www.theothertimelines.com/

Surf Rock Instrumental Review: The Raygun Terror Hermits-Attack Of The Raygun Terror Hermits

Release Date: February 6, 2026

Label: Sharawaji Records

Website

How does a group of musicians come up with a name like The Raygun Terror Hermits? Well, they take two bands, The Terrorsurfs and My Dusty Raygun, and merge them. Of course, you knew that, right? If you’re a diehard surf instro fan, you probably got it straight away. If not, well, sit back and have a listen—then you might understand.

The Raygun Terror Hermits’ “Helldiver” explodes out of your speakers, and you know this band has arrived! The lead guitar speaks loudly with surf tones and stinging notes that linger. The drums and bass rumble along at tremendous speed. This is a powerful track with all the elements of surf and rock one could possibly ask for. Five minutes and eleven seconds of high-octane, rockin’ surf instro is a great way to kickstart this recording.

“The Terrorsurfs - Hoo Hah! (The Unresolved)” jumps as the bands take off on their own. This is a solid transition away from the previous track. The bottom end continues to roll on like a train ready to fly right off the tracks. The guitars do their thing with plenty of twang and reverb as they holler “Hoo-Hah!” In your mind, you are picturing an old TV series like Wagon Train or The Wild Wild West to begin. The fun thing about this music is its ability to transport you back in time, and this one certainly does!

“My Dusty Raygun - He Just Wanted His Machete Back” brings another entirely different slant to your ears. First off, you must love the title. Then, as the music kicks in, you are still impressed by that cranking bottom end—man, they just rock! The guitar’s sound has quite the machine to ride on as lick after lick is peeled off. This one feels like a straight-ahead rocker with a track title to match. There was no question in my mind that these bands could rock—it just sounds better with a little roughness around the edges for some flavor.

“The Surf Hermits - Dance Of The Tentacle” at the beginning reminded me of some early Mermen cuts, with echoing guitars and a certain psych edge. The guitar effects are more restrained compared to the previous tracks. That is not a drawback; it is a great track!

“My Dusty Raygun - $400 In Oysters” comes back at you on fire again. This raygun is not dusty! Some really cool six-string licks come into play before they launch into a full-force rocker, then pull back into the surfy mode, and then return to rocking. It’s rinsing and repeating, with a lot of salt water to keep those oysters moist.

“The Terrorsurfs - Swamp Planet” charges into some surf-spy intrigue. Then the sounds get weird with some organ effects—now it feels like The Creature from the Black Lagoon is going to come creeping out of the water any second. It’s atmospheric and spooky, with well-placed guitar transitions as the backend serves as the engine pushing it to a climax.

“The Surf Hermits - The Sten Is Mightier Than The Sword” winds things up with a last blast of energy and guitar-driven excellence. The wah-wah pedal does its thing with great effect. This ends up being one of my favorites, with crisp leads cutting through the air. It’s a quick but impressive last journey to show off their ability to crank up the volume with workmanlike skill.

Listeners who like a mix of surf, rock, and psych will really enjoy these tracks. Attack Of The Raygun Terror Hermits is a great listen, and the use of the word “attack” comes through loud and clear in the music.

The Terrorsurfs:

BAMALAM - feral bass

Reverend Tonto - twang

King Fuzzo - drum beast

 

My Dusty Raygun :

Frank Rangone - guitar

Devon Lambert - bass

Jared Brathwaite - synth

Jason Deathray - drums

Rodd Raygun - theremin

 

The Surf Hermits:

Jason Deatherage - Drums, Bass, Lead and Rhythm Guitars

Cover Art - Joe Yod, Rude Commissions

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder

February 27, 2026

Tracks:

1. The Raygun Terror Hermits-Helldiver 5:11

2. The Terrorsurfs - Hoo Hah! (The Unresolved) 2:21

3. My Dusty Raygun - He Just Wanted His Machete Back 3:43

4. The Surf Hermits - Dance Of The Tentacle 3:29

5. My Dusty Raygun - $400 In Oysters 2:25

6. The Terrorsurfs - Swamp Planet 3:57

7. The Surf Hermits - The Sten Is Mightier Than The Sword 2:46

Surf Rock Instrumental Review: Langhorns- Showstopper

 Release Date: May 16, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

Since 1998, the Langhorns have released only a handful of recordings, but each one makes an impact. When they resurface, the music world takes notice. Showstopper was their 2024 full-length release.

The band originally started as a duo but quickly evolved into a tight-knit trio (often augmented by horns or organ):

Michael Sellers (Guitar): The band’s leader and primary songwriter, formerly of the Swedish rock band The Sinners.

Martin Berglund (Bass): Co-founder who provides the driving low-end.

Rikard Swärdh (Drums): Joined shortly after the initial sessions to complete the core sound.

Erik Wesser (Organ): A frequent contributor to their studio recordings and live shows.

“Showstopper” gets things rolling. As expected, some high energy and great rhythm kicked in without hesitation. There is constant strumming for a strong bottom layer as the lead guitar goes into twang mode at variable tempos. Three-quarters in, it comes to a very mellow interlude with not much going on, then it explodes back into the original high energy.

“Dr Münster, I Presume?” takes on a different atmosphere, but you knew it would once you looked at the title. It carries a retro sound that would have fit well into The Munsters TV series. Great rhythms from the bass and drums, then an organ comes in for the icing on the cake. I am sure Fred Gwynne is smiling in heaven after hearing this tribute.

“In An Oriental Mood” has an air of mystery courtesy of the organ, the drums, and the bass, and it is very strong here. The guitar’s resonant tone is just right. It creates many cinematic visions with changing directions. One moment it sounds Middle Eastern and the next parts spaghetti western, then back to mysterious organ. Talk about touching upon several sub-genres in one song? Yes, indeed they do!

“The Snoozer” goes in yet another direction with a piano that sounds like a soundtrack to a 50s spy movie. The guitar is beautifully done with some tasteful licks interspersed with the keys. Think of a smoke-filled room, then the beautiful nightclub singer walks out and starts singing, you are mesmerized, transfixed by the image in front of you. Jazzy and surfy all wrapped into one package.

“Project Grudge” reactivates their bouncy surf instro swagger. There is that great retro sound, complete with the grinding organ and twangy notes, morphing into a heavier fuzz tone. Just under two minutes gives you a look at their heavier side.

“Bad Karma” starts with the sound of creaking boards on a ship, and that organ to match comes in, leading you somewhere. This one is a slow burner, with a gradual build in the instrumentation; it leaves you hanging, wondering what will happen next, and that’s the point! This is a world away from the last track, which exhibits once again how diverse and talented this band is. Guitars punctuate the atmosphere with different layers. It fades out with the creaking boards from the lost ghost ship.

“Stoked” is a word that says it all for surfers in Southern California. I think it still does. The course’s energy level shifts dramatically from the prior track. This is why the Langhorns are one of the best in the world at what they do. This is a classic surf rocker!

“Stagger” emulates that world perfectly with a slow, drudging guitar, then shifts to a higher-end tone, and then shifts yet again to piercing notes as the drums and bass hold down the bottom end. The organ is very retro (think The Munsters again).

“The Sweet Farewell” takes you on a smoother route to some island sun and surf. It’s the guitars’ echoing notes that start off getting you there, then the organ adds its ambiance for further scenery. The bass and drums are kept restrained, highlighting the guitar’s passages and transitions. This is the moody atmospheric Langhorns.

“The Standoff” is spaghetti western time as the drums and bass provide the horses’ gallop as our hero rides off into another adventure. Crashing cymbals and organ notes add an air of the unknown. The guitar is superlative, taking many twists and turns. Excellent! (utmärkt!). Notable the drums are making a statement here as well.

“The Hog” is twangy and colorful. It has a laid-back feel, and the guitar has all the characteristics of a ’60s romp in the sun with surfboard in hand. The first wave of influence is strong here, and they are spot on. The organ is key again in making their sound luminous and original.

Leaving the longest track for the finale is perfect. “White Widow” runs 4:34. The sound features a surf background as one layer, with the guitar sounding a bit grungy at first, then reverting to a more rocking sound. The organ enters forcefully, and the volume rises at all stations, culminating in a powerful climax of sound and color. They decide to end this instrumental recording with a flourish, and they do so convincingly.

The Langhorns shift effortlessly between styles on Showstopper, making each track a surprise. Their diversity is their strength, ensuring listeners are never lulled by repetition—every song stands on its own. That’s the hallmark of true musicianship.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder

February 24, 2026

Tracks:

01. Showstopper 3:00

02. Dr Münster, I Presume? 3:07

03. In An Oriental Mood 3:05

04. The Snoozer 3:21

05. Project Grudge 1:55

06. Bad Karma 5:36

07. Stoked 2:22

08. Stagger 2:38

09. The Sweet Farewell 2:26

10. The Standoff 3:22

11. The Hog 2:29

12. White Widow 4:34

New Surf Releases (February 2026)

New Surf Releases (February 2026)

Here are some fresh 2026 reverb, drip, and surf instrumental releases for you to take a listen to! 

FEATURED RELEASE

🔥 The Raygun Terror Hermits – Attack of the Raygun Terror Hermits

Featured new collaborative surf album from underground surf acts The Terrorsurfs, The Surf Hermits, and My Dusty Raygun — out now on Sharawaji Records.

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🌍Hidden Gem / Discovery Pick  

Four by Four Compilation – Colorado Instrumental Fanzine

A limited‑edition surf instrumental compilation featuring 4 acts from around the world — great for discovery and collectible vinyl.

Instrumental Rock-Surf Review: ZOCKO! - Dial 'Z' For "ZOCKO!" - 7” Vinyl-4 Track EP

Release Date: September 6, 2024 

Label: Beef Platter Records

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Dial’ Z' For "ZOCKO!" is their debut 4-song EP. Hailing from the DC and Baltimore area, they arrived via vinyl with some very colorful artwork. The first thought was the Batman TV series I remember watching as a little boy, and how they would get in a fight with the villains, and all those words would pop out on the screen like Bam! Pow! and probably Zocko!

They are an instrumental rock band with some surf edges, but more of the sub-genres of surf instro are touched upon.

“Fenwick Drainer” jump-starts side one of the 45 rpm slice of vinyl. There is an immediate influx of high energy, rapid guitar runs, fiery locomotive drums, and bass. One hell of a way to kick-start things, with a surf feel featuring some tasty nuggets of Mexican-influenced notes.

“The Lonesome Death of Billy Jack” begins with the epic spaghetti western intro, then a here-we-go gallop through a ready-made scenario for an Ennio Morricone film. The electric guitar leads are fine with the rapid strumming of an acoustic backing. Then, suddenly, a big colorful transition and quicker bursts of the six-strings coming at you from every angle. Excellent!

“My Summer With Ritu” surely has a summer feel. About halfway through, you hear some meatier guitar licks, then it transitions back to the softer tasteful leads. The tempos shift back and forth, keeping the mood upbeat and bright. Very catchy with plenty of hooks!

“A Taste of Honey (live)” is great! An Herb Alpert classic and one of my all-time favorite instrumental artists. The guitar walks the walk on this track as it should. Can’t say I have ever heard such a rockin’ version of this song! A unique way to end the platter.

ZOCKO! has recorded a memorable debut with this EP, showcasing their talent and unique sound. I’m eager to hear what they come up with next.

Credits:

Sean "Link" Lally (guitar)

Jerome "Jeronimo" McManus (guitar)

Joe "Gringo" Schwartz (bass)

Skizz "Skizz" Cyzyk (drums)

Recorded & mixed by Steve Shaw at Shaw Ranch Studio (Newville, PA), except A Taste Of Honey, recorded live at Holy Frijoles (Baltimore, MD) on December 22, 2023. Front cover art by El Gato Gomez. Back cover photos by Mike Landsman. Mastered by Shorty Poole. 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder

February 22, 2026

Tracks:

Side One:

1. Fenwick Drainer 01:22

2. The Lonesome Death of Billy Jack 03:01

Side Two:

3. My Summer With Ritu 02:28

4. A Taste of Honey (live) 02:14