Label: Independent
The Surf Hermits is the one-man show of multi-instrumentalist Jason Deathrage. A one-man band is not new currently; however, the admiration I have for someone of this caliber never wanes for this listener.
Road Trip is written, produced, and performed by Jason Deatherage.
Things start with “Ursa Major” and resonating twang and driving rhythms that get your blood pumping right at the outset of this 12-track slice of surf rock instrumental. Punctuated by fluid, piercing lead guitar runs, then ending with some cool wah-wah effects, this track has everything that makes surf rock so great!
“Red Dust Rider” is that crazy looking dude on the cover of this album. The colorful artwork by Rude Commissions pops with urgency. The guitar playing is transitional, switching from surfy twang to flat-out rock lines. The combination is lethal and so effective. Again, you get some wah-wah effects, then a quick switch back to more fuzzy surf lines. All the while, a second rhythm guitar keeps the energy consistent along with the drums and bass.
“Towards An Empty Land” opens with atmospheric guitar notes that build the composition. Wordless vocals arrive, adding another layer and making it sound like a worthy movie soundtrack. I really like the tone of this man’s guitar and the way he can transition so easily within one song. Tastefully done while maintaining a rock edge.
“When Waves Collide” is classic modern surf. An irresistible toe-tapping rhythm permeates this one. It reminded me of some of my favorite Merrell Fankhauser tracks, with that island/surf feel. I could listen to this kind of music for hours, love it! Excellent guitar work.
“Mountains Of Madness” continues along the same lines, however, with a darker edge to it. The bass and drums are the steering wheel, while the guitars are the accelerator. The sounds are full and twangy, resonating surf rock at its best. The effects come in towards the end with the wah-wah, which always adds another dimension to the overall sound. It winds things up with a hard-driving finality.
Now it’s time to take a “Road Trip.” The title track should be the most important one to focus on for its effects on the listener’s consciousness. The guitar playing on this track is superb! Full of effects with the leads and some good rhythm backing from the second guitar and bottom end, this is one of the most complete compositions that will resonate with the surf instro audience.
“Dr. Zira's Velvety Lips” is an interesting title. This one has a retro sound, with all the guitar notes. It does get a bit more complex as it transitions; however, it then retreats to the original lines. Think of the first wave of surf with a modern touch and some rock elements woven in for color and energy. Interesting way to end it as well.
“The Faces Of Our Fathers” is a slow-burner with silky-smooth lead guitar and strummed acoustic backing. The drums and bass perfectly complement this step away from the energetic rockers. This is the tasteful island vibe I absolutely love to hear. A great example of diversity and all-around talent on display.
“Yugen” is the longest track, clocking in at 4:38. This one takes another turn in sound and texture. The strumming guitar provides a constant rhythm as the leads take on a different tone this time. The drums and bass build along the way as the lead has that surfy twang that holds on to you without fail again. Then there are some different guitar transitions we have not heard yet. The time spent is needed, given all the different tempos and changes. Three-quarters of the way in, it morphs into an all-out surf rocker that reminded me of something The Space Cossacks would do. So good!
“Night Flight To R'lyeh” has a notable driving bass line as the guitar moves in and out of changes. The tone here carries a certain amount of mystery, as indicated by the track title. It’s all about creating an atmosphere. On the one hand, there is the surf instro with a Middle Eastern influence, then flat-out psych rock. Very complex.
“Mission To The Dreamworld” speeds things up again with a lot of quick licks and driving rhythms. The echoing guitar lines are the trademark of The Surf Hermits sound, and here is a great example of that, regardless of what direction the guitar goes. Three-quarters of the way into this, there is a dramatic change, and it goes into full-on rock mode.
“Speaking With Ghosts” is the closing track and the only one under the three-minute mark. This serves as a goodbye for now and a reminder of the resonant surf tones that this music commands at every turn. The drums and bass complete their fills, finishing off the spooky motif nicely.
Road Trip stands as a testament to Jason Deathrage’s musical vision and skill. The seamless blend of surf and rock elements keeps the listener engaged throughout, offering both energy and nuance with every track. Fans of instrumental surf—and anyone seeking a fresh take on the genre—will find plenty to enjoy in this dynamic, expertly crafted album.
Keith
“MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder
March 31, 2026
Tracks:
01. Ursa Major 3:05
02. Red Dust Rider 3:44
03. Towards An Empty Land 3:32
04. When Waves Collide 3:20
05. Mountains Of Madness 3:01
06. Road Trip 3:08
07. Dr. Zira's Velvety Lips 3:12
08. The Faces Of Our Fathers 3:22
09. Yugen 4:38
10. Night Flight To R'lyeh 3:33
11. Mission To The Dreamworld 3:17
12. Speaking With Ghosts 2:32
.webp "Little Kahuna-One Against The World 7” Vinyl Cover")
Label: Independent
Little Kahuna and the picturesque artwork on the cover of One Against The World capture the essence of the surf community at a single glance.
The 7" vinyl makes a great addition to any collection, blending the best of surf music and art in a single package.
Side 1, “One Again,” delivers a laid-back island vibe, with mellow tones and lap steel guitar echoing through the air. The track immediately transports the listener into a soft mood, enhanced by rich instrumentation and layered sounds.
Side 2, “Tidal Rush,” continues the mellow tones, evoking the sensation of sun and surf on a deserted island. A surf island tiki style prevails, with engaging tempo shifts and smooth transitions throughout.
Little
Kahuna delivers a memorable two-sided slice of island surf instrumental.
“Relaxing waves of surf flow into your consciousness.”
This is music made for unwinding—perfect for soaking up the sun, sipping your favorite drink, and letting the gentle rhythms wash over you. With One Against The World, Little Kahuna pairs evocative surf instrumentals and vibrant cover art to perfectly embody the spirit of the surf community.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder
March 26, 2026
Label: Double Crown Records
The Dutch surf-rockers Les Robots are a “mechanical” duo from Rotterdam, known for their 1960s space-age sound and retro-futuristic stage outfits. While they often maintain the mystery of having been “programmed” by legendary producer Joe Meek, the humans behind the masks are well-known figures in the Dutch garage and beat scene.
Straight away, looking at the artwork on Intermission | Optigan and knowing some background on the origins of this band, I thought of Kraftwerk.
“An Alarming Start” is a wonderful beginning, featuring their “techy” sound alongside more traditional surf-instro guitar. The sound is clear, crisp, and defined. It has a modern edge while also giving the nod to when it all started back in the 60’s.
“When H.A.N.K.-B. and R-JoHN Collide” sounds like a different band entirely, reaching back to an old melody everyone will recognize with biting guitar lines and piano to give a more retro feel. This basic rock ‘n’ roll is something you can’t miss.
“N.O.V.A.” starts like a sci-fi soundtrack, then suddenly drops and changes entirely into a retro guitar-led sound straight out of a 60’s movie scenario with the strumming jazz-inflected guitar lines and then some echoing leads that resonate beautifully. Then the organ sounds like something you would hear at a roller-skating rink back in the day. So much nostalgia wrapped in on track!
“Slimy Matter” is yet another change in direction. This time, the guitar opens with a resonant, metallic sound, then switches to keys that sound poppier and lighthearted, then back to ominous guitar licks as you hear a whirling, whooshing synth sound, like the computer undergoing some kind of transformation. By all accounts, based on the track title, this is a science experiment that has dreadfully gone wrong! Interesting tune though!
Now, to really get you wondering what is happening. “Theme From Optigan” segues from the previous track and boom! You have been transported to another timeline. This one has a galloping bass line, drums to match, and a weird little synth-horn sound. Suddenly, a twangy guitar enters the mix as the backend continues down a more defined path. Quirky! And a few more surprises are coming: a spoken-word segment, then more wonderful weirdness.
“A Strange New World” indeed! This band is just full of surprises from track to track, and each one sounds entirely different from the last. There is an odd sound going on here as the piano tinkles away, along with one singular cymbal sound and another on the drum. I can’t keep up with all the crazy changes here, but I am loving it just the same!
“Wailin’ On Sound Waves” gets back to some good twangy rock and a little bluesy piano banging away for another layer. Then another one of those weird kazoo-like sounds. They put on their instrumental rocker shoes this time with a definite blues flavor.
“Solar-Sonata” takes you on another colorful ride of sounds and textures. The guitar strums out a consistent rhythm as different sounds pepper the track: the synth, other sounds I cannot define, and the organ, which sounds like a 60s-influenced arrangement. It’s a real toe-tapper most of the time.
“Flea Market On Planet P” starts interesting enough, but interesting and different is what this band is all about. The guitar is twangy, basic rock, as the synth adds its touch. Then another change in tempo and rhythm occurs, with a synth sounding like a buzzing bee as the guitar gets down and dirty, grungy. Then a sudden stop and return to the beginning of the cycle. Absolute musical madness, and I love it!
“Lajka’s Heart Rate” is one minute and sixteen seconds of rockin’ fun. It’s nonstop energy then straight into more weirdness with “Elektro Returns,” their version of sci-fi rock with hints of the bizarre, something you could imagine hearing on a grade B horror flick in the ’50s. Then a typically mysterious transition, and then an ending.
“The Last 3 Minutes Of Mars” brings this crazy train of musical montages to a close. It starts with an atmosphere of trepidation between the guitar and a constant “go to war” drum beat. This is a great way to end the recording, with plenty of atmosphere and the synths adding to the creepiness in the last three minutes. Twangy guitar lines, the end is near, then the sounds of an explosion, then what do you know, the Farfisa-sounding organ, bringing along its optimism, albeit creep-show-like, to end the journey.
Intermission | Optigan is one of the craziest and most diverse listens I have experienced to date. Les Robots live up to their name. They emerge from the remnants of the first wave of surf instro and methodically create their own unique wave. To define it all clearly is impossible, and kudos to them for keeping their sound outside the box rather than tucking it neatly into a genre. They have their own way into your consciousness. Their talent is more than evident, and I would advise spending time focusing on each instrument in a track individually, then on the track as a whole, before dismissing the resulting sound.
Intermission | Optigan isn’t for purists seeking classic surf sounds—Les Robots are after something entirely different, delighting in progressive experimentation at every turn. For listeners craving new sonic experiences and inventive twists, this album delivers in spades. Production, musicianship, and creativity are all first-rate, making it a standout in its genre-defying category. If you’re open-minded—and perhaps a bit adventurous—you’ll find plenty to enjoy on this wild musical ride.
Band Info:
The core members are: The "Programmed" Masterminds D.V.R. (Dave von Raven): Keyboards (specifically the Clavioline, Ondioline and Vox Continental), guitar, and bass. Outside his robot persona, he is the frontman of the popular Dutch beat band The Kik (formerly The Madd). R-JoHN (Arjan Spies): Drums, guitar, and bass. He is also a prominent member of The Kik, The Kryng (and formerly Mark & the Spies)
Live "Assisting Bots" When performing live, the duo is joined by two additional "droids" to create a full band sound: Pete-R: Bass guitar C.A.S.E.: Drums
Quick Facts Origin: Rotterdam, Netherlands (formed in 2018).
Sound: A mix of surf rock, instrumental rock 'n' roll, and "Space Age Pop. "The Gimmick: They perform in full robot costumes with silver masks and metallic suits, never breaking character as "mechanical men from outer space."
Key Gear: They are famous for using the Clavioline, a rare 1940s/50s vacuum-tube synthesizer that gives them their signature eerie, "Telstar"-esque sound.
Keith
“MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder
March
24, 2026
Tracks:
01. An Alarming Start 2:58
02. When H.A.N.K.-B. and R-JoHN Collide 2:09
03. N.O.V.A. 2:58
04. Slimy Matter 2:32
05. Theme From Optigan 2:25
06. A Strange New World 2:40
07. Wailin' On Sound Waves 1:45
08. Solar-Sonata 3:08
09. Flea Market On Planet P 3:24
10. Lajka's Heart Rate 1:16
11. Elektro Returns 2:53
12. The Last 3 Minutes Of Mars 3:00
Label: Tabu Recordings
The Madeira began in 2004 in Indianapolis, IN. The band features Ivan Pongracic on lead guitar, founder of the 1990s surf music icons the Space Cossacks, and Patrick O'Connor on rhythm guitar, founder of the Indy space-surf mavens Destination: Earth!; Dane Carter on drums; and Todd Fortier on bass.
They have released seven recordings: Sandstorm (2005), Ruins EP (2006), Carpe Noctem (2008), Tribal Fires (2012), Sonic Cataclysm - Live (2014), Ancient Winds (2015), and Center of the Surf - Live (2018), all on Double Crown Records from Bellingham, Washington.
Archipelago: The Best of Madeira takes the best of those releases and encapsulates them into this 12-track compilation.
Madeira, officially the Autonomous Region of Madeira, is an autonomous region of Portugal, in the Atlantic Ocean about 805 km southwest of mainland Portugal. That will give you an idea of the foundation and inspiration of this music.
You are anticipating a great start to this before you hit play. Knowing who is involved with this project creates excitement just talking about it.
“The Saracen” jumps right into the high-energy focus with tremolo runs from Ivan Pongracic. Patrick O’Connor provides a steady rhythm guitar, while Dane Carter and Todd Fortier are the one-two punch on drums and bass. Here, that excitement is justified with a superb opener that sets the stage for this best collection and the excellent musicianship you would come to expect from this group of talented men.
“Journey to the Center of the Surf” begins in explosive fashion, something Ivan is known for with his highly technical mastery of the six-string. The tremolo runs are a highlight as he transitions to tasteful, tempered playing, then back to the rapid tempos that make this music essential surf-rock instrumental perfection. The solid support from the other positions in the band allows the lead guitar to weave its magic.
“Witch Doctor” falls one second short of four minutes. The complexities and layers of sounds continue to mesmerize you, the listener. Notably, guitar playing is incredibly lucid, and the drums and bass step back on the lower-tempo passages, then suddenly explode into a wall of sound again. The bass is so strong, and those cymbals are crashing with rapid drum rolls. A powerful exhibition of high energy and the ability to scale it back to a more mellow sound.
“Ancient Winds” has more traditional surf instro sound with an island feel. Even as the tempo picks up and the guitars resonate, you can hear the echoes of the 60s first wave. Now it feels like ancient winds (though the concept here means something different) as I look back on those many years that have passed. However, this listener never underestimates its relevance and meaning.
“Burning Mirage” starts off as a mellow lead-in before cranking up the volume and intensity. As the title may suggest, the mirage is burning in your mind’s eye as the music picks you up and leads you there. So many transitions are happening here within this timeframe. Another impactful track.
“Into the Deep” is the longest track at 4:30 and certainly could be a defining statement of the band’s music and driving force. The track leads in with a dreamy, resonating sequence as you wait for another one of those dramatic changes. The pace picks up somewhat; however, it remains restrained and quite beautiful as the composition takes shape. About three-quarters of the way, it comes to a head and explodes into a crescendo of sound, with the bottom end sounding like waves crashing to shore. No sooner than that passage reaches its pace, it reverts to the softer side of their sound, with the sound of waves, and fades out.
“Tribal Fury” returns to the high-octane excitement of previous tracks. The tremolo guitar runs return, with razor-sharp leads interspersed, as the rhythm guitar and the back end serve as the locomotive engine driving this musical train. A distinctive Middle Eastern sound comes into focus as they continue to rock out in classic Dick Dale style, shredding with authority. The music fits the title perfectly.
“Undercurrents” is where Ivan’s lifelong love of The Shadows is in the spotlight here. Hank Marvin would be proud. The tasteful, elegant picking is a credit to his knowledge of the history of instrumental rock and to his status as one of its progenitors. The bass and drums carry a jazz-like beat and rhythm as the guitar’s notes cut a path through the air.
“Caravella” once again changes the trajectory of their music style and flow. The guitars are simply roaring here with the tremolo runs and reverb. Suddenly, it stops momentarily, then catches fire again, and we are off and running into six-string land from the lead and rhythm. The bottom end continues to play, inspired by rapid-fire bursts. So much is going on at once, but the recording's separation is excellent.
“Cities of Gold” may be a tribute to the lost tribes of the Incas and the Mayans; however, the sound has a smooth, crisp tone that makes you feel the sun and surf as if you are right there enjoying them. Tremolo rules once again with transitory runs that keep you engaged. I thought of a few of my favorite Merrell Fankhauser albums I had the pleasure of enjoying decades ago. Everything I love about surf instro came together in this track like the ebb and tides of the ocean.
“Rolling Thunder” grabs you right away with a Spaghetti Western flair and a picturesque sunset off in the distance as you ride to your destination through the music. Sounds of the wild west are heard as the tremolo heightens the picture. The music is superbly rendered once again, creating an atmosphere of energy and color that has you reminiscing and looking forward to the future of this surf instro genre and to what a band’s diversity can bring.
“Sandstorm” is the perfect closer with the Middle Eastern twang and tremolo runs. This is the band in their element. The power of the music sweeps you away, as the title would indicate. Pure excitement and non-stop energy are the only way to close this out. They give it all they have, then finish it with a touch of mellowness with the guitar and say goodbye.
Archipelago: The Best of The Madeira stands as a vibrant tribute to this surf-rock instrumental supergroup. From the first track to the final note, the album captivates and holds you. The seamless fusion of talent from musicians with diverse backgrounds results in a dynamic and memorable sonic experience, showcasing the enduring power of collaboration in music.
Keith
“MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder
March
20, 2026
Tracks:
01. The Saracen 2:26
02. Journey to the Center of the Surf 3:20
03. Witch Doctor 3:59
04. Ancient Winds 2:49
05. Burning Mirage 2:35
06. Into the Deep 4:30
07. Tribal Fury 3:23
08. Undercurrents 2:36
09. Caravella 3:33
10. Cities of Gold 3:49
11. Rolling Thunder 3:12
12. Sandstorm 3:31
Music For Alternate Realities, Vol 2 is a collaboration between two bands, Thee Leviathans and The Tentakills. Tabu Recordings continues to be one of the leaders in surf, rock, and instrumental recordings while offering limited-edition vinyl of its releases.
“Unholy Mackeral” starts with a bang, right into a surf instro sound with a sci-fi touch, then suddenly shifts to a more western theme, and once again changes, this time with the guitar bringing a bevy of twang, reverb, and a sci-fi western sound. It’s all rolled into under three minutes. A dynamic range of color and atmospheres merge for an incredibly entertaining opener.
“Enter The Spy Magician” has a retro sound with resonating guitar notes and an organ in the background for that extra push into the wayback machine. Twang is prevalent with a nice flow and rhythm. They maintain the sci-fi feel and keep the surf instro intact. I really enjoyed the combination of styles so clearly presented.
“Escape From Bermuda” takes off into a full-on surf instro rocker. The images of large waves and surfers come to mind right away as the tremolo kicks into high gear. This is a traditional fast mover with all the advantages of today’s recording techniques. Things shift to a different tempo and overall sound, with amazing guitar playing, then back to the core sound. There are hints of Middle Eastern influences woven in as well.
Then it segues right into “Daggertooth,” which rocks and shifts to a down-tempo mode, with some tasteful guitar playing. The softer parts build into the more complex passages as the drums and bass pound out the rhythms with precise authority. It shifts yet again, sounding like a third major change. Then, to top it off, the rapid-fire drums create an epic backdrop for the other instruments to follow with equal energy and emphasis.
Music For Alternate Realities, Vol 2 is a musical cornucopia that any instrumental fan will enjoy. The album masterfully blends strong musicianship with the signature elements of surf instrumental music, while boldly exploring new sonic directions. Each track offers its own distinct flavor, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. This collaboration stands out for its creativity and diversity, and I look forward to what these artists will deliver next.
Keith
“MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder
March 18, 2026
Tracks:
1. Unholy Mackeral 02:52
2. Enter The Spy Magician 03:07
3. Escape From Bermuda 02:12
4. Daggertooth 03:20
| Artist / Release | Sub-Genre | Listening Link |
Atomic Drag Rave from the Grave (EP) | Horror / Hot Rod | |
The Other Timelines & The 4D Man Music For Alternate Realities Vol. 1 | Spy / Sci-Fi Surf | |
The Surf Hermits The Surf Hermits Jam!! Vol. 1 | High-Energy / Trad | |
Underwater Bosses Dark Side of the Ride | Dark / Heavy Surf | |
The Raygun Terror Hermits Attack Of The Raygun Terror Hermits | Sci-Fi / Punk Surf | |
Danny McMartin Ocean On Fire | Classic Instrumental | |
Mark Malibu & the Wasagas Knock Me Out! | Modern Trad | |
The Fuzziyama Surfers Wild Echizen (LP/7") | Japanese Eleki | |
The Jagaloons Forbidden Words (Vinyl Edition) | Traditional Surf | |
The Thee Orbits Unknown Hits From Outer Space!! | Space-Age Surf | |
Bikini Wipeouts Sunk Treasures From The Deep | Lo-fi / Trad | |
Various Artists Surfentarium International | Global Compilation |
If you want to keep digging, these three sites are where 90% of the scene's new music drops:
The Endless Surf Festival 2026 is taking place in Belgium on March 28, 2026, and will feature several of the artists listed above (including Surfer Joe).
