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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

August 5, 2025

Surf - Rock Review: The Torpedoes - Good For The Country

http://www.thetorpedoes.com/

The Torpedoes, a power trio of surf enthusiasts with heavy-laden guitars, are a force to be reckoned with. Their unique blend of surf and rock, as showcased on Good For The Country, is a refreshing departure from the norm and a testament to their innovative sound.

It's hard to tell where they fall. The guitar progressions I heard are on the fringes of alternative rock, yet the port from which they carry out each mission is undoubtedly anchored in the surf!

The unconventional methods of groups like this have pushed an entire genre to the edge of creating an entirely new type of music. It has become so inviting and so aurally pleasing that I crave more. 

One striking aspect that caught my attention immediately was the distinct appearance of the three members of this trio. In contrast to the typical surf group aesthetic, each member exudes a unique style.  The guitar player, 'Big B', has a rock star/hippie look, the bass player, Jason Brown, could easily be mistaken for a Stray Cats tour member, and the drummer, Brandon Watson, resembles a jazz musician from the 50s. This visual diversity adds an intriguing layer to the band's persona.

One aspect that I rarely discuss but was impossible to ignore is the unique way The Torpedoes present themselves. The most notable track, "Theme From The Ipcress File (A Man Alone)", is a testament to their style.

With 17 tracks of crunching primitive power, Good For The Country is potent, high intensity, and outright gripping. It's like a wave of energy from the murky deeps, slashing and snapping at you, leaving you exhilarated and wanting more. 

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

April 1999

Tracks:

01. Manta Ray  

02. The Hornet  

03. Interplanetary  

04. Spanish Main 

05. Nebula 33-7  

06. Green Light  

07. Half-Pipe

08. The Mummy 

09. Midnight Surfer (Ode to Mark Foo)  

10. Gyro-scopic Control 

11. Theme From The Ipcress File (A Man Alone)

12. Secret Agent In Berlin  

13. The Naked Spur  

14. Stockyard-250  

15. Torpedo

16. Tarantula  

17. The Snake

Surf Instro Review: Susan And The Surftones-Bitchin'

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Susan and The Surftones are among the best acts in the surf genre.

Bitchin' is their third CD. I like its clear and solid production. 

The group listened to many greats from the '60s and paid tribute to them all.

Although the covers they did were excellent, and this is something that many viable surf instro bands do, there were just too many. This group can stand on its own. They shouldn't be doing so many covers. Their original material is outstanding, as I had witnessed before this release!

Bitchin' was an exemplary effort regardless of my opinions of their covering other material. If you enjoy surfing, you should add this CD to your collection. If this group continues to evolve and sticks to original material, they will be huge in the surf community.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

June/July 1999

Tracks:

01. Drums A Go-Go    

02. Clam Digger    

03. Latinia    

04. 04.No Matter What Shape

05. Chaquita    

07. Topsy

08. Cayenne    

09. Jezebel   

10. Spaghetti Beach

11. Trembler - Ace Of Spades     

12. Longboards At San Onofre

13. Tramp

14. Beyond    

15.Wipe Out
 

Surf and Rock Instrumental Review: The Fireballs - Blue Fire & Rarities

George Tomsco was a fireball of energy on that guitar and still is. He gives you a tour of his exceptional guitar playing on some of his favorite songs, such as "Torquay" and "Bulldog" on The Fireballs - Blue Fire & Rarities. 

This is getting back to basics, Rock' n' Roll 101.

Insert the CD into the stereo, and class will begin.

Although most songs were recorded in the 1960s, they have that '50s rock feel, with a unique and exciting Tex-Mex twist only George could deliver. It's a musical fusion that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

I found it to be a lot of fun to listen to. There was plenty of toe-tapping when this played. This is not just a musical journey, but also a valuable opportunity to learn about George's musical roots. You'll come away from this experience with a deeper understanding of his unique style.       

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

June/July 1999

Tracks:

01. The Fireballs - vocal Chuck Tharp - I Don't Know   

02. Jimmy Craig - Oh Little Girl

03. Buddy Holly - Bo Diddley   

04. Arthur Alexander - You Don't Care   

05. Jerry Roberts - Little Bitty Lover

06. Larry Trider - Don't Stop     

7. Don Hume - Go Right Ahead  

8. Buddy Holly - Peggy Sue Got Married

09. Pat Carter - Lyin' Ways    

10. Carolyn Hester - That's My Song  

11. Hulan Bass - Little Bitty Man

12. Fireball Country - vocal by George Tomsco - Goin' Away  

13. Tommy Haney - Like All The Others

14. The Fireballs - Walkin'  

15. Jimmy Gilmer & The Fireballs - Sugar Shack   

16. The Fireballs - Fiero

17. George Tomsco & The Dots - Mexican Fun   

18. Buddy Holly - Crying, Waiting, Hoping

19. George & Babs - You Don't Need Me    

20. George & Babs - Come On Home

21. Buddy Holly - Learning The Game   

22. Ben Wasson - It's Spring Time Baby

23. Gary Lee Swafford - Bandit Boy   

24. Gary Lee Swafford - Drum Riot   

25. The Fireballs - Say I Am (What I Am)

26. Wes Dakus - Las Vegas Scene   

27. Chuck Tharp & The Fireballs - Let's Take The Long Way Home

28. Pat Carter - Tell Me   

29. The Fireballs - demo - Rip It Up   

30. The Fireballs – Torquay

Surf Instro Review: The Blue Hawaiians - Sway

The latest release from the Blue Hawaiians, Sway, crafts a unique, shimmering blend of lounge, exotica, and surf sounds. The sound is not just solid, but also clear and complete, a testament to the impressive skills of drummer Tom Maxwell. His contribution is particularly noteworthy, as any surf music aficionado can attest to the importance of a great drummer.

He tames those skins and lays down a rock-solid beat for the rest of the band to follow. The rest of the instrumentation is also outstanding. Everything holds up quite well throughout the entire listen. I found it to be sonically pleasing and the production superb.

"Casino” is a Hawaiian delight, complete with vocals in the native tongue —a unique and intriguing element that adds to the album's diversity. I must say that this was a treat, as I have never heard a surf song done this way.

"Hawaii Five-O" takes on a new meaning with "Martini Five-O", their ode to the lounge sound.

You know what impressed me? David Pascal, the owner of the label, dealt with me. What a class act. It's no wonder the Blue Hawaiians are, too! Undoubtedly one of the best releases of '99. Beautiful music. 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

2000

Tracks:

01. Last Days Of Summer   

02. Searchin' For Da Cat   

03. Banzai Pipeline  

04. Casino   

05. Deadman's

06. Quiet Surf   

07. Martini Five-O   

08. Swingin' Hula Girl   

09. Drop The Hammer, Max!  

10. Sharskin Saddle

11. Charade   

12. Tortolla   

13. Drunk Man Noodle   

14. Da Cat (Reprise)

Surf Instro Review: The Space Cossacks - Tsar Wars

https://thespacecossacks.bandcamp.com/

The long-awaited Tsar Wars from The Space Cossacks is finally here! The band has come a long way since their debut.

Following the massive success of Interstellar Stomp, the band solidifies its status as a top surf-instro group with this second full-length release.

 

The three-year wait was well worth it, as Tsar Wars brings a unique blend of reverb and twang that sets it apart from its predecessor and other surf-instro albums. The band's distinct sound will intrigue even the most seasoned music enthusiasts.

 

Ivan Pongracic and the group ignite the instrumental scene with their unique blend of reverb and twang. They'll send waves of reverb crashing into your mind or serenade you with soft, intricate melodies that harken back to The Shadows, a legendary instrumental rock band. Their sound is a refreshing departure from the norm, sure to captivate any listener.

 

Pongracic continues to amaze with his ever-improving skills. His ultra-fast picking style is a testament to his talent, challenging even the most seasoned guitarists. His potential to venture into new genres and create groundbreaking music is a testament to his skill and dedication, something that all music enthusiasts can appreciate.

 

I am as guilty as everyone else and tend to focus on Ivan; it's hard not to. So, what about the rest of the group? Without them, Ivan wouldn't be doing what he does so well. Mark English lays down a nice rhythm on guitar for Ivan to drop his snappy riffs upon, while Catherine Gray (bass) and Doug Hoekstra (drums) provide a possessed, power-driven rhythm section beyond compare.  It's a given...you should have the fastest and best skin pounder for great surf-instro music.

 

This group is not just rewriting the script; they're shaping the future of surf-instro music. With Tsar Wars, they've set a new standard, sparking debates about the most fantastic instro album ever made. Their influence and innovation will inspire the next generation of surf-instro musicians.

 

Keith "MuzikMan"  Hannaleck 

May 21, 2000

Tracks:

01. Exolumina 

02. Space Race 

03. The Apes Of Wrath

04. Tsunami Tsurprise

05. Escape From Gulag 

06. Sea Of Tranquility 

07.The Defector 

08. The Crusher 

09. Cossack Rocket Patrol 

10. The Jewel Of Duende 

11.  Departure 

12. Beyond The Third Star 

13. Tsar Wars  

14. iFiesta Del Cossacapulco! 

15. Tradewinds

Surf-Rock-Instrumental Review: Jerry Swallow - Teleride

From The Diamonds to Tanya Tucker to Teleride, Jerry Swallow's musical journey is a testament to his versatility and dedication. He began his career with a surf group, The Diamonds, and spent five years as Tanya Tucker's lead guitarist, with many other experiences in between. This is just a glimpse of the long and storied road that has led him to where he is now, playing in the group Diamondback and presenting his solo CD, Teleride.

Jerry Swallow cuts loose on this album with a world of experience and professional gigs behind him. Swallow's colorful and varied experiences as a musician quickly become evident in his music. He can craft a unique surf-instro, rock, country, and R&B style that remains consistently strong throughout the entire listen.

Jerry's sound is clear, stinging, and echoing; it's a unique blend of genres that will pique your interest. It is a rich tapestry of influences and is synonymous with the Telecaster guitar and surf-intro music. Whether you're a fan of fat chords or the loud and biting ones that cut like a knife, Jerry's music has something for everyone, all delivered with a certain refinement that can only be found with those specially gifted musicians.

Wait until you hear the versions of "Walk Don't Run" and "Apache." Wow! I am accustomed to repeatedly hearing note-for-note cover renditions of the same songs, so this is a real treat. 

The essential elements of the music remain intact, but Jerry adds a unique flavor and sound with his fabulous blend of styles. He fervently attacks the songs, infusing them with his signature clear, stinging, and echoing sound, and changes the whole number into a new and refreshing version that's all his own.

This triumphant solo release deserves worldwide attention from the surf-instro scene, and I am confident it will. 

Who needs coffee in the morning when you can kickstart your day with the invigorating sound of Jerry Swallow's Teleride? This album is a high-energy, rock-infused experience that will leave you buzzing. 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

April 13, 2000

Tracks:

01. Teleride  

02. So Lonley  

03. Return To Me    

04. Surfwalk  

05. Forgiven  

06. Down The Line   

 07. Rockin' Bird  

08. Last Date  

09. Walk Don't Run   

10. Apache   

Instrumental Surf Review: Randy Holden-Surf Guitar God 2001

Randy Holden, the self-proclaimed guitar god, has a special treat for his fans who remember him from his days playing guitar with a surf-instrumental group called The Fender IV. 

Yes, Mr. Holden has been around the block a few times. Calling himself a guitar god sounds like pretty heady stuff. Well, let me tell you, he can back up every word of it. And his guitar playing is a living testament to the title of the seven-track Surf Guitar God 2001.

Holden is not the classic once-bitten, twice-shy indie artist; he got screwed enough to make him reevaluate the music business. Back in his days with Blue Cheer, around the time Woodstock made history, some events nearly pushed a great artist to extinction. The self-imposed exile lasted for twenty years, and then he emerged from it, thank God. (There is a lot to that story in my interview.)

Holden is fiercely independent and motivated to succeed, and he has achieved this with great success. Holden himself painted the cover of this CD. As you can see, he is a very talented man.

Talking with Randy made me realize what a deep and sensitive artist he is. He is the consummate guitar player and technician. I referred to "Prayer To Paradise" in a previous review as a jam, and he quickly set me straight in an interview I conducted with him. He told me it was a sonata, not a jam. Jams are disorganized, and he loathes disorganization when he creates music. It makes perfect sense to me, and I learned the actual value of his creations in the process.

There are some great songs on this CD. "Prayer To Paradise" and all the other extraordinary compositions belong on this disc. For instance, "Hawaiian Rain," which epitomizes a tropical rainstorm, is the difference between getting showered with actual raindrops and an awe-inspiring blend of guitar chords. It beckons images of the beautiful island in your mind's eye.  The notes come raining down upon your consciousness. 

"Highway Surfer" and "Malibu Run" combine traditional surf and modern elements nicely. I realize that seven tracks don't look like a long-running CD, but do not be deceived by this. "Prayer to Paradise" runs 23:54, and "Hawaiian Rain" is 17:04. The rest of the songs are typically two minutes long, which is standard for the genre.

I have come to truly admire this man, not only for his complete artistry but also for his unyielding spirit and strength. He is a great man, playing great music. Anyone who can paint a picture like the one on the cover of this CD, enabling you to see it by listening to the music, has a gift that needs to be shared. Thanks for sharing your gifts with me, Randy.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

April 30, 2001

Tracks:

1. Margaya  

2. Highway Surfer   

3. Everybody Up   

4. Malibu Run    

5. Little Ollie    

6. Prayer To Paradise   

7. Hawaiian Rain