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)