Surf Rock Instrumental Review: The Electric Heaters - From The Film of The Same Name

Release Date:  September 2, 2022

Label: Eats Records

Website

The Electric Heaters, From The Film of The Same Name, is a musical journey that delves into the forgotten films of decades past, serving as a captivating time capsule. The band’s unique approach to this concept is sure to pique your interest.

The band’s decision to interpret movie soundtracks through the lens of surf rock instrumental music is a bold and impressive move. It’s a testament to their skill and creativity, and it’s sure to leave you appreciative of their musical prowess.

 

The Electric Heaters have masterfully crafted a 13-track album that is both atmospheric and genre-bending. Their focus on the guitar, a staple of surf instro music, is evident, but they also skillfully incorporate other elements, keeping you captivated and engaged throughout.

 

“Nice Little Sunday” marks the beginning of this cinematic musical journey. Straight away, you expect to hear some of that retro first-wave surf instro, and they don’t disappoint. This is not the explosive Dick Dale sound; it’s more like when the Shadows adopted their softer approach, featuring tasteful, low-key guitar playing. There is a driving bass and equally tasteful drum parts as well.

 

As the listen continues, you will discover a lot of this type of sound, however, embellished with stronger guitar leads and various transitions into sub-genres. All of which I found very entertaining and eclectic, with excellent musicianship.

 

“Chai Yo!” begins with the clinking of glasses, then straight into a funkier sound with the guitar riffs. Then, there’s a brief glissando, followed by some fuzz tones. Yet another switch-up occurs with a country riff, then a circle back to surf instro. The Hammond B3 announces its arrival as it cranks away, creating another layer, then some more rock-oriented guitar riffs. Three styles emerge here, and although it was transitory, it all jelled nicely.

 

“Beyond Banzai” kicks off with a walking bass line with an air of mystery, accompanied by a soft, jazz-like guitar run, while the drums are subtle yet just right. Then, a change to a country riff, followed by a return to surf, which is tasty. Some rapid riffing, reminiscent of the Flamenco genre, fires off with conviction, accompanied by some fine string bending. It ended as it began with a mysterious vibe.   

 

“Pandemic Slippers” is a nice hypnotic island sound to relax and have a drink to (under that lone palm or coconut tree). The soft, feathery sounds are like a comfortable pillow to rest your head on. The guitar starts to spark with some tremolo, all the while maintaining a lower tempo, then it returns to a more mellow acoustic guitar sound. However, it is an electric guitar.

 

“Tainted Love” will be recognized by many listeners. The band takes this classic hit through their own paces, making it their own instrumental rock style. Notably, the bass and the drums, per usual, keep it all on track with a great flow.

 

“Smart Aleck Kill” takes off into spy and mystery mode. Guitar, bass, and drums collide for a great soundtrack. All the layers of instrumentation are superb while creating and enhancing the necessary effects to make it believable.

 

“Thing on the Doorstep” gets you wondering what exactly that could be! I’m not going to look! It features some tastefully done guitar picking. It is all very graceful with a touch of glissando for extra flavor.

 

“Rumble at The Rum Dungeon” is not what you would expect with a title like that. A horse gallop begins with some Western picking on the guitar as the drums set the pace. It picks up and moves on with more intense guitar, galloping along, then back again to the original melody. It’s quite a ride!

 

“Montrose Beach” returns to surf instro; however, it gradually gains some upward momentum with a slower tempo. Metaphorically, like going from low tide to high tide. They launch into some glissando to sprinkle it with traditional sounds. It was like being transported to that sunny beach in my mind in a heartbeat.

 

“Tidepool Eyes” is more of a slow-tempo with some excellent lap steel playing. It’s the beach or Hawaiian sound (but not slack guitar). The bottom end helps to keep the mode mellow as they subtly add their fills. A flavorful and atmospheric sound fills they are with musical beauty.

 

“Creepy Tango” is a tango with a dramatic edge. It’s funky, then a country lick, and back to the central theme, so a lot of back and forth (which is their hallmark). An organ “creeps” in as they make their musical circles with different styles within one track (another one of their strengths). Notably, the bass stood out once again.

 

“Nut-Free Table” and a drum roll, please…then another helping of the tasty guitar is offered (I am thinking about how much they are influenced by The Shadows again). The addition of some nice drum work with the bass is a highlight. Melodic guitar notes are featured, followed by a transition into a more decisive lead break. This is bluesy and very good! Then back to the original melody with hooks.

 

Imagine a “Taco Volcano”! Free food! Their Latin influences take over here with a surf flair. Restrained guitar notes flutter off as the bass and drums remain strong, maintaining the backbeat for the lead guitar to step into the spotlight. Very atmospheric, just as all the previous tracks were.

 

From The Film of The Same Name is a trip around the surf, instrumental, and rock genres. There is a lot to cover on this listen, and it is all presented with conviction and taste. To be able to do both of those things while creating a soundtrack over decades of films deserves plenty of accolades.

 

Credits:

Matt Heaton: Guitar, Stylophone

Dave Piper: Bass

Jared Seabrook: Drums

With:

Michael Crane: Keyboards (2, 11)

Shannon Heaton: Flute (6)

Rich Hinman: Pedal Steel (10)

Val Mardot: Theremin (13)

Tracks:

01. Nice Little Sunday 02:19

02. Chai Yo! 02:46

03. Beyond Banzai 03:23

04. Pandemic Slippers 03:14

05. Tainted Love 03:48

06. Smart Aleck Kill 03:54

07. Thing on the Doorstep 02:57

08. Rumble at The Rum Dungeon 03:35

09. Montrose Beach 03:20

10. Tidepool Eyes 03:09

11. Creepy Tango 03:27

12. Nut-Free Table 04:59

13. Taco Volcano 04:10

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

September 26, 2025

Surf Rock Instrumental Review: The Chi-Tones-Salsipuedes

Release Date: August 12, 2025 

Label: McClean Music Publishing

Website

Chi McClean, a lifelong surfer and the one-person show (except the drums) of The Chi-Tones, is a rare gem in the surf instro genre. His versatility, not just in playing instruments but also in understanding the culture and sport, is evident in his album Salsipuedes.

 

“Salsipuedes” is a Spanish phrase that translates to “leave if you can” or “get out if you can” in English. The term is a contraction of “sal si puedes” and is used for places or situations that are difficult to escape, like a street that becomes impassable when it rains or a difficult-to-traverse creek. In the context of this album, 'Salsipuedes' could be interpreted as a metaphor for the unpredictable and challenging nature of the surf. 

 

Chi plays the following instruments: Electric + Resophonic + Acoustic Guitars, Bass Guitar, Electric Pianos, Mellotron, Toy Piano, Glockenspiel, Banjo, Electric Sitar, Whistle, Shouts + Hand Percussion. And Production.

 

The drums on this album are performed by the talented Miles McPherson, whose rhythmic contributions add depth and energy to the music. Buckley Miller was the mixing engineer and Ryan Smith the mastering engineer.

 

“Undercover Surfer” starts with a great beat, some guitar, and the electric sitar—a delicious way to kick things off. Everything sounds right on the edge of exploding, keeping you on the edge of your seat. Very cinematic and colorful.

 

“Tres Banderas” is a Spanish-influenced track that transports you to a different cultural landscape. The sounds of the Spanish guitar and the whistle reminiscent of a Spaghetti Western film soundtrack by Ennio Morricone create a unique and intriguing atmosphere.

 

“The Enforcer” is a high-energy track that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The infectious guitar grooves and driving rhythm build to a crescendo, creating an exciting and engaging musical experience.

 

“Salsipuedes” draws Chi back to Spanish influences by balancing the power of the guitar with the keyboard. The percussion is steady and done with conviction. The title track should always be a highlight, and he succeeds in accomplishing that.

 

“Odd Todd” is a funky, twangy number under two minutes. The feeling is light with plenty of rhythm for just enough spice. Diversification on the guitar is a specialty of this artist.

“Bad Vibes Bob” sounds eerie at first, evoking a sense of trepidation. The guitar briefly moves away from that, with some reverberating guitar lines, then returns to maintain that feeling.

 

Nearly 3 minutes this time, with some interesting sounds like the Glockenspiel.

“County Line “is a real mover, a boogie guitar kicks into action before changing into more stretched out sounds and some slide guitar. A lot is coming into focus here. This is very catchy and well done!

 

“Los Federales” is easy enough to understand without translating—the bass thumps along with a definitive Spanish flair and irresistible guitar and toe-tapping percussion.

“Down The Line” jumps right at the starting line, sounding like vintage first-wave surf instro. The drums are right in sync along those lines as the guitar does a great job creating that surfing sound. This is perfectly fun in the sun stuff!

 

“Mystic Maverick” returns with electric guitar staccato style as another lead is added with some bluesy slide. The backbeat is like a metronome for the guitars. Excellent.

 

“Eagles” shimmers like a wave in the sun. The guitar sounds like an invitation to the beach and a cool drink while watching the surfers fly through the waves like eagles. Very atmospheric and relaxing. I am continually impressed with the variety Chi delivers in all these tracks.

 

Being a surfer and ending with “Big Sur” was most appropriate. And it is the longest track at 4:13. This one begins with a leisurely tempo and slide guitar resonating as the rhythms backing it are right in step. It starts building in layers, then you hear the electric sitar with its unique sound. Once again, I am totally impressed with the diverse array of sounds and instrumentation found in one track.

 

The Chi-Tones is an excellent name for Chi’s one-man band because of all the ground he covers. I appreciate the coverage of surf instro and beyond. The many sub-genres make things a lot more interesting, and to perform at such a high level while also producing all the music is genuinely remarkable.

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

September 22, 2025

Tracks:

01. Undercover Surfer 02:08

02. Tres Banderas 02:03

03. The Enforcer 01:51

04. Salsipuedes 02:42

05. Odd Todd 01:50

06. Bad Vibes Bob 02:53

07. County Line 02:25

08. Los Federales 02:33

09. Down The Line 02:20

10. Mystic Maverick 02:31

11. Eagles 03:15

12. Big Sur 04:13

Surf Rock Instrumental Vinyl Review: Wave Electric-Self-Titled

 

Release Date:  August 5, 2022

Label: MuSick Recordings

Website

Hailing from Milan, Italy, is the eclectic surf rock band Wave Electric. Their self-titled LP, released three years ago, is a significant milestone in their career. The album’s title, 'Wave Electric', not only represents the band’s identity but also serves as a testament to their unique sound and style. I want to thank Art Bourasseau of MuSick Recordings for getting this great slice of (yellow) vinyl to me.

The cover is intriguing and very suggestive, if not a blatant view of sexuality. This is rock and roll, and they were unashamed to display it. I say good for them! Let it rip, boys!

What I heard was a band that covered the surf instrumental genre and a good range of the sub-genres. Their versatility and talent come through splendidly on each track of this LP with all the complexities and transitions we enjoy as listeners. They provide all that exceptionally well.

“Shot In The Head” immediately gets your attention just by the title alone, and the music fits as well. They kick start things with some high-energy riffs and strong leads on the six-string. It’s soaked in the echoes of reverb.

At first blush, I recognized this sound, and it comes pretty quickly if you have familiarity with the genre and well-known bands; it’s Slacktone! I am not taking anything away from them here; it’s a compliment and a killer way to start the album.

“Berlin” has a slower intro before it breaks out into a full surf instro rock mode. Bass and drums are rock steady (and they are all the way through this album). The transition is notable here, going back to the beginning and then moving into a flat-out rocking section.

“Waves” (what an appropriate title!) begins with a drum intro, then straight into the guitar as they run up and down the frets with an emphasis on the twang and the use of the whammy bar for that reverberating effect, we all know and love. Suddenly, a brief “Wipe Out” like transition, then it closes out.

“Moon Surfing” brings in some heavy bass, which is very effective. Staccato riffs and the whammy bar provide all the right effects as you imagine actually surfing on the moon, how cool would that be!

“Alien Attack” is the perfect segue from the previous track (in relation to space).  Slow shimmering waves of guitar come flowing out of your speakers with a soft bottom end for it all to land on as the tempo rises with rapid fire riffs (like a machine gun) from the guitar men.

“Fantasmatron” is an excellent title for a song. It leaves a lot to the imagination. Twangy and atmospheric, it hints that evil is right around the corner. Then it morphs into something more with a change into a more lighthearted mode, albeit briefly, with some soft picking, then a return to the rocking surf instro sounds. The drum and bass are on fire here, providing a superb complement to the ever-changing guitar lines. This is all skillfully done, and the best track on the album.

“Margaritas By The Shore” is everything you would expect, with tempo and trying to imagine the scenery suggested by the title. Subtle picking and then it picks up as the rhythm guitar is spot on, driving along things with help from the bottom end. The guitars move back and forth between tempos and instrumentation, and the echoing licks, whether slower or faster, perfectly capture the surf and sand as you sip this cool drink of sound as the first side of the platter closes out.

“Hangover (Pt. III)” opens side two with an excellent bass line as the drums come in with some subtlety. The guitars join the mix with some slow, low-tempo melodicism. There is some good rhythm following all that as well. At no point do they cut loose on this one. I think the idea is to keep it low because a hangover can be very sensitive to loud and brash noise! All tastefully done, giving you doses of their exceptional versatility.

“Grandfather” continues along the softer side of their repertoire, but this time with a more retro feel to it all. It sounds like a 50s melody with a 60s take and surfy. There is a change with a quick burst, then back to a waltz on surf guitar sound. Once again, there is a solid rhythm guitar laying down a strong foundation for the leads.

“The Gypsy Fly” goes back to some high-steppin’ picking with a walking bass line, then into what sounds like a polka drum beat, and a guitar workout follows. The rhythm and tempo made me think of Slacktone again. Then yet another wild change with a “flight of the bumblebee” riff, then a quick switch to an Eastern European celebration gypsy dance! Insane mixture of influences and changes in this one, wow!

“Walking Under City Lights” features a pulsating bass line and a twangy, foot-tapping guitar, as the rhythm is fast and steady. Then, a slight fuzz tone is added for variation and a constant, reverberating guitar line. These colorful sounds are their trademark as they continually get on this merry-go-round of sound again, transitioning from beginning to end. Impressive.

“Cesenatico” features a fine bass line, and the drums are steady and straightforward for this boogie, with a hint of country twang. This is a real mover with a danceable rhythm. In case you were interested, Cesenatico is a port town with about 26,000 inhabitants on the Adriatic coast of Italy.

“A Song For Dick” is a fitting tribute to the King of the Surf Guitar, Dick Dale. Wave Electric’s rendition of his unmistakable sound is a powerful homage, with rapid-fire and powerful guitar licks that echo his legacy. It’s a nostalgic journey from rocking to the more melodic side, a reminder that Dick Dale’s influence will never fade.

Wave Electric is a master class in surf instrumental rock and all the variations of tempos and styles. This is continued proof of the many dimensions of surf instro and its global reach. Well done, gentleman!

Wave Electric Is:

Bass Guitar – Carlo Leonello Uberti

Drums – Andrea Bonzini

Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar – Alessandro Maderna

Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar, Acoustic Guitar – Mattia Dambrosio

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

September 18, 2025

Tracks:

Side A

1. Shot In The Head

2. Berlin

3. Waves

4. Moon Surfing

5. Alien Attack

6. Fantasmatron

7. Margaritas By The Shore

Side B

1. Hangover (Pt. III)

2. Grandfather

3. The Gypsy Fly

4. Walking Under City Lights

5. Cesenatico

6. A Song For Dick