Surf-Rock-Pop Review: Shots In The Dark - Various Artists

The resurgence of Del-Fi has significantly contributed to the growth of the surf music genre. They are a quality outfit.  Shots In The Dark is more progressive '90s new wave surf—great blends of guitar, organ, and the ever-present thundering drums. 

This is not traditional surf instro by any means. I like the CD. I like just about everything that Del-Fi puts out, anyway. This is different, which is why I enjoy it so much.

Del-Fi's reinterpretation of old classics with a modern twist, making them sound more contemporary, is a fascinating aspect of their music. And who's the stunning woman on the cover? None other than Bob Keane's (Owner of Del-Fi) daughter!

She looks like she is waiting for 007. And while waiting, would you like a drink? Oh, yes, shaken, not stirred, please. 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

1998

TRACKS:

01. Peter Gunn - Poison Ivy   

2. Touch Of Evil - Man Or Astroman?  

03. Charade - The Blue Hawaiians

04. Lonesome - Friends Of Dean Martinez   

05. Mr. Lucky - Elliot Easton's Tiki Gods

06. Shot In The Dark, A - Wiskey Biscuit  

07. Banzai Pipeline - The Boardwalkers

08. Arabesque - The Huntington Cads   

09. Mr. Yunioshi - The Insect Surfers

10. Monkey Farm - The Tiki Tones   

11. Charade - Farinan   

12. Moon River - Nan Vernon

13. Party, The - The Wondermints   

14. Baby Elephant Walk - The Jigsaw Seen

15. Pink Panther Theme, The - Oranj  Symphonette

16. Experiment In Terror - Davie Allen & The Arrow 

17. Dreamsville - Br. Cleve & His Lush Orchestra

18. Days Of Wine & Roses - The Wonderful World Of Joey

19. Push The Button, Max! - Del Noah & The Mt Ararat Finks

 20. Something For Cat - Four Piece Suit

Surf Instro Review: Monster Summer Hits Wild Surf- Various Artists

This is not just music; it's a fun in-the-sun party! I have noticed that children tend to enjoy this type of music. My five-year-old son can't get enough of it! Thanks to Dad, he has received good training in surf music.

Monster Summer Hits: Wild Surf - Various Artists is packed with hits.

The best thing about surfing comps is that every song is generally around two minutes or so long, so the listener benefits from getting a CD with 26 tracks. Loaded with hits.

Take a look at the cover of the classic 1960s surf art. You know, I remember when my brother would get all those models to put together and paint, including the crazy monsters and rat finks. Man, those were the days! 

Note: This was my first year of writing reviews, so it is rudimentary; however, I did my best to edit it for improvement.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

1998

TRACKS:

01. Surfin'-Beach Boys   

02. Surf City-Jan & Dean   

03. Surfer's Stomp-The Markettes

04. Theme From "Endless Summer"-The  Sandals    

05. Hawaii Five-O    

06. Surfin' Safari-The Beach Boys

07. Finksville U.S.A.-Mr. Gasser & The Weirdos   

08. Shoot The Curl-The Honeys

09. Tell em' I'm Surfin'-TheFantastic Baggies  

10. Ride The Wild Surf-Jan & Dean

11. Surfin' Bird-The Trashmen  

12. Surf Age-Jerry Cole

13. I Live For The Sun-The Sunrays  

14. Surfin' U.S.A.-The Beach Boys

15.  Papa-oom-mow-mow Rivingtons  

16. Wipe Out-Ventures

17. Pipeline- Jerry Cole & His Spacemen   

18. Summer Means Fun-The Fantastic Baggies

19. Pray For Surf-The Honeys  

20. Surfer Girl-The Beach Boys   

21. Goffy-Foot Glen-John Severson

22. Sidewalk Surfin'-Jan & Dean  

23. Surf Route 101-The Super Stocks

24. Doin' The Surfink-Mr. Gasser & The Weirdos  

25. Muscle Beach Party-The Super Stocks

26. Come September-John Severson

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: Beat Surfers-Pole Position

This CD EP is a remarkable showcase of the Norwegian group's talent. Despite being an EP, the band manages to cover some impressive ground, leaving a lasting impression.

With their heavy, chunky power surf chords, this group's raw and energized sound is a promising effort. Their potential is undeniable, and it's exciting to consider what they could accomplish.

The sound mix is fair. I think with a chance to record with a more prominent U.S.-based label and some good production, these fellows would have a great shot at taking off.

It's impossible not to admire this group's dedication to being heard and exposed. Their efforts are certainly appreciated, and it's a pleasure to be introduced to their music! 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

2000

Tracks:

01. Oppa Fjellet  

02. Throttleman   

03. Pole Position   

04. El Nino   

05. Kon Tiki   

06. Piken T Dalen

07. Reinlender   

08. The Cruel Sea

Track Features: The Outback Surf Squad

I got a note from Jamie Balcombe of The Outback Surf Squad and checked out the two tunes. Please give them a listen! It's some rumblings from down under! 

I have provided the track streams.  It's always a pleasure to hear that this music continues to thrive! 

Here is my review of the tracks to entice you to give them a listen.

Thanks for sharing, Jamie!

Keith "MuzkMan" Hannaleck

May 10, 2025

"Podium Finish" begins with the sound of a hot rod revving up; this is a retro hot rod surf tune to the finish line. One brief passage reminded me of "Secret Agent Man." A lot of music is packed into just over two minutes, with enough changes to keep you interested.

"Moana Point" begins with a trippy, psychedelic sound and then transitions straight into a traditional surf instrumental featuring the core beats from the drums. There is some speedy playing going on, with numerous changes. Good guitar chops are featured.

 

Note From Artist:

The first 2 tunes from T.O.S.S are "Podium Finish" and "Moana Point." I hope you are able to review them for your site. Jason Deatherage from the Surf Hermits helped me with Podium Finish, and John Verhoef collaborated with me for Moana Point. I am also the creator/producer of Australia's no1 surf rock podcast The Dodge City Social Club....have a great day!!

Jamie Balcombe.