Surf Rock Instrumental Review: Les Panches Surfers - La Balasera

Release Date:  May 17, 2023

Label: Independent

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I realize that this album from Les Panches Surfers titled La Balasera was released a few years ago, but it deserves some attention.

 

Their press kit says the following:

Les Panches Surfers is a Spain-based Instro Surf band that combines tremendous versions of surf classics with excellent and powerful songs of their own. Under his impeccable appearance of white clothes, masks of catrinas and Mexican hats hide an excessive force and Danger, as they demonstrate in every gig, is comparable to The Mummies. They have dynamited scenarios of the most essential venues from Madrid to Germany, and everyone who has ever seen them live knows that ...

 

I think that was a clever intro to the band, and with the masks, they remind me of many other bands doing the same thing, except this group all go by aliases, so you don’t know who they really are. Hailing from Madrid, Spain, this is yet another indication of the global presence of surf instro.

 

"La Balacera" is a Spanish term meaning “the shooting” or “the shootout,” referring to a gunfight or the act of firing guns. They kick it off with a bang (no pun intended) with their title track. They are letting you know this high-energy music with some good guitar licks and an explosive rhythm section. Off to a great start, and they get it done in a little over two minutes.

 

“Surf Division” begins in a more mellow manner compared to the opener. Some fast fingerpicking is going on here with the acoustic, transitioning into some fuzztone leads (ala Davie Allan). Then they circle back to the original melody with the glissando guitar, then back into the electric driving section. The drums and bass, always key in pushing the band along, do their thing well. I liked the quick drum rolls inserted a few times, then the weird string bending sound to close it out.

 

“GusFuzz,” you figure, is going to be interesting with a title like that, and it is. It begins with the retro ’60s surf sound, a style characterized by its upbeat tempo, reverb-heavy guitar, and catchy melodies, and features some additional glissando, adding a definitive Spanish flavor. The squealing guitar puts a picture of a surfer going tubular in your mind. The guitar is superb with all the warmth and inviting sound that you expect to emulate the beach, fun in the sun, and surfboards. Three-quarters of the way through, the fuzz arrives with some catchy licks.

 

“El Secuestro” is the Spanish word for kidnapping or abduction (yes, I always must look this stuff up). So immediately with that thought in mind, their sound is one of mystery and intrigue. It moves along nicely with a good flow and mixture of acoustic and electric riffs. Lots of hooks and the transition to the rhythm section showing its power, and entirely different licks add another layer.

 

“Último verano en Torremolinos” translates to last summer in Torremolinos. So, you imagine the sun, the beach, and memories come flooding into your mind. At least that is what the music should do. It does paint that picture nicely. It is a mellower melody with some layered guitar work. I appreciate the versatility the band demonstrates on this track. They can rock or kick back and play something with a great melody and tasteful hooks to pull you in.

 

“La Huida” translates to “the escape” in English. Knowing what these words mean before hearing the track is very helpful in picturing what the band is attempting to say in their music. This one explodes from the first note played. They return to a heavy rocking mode, incorporating some impressive guitar effects. Then the rhythm section gets their turn as they thump away, and you hear some of the quick drum rolls as the guitars wail away. The band’s ability to create a visual experience through their music is truly engaging!

 

“Tenebrosa” means dark. So here we go again, will it feel that way? Yes, indeed, it does, with a creepy intro and a devilish laugh. The guitars provide a lot of excitement and changes. There is that element of surprise and intrigue again as it builds through this track with several different sounds, transitions, and guitar lines ever changing.

 

“Rosarito” starts with a more retro sound on guitar (like the 1st wave in the 60s). More mellow again this time with subtle drums and bass (which is a change in comparison to most tracks). Nice flow and smooth guitar lines.

 

“Calçots” are a type of green onion, also known as scallions. This is a fun process, trying to figure out all these English translations! This is another one with the more traditional surf instro sound, with a steady flow of surging up and down guitar lines, with the bass and drums maintaining a constant rhythm throughout. Then suddenly that retro organ sound jumps in as the level of bass and drums rise along with it. Many changes make for one of the more diverse tracks yet.

 

“Waikiki” does not need translation, obviously. Big waves, right? Well, in one aspect, yes, for surfers, but not in this case. They get mellow and tasteful again with some excellent guitar work. Their Spanish heritage creeps in here; it’s not Andres Segovia, but it’s perfect! The organ is added again for another layer, followed by the quick shutdown.

 

“El Ahorcado” is translated as The Hanged Man. And it lines up perfectly with their “Spaghetti Western” sound on this closing track. The guitar resonates and echoes as a subtle organ plays off in the background—the drums and bass sound foreboding as they end the track.

 

Les Panches Surfers are an excellent surf instro band that knows how to rock or pull back and do something more tasteful and picturesque. All their many talents are on full display on La Balasera.

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

September 2, 2025

Tracks:

01. La Balasera 02:13

02. Surf Division 02:42

03. GusFuzz 04:02

04. El Secuestro 02:50

05. Último verano en Torremolinos 03:35

06. La Huida 02:25

07. Tenebrosa 02:52

08. Rosarito 02:23

09. Calçots 03:22

10. Waikiki 02:06

11. El Ahorcado 03:00

Surf Rock Instrumental Review: The NovaRays: Another Date With The NovaRays

Release Date:  June 26, 2025

Label: Independent

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The NovaRays, a trio comprising John Ashfield on Fender Bass IV, Rob Jacobs on drums, and Lewis Bailey on guitar, showcase their individual and collective mastery in this band.

"West of Eureka” begins with the sound of a horse galloping away, then the music kicks in.  The bass is powerful and upfront, with the guitar positioned in the background, which I found interesting —a kind of switch in positions you rarely see. The drums are tight and right there with the bass. They add some other sound effects to make it feel like you are starring in the latest Western.  It is very panoramic, as it ends with the sound of a whip cracking, ‘Yee-haw!’ The next episode of Rawhide will begin after these messages…

“Space Hero” begins with a funky bass riff, as the drums join in for the ride, and the guitar arrives with a touch of twang and reverb. This time, the guitar’s volume is turned up for your pleasure. This is a combination of rock and surf with an irresistible hook and beat. A nice tempo is held consistently, and it’s a very tasteful ditty, I might say.

 

“Wooden Horse” is very melodic right out of the gate with some skillful guitar playing. And that bass, oh my goodness, it is just excellent - how strong and accurate it is. The drumming also receives praise for consistently maintaining exceptional time. There is something about the melody that sounds familiar to me, maybe something I heard years ago from Wishbone Ash—a very steady track with some clever transitions.

 

“The Creeper” is a classic many folks are familiar with from the Ventures; however, this is an original. It has a Halloween feel to it, which helps bring the subject matter to life. Well, after this is creepy, right? They nail it down nicely with perfectly paced rhythms and some “cuts like a knife” leads from the guitar for further emphasis. Well done!

 

“The Haunting of Bath House B” continues with our Halloween theme. This time, it’s much more upbeat, with some killer guitar lines accompanied by a throbbing bass and drums to carry it along. Some cool effects kick in as the guitar enters full gallop mode, then it transitions back to the leads, with the rhythm guitar following along, and finally, the epic, resonating finish.

 

“Pink Slip” goes into hyperdrive immediately with some lightning-fast guitar riffs. The bottom end is once again strong, as the guitar is diverse and accentuated with front leads, as well as in the background. A lot is going on in this track, and they pack it all into 3:03. I liked the quick transitions and layered guitars, with one keeping the rhythm and the other just ripping it (although they do that a lot on this album).

 

“Three Blue Stars” takes you back to the first wave of guitar sounds, then transitions to a more prominent lead guitar, holding on to the roots of surf instro. It’s a nostalgic journey, sounding very retro but crisp, clean, and precise due to the use of good recording methods. The different types of guitar sounds you would hear from a band in the heyday of the early ’60s are what you will be able to enjoy with this one!

 

“Phantom of the Jetties” gets you into the full reverb and twang mode, but this time, spy sounds dominate the atmosphere. As the paint it out with the guitar lines and rhythmic bass and drums, laying down that solid foundation. The bass has a few standalone moments with some funky lines. It’s the guitars that make this real for the spy vs. spy sounds—one of the best tunes on the recording.

 

“Mr. Covington’s Wild Ride” wraps things up on the wild instrumental ride. A spiffy guitar line kicks things into high gear with a solid rhythm guitar chugging along, and the bass and drums doing their things like they do. The guitar weaves its magic throughout with many transitions. Almost three minutes of pure rock instrumental surfy greatness to close the curtain on one hell of an album!

 

Another Date With The NovaRays is a date you will want to keep. This is a solid outing with a diverse array of tracks covering the gamut of surf instro and surf rock. They give you a taste of it all and a few looks back to where it all started to complete the circle. It’s an exciting journey that you wouldn’t want to miss.

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

August 31, 2025

Tracks:

1. West of Eureka 02:57

2. Space Hero 02:44

3. Wooden Horse 02:31

4. The Creeper 04:10

5. The Haunting of Bath House B 02:36

6. Pink Slip 03:03

7. Three Blue Stars 02:29

8. Phantom of the Jetties 02:50

9. Mr. Covington's Wild Ride 02:58

Surf Instrumental 7" 45 Vinyl Review: The Divine Wind Brotherhood - Banzai Blue/Jo, Surfing

Release Date:  August 23, 2025

Label: Yaquina Break

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This is a unique release from The Divine Wind Brotherhood. Now you must love that name!

The 7” 45 is translucent blue, a visual representation of the “Banzai Blue” theme, and comes with a set of 3D glasses to view the back cover, which adds an interactive element to the experience. “Banzai Blue” is B/W “Jo, Surfing.”

The front cover is very colorful, keeping with the tradition of combining art with music in surf instrumental. The addition of keys and woodwinds was an interesting enhancement to their sound. It is another element that will give the listener more to focus on.

“Banzai Blue” achieves the “far east” sound with its guitars, incorporating elements of traditional Japanese music and culture, as they transition to sharp leads that will catch your ears. The steady rhythm is always there as the foundation for the guitars to take off. It is something you expect with surf instro music. The drums and bass are strong, with the continuous melodicism serving as a highlight.

“Jo, Surfing” starts with a more traditional surf sound, reminiscent of the classic surf instrumental tracks of the 1960s, and once again, the guitars are melodic with a nice flow. Some breakaway leads are crisp and clear, offering the listener an additional dimension to enjoy in their music.

The Divine Wind Brotherhood has a great sound, and their instrumental prowess is evident on this special release. With only 100 copies available, this is an infrequent and exclusive item that will likely sell out quickly, making it a highly sought-after collector’s piece.

The Divine Wind Brotherhood Is:

Bob Shade - Guitar

Isaac Jones - Bass

Jim Tucker - Guitar

Debbie Love - Keys & Woodwinds

TBone Empey – Drum

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

August 28, 2025

 

Surf Rock-Psych Instrumental Review: Insect Surfers-Infra Green

Release Date:  June 12, 2013 (Vinyl Released October 2024)

Label: Green Cookie Records

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The Insect Surfers Are:

Guitar: David Arnson

Guitar: Michael Abraham

Bass: Jonpaul Balak

Drums: Jeff Utterback

The Insect Surfers, after a significant 15-year hiatus, released Infra Green. This kind of return often raises questions about how a band can pick up where they left off. Yet, when they do, it’s like witnessing a magical resurrection of their musical prowess.

 

When I heard “Bay of Bengal” on Can’t Surf On A Gas Giant vol.1, I was mesmerized. The song’s guitar playing and rhythm section are excellent. I kept playing the track over and over. I had to see what the rest of the album sounded like, continued to listen (stream), and I ordered the vinyl (which was released in October 2024).

 

“DelMarVa” features a great melody line, with guitars transitioning back and forth. It sounds like the perfect combination of traditional surf as the anchor with progressions of psychedelic runs and heavy reverb effects. Excellent!

 

“Space Park Drive” starts quite differently, and it rocks along nicely. Many layers of guitars with one off in distance, letting you know it’s still there. This is a wild ride of freaked-out psych elements, with dissonant chords and experimental effects, and a steady bass and drum holding down the main melody—more rock than anything, but very cool.

 

“Orion Canyon” is the longest track so far at 4:32. It has a surf western slant to it. Very atmospheric, with epic guitar rhythms and leads that create vivid imagery. Think spaghetti western with rock and psychedelic mixed in. This band is not easy to put in any box; they make their unique sound that is sure to intrigue listeners.   

 

“El Diablo Habanero” kicks into high gear immediately. Guitar-driven music with so many things going on makes for an enjoyable listen. This is the hallmark of this band. They are using the traditional surf elements with a lot of spice and flavor from the guitars that take everything in a different direction. Tasty and full of surprises.

 

“Pinto Pacer Duster Gremlin” is car nostalgia! If you are old enough to remember those cars, you should have an inner chuckle, as they were all on the low end of the spectrum for car ownership. Just under the two-minute mark, they shout out the track title several times. It moves right along, probably faster than all those cars! Great guitar again, with some laser-sharp licks!

 

“Plankton Dance” takes you out to the ocean depths with the driving rhythm section and layered guitars. Infectious melodies and hooks stake their claim to your inner sea explorer. Guitars merge to create a sound that is both full and exciting.

 

“Sea Scorpion” explodes right out of the gate and multiple trips down the guitar neck as the locomotive rhythm section kills it yet again. Music muscles flex and stretch throughout as they transition to a crazy ending with some glissando and biting leads. Almost 3 minutes of straight-ahead rock and surf psych instro.

 

“Par Avion” takes off with a hook with rhythmic guitars, pounding bass, and drums. Guitars are in sync like a well-oiled musical machine. The echo with reverb and sustain holds and makes a complete circle back to the initial melody. Not your typical surf instrumental by any means. The complexity and constant movement in different directions keep it interesting.

 

“Pineapple Skies” made me think of SpongeBob SquarePants immediately. Things take on a mellow, tropical atmosphere at first, then build and shift to a more rhythmic guitar playing, with the bass and drums keeping time. This is a real toe tapper with a prominent bass running through it.

 

“Vaquita” is a species of porpoise endemic to the northern end of the Gulf of California, Baja California, Mexico. So, with that in mind, the guitar is making porpoise sounds to kick it off (and more during the track). This is a long one at 6:51, so expect a lot of changes. The bass is strong and prominently displayed as the guitars go through all its paces. Effects are the key here, and it all works very well. What a masterpiece of sound and color-Ahh, the magic of guitar pedals!

 

“Crab Crusher” continues with its energetic openings, with the rhythm section spot on as the guitars enter with authority. Catchy hooks populate their sound as the second guitar wails away, taking its path. This is what makes their music so multidimensional. This is an excellent example of that virtuosity.

 

“Kitsune,” in Japanese folklore, is a fox or fox spirit known for its shapeshifting abilities and supernatural powers, including the ability to bewitch other beings. It starts in a very apprehensive way to create a feeling of mystery at first, then kicks right in. They do not waste any time in getting things moving at their normal fast pace, with a multitude of changes and guitar effects to reflect the meaning of the track.  The bass is fantastic once again; you can feel it go right through you. Bewitching sounds that any fox or fox spirit would recommend.

 

“Radar Road” is their magnum opus, clocking in at 9:27! It begins with a familiar spy motif, with the bass providing that atmosphere. The guitar jumps in with some biting, albeit smooth licks, then transitions several times for different effects and atmospheric touches. Get ready for all kinds of guitar wizardry as you move through nearly 10 minutes of prime Insect Surfers music. There is just too much going on here to discuss; you must hear it for yourself. Chances are, you have never heard anything like this on an album that fell into the surf instro genre. And if you did, I want to know about it!

 

“Infra Green,” the title track, closes this incredible recording. The bass begins its powerful presence right away as the drums join in. Then a subtle guitar line comes in as you are just waiting for the whole thing to cut loose and explode. Surprisingly enough, it never does; the tempo that is set down initially holds on as the guitar’s effects take precedence and bring it all to a close. That was a surprise ending considering everything that came before it.

 

Despite being released 12 years ago, Infra Green sounds as fresh as if it were released yesterday. This timeless quality is a testament to the band’s musical prowess. In the realm of surf instrumental rock and psych, it is a masterpiece that will be revered for eternity.

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

August 21, 2025

Tracks:

01. Bay Of Bengal 03:38

02. DelMarVa 02:23

03. Space Park Drive 03:35

04. Orion Canyon 04:32

05. El Diablo Habanero 03:21

06. Pinto Pacer Duster Gremlin 01:53

07. Plankton Dance 02:34

08. Sea Scorpion 02:58

09. Par Avion 04:18

10. Pineapple Skies 04:02

11. Vaquita 06:51

12. Crab Crusher 04:28

13. Kitsune 04:37

14. Radar Road 09:27

15. Infra Green 03:06

Surf Instrumental Compilation Review: Can't Surf On A Gas Giant vol.1 - Various Artists

Release Date: August 1, 2025

Label: Hitchslap Records

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There is nothing like a surf instro compilation to “wet” your appetite for the genre, and one with some eye-catching artwork that pulls you right in.

Hitchslap Records has put together a 14-track taster titled Can’t Surf On A Gas Giant vol.1 to discover some bands that may be new to you and to revisit some that are not.  This will resonate with listeners and bands all over the world. The variety and genre-bending tracks never let up. Take it for a test drive, but beware, some twists and turns come up on your fast!

 

The first band to receive instant recognition is at the top of the list, with track #1, the Insect Surfers. They were one of the leaders of surf rock when they arrived on the scene. They formed in Washington, D.C., in 1979. The group bills itself as “Planet Earth’s Longest-Running Modern Surf Band!” I would not argue with that!

 

Insect Surfers - "Bay of Bengal" kicks things off, and it’s a fantastic start! This is genuine musical artistry at work. Their sound is clear, sharp, and with the shifting guitar notes, it makes for an enjoyable listen — not your typical surf instrumental track, clocking in at 3:40. I had to listen twice; it’s a wave of sound with a powerful rhythm section. Their position in the community was established decades ago, and this track confirms they haven’t missed a step and are a flexible group of musicians. This fleeting surf rock instrumental will resonate loudly and clearly! To my ears, this is progressive surf.

 

Surfer Joe - "Sunset” - Is an excellent addition to this comp. Everyone knows who this man is! He does a lot for promoting the community and records some great surf instro music. This is a sample of his sound, which is a reach back to the first wave with some new pop and crackle.

 

Los SuperAvengers (yes, they spell it that way) - "Perfect Wave”- Is another nearly 4-minute exercise of musical prowess. They are all geared up like the legendary Los Straitjackets with their Mexican wrestling masks. They were formed in 2007 in Austin, TX, according to their Facebook page. They have a melodic, fast-moving sound that is very smooth and catchy. This is their own “Perfect Wave” of surf instro that is sure to raise a few eyebrows.

 

RAHMUS - "Dracula’s Castle" – Is the band with the interesting name and look with their “Ghost” masks, etc., as seen on their banner on Bandcamp. Just one look at that and you’re thinking that they will probably be on the fringes of surf and beyond. And they have a very cool sound! They take rock and reverb and set it to a steady beat with plenty of oomph! Their sound is irresistible and contagious.

 

The Invincible Speed Holes - "The Plague" -They are all out rockin’ surf comparable to Man or Astroman? Some serious guitar explosions occur during this track. It was like punk meets surf rock, with a crushing rhythm section that was powerful.

 

Nuclear Juarez - "Spy School Dropout" – Here we go with some surf spy music! Have to love these surf variations you can listen to. A band with another great name! Here we get back to the little over 2-minute jaunt, jam-packed with high-energy surf instro. Fast-moving and full of melody, they get it done. Their nuclear reaction ticks, and the bomb explodes to end the track, how appropriate considering their name.

 

Bat City Surfers - "The Lazer's Edge" – Are flat out rockers on this track. Drums and cymbals crash as the guitar cuts away its parts, razor sharp, with some use of a pedal for effects, making it more interesting. They move at hyper speed without coming up for air, then a quick transition to stopping for some commentary and back to their heavy surf rock sound to close it out.

 

Frank Mustard Project - "Fireball" – Wins the day for weird band names! They get it done in under 2 minutes with a fine guitar run with effects. Twangy and surfing on a monster wave of sound, I love it! The melody is familiar, and it certainly rocks hard.

 

Matagorda - "They Called Him Raven" – If you’re ready for some surf western spaghetti twang, then this band is your ticket to ride to that atmosphere, and they paint that picture well. Almost 5 minutes, this is the mega track of the comp. They take you through all the paces with their talents and get you right in the mood to go to your TV and look for a good Western! Well done!

 

The Nematoads - "Difference Engine"  -  I recently had the pleasure of covering this recent release. This one is a real rocker with a soundscape that would fit a movie with intrigue, mystery, guys and dolls, and fast cars. The music is full of cutting-edge guitar licks and effects. Thanks to Ted James at Deep Eddy Records and the guitar player for the band for recommending this fantastic compilation!

 

JUDODOJO - "First Wave" -Dismisses any idea that surf instro is one-dimensional. The guitar playing is superb on this track, and the rhythm section roars along to complement that transitioning guitar sound. The pedals for guitars are so crucial for this genre, and they make good use of those tools. One wave after another of amazing sounds that will have you diving in for another swim in their massive sound!

 

Northern Tides - "Route 32" -Has a confident sound with a traditional twist to the approach. A little bit of glissando peppered in there with some excellent guitar runs, all supported by the “surf beat” we are all familiar with. A blast from the past to remember how this all started, thanks, guys!

 

Sys Malakian - "Old Jaguar Twist" – Brings us back to the first wave with some killer sound. Sys has been making his mark and has the respect of fellow musicians from all over the planet. This is so good! I feel like I just jumped into a time machine, and I am in SoCal on the beach listening to all the favs of the day! Extraordinary musicianship, Sys!

 

AKAW! - "Invasion Eminent" – This band ends this comp with a bang! I love the way it starts with the voice of an announcer coming on to warn us of a full-scale attack! This is the fun and colorful surf instro music, taking all the elements and wrapping them into one track. They get it done in a little over 2 minutes, which is no easy feat. This is an explosion of sound!

 

Can’t Surf On A Gas Giant vol.1 is fourteen tracks of great music that are consistent, varied, and stay within the surf instrumental arena and sub-genres, which is always great fun. This kind of music injects energy and color into your day, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it again - I can guarantee it!

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

August 19, 2025

Tracks:

01. Insect Surfers - "Bay of Bengal" 03:40

02. Surfer Joe - "Sunset" 02:52

03. Los SuperAvengers - "Perfect Wave" 03:41

04. RAHMUS - "Dracula's Castle" 02:56

05. The Invincible Speed Holes - "The Plague" 02:09

06. Nuclear Juarez - "Spy School Dropout" 02:09

07. Bat City Surfers - "The Lazer's Edge" 02:47

08. Frank Mustard Project - "Fireball" 01:39

09. Matagorda - "They Called Him Raven" 04:50

10. The Nematoads - "Difference Engine" 03:45

11. JUDODOJO - "First Wave" 04:01

12. Northern Tides - "Route 32" 02:39

13. Sys Malakian - "Old Jaguar Twist" 02:12

14. AKAW! - "Invasion Eminent" 02:05