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The Meltdowns -Critical Mass [2011]

December 19, 2011, 8:33 am
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1.You're Bad For me
2.Sugar Shake Shimmy
3.Get Outa' My Way
4.Critical Mass
5.Monkey Grip
6.Sweet Star Lady
7.Natural Situation
8.No Lies
9.Meltdown Stomp
10.Honey Bee
11.Find Out For Yourself
12.Meltdown Twist
13.Sh-Sh-Sh-Sh-Shakes
14.Untrue
15.Start Listening
16.Go Too Far
Chances are if you're a fan of this blog that you will have heard of the following bands:The Volcanos,The Hellbenders,The 3-D Invisibles,Zombie Surfers, The Seat Belts,The Chaos Killers,and Screamin' Savage and the Cavemen.Time to add another chapter in the Chris Flanagan, Rick Mills,and Bill Bowen 30 year history as marauders of Detroit rock royalty.I introduce you to The Meltdowns.When it comes to guitar duo's Mills and Flanagan have to be up there as one of  the preeminent teams I've ever heard.Having witnessed their action in Indy performing with The Volcanos several years back on a couple of occasions,still to this day it leaves me in awe of their guitar mastery.These guys have covered the whole gamut when it comes rock and roll.Delving into such genre's as horror rock,surf instro,spaghetti western,punk,and now straight up American garage rock and a taste of British style beat music.Fans of the Woggles pay attention! To kick things off right is the wall puncher "You're Bad For Me" a torrid tale of the dangers of  this thing called female.The danceable "Sugar Shake Shimmy" has all the right instructions for a high energy rug cutting.Mills vocal delivery is unmatched and very recognizable.It should be noted that the band mix it up [or should that be melt?] when it comes to who takes over the lead vocals.From what I can tell Mills does most of the tracks but Flanagan,and Bowen take their turns as well, both are well suited for the task."Get Outta' My Way" is a beat driven machine looking for no excuses just step aside trollop. The Meltdowns haven't forgotten their instro roots with the secret agent Get Smart-ish "Critical Mass" tough stuff indeed.Time to go ape for the jungle beat jingle of "Monkey Grip" a tune Chuck Berry would have been proud to have written..yes it's that catchy! Nasty fuzz lust has "Sweet Star Lady" dreaming about rock stars and bars.Diddley beat backing has "Natural Situation" as a quest for love and mating.Missing The Kaisers? Well "No Lies" can fill that void without a doubt I wouldn't lie to ya folks! The stomp dance craze never really went away,but like any band that really matters,you gotta have a {insert band name here}stomp song.The Meltdowns didn't let us down.Meltdown Stomp is a stellar tune with all the right hooks.You couldn't not like track.Nothing attracts the ladies like honey and fuzz guitar right? Well the boys should be fighting off the chicks when they play "Honey Bee" then.Opening the psych rock book for a few mind expanding moments is "Find Out For Yourself" this is a side of the guys I've never heard before,but they pulled it off like the songwriting champs that they are.Hey you can't forget about the Meltdown Twist!!!! Another fine instro number from the group.The Johnny Kidd and the Pirates inspired " Sh-Sh-Sh-Sh-Shakes" has a familiar melody,but it doesn't matter this song has more grit and grime than most modern drivel.The rockabilly laced "Untrue" is a confessional piece about actually admitting your unfaithful tryst ..only the song is recommended. Possibly my favorite track here is "Start Listening" not just because I can relate to the subject matter "Shut up,start listening girl" it's the instant catchy-ness of this song.A tried and true formula for great songs check here.Who says the last songs on a record are just filler? Not in the case of The Meltdowns no sirre Bob! "Go Too Far" is swallowed up with a rhythmic guitar riff that grabs you by the neck and forces you to hurk and jerk around like epileptic patient.If you want a solid tough as nails collection of truly great modern garage rock and roll this my friends is your ticket.
http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/themeltdowns1
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The Mullet Monster Mafia - Dogs Of The Seas [2010]

January 7, 2012, 10:18 am
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1.Break Beach
2.The Wave Seven Days
3.Neptune Fury's
4.Surf No Limits
5.Surfing With The Gypsies
6.Hawaii
7.Poseidon
Brazil's Mullet Monster Mafia have only been around for a few short years,but this band seems truly determined to get their foot in the door of the modern surf elite even if it takes kicking that door open with violence and bloodshed.If your looking for tranquil Mai Tai sipping by the beach surf instro this ain't it brother! TMMM goes straight for the jugular with a death grip like intensity,but it's not all brass knuckles. Fans of Daikaiju should perk their ears up and take heed because guys have the same fighting style when it comes the music.The main difference between the two bands would be the addition of a trumpet player..a very raspy trumpet player at that.If you've heard TMMMA's debut EP "Power Surf Orchestra" it's safe to say the new release hasn't lost any of the edge they captured from the beginning.All the songs are Grade A surf thrash mayhem,my only clamor with record is the lack of differentiation in tempos.For most surf instro practitioners this won't be a problem.

The Mullet Monster Mafia . Brazilian Power Surf Music

The Mullet Monster The Mafia can be considered one of the biggest revelations of the Brazilian indie scene. The numerous feats achieved during their short career show how this instrumental quartet start to be a musical reference to Power Surf Music world scene.

The mixture of traditional surf music with the power sound built by Ed Lobo Lopez (Guitar), Peter Pedrock (Low) and Emiliano Ramirez (drums) became unique with the insertion of the melodic lines performed by trumpet JC Molôncio.

Their first record, called “Power Surf Orchestra” was released in 2009 during an edition of the Psycho Carnival Festival in Curitiba, one of the most important Psychobilly Festivals os Latin America. Since then they are collecting feats all over, as been elected by the Brazilian Internet magazine ‘Rock Press’ as one of the 10 BEST CDs release in Brazil in 2009.

The band's dynamic performances, drove this quartet of a small town to a lot of festivals in Brazil by this two years, as the “First Championship of Surfing” (Campeonato Mineiro de Surf – Biggest Surf music Festival of Brazil), Red Foot Stomp Festival, Abril Pro Rock (April Open Rock – the biggest and most traditional indie rock festival in Brazil ), Psycho Carnival Festival, Instrumental Gross Product Festival (PIB), among others.

Besides to the festivals gigs, TMMMafia did two big brazilian tours, one with the Chilean band ‘Los Kanibales Surf Combo’ and another with the North American legend band AGENT ORANGE.

The band's discography includes participations in a lot of compilations in North America and Central Europe, and his songs became recurring themes in radio programs in several countries.

In november /2010 TMMMafia won the award for best band in ‘Instrumental Gross Product Festival’ (PIB), the biggest instrumental rock festival in South America. They won the award on the night reserved for Surf Music bands.

In October/2011 the band make our first european gig, promoting our new album, "Dogs of the Seas", that was received excellent reviews and very positive acceptance in South America and Europe.

JOIN THE MAFIA!!!
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The Treblemakers- S/T [1997]

January 18, 2012, 1:59 pm
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1.Lawnmower Drag
2.Alcoholcaust
3.Everybody Up
4.General Tao's Chicken Run
5.Mauna Loa
6.Surfari
7.The Squid
8.The Man In The Beige
9.Moment Of Truth
10.The Grudge
11.Marijuanathon
12.The Victor
13.Padded Wagon
14.The Nabob Of Pandhipur
15.Road To Rincon
The long sought after first record from Montreal/Quebec Canada's The Treblemakers has finally surfaced from the depths.With a little help my friend over at the cool new blog Vinyl Offer .I've been searching for this record for more than a decade and a half.I knew it was never going to be reissued,and it was published at such a little run I had almost given up.Rumor has it the band didn't really care much for the amateurish lo-fi sound quality,but to me I don't mind garage surf vibe.Nothing to be ashamed of here folks.Some of these tracks ended up their third album,but most are exclusive to this collection.Forming in 1996 quickly became big guns in the surf instro world with their "Flippin' The Bird" and "The Treblemakers vs The Doomsday Device" albums.A few years ago the group teased the surf community with the possibility of a fourth record entitled "Epileptic Ladyland" they even posted a album cover and a few new tunes to their Myspace page.With the new album came a new direction.The addition of garage rock vocals didn't settle well with me,but truth be told the songs were actually pretty cool.The discouraging news isn't over kids,it's been confirmed that The Treblemakers have split up as band leader/lead guitarist Zak Ibinsky has chosen to pursue another genre "the blues".[Facepalm!!!]
We may not like it,but that's the way the cookie crumbles sometimes.Either way we'll always have these three excellent albums from the Treblemakers don't we? Maybe one day they'll get back on track and grace us with album number four.Keep your fingers crossed!
Email me for the link!
Zak Ibinsky is a bitch!!!!

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Hell-O-Tiki -Attack Of Lady Octopussy [2012]

January 27, 2012, 8:39 am
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1.Nostromo
2.Chicklettes A Go-Go
3.Kids In America
4.Keep Your Panties Out Of The Bush
5.Kenzo Kenzo
6.Mandosurf
7.Corazon De Leon
8.Minamata No Neko
9.La Camisa Roja
10.Lost In Blackpool
11.Raining Blood
12.Roadhouse Genocide
Belgium is no stranger to excellent surf instro productivity [Fifty Foot Combo,The Hydrosonics,The Andrew Surfers,The Hawaiian Astro Boys,Speedball JR,Los Venturas,Pirato Ketchup,The Vice Barons,The Revelaires,etc.] and their not the first surf outfit to embrace the Mexican wrestling culture {hence the masks}Having first released a now sold out S/T E.P. in 2010 the group has finally released their first full length album.Opening this fine debut like every reverb laden instro act should is "Nostromo"a modern era Dick Dale inspired tune with enough acceleration and drive to power a starship to the next galaxy. Beach drama has "Chicklette A Go-Go" shaking her stuff shore side, reminds me of Ben Vaughn's "Psycho [end theme] Next up on the manifest is a cover of the 80's pop smash Kim Wilde's "Kids In America" [you've heard it trust me!] Not as synth riddled as the original,but that's okay by my standards.A very fun track,and yes the "ut-o's" are added just for kicks as well.The double entendre titled "Keep Your Panties Out The Bush" has a whispering sci-fi groove that locks in nice and tight.Bashing and crashing "Kenzo Kenzo" is a stand up surf power salute anthem. I like the sound clips about the "atrocious effects of radio" on our youth..oh dear ..oh my!!! Mandosurf is a mid tempo surfy number that could have benefited from more action.La Corazon De Leon may start out like a siesta laden track but toward the end the band kick it out like they just guzzled two fifths of tequila and a bottle of hot sauce.What were they waiting for? Fear of being pinned to the mat must've kicked their adrenaline in.Finally the keyboardist "Striker" comes out of hiding on "Minamata No Neko" sure he was here all along,but now he makes a prominent presence in the ring that is Hell-O-Tiki. Powerful surf and uber menacing! Utilizing slow metal grind,and tranquil surf finesse is what "La Camisa Roja" is all about.Well thought out arranging musically. Somewhat typical "Lost In Blackpool" is has furious pace,but it's not the highlight track here.Looking for a not so familiar cover that a surf band would do? Well look no further kids,Slayer is in the pit! Yes "Raining Blood" gets a laid back reverb makeover,and forecast is quit unique and not as messy as you'd think.Whiplash twang-o-getti smothers "Roadhouse Genocide" like a helpless opponent.Lumbering drums,syncro- paced guitar / organ,and knuckle dragging bass rhythms quit possibly make this my favorite track.You'll want to stretch out ,and loosen your muscles before listening to this aural smack down.
This track isn't on the new album,but you'll get the idea.I believe it's on the out of print 2010 E.P.

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Chewbacca's Meet Espectroplasma [2011]

March 2, 2012, 7:55 am
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1.Alpha Channel-Chewbacca's
2.Lava Transmissions- Espectroplasma
3.Klaatu Barada Nikto-Chewbacca's
4.Serpo-Espectroplasma
5.A Shot In The Dark-Chewbacca's
6.Holiday In Cambodia-Espectroplasma
7.Hawaii 6-5000 -Chewbacca's
8.Grev Zeta Aeticuli-Espectroplasma
9.I Sing The Body Electric-Chewbacca's
10.Microchip World Domain-Espectroplasma
11.Margaya-Chewbacca's
12.Something Against You-Espectroplasma
13.Tiburon Mermaid-Chewbacca's
14.Columbia U.F.O. Attack-Espectroplasma

So you can't until the new Man Or Astro-Man? album hits the racks eh? Well you my sci-fi surf junkie can get your fix right here.Spain's Chewbacca's and Mexico's Espectroplasma have teamed up to make one helluva intergalactic surf face off. Having worshiped the works of MOAM?,Servotron,DEVO etc these two groups collided together in outer space and formed into a giant asteroid of surf punk devastation.Both of these groups have not been seen recently at least by the human eye.Luckily they seem to have synced their orbital paths together for your listening pleasure.
Alpha Channel: Dead pan vocal dispersion,robo rhythms,reverberated guitar grind,and a mission for underground exploration.
Lava Transmission:Mechanized vocoder vox, cybernetic pulse simulation,S.R.A. approved dance floor music.
Klaatu Barada Nikto :The title of this song is taken from the 50's sci-fi classic The Day The Earth Stood Stillthe music on the other hand reminds me of Johnny and the Shamen [another band with MOAM? DNA]
Serpo : Taken from Made From Technetium scrap floor and reanimated in a sterile lab.Robot slam dancing will probably commence.
A Shot In The Dark : Mancini's classic gets a Wookiee redux.
Holiday In Cambodia :Many people have claimed that the Dead Kennedy's had a strong surf guitar influence and this song is proof positive.Gynecic vocals give this track a superb enhancement.
Hawaii 6-5000 :It wouldn't be a sci-fi album if the theremin wasn't used.Well rest your worries because these hairy beasts provide the goods.A spectacular surfgasm included.
Grev Zeta Reticuli :Thick and chunky low frequencies propel this binary star system rock into other dimensions.Reverb drudgery guaranteed to short circuit your nervous system.
I Sing The Body Electric : Don't get your barf bag out, this is not a lame cover of that horrid Fame song.What you get here is a wailing,and warbling futuristic expression of bombastic proportions.
Microchip World Domain :Voltage controlled oscillation backed by hurried barrages of reverb scratches and jolting dilapidation pulses.All circuits are go!
Marguya : The Fender Four surf classic gets Wookiee regeneration.Not quit as thundering as the original ,but that is a hard task to pull off.
Something Against You :Espectroplasma have managed to transmute a superior version of this Pixies tune.Much like MOAM? did to their song Manta Ray.
Tiburon Mermaid:Jaunty dirty reverb guitars and thumping drumulator pulse beats set to a submerged quest of sea nymph love.
Columbia U.F.O. Attack :Yet another MOAM? inspired tune,but that is a very high compliment if you ask me.Columbia doesn't have a chance.
Both of bands offer fans of Man Or Astro-Man? in Mexico and Spain/France a almost clone like MOAM? live experience so be sure to check them out if you can.
For ordering information contact :astro_zenon@hotmail.com






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il Triello Three Western Tales [The Man From Ravcon/The Nematoads/Los Fantasticos] Deep Eddy [2012]

March 6, 2012, 6:56 am
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"I Never Seen Nor Heard So Many Bastards In All My Life"
Act 1:The Man From Ravcon
2.Echo Canyon
3.I Live,You Die
4.Almeria
Act 2:The Nematoads
5."The Promise Land Is Here!"
6.Deadwood Revisted
7.La Senora Del Muerte
8.The Battle Of Gonzales
9."Who The Hell Do You Think You Are?"
Act 3:Los Fantasticos
10.Iron Horses
11.A Hard Day For The Magnificent 7
12.Last Stand
Deep Eddy records has been one of the only record companies catering almost exclusively to the surf genre in the last few decades.They have been going strong since 1997,and owner operator Ted James isn't a man on the sidelines he's also been the guitarist for surf outfits such as Squid Vicious and his current band the spaghetti/surf tinged The Nematoads.Seeing how surf music in general inspired iconic film composer Ennio Morricone to incorporate the reverb twang into his most famous spaghetti western film compositions,the surf genre has in turn been revolving the favor so to speak.The list of modern surf bands that now integrate spaghetti into the pot is endless.This compilation is a excellent example of how cinematic this brand of music can truly be.
The Man From Ravcon
Echo Canyon:Deep resonating tremolo guitar,backed with scorpion sting percussion's,looming organ,and mildly peppered horns give this track the feeling that you'll be riding your horse a few more miles in that dry desert heat before reaching your next watering hole.
I Live ,You Die: This track has all the cliche' spaghetti signatures, jangly acoustic guitars,hi-hat gallop,throaty male chorus [aahhhhhh], triangle pings,mellotron hums, synth strings,and big twangy guitar.A truly inspiring piece of work.
Almeria: If this was placed in a movie it would probably be a death scene, or the one where the desperado rides off into the sunset.Sluggish and stagnantly paced,but it will take you to distant places despite it's drowsy motion.
The Nematoads
Deadwood Revisited:Mexicali horns,lo-fi drums,reverb with slight fuzz guitars,and familiar spaghetti chorus have this tune channeling B-movie bigness. A very well arranged song.
La Senora Del Muerte: The dust cloud is clearing and the carnage of a gunfight is now clear.Slow and deliberately paced the guitars and horns feed off each other.The rise and fall of tempo's here is superbly complex and triumphant.Can you say masterpiece?
The Battle Of Gonzales:Ethereal howls,rattlesnake shakes, celebratory hollers,dusty dry guitars,harrowing horns,and sad to thriving melodies give this a roller coaster of bandito imagery.
Los Fantasticos
Iron Horses: A multitude of varied guitar tones and playing techniques give this a unique flare.Galloping drums and quivering bass keep things together yet there is uncertainty in the air. Dark and rusty!
A Hard Day For The Magnificent 7 : The acoustic guitars,the drums and cymbal taps almost unify in this promisingly hopeful number.Time to rest cowboy!
Last Stand:Blowing winds, outlaying horns and creeping slow surf guitar make for a deathly vibe,but the punch of the strong arm drums give this one merit and grit.Another cool feature with this track is the eerie lonesome whistle synonymous with the spaghetti western genre.It wouldn't quit be a true spaghetti western comp without a track like this.Good call!
Be a good cowboy and pick this compilation up at www.deepeddy.net
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The Phantom Four -Morgana [2012]

March 13, 2012, 6:00 am
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1.Morgana
2.Harmattan
3.Belly Dance #6
4.Scaramanga
5.El Palmero
6.Sonido Amazonico
7.Ulu Wato
8.Maui
9.Lorke Lorke
10.Paganini
11.A Forest
12.Vanloo
13.Sanita

Holland's Phantom Four are finally back in action after a six year hiatus.What took so long? Nobody can really say for sure,but some have speculated that it may have been their involvement with Arguido aka RudeBoy lead vocalist/quasi rapper from semi famous Urban Dance Squad.UDS made a name for themselves here in the states back in the early 90's with their hit "Deeper Shade Of Soul".Surprisingly enough I actually really liked UDS despite their being considered a rap hybrid, similar to Red Hot Chili Peppers.A great live band to boot.Now is probably time to tell you about the other album that is attached to Morgana.The fact that The Phantom Four a surf/instro band would make a album with a rapper per say hasn't really settled well in the surf/instro community all that well,but they did it anyway.The other album "Sounds From The Obscure" is Arguido backed by the Phantom Four and seeing how most fans of this site probably aren't into the music displayed I'll spare you a review.With that said I'll admit I like the album,but then again I was a fan of UDS back in the day.
Now let's sink our teeth into the album fans all over the world have nervously been waiting quit a spell for now. MORGANA!

Morgana : A funky somewhat ska rhythm starts the churning,and the gyrating beat gets things going nicely.If the surf/instro genre needed a band to get a crowd dancing this is the band.Lead guitarist Phantom Frank brought this trait over from his previous band The Tremble Spankers.
Harmattan :It's all about rhythms and drive when it comes to this band.The Arabic pulsation ,and the minor simulated sitar-ish surf guitar swirls the air and soon your feeling the affects of the hashish laced melody.The busy overindulged drums really make this a interesting track.
Belly Dance #6 : No beating around the bush this is a straight up modern day Arabic number something Omar Khorshid would have been proud to have come up with.The sitar guitar effect swarms all over this beautiful track.The finger cymbals and the dumbek drums only add lineage to this hip shaker.
Scaramanga :Using elements of spy,ska,and even spaghetti this has a multitude of moods it could convey all of which are cool.The mysterious vibe given off here is romantic and suspenseful in nature. Yet gypsy dancing could be a result of playing this track.
El Palmero :Rapid fire drumming,bulbous bass and rhythmically dry pulses backed by swift guitar swipes has all the ingredients for a great modern day surf masterpiece.
Sonido Amazonico :Despite the Brazilian name the music reflected here holds more akin to Turkish/Arabic constructs.A trend has been set and the Phantom Four are running with it. This is a Los Mirlos cover, though I have never heard the original.
Ulu Wato : Indonesian in spirit with a spritz of melancholy.Somehow they pull off sadness,and euphoria.The beat sheds blissful hope while the melody of the guitar,and cry of the organ drips a mournful tear.
Maui :I must say I applaud the drummer for his unique approach to these recordings for his insight and talents really make the songs stand out.Suspenseful and exotic the double picking lull harkens back distant memories.The off beat drums give it mild intensity and allure.This could end up on a Soundscapes music channel near you.
Lorke Lorke : Pagan Armenian or Turkish in background Lorke could mean pick up the blueberries.It all depends on whom you ask. It doesn't matter the real meaning, the music is all that counts.The music has that whole gypsy thing going on,and at this point you only come to expect it from this band.Phantom Frank's wickedly timed tremolo sets fire to a already hot number.
Paganini :Possibly the most intense hard hitting track here the muted double picking,and the barbarian bombast drumming leaves no room for sentiment.
A Forest :The Cure cover is masterfully given new life without all the sterileness.Much more dramatic and punchy than the original.
Vanloo : Here's a song that is also included on the "Sounds From The Obscure" album,but this one is obviously instrumental.A fiery paced track with lots of high notes and even more notes pilled on top of that.A real surfy overall sound.I'm surprised they ever added vocals to this.Something gets yelled out periodicity by the band,but I'll be damned if I can totally figure it out.A real bone crusher!
Sanita : Mildly paced and psychedelic vibrato accompanied by backmasking guitar loops have this tune dancing from cloud to mushroom.It makes for a great finale for this amazing and triumphant return from The Phantom Four.


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Surf Zombies - Lust For Rust [2012]

March 23, 2012, 9:47 am
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1.Torque Fest
2.Rat Tech
3.The Fleck
4.Do The Lurp
5.Road Trippin'
6.Blue Velvet Flashback
7.Tattoo Pin Up Girl
8.The PBR Strut
9.Shag The Drag
10.The Shengar
11.The Hillbilly Beast
12.Reverb Shack
13.Stingray Dream
14.Powerglide
15.Never Kill An Ape
16.Boss 302
17.Flat Black
18.Teen Scene
19.Rust Colored Leisure Suit
When Cedar Rapids Surf Zombies make a record [this is their third] they really give you plenty of bang for your buck.Topping in a grand total of 19 high octane tunes [their last album Something Weird had 21]. Despite the name of the band they aren't really considered what some would call "Horror Surf" I would considered them more along the lines of being a "Power Surf" or just "Surf Rock" either way they simply rock out.The band went through a recent line up change with the departure of rhythm guitarist Kyle Oyloe, the group however added Ian Williams to fill in.It seems that Ian has fit in nicely I must add.If your looking for a instro album with plenty of variety of song styles this band should satisfy your appetite.
Torque Fest : Punchy bass, and whirlwind lead guitars this number makes for a superb lead off track.Everything about this wreaks power.
Rat Tech : Reminding me of a cross between Hella Vader's " Slew Gin Fuzz" and something Fu Manchu would conjure up, this fuzz monster has all the makings of a hot-rod anthem.This machine is destined to crash and burn,but they don't care.The gas pedal is smashed to the floor and telephone poles are flashing by in a blur.The drumming here is so lumberous and thumping ,I love it!
The Fleck : Now this one has a more modern surf feel to it.Not gonna lie this sounds so much like Los Staitjackets at times,but they throw in a few guitar licks and even some drum beats that make this all their own.The lead guitar work is jaw dropping and original.
Do The Lurp : Taking on a 60's garage rock feel the zombies want you dance.The main direction is all about the groove,and the fuzzy tremolo will propel you into a deep and wild psychedelic trip.
Road Trippin' : Slower paced almost mid tempo,but the heavy pounding drums make it impossible to relax.If you are familiar with the now defunct cult status surf outfit Planet Seven this tune could be considered a homage to the band.
Blue Velvet Flashback : Smooth tremolo,menacing twang,stunning sustain make for a very gripping and dreamy vision as this song slowly,and lustfully explodes upon itself.Almost a hint of Santo and Johnny's classic "Sleepwalk" in their.
Tattooed Pin Up Girl :If you were to combine Chuck Berry and Duane Eddy guitar styles together this may be the outcome. Frazzled and dazzled the two guitar players battle it out for supremacy and everyone is the winner for it.
The PBR Strut : Taking cues from the famous Bo Diddley beat the Surf Zombies turn this into one mean fuzzed out stroll through the dark alley behind the bar.The bass guitar tone is deep and bellowing making this venomously dangerous.
Shag The Drag : A great good old fashioned rock and roller.Nothing out of the ordinary,but sometimes sticking with a tried and true formula works wonders.Masterfully fun nonetheless.
Shengar : Massive and powerful this tune has more bad intentions that a serial killer.The squalling and high pitched guitar, the stoner fuzz rhythm guitar,and bass swell out into one giant ball of a lurking monster from depths unknown.
The Hillbilly Beast : The base of this song is "Rumble",but the walking dead dude's make this more of a strut than a stroll. I really like the washboard scratch affect that was added here to enhance the creepiness factor.
Reverb Shake : Big fat taunting bass lines,massive walls of distorted reverb whiplash and nicely placed [sprinkled] haunting keyboards.This could go down as the heaviest song the group has ever evoked,but the record is not done.There is something quit sinister about this track.
Stingray Dream : This is a testament as to how strong this band really gets each other,and the playing shows.The way they compliment and bounce off each other is simply amazing.The fluidness isn't thought out as much as it just flows together.
Powerglide : Hefty twang,sharp galloping drums and somehow they managed to cast soulfulness character to this epic western flavored tune.Well crafted and solid.
Never Kill An Ape : Mighty and strong with the shoulders back and ready to pounce on anything with a pulse.The reverb guitars have a almost recorded in a cave sound which makes this sound utterly masculine and mean.There is a strong [Destroy All Astro-Men] MOAM? influence here without being too obvious and yet maintaining their own sound.Primate power!
Boss 302 : I almost expected to hear a car motor rev up somewhere in this song,but to tell you the truth this well lubed machine of a song doesn't need any tacky modifications.From the very first second this song rips off the starting line with full throttle reverb surf lunacy.This will certainly make any headbangers in the crowd perk up with attention.Seat belts should be worn at all times with this track.
Flat Black : The ska-like beat really gives this number a high danceability score.The spaghetti western guitars however at times take on a weird Euro vibe. The bouncing bass gives this a warm yet mysterious undertone.These guys never cease to amaze me.
Teen Scene : Fuzz and reverb guitars have been mixed so well here it almost hurts.The friendly almost wholesome rhythm gets totally corrupted by the dangerously foul sounds of the well layered fuzz guitar.I particularly like how they only unleash the nasty fuzz guitar in spurts.
Rust Colored Leisure Suit : What starts off almost ballad like "Rust Colored Leisure Suit" takes on several different faces.One being romantic,one being bluesy,and one being optimistically anthem-ish .This album closer was a obvious choice.




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The Cocktail Preachers -Intoxicating [2011]

April 13, 2012, 6:16 am
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If you haven't heard about Indiana's/ Chicago's own Cocktail Preachers by now you must be livin' under a rock.Having formed back in 1997 this band has been seducing crowds with their brand of surf and exotica for quite a spell now."Intoxicating" is the groups fifth major release and quite possibly their best to date, though all their releases are top notch.http://cocktailpreachers.com/
Starting this drinking session off is Jimmy's New Board: a punching bass groover, with shimmering dual guitar interplay.This song evokes a image of a young kid with his new board and testing the waters for the first time.This has modern day surf classic written all over it.If surf music had radio hits this would be a chart topper.Very anthemish and bold.This song has been in the Preachers set for well over six years I'm glad to finally see on a album.
Wraparound smother's you with big lumpy bass guitar,and bigfoot stomping drums.Very tribal and somewhat dark and leering.Guitarist Steve Martini and Vitamin B have a great exchange going on in this track.Pure genius and fun.Kika Melokia: takes you far away to some remote tropical island. The beat is rapid and quick the melody takes a Polynesian twist and a dreamy steel guitar solo takes things down to a quite lull near the end.Tiki bars should book this band immediately.Gutterball: is The Goldentones somewhat rare surf gem from the 60's.A great choice for a cover.The original was found on the classic compilation " Diggin' Out!" and as far as I know they are the first modern surf band to give it new glory,and what a great job they do too.Kilameawea: yet another track were Vitamin B gets to strut his stuff on the steel guitar.There is a quasi tiki, spy vibe going on here,yet this will easily inspire a crowd to get their shimmy and shake on.Slingshot To Durango: lends an ear to the spaghetti western genre.Galloping drums and cinematic twangy guitar.The bass line drives this horse to it's destination with a steady relentless pace.From Spain...To Russia: looking to take a trip from one country to another without getting a taste from another country in between? Well this song does just that.For the first 2:50 sec you get a latin flavored rhythm and grind then all of the sudden almost like coming out of a dizzy spell you're in a Russian folk dance.It starts out slow but quickly builds into a fever pitch pace.Bravo you survived.
It takes a lot of talent to pull off Santo and Johnny Dreams:and the Cocktail Preachers with their secret weapon Vitamin B on steel guitar pull it off like the pros that they are.This is one of those songs that inspires love and all things mussy.I'll admit I'm a sucker for this stuff.If you're alone you'll wanna cry,if you're with your gal she'll wanna slow dance.
Supposed Untitled Mystery Track won't fool most surf junkies as it's the classic Centurions "Bullwinkle pt.2" yet the guys make it their own by toughing up the bass guitar and replacing the sax with a killer steel guitar solo instead.Well played my friends.
If you ever get the chance to witness the Cocktail Preachers live please don't squander the opportunity away as you will be utterly blown away.One of the friendliest surf bands out there.

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Rev Hank-Longhorn [2012]

May 2, 2012, 2:51 pm
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You may know guitarslinger Rev Hank [aka Mr Mumps] from his work in Urban Surf Kings,a surf instro group from Nova Scotia yes I said Nova Scotia! Urban Surf Kings have been spewing out music since 1996 with a large collection of albums,EP's,45's,and exclusive comp only cuts.Longhorn however is the first official solo record if you will from ol' Hank.While I haven't heard everything USK have released I knew they were a noteworthy surf outfit from our northern neighbors.Hank recruited drummer Farank den Haan for these proceedings and his work is top notch. Quick note: The Longhorn beadwork  was done by Hank's Great-Grandmother Kwawennawi (Mowhawk Nation).The cover design by his friend Ed Beals.
Title track Longhorn mixes rockabilly licks with traditional surf elements.It's a high steppin' affair with tasty swingin' drums and jump jivin' rollin' down the road guitar.
Sounding kinda like a Sandblasters lost track, Cyclops has a familiar flowing drive.Hank's guitar playing is especially wet,and drippy.Do I hear some keys snuck in there?
Rev Hank plays a few covers from fellow Nova Scotian  Ken Davidson a 60's guitarist from whom I have never heard of before but from the songs Twist Man Easy,and Teenage Walk the guy knew how to flick a guitar pick.Twist Man Easy is fairly basic rock & roll pedigree.The track isn't going to awe most instro freaks,but it still holds solid.
 Mrs.Wong Yes the standard Asian riff set to surf music is once again being utilized here.Many instro bands have incorporated it into song in the past.Think "B-Gas Rickshaw" by The Raybeats.Don't let the standard fool you,they only use the standard as the backbone as they give this their own bite trust me.
 Twist & Twang: The title says it all folks.Big and tall twang a mile wide,and a mile deep fills out the britches in this cowboys saddle,but the low down drums and livid percussion work gives this a rustic smile.
Oh now Rev Hank ain't even going to try to disguise his love for all things Link Wray.Devil Ray is only slightly deviated from the classic "Rumble".
Hey Eddie could be a tribute to twang legend Duane Eddy,or quite possibly Eddie Angel of Los Straitjackets fame.It's really a close toss up as far as I'm concerned.Lots of whammy bar action to get your hips swaying back and forth.
Twang Gang fans of  the aforementioned Los Straitjackets will wrangle their ears to this feisty tune.It has all the signature trademarks of  the great masked men we all know and love.Great guitar playing.
Another Ken Davidson track here,Teenage Walk is basically a stroll number,but Hank gives it a big deep hard earn twang n' bang on the ol' guitar strings.I'm curious what the original sounds like.
I'm a huge fuzz fanatic as you may have guessed and Rex Rides Again is by far my favorite track on this album.Relentless big beat,and fuzzomatic grindiose just the way Davie Allan would lay it down,and possibly a tad bit nastier.This track is worth buying even on it's own.
At first I heard Huntington Cads on Tipi Tone then the crisp clean reverb becomes menacing and slightly dark ala Dick Dale.Great upscale melody.
Big Boss Cowboy is as you may have surmised is a great dust kicking twangy rockabilly track with ample amounts country gruff.
While not reaching for stars or total originality Rev Hank's debut solo record is a super solid release and any fan of instrumental rock music in general will easily want a piece of this action. Contact the Rev at one of the links below and he'll surely be able to sate your lust for some fresh new twang in your life. Dig In!


http://www.urbansurfkings.com/
http://revhank1.wordpress.com/
http://reverbranch.wordpress.com/

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Deep Eddy Records Presents Radical Waves [2012]

June 13, 2012, 10:04 am
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1.Kill Baby...Kill!-Love Theme For A Twisted Mind
2.The Coconauts-The Lonely Coconaut
3.Dash McIvor & The Surfmeisters-The Wave Beyond
4.Go!Tsunami-Come in XB-13
5.Mister Neutron-Danger: Diabolik
6.The Nematoads-Urban Sombrero Deluxe
7.The Razorblades-Let's Go Down To Brighton
8.Squid Vicious-Overlord
9.Blue Wave Theroy-Gumby Goes Green
10.The Deadlies-Town And Country
11.The Barbellatones-Surf Narcs
12.The Aquatudes-Aquatudes Theme
13.North Of Malibu-Backwash
14.The Surf Zombies-The Reverb Shake
15.The Insanitizers-Feral Four
16.The Mighty Land Shark!-This Is How  A Harem Girl Dances
17.The Twang-o-Matics-The Chosen One
18.The Cocktail Preachers-Wraparound
19.Z& The Cloud Dragons-Sedge Island
20.Glasgow Tiki Shakers-Dekotora Run
21.King Pelican-Cricket
22.The SpyTones-For Lia
23.The Reefriders-Surfers Deal
24.The TakeOffs-Mosquito Bay
Deep Eddy records have released several compilations since 1997,but this is by far their most aggressive and strongest to date.Most groups represented here are relatively known in the surf instro world,yet to the novice this will be a huge ear opener for those wanting to hear the new crop of modern surf sounds.Not a clunker in the bunch I tell ya.For a mere $10 you can own this sweet collection of reverb laden surf instro tunes.Contact http://www.deepeddy.net/ for ordering info.



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Twang-O-Matics- Get Hip With... [2012]

July 13, 2012, 2:52 pm
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1.Fez Inferno
2.Persona Non Grata
3.The Ballad Of Clarence & Alabama
4.The Chosen One
Yet another phenomenal surf instro band has somehow managed to crawl out of the frozen tundra of Norway,Halden to be exact.I'm proud to announce the debut 45 from The Twang-O-Matics.The band consist of Nils Tempo-guitar,Mathias Johnsen-drums,Steinar Nilsen-Double bass[Doghouse],and Stain Golden-guitar.
Something that I really like about this group is their use of the thumping and slapping doghouse bass.Not many surf instro acts go with this instrument for reasons unbeknownst to me.Sure with most rockabilly groups it's a staple choice,but in the surf genre I can only think of a handful of bands and The Fathoms are the first to come to mind. This party gets started with the euro beat driven "Fez Inferno" and what a scorcher it is gang.This track gives me that 90's Surf Trio vibe, I can't quit place a specific song,but if you're familiar with band you'll hear it as well.The frenzied guitar parts really cement the whole blazin' inferno effect that this song was named. Persona Non Grata has a almost rockabilly surf n' spy thing going on with a dash of Arabic percussion to spice things up.The menacing bass,and dangerous guitar releases fear as if being chased by a couple of hitmen. Slowing the pace down is oddly titled "The Ballad Of Clarence & Alabama"[Wasn't that a Quentin Tarantino screenplay?]. I could say that it reminds me of a long lost Impala track,but I couldn't really see them using such harsh distortion,but every other component is there, slowed vibrato guitar howls,mysterious rhythm guitar.As featured on my last review [Radical Waves] comp,the galloping western tone bender "The Chosen One" is one helluva twanger and banger.There is no denying the unmistakable spaghetti nuance,nothing new to the game,but a great track nonetheless. For ordering info contact the band at   http://www.thetwangomatics.com/ 
https://www.facebook.com/thetwangomatics
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Coffin Wheels -Graveyard Sunrise Time [2012]

September 4, 2012, 9:05 am
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It's been almost three years since St.Petersburg,Russia's own the Coffin Wheels released their debut "Undead At Griboedov Club" and the only difference between these two recording sessions is a more toned down mature approach to their playing style [maybe it's the studio recording].Let's face it,it happens to a lot of bands,but in some cases like this it has it's pro's and cons.So many great things to say about this album,and one is a more serious and sophisticated take at songwriting in general.Is this a good thing? It depends on how you perceive Coffin Wheels,are they surf punk,or a stereotypical surf instro band.As some of you know I'm a huge fan of surfy reverb flavored Halloween music.I thought this album in particular would be jammed packed full of bone rattling tunes,yet only handful of the tunes presented here fall into that "creep factor" category.If I were to make a suggestion to this group I would suggest adding a organ player to some of the songs.It's not that any these tunes are horrible,because they're not in the least,it's just lacks the spookiness one would come to expect from a band named Coffin Wheels.Maybe I'm just being too critical of my expectations.Even though it sounds like I'm complaining about this album I really want to stress how superb the overall music is on "Graveyard Sunrise Time" actually is. The topnotch musicianship played here is by Alex- Bass,Sergey -Rhythm Guitar,Pavel-Lead Guitar/songwriting,Yiriy-Drums.The tunes usually lean towards the heavier aspect of surf,but yet a few mellower numbers in the vain of the Bambi Molesters are conducted here with astonishing results.
1.Graveyard Sunrise
2.Reaper's Night Out
3.Bikini Bitch Massacre
4.Grim Dream
5.Nameless Tide
6.Surfer Jason
7.Bliss Of Solitude
8.Leatherface Sentimental
9.Elm Street Blues
10.Raven Surf
11.Hangover Twist
12.St.Diabolik
13.Leningrad Ghouls
Wanna hear tracks from the album?
Go Here:http://www.myspace.com/coffinwheels
For ordering info contact
alexeyjaga@gmail.com
Watch a whole concert here: 
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Los Fantasticos-The Devil Went Down To George Street [2012]

September 25, 2012, 11:13 am
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1.Mephistopheles
2.Iron Horses 
3.First Tango in Paris
4.Meanwhile Back in the Jungle
5.La Corida de la Coruna
6.Kind Hearts and Castanets
7.A Hard Day for the Magnificent 7
8.More Than Meets the Eye
9.Parc de la Villette
10.The Devil Went Down to George Street
11.Last Stand
12.The Wedge
13.Solitario) 
Brighton, England's instro kings are back with their forth roundup of mutilated reverb contortions,and quite possibly their finest release to date.The thing I like about these guys is they aren't afraid to stretch their creative boundaries.Earlier this year they were apart of the exceptional Il Triello three way spagetti western split compilation.Well those three songs appear here as well with new versions.
Mephistopheles:With a bouncing rhythm lead- in, the action quickly takes a devilish turn and reverb starts to furiously blur along with trumpet bursts and frazzles.Way too short and quick.
Iron Horses: A multitude of varied guitar tones and playing techniques give this a unique flare.Galloping drums and quivering bass line keep things together yet there is uncertainty in the air. Dark and rusty!
First Tango In Paris: This certainly has a passionate component to it,but nothing all soft and mushy.The two guitar players Django and Self really arrange a beautiful and sophisticated intertwining of their six string instruments.A ukulele even makes a interesting appearance here.
Meanwhile Back In The Jungle: As if the title doesn't already give away a tribal vibe the various  wild animal noises that open this track will.The jungle beat sets the pace and the surf guitars floods in like a playful tidal wave.Very adventurous and danceable.
La Corida de la Coruna:Possibly my favorite track here.It may be ultra cool fuzz drag in the beginning of this song that sets a brilliant tone for the rest of the band to play off of for it's duration.Davie Allan probably wouldn't  include such a thick European/Spanish rhythm,but this would make him blush with envy.  
Kind Hearts And Castanets: Yes folks the title says Castanets these percussive instruments are primarily used in the Spanish culture.Basically hand held instruments giving off a strong clicking or rattling sound.They make a brief appearance here.Actually I was expecting a full on clickity-clack breakdown mid-song instead a unique wah wah guitar break along with a even more scarce use of the Castanets.The overall song is oozing with zesty charm and flaring percussive drive.Maybe during a live setting the band will really give this a Castanet shake up.
A Hard Day For The Magnificent 7 : The acoustic guitars,the drums and cymbal taps almost unify in this promisingly hopeful number.Time to rest cowboy!
More Than Meets The Eye:Not really my cup of tea as it takes on too much of a happy vibe.Not terrible,but it just seems to be filler.
Parc de la Villette:Named after the astonishing park in Paris,this track takes on mystery and wonderment at the same time.The lurking drums,smooth bass,and vibrato guitar gently and feverishly swoons over this like beautiful art. 
The Devil Went Down To George Street: Probably the bluesiest track on the album.Slow and methodical yet with a Duane Eddy thunderous kick.A coaxing organ and cold rain wash away the evidence of the crime.
Last Stand:Blowing winds, outlaying horns and creeping slow western surf guitar make for a deathly vibe,but the punch of the strong arm drums give this one merit and grit.Another cool feature with this track is the eerie lonesome whistle synonymous with the spaghetti western genre.
The Wedge: The band decide to really slow down the intro to this Dick Dale classic,but other than that once the song gets going it's pretty stays true to the original except for it's nowhere near as brutal sounding as Dick pulls it off.
Solitario: Like a long lonesome ride in the dry desert sun,the double picking reverb squall, the less than triumphant trumpet,and down trodden drum pace makes for a somber piece of music but those are the breaks for this lonesome cowboy.Beautifully arranged and certainly deserves the claim of masterpiece.

Los Fantasticos never ceases to impress and amaze me.Grab your copy here www.hangnine.co.uk Or email losfantasticos@hangnine.co.uk  




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Rock Is Dead presents "Monsters Night Out" Vol 1-3 Coming Soon!

October 3, 2012, 9:29 pm
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It's that time of year again boils and ghouls,so fear not I have been working all year long to bring you once again the spookiest and the kookiest musical selections of them all.My research team [me] have been digging extra deep for the most ghastly of tunes ever recorded.Just a little patience and your bloodthirsty pallets will be sated once again!
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Rock Is Dead presents "Monsters Night Out" Vol.1

October 5, 2012, 4:51 pm
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It's Time For Blood!
Track listings corrected...oops!
Track 4 included..for some odd reason Mediafire will kick a random song out of the uploading process..I have no idea as to why?
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Rock Is Dead presents "Monsters Night Out" Vol.2

October 12, 2012, 11:49 am
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Rock Is Dead presents "Monsters Night Out" Vol.3

October 19, 2012, 5:03 pm
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Yes boils and ghouls the third and final installment of this years Halloween music compilation is finally here.I hope the music I dug up entertains you and those dearly departed around you.I always try to give you the listener a unique experience when hearing the spooktacular sounds.By all means use these soundtracks during Halloween parties,killing sprees, trick or treating candy passing out music,or even when you and your friends are hanging out in the cemetary.Until next year try not to get caught!








I CAN HOLD MY BREATH A LONG LONG TIME!!!!!!!!

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Deke Dickerson's final Guitar Geek Festival starring Man Or Astro-Man?

November 7, 2012, 2:45 pm
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Hell-O-Tiki -The Curse Of Hell-O-Tiki [EP] 2012

December 13, 2012, 3:48 pm
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Within less than a year Belgium's Hell-O-Tiki have doled out yet another fine release.Their debut LP Attack Of The Lady Octopussy was a huge smash in my book.Even though they just barely missed the ideal Halloween season for this release Hell-O-Tiki have managed to surpass even their previous material.Starting things off is a very clever mutilation of sorts to Bach's classic "Taccata Et Fugue En Hot Minor" okay so they added the "Hot" I do believe it's really suppose to be D minor,but their unique spin is pure genius.They of course shorten their version from the original piece and just add the meat and potatoes so to speak.Sadly the organ parts have totally been abandoned but the flurry of reverb guitar undoubtedly makes up for it. One could almost make a case for this EP having a more strong sci-fi leaning than one would expect expect from the cover art,and such is the case with "Ectoplasm Buster" and it's hovering spaceship theremin,and alien probing stun-gun guitars.The outer space hi-jinx doesn't cease there cadets,no "Sputnik" has the all too familiar beacon noises and Russian voice overs. Just to seal the deal as if the Man Or Astro-Man?/Jonny and the Shamen set phasers on kill guitars weren't enough the crisp and tight drum work surely confirms a otherworldly take over.If your comfortable with your abnormalities,and like a good swingin' groove to go with your mental breakdowns than "Futterman's Phobia" will have you flailing about the room like the maniac you are.Is it me or am I crazy for thinking this has a few bars of the "Buffy The Vampire Slayer" theme music cleverly laced in this song? This is probably my favorite track from the band to date.Super tough and uber ferocious. Delving into the spy genre is "The Disclosure" with it's thickly picked cloak and dagger reverb time bomb menace.Do I detect a hint of ska beats and rhythms in this sinister plot of a song? Yes I do,and it's works ever so intriguingly well if I do say so myself. Like so many other EP's that I've reviewed lately this one ended way too soon.Hell-O-Tiki are kinda new to the surf instro scene,but can sense that they're a major force to contend with.Another prime example as to why I worship this genre so freaking much! Bravo my friends! http://www.reverbnation.com/hellotiki
http://www.myspace.com/hellotikimusic
https://www.facebook.com/hello.tiki.1
http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/hellotiki2






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