Phil Dirt - Reverb Central - PO Box 1609, Felton, CA 95018-1609 USA The Avantis - Wax 'Em Down b/w Gypsy Surfer
 | This is one of the great surf singles. I still remember the first time I heard it on KSTN out of Stockton. The silly sawing substituting for waxing sound effects, the catchy riff, the cool changes, and the great drums, all made an impression. The B-side turned out to be a great side as well. |
Picks: Wax 'Em Down, Gypsy Surfer
Track by Track Review
Surf (Instrumental)
The Avantis most familiar single "Wax 'Em Down" is a dry guitar chamber reverbed adventure in the surf culture. The waxing sound effects (wood sawing) and the basic progression issue forth a simpler more innocent view of surf music. Great drums, raw guitar, subservient organ, and a catchy riff are all here. A fine track.
Surf (Instrumental)
This is a chilling track. The surf rhythm guitar is harsh, the lead shimmers with vibrato, and the sound is both thin and effective. Great infectious classic obscure surf with a hauntingly magnetic sound. The organ break is different from other discs of the day.