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The Challengers - Hot Rod Show c/w K-39dotdotdotdotdot
artworkRichard Delvy had been an original member of the Belairs. When Delvy left the Belairs, he founded the Challengers. They released the very first all surf album titled Surf Beat, and had a long and interesting career. They often used studio musicians to augment the line up at sessions. After the first three albums, Delvy used Hal Blaine for most drum tracks, and Phil Pruden was sometimes replaced by Steve Douglas of sax. Under various circumstances and substitute names, Paul Johnson and others also filled in on guitar.
Picks: K-39, Hot Rod Show

Track by Track Review


K-39 dotdotdotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

"K-39" is one of the best late Surf tracks. It is named after a Surf spot 39 kilometers south of the California-Mexico border. Hal Blaine's drumming is exquisite, and the melody is great. This is a true Surf classic, melodic, powerful, double picked joy!

Hot Rod Show dotdotdot
Hot Rod (Vocal)

This was the single B-side to "K-39," and is among the only Challengers vocals I can stand. Maybe it's the nostalgia of hearing it again after all those years...