Phil Dirt - Reverb Central - PO Box 1609, Felton, CA 95018-1609 USA Collection: Surfing With The Beach Boys, also the Marketts and Frogmen
 | This compilation is among the very few of many albums issued from these same masters that not only identifies the other two bands on the front artwork, but also on the track credits, and is the only one that does not misidentify the Mar-Kets as the Surfin' Six, though it does use their later name spelling of the Marketts. |
Picks: Balboa Blue, Wipe Out, Surfer's Stomp, Tioga, Karate, Beware Below, Underwater
Track by Track Review
Surf (Instrumental)
That most humorous concept band, the Mill Valley Taters (drum machine and all), slip into a white water swirl with this surfy instro, structured somewhat like a Torpedoes tune, though less power driven. Nice work, and good listening.
Wipe Out Surf (Instrumental)
This is a really weak version of "Wipe Out." Not an ounce of power, not a beat of soul.
Sub Surf (Instrumental)
The Mar-Kets created this nearly Lawrence Welk forties-ish "Surfers Stomp." Frankly, Susan and the SurfTones do the best version of this song. Simple slow paced innocent instrumental rock and roll, with great piano and saucy sax. Infectious and unpretentious. Don't look for the classic surf sound here, but do enjoy the simplicity and fun. Smooth and right nice.
Surf (Instrumental)
The Frogmen recorded in what is now thought of as the traditional surf sound, with reverbed guitars, etc., and before either the Belairs or Dick Dale. This was their follow up to "Underwater" and was issued in '61. It is one of their more average sides.
Surf (Instrumental)
A very simple progression played repeatedly, interrupted occasionally with cries of "Karate." Rhythmic back-grounder, just barely surfy. Historically valid, but unimportant. Will fit into a surf set as a break from the intensity and melodic power of the real thing.
Surf (Instrumental)
Tom toms and a chunky guitar beat are the signatures of this tribal stomper. Piano glissandoes and jammy twang abound.
Surf (Instrumental)
The Frogmen romp with "Underwater." It's very much a surf precursor, and important for that reason. Numerous of their tracks have appeared on various budget comps over the past few years.