Phil Dirt - Reverb Central - PO Box 1609, Felton, CA 95018-1609 USA Longboards - 7" Surf Shots
 | Seven demos from Spain's Longboards. The demo mixes don't really show of the band's playing well, but they also don't detract from the listenability. |
Picks: Mr. Moto, Jack the Ripper, Rumble at Waikiki, Big Surf, Squad Car, Johnny Guitar, Nit de Ilamecs
Track by Track Review
Surf (Instrumental)
This is a nicely played, respectfully restrained arrangement of Paul Johnson's signature tune. Glissandoes, reverb, and a solid sound. A few minor variations make it sound fresh.
Surf (Instrumental)
Link Wray's "Jack The Ripper" is always cool. This is a less fiery version than most, not without energy, just less intense. Refreshing.
Surf (Instrumental)
John Blair's most frequently covered instro is perhaps more closely aligned with his original recording than any other cover. Primal and twanging, with a genuine garage feel.
Surf (Instrumental)
"Big Surf" is an often overlooked Sentinals song, with only a couple of other bands attempting it. The Longboards recreate it with a deeper sound and several intriguing nuances and flourishes. Dissonant and dangerous, and quite nice.
Surf (Instrumental)
Paul Johnson's masterpiece of the open road, "Squad Car" is played in a way that's somewhat reminiscent of Paul's 1980 remake with the Packards, though it's mostly just the feel of the song that is similar.
Surf (Instrumental)
This classic Victor Young / Peggy Lee instro is a departure for the Longboards, with a more restrained and pretty sound, and a lot less energy. A pleasant conversion to surf via whammy chords and reverb.
Surf (Instrumental)
A bit of a marching rhythm and an interesting melody line with a sad feeling. "Nit de Ilamecs" (Los Relampagos) seems like perhaps it's influenced by eastern Europe some, and with the dramatic drums and bass, it's almost ominous in an undercurrent kind of way.