Phil Dirt - Reverb Central - PO Box 1609, Felton, CA 95018-1609 USA The Nightrunners - Movin'
 | The second full album from the Nightrunners is actually part of a split release with the Moonriders. A few more surf tunes can be found lurking amid their instrumental tracks. |
Picks: Saturday Night At The Duckpond, Nightrunners Theme, Diamond Head, Irene, Rocco, Never On Sunday, In Dreams, Movin', Wiggle Beat, Mandschurian Beat, Wayward Nile, Manha De Carnevale
Track by Track Review
Saturday Night At The Duckpond Rock (Instrumental)
This is a restrained and tasteful version of "Saturday Night At The Duckpond." It breaks no new ground, but is very listenable.
Rock (Instrumental)
The Nightrunners' namesake seems to be a light weight number with a sad melody line and tasteful damped plucking, a bit of vibrato, and a touch of charm.
Surf (Instrumental)
Danny Hamilton's most famous tune is delicately done with a soft surf sound. This almost pristine arrangement adds a refined air to a surf standard. Quite effective in a low key soundscape.
Irene Rock (Instrumental)
"Irene" is a pop melody with a sad sound and MOR feel. While it's very pleasant, it didn't leave a lasting impression.
Cactus Surf (Instrumental)
"Rocco" sports an interesting blend of spaghetti western, surf, and Euro twang. The fluid melody line is supported by a soft rhythmic semi cactus backtrack. Really nice!
Never On Sunday Rock (Instrumental)
This is a soft rock guitar version of the film theme "Never On Sunday." While it's very nice, it's also not particularly notable. Dick Dale did this once, on trumpet.
In Dreams Rock (Instrumental)
Roy Orbison's "In Dreams" is a soft rock natural for evening guitar mood arranging. OK, but not particularly interesting, though it would surely make a fitting backdrop to a romantic liaison.
Surf (Instrumental)
Well now! Lee Hazelwood's often covered "Movin'" (beginning with the Astronauts) is softened and oh-so delicately plucked, with reverb and suave intact. I must say this works very well in this arrangement!
Rock (Instrumental)
Like a Shadows vacation on the open plane, "Wiggle Beat" has a sad open sky feel and a pretty edge. Nice track.
Rock (Instrumental)
Like "Lara's Theme," this track has a Russian sadness about. Quite nice, and somewhat haunting.
Surf (Instrumental)
The Chantays' exotic "Wayward Nile" is all decked out in vibrato and refined charm. This arrangement works well, retaining the original charm while not being a copy. Grins here!
Rock (Instrumental)
This is a sad Euro guitar track with a moody twang and Hank Marvin feel. Smooth and soothing.