Phil Dirt - Reverb Central - PO Box 1609, Felton, CA 95018-1609 USA
The Surf Rats - Surf 'N' Burndotdotdot
artworkIn their prior life as Beachcoma, this UK band cut a track they called "Shotgun" for the Hang 11 compilation that was more Jon and the Nightriders than Jon's own band, particularly since the tune was actually a J&NR original. Anyway, they grew into the Surf Rats. 7 instros are among the 19 tracks on this CD. The vocals are hard rockin' basic rock 'n' roll, mostly covers and very spunky.
Picks: Rat Motor, Magic Carpet, Surf Party, Saturday Night At The Duckpond, Mr. Moto, Banzai Washout, Johnny Guitar / La Comparsa

Track by Track Review


Rat Motor dotdotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

In their prior life as Beachcoma, this UK band cut a track they called "Shotgun" for the Hang 11 compilation that was more Jon and the Nightriders than Jon's own band, particularly since the tune was actually a J&NR original. Anyway, they grew into the Surf Rats, and if this is any indication of their usual delivery, well, they are one hell of a band. This track is a melodic moderately paced surf tune with a great feel to it. The rhythm track is a lot like "Penetration," but when merged with the lead and drums, it's quite different... unique actually.

Magic Carpet dotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

Moody and fluid, the melody line here is distant and haunting. "Magic Carpet" does not sport a Middle Eastern flavor as you might expect, but it is fun and well written.

Surf Party dotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

A solid reverent performance of this classic Astronauts track. Rich and rhythmic, with continuous energy.

Saturday Night At The Duckpond dotdotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

This is mighty bouncy and fun, with hard driving drums and a cross between the Shadows sound and the surf idiom. Lots of energy and spunk, and an infectious beat.

Mr. Moto dotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

This is a relatively straight treatment of the Belairs' "Mr. Moto," with more reverb and glissandoes. Quite solid.

Banzai Washout dotdotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

This is a big chord power surge version of the Catalinas' "Banzai Washout." Fiery and whammy rich, the Surf Rats give it a different sound with rounder tone and ringing notes. Very cool!

Johnny Guitar / La Comparsa dotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

The UK rock classic "Johnny Guitar" is merged with the sad and beautiful "La Comparsa" for a fresh sound and vision. Quite pretty.