Phil Dirt - Reverb Central - PO Box 1609, Felton, CA 95018-1609 USA
The Swamp Coolers - Six Songsdotdotdotdot
artworkThis CD-R sports six songs are for an album in progress. A unique sound and well textures arrangements bring new life to standards and originals.
Picks: El Diablo De Polvo, Hawaii Five-0, Out Of Limits, Pipeline, My Favorite Things, Sonora Sunrise

Track by Track Review


El Diablo De Polvo dotdotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

This is a richly textured track with a catchy riff and whammy chords. The sound is unique to the Swamp Coolers. While the progressions are simple, they take unexpected turns that make this a very memorable song. Very nice!

Hawaii Five-0 dotdotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

Sleepy island whammy and lush palms swaying bring forth a slithery version of "Hawaii Five-0." The wholly original arrangement of the first verse gives way to a pumped and wonderful arrangement inspired by the Ventures' original. Quite nice, and very refreshing.

Out Of Limits dotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

Swirly chants in the distance fade as the classic riff ensues. Slithery, smooth, and unlike other covers of this Mar-Ketts' classic. Quite a nice track.

Pipeline dotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

In some ways, this reminds me of Dean Torrance's 1977 version, at least aurally. The drums play the glissandos a la the Challengers, and the guitars are fairly dry. The duel lead on the bridge is jazzy. The big break is pure rock. All in all, a different take on the Chantays' signature song.

My Favorite Things dotdotdotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

The Swamp Coolers take on "My Favorite Things" as if it was meant for the surf. What a wonderful idea. Playful, smooth, slithery, and too much fun!

Sonora Sunrise dotdotdotdot
Surf (Instrumental)

"Sonora Sunrise" softly oozes the orange warmth of an equatorial morning. The stereo slither of the whammy chords shimmer in the dawn's light. Quite nice.