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Dave Myers & the Surftones

synopsis

review

Dave Myers and the Surf-tones released just one record. Winners of the 18-band surf battle (see review of album by the same name) the group also appeared on some compilations before changing their name to the Myers and the Disciples. The band released Greatest Racing Themes, under the guise of Dave Myers Effect in 1964 before disbanding. In this, their only surf-related album, the band tackles some popular surfing hits of the day while also incorporating a few tunes of their own.

'Frogwalk Part II' (was there a part I?) starts off the album and sounds almost like a rewrite of 'Battle of Jericho' followed by an energized rendition of 'Church Key'. 'Smokey Stomper' is a rather forgettable fare based on the folk-tune, 'On Top of Old Smokey' while 'King's Surf' ventures back into more surf-related territory. 'Aquavelva,' is a sleepy little tune flavored by some piano riffs and tasty Latin percussion. 'Surferama' is no more than a filler instrumental with a few interesting rising and falling modulations. A cover of 'Moment of Truth' seems to suit the band's style while 'Road to Rincon' follows the capricious tone of its predessesor. The brief 'Surfbreaker' boasts some great guitar work and is an album highlight. The bland 'Surfer's Theme is unfortunately marred by some poor brass playing, making it almost unlistenable. Some drum rolls and an obvious tape-slice kick-off 'Passion', a simple enough tune, though easily forgettable. The infectiously energetic 'Wetwalkin'' closes out the album.

Musically, Hangin' Twenty isn't the tightest surf album out there; at times the playing leaves much to be desired and the material isn't quite at the same level other Del-Fi releases are at. Sonically, however, this release holds some very exciting moments and overall is stronger as a package than its individual tracks might have you believe. Also, it's got one of the best album covers from the period .... and that's half the fun, isn't it?

Hangin' Twenty

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// 1963 on Del-Fi Records (DFST 1239/DFLP 1239)

Frogwalk Part II / Church Key / Smokey Stomper / King's Surf / Aquavelva / Surferama / Moment of Truth / Road to Rincon / Surfbreaker / Surfers Theme / Passion / Wetwalkin'

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CHOICE CUTS:
Wetwalkin' / Surfbreaker / Aquavelva 

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