review

Despite what its title may lead you to believe, none of the tracks on Original Surfin' Hits were actually charting hits. Of all the songs included, 'Latinia' was probably the release that enjoyed the most success, becoming a regional hit in 1962. The remaining 11 tracks are resourced from various outlets - some only existing on this release. yet do not dismiss this little package deal too quickly as it contains some of the rarest and most authentic surf sounds of the era.

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The Sentinals' seminal classic 'Latinia' opens up the album and never sounded better. The sleepy yet superb, 'Blue Soul', credited to the Rhythm Kings, makes in its only Lp appearance. Another Original Surfin' Hit exlusive, 'Swingin' 'Piper Soul' is a perfect little unknown piece of exotica surf music. Off their insanely rare Surfin' Wild album, the Deltas' 'Intoxica' is yet another seldom-heard gem. One of the most covered (and in this author's opinion) worst surf compositions, 'Surfin' Tragedy' rears its ugly head yet again - this time under the mantle of Bob Vaught and the Renegades (Also found on their Surf Crazy album). 'Soul Beat Part II' (what happened to part I?) is a rockin' little number that also can't be found anywhere else. A laughably hurried version of "Exotic" by the Rhythm Kings opens up side 2 and may be of some interest to Beach Boys fans as it was penned by none other than Bruce Morgan (also credited with 'Luau'). 'Surf Bird'- not the Trashmen song - is a fun novelty number, and is the only vocal track - slightly different than the single version. The Soul Kings' brassy 'Pachuko Soul' is a cover of the Sentinals' 'Surf N' Soul' while the Sentinals' follow with their own 'Tor-Chula' from Big Surf. Dave Myers' cover of 'Church Key' from Hangin' Twenty is a welcome addition, while 'Let's Go Surfin' closes out the album on a strong note.

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Surf compilations can often be a mixed bag. Most possess nothing more than a few random surf-related tracks thrown together as a cash-in to the craze. However, once in a while, an unheard gem or two makes its only appearance on one of these albums. With 7 of its 12 tracks being exclusive to this release, it's safe to say that Original Surfin' Hits holds some excellent hidden treasures. Further, considering that 3 of the 4 remaining tracks come from highly sought-after albums such as the Sentinals' Big Surf, the Deltas' Surfin' Wild, and 4rth track comes from an equally rare single release, this compilation is worth checking out for those of you who enjoy the obscure...

Original Surfin' Hits