Adrian & the Sunsets' first and only album was privately released on multicolored vinyl to little fanfare in 1963. In fact, it languished in obscurity for decades before a Sundazed reissue created renewed interest in the band. Long hailed as one the best pre-Beatles private press surf rock outfits, its leader ironically originated from England. The U.K.-born Adrian Lloyd had relocated to the US in 1962 and found success as the Rumbler's drummer, appearing on their Boss album. After leaving the band in early 1963, he joined guitarists Ron Eglit, Clyde Brown, bassist Dick Lambert, and saxman Bruce Riddar in what became the Sunsets.

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In examining the merits of the Sunsets' album, one could evenly divide laud between the instrumental and vocal numbers. With that distinction, it's important to note that the band shines on the instrumentals and, except 'Surfer Joe,' the group's forays into vocal territory are vastly underwhelming. 'Breakthrough' is a classic example of raw, untamed garageband energy. 'Slippin' is another phenomenal surf instrumental track, while 'Wipe Out' is a fun listen too. The Rumblers' 'Boss' gets a less-polished remake, and both the Chantays' 'Pipeline' and 'Stompin' Time' are welcome additions. 'Just Drums (Parts 1 and 2)' are exactly what you'd think. On the vocal side, young singer Bobby Forest takes on 'Ritchie Valens' 'Donna,' and Adrian tackles the rest of the lead vocal duties, but none of these tracks are too noteworthy.

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As far as private pressings go, Breakthrough is about the best. From the novelty of the multicolored record to the rarity among fans, this scarce Lp is a major collector's item today. Original copies can easily go for upwards of $200.

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NOTE: If you are interested in hearing more of the Sunsets, this album has numerous reissues with additional singles and unreleased tracks. This author also recently discovered a heretofore unknown EP of songs from 1964 called Teenage World of Music which featured the band under the pseudonym 'The Hollywood Sunsets Band' playing a few instrumentals and back-up to Bobby Forest and others.