Album Review:

The Denvermen were an Australian instrumental band formed in 1961 out of Digger Revell and the Lonely Ones, and Paul Dever and the Denvermen. They had the distinction of releasing the first Aussie surf single 'Surfside' in early 1963 and experienced further successes throughout 1964 before disbanding in late 1965. The group released one album on RCA in 1963 at the height of their popularity.

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'Surf City Stomp' is an energetic opener. 'On the Beach' is a perfect night surf tune in the vein of the acoustic stylings of the Sandells' 'Endless Summer.' The echoey sounds of 'Mystery Wave' and the stripped-back 'Surfside Romance' make the subtle surf tunes even more engaging. Things liven up a bit for 'Ho-Dad' - an uptempo number with twangy low guitars and a plethora of rolling drum fills. 'Surfers' Cha-Cha' is a simple percussive ditty. 'Back Rip' is a moody, melodic tune with a stable stomp rhythm. 'Let's Go Surfing' is just about the quintessential long-lost surf classic from the genre. The acoustic guitar takes the lead on 'Spanish Sands,' not the most interesting track but it's worthwhile nonetheless. 'Quiet Beach' dips its toes back into familiar Denvermen territory. 'Surf Patrol' bounces along at a fast clip. 'Surfers' Blues' takes some swing from Paul Anka's 'Lonely Boy', but the fantastic guitar and unique groove make it a highlight.

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The Denvermen's take on surf music was far more soothing than its raucous American counterpart. Nevertheless, Let's Go Surfside is one of the surf canon's finest (and rarest).

Let's Go Surfside

Surf City Stomp / On the Beach / Mystery Wave / Surfside Romance / Ho-Dad / Surfer's Cha-Cha / Back Rip / Let's Go Surfin' / Spanish Sands / Quiet Beach / Surf Patrol / Surfer's Blues

The Denvermen

// 1963 on RCA Records (SL-101537 / L-101537) (Australia)