Yet another Jerry Cole project, Big Drag Boats U.S.A. was released in late 1964, presumably in an attempt to kickstart a new branch of the surf/ hot rod/skater craze. Like Motorcyles U.S.A. (also credited to the Hornets), much of its material would be reused by Cole on budget label projects. 

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The album kicks off with the guitar-driven stomper, 'Rooster Tail.' 'The Steel Hull' features Steve Douglas on sax. 'The Big Drag' is a reused Cole track, while 'Turbine Hydro' is a fun leisure distraction. A low twangy fuzz guitar gets shoved out front in 'Prop Away.' 'Fleetflyer' is of much interest and is a bit of a slow dirge. 'Coral Cruiser' is easily the pick of the bunch. 'The Big Drag' borrows some ideas from Chuck Berry's 'School Days,' but manages to be unique thanks to some fantastic guitar work ala Cole. The melodic 'Drag Champion' is a rather dull affair though 'Lake Twister' is another standout track with a low rumbly guitar. 'Trophy Boat' is a standard Jerry Cole/Steve Douglas fare with some creative playing 'Mr. U.S.A.' sounds almost like the theme song to a 60s Hannah-Barbara cartoon and is a fun closing to the album.

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By just how much (if at all) these tracks predate other Cole Crown releases is unknown; most of these songs appear in lesser forms on various Crown releases. Nevertheless, Big Drag Boats U.S.A. is still worth seeking out if you're into surf and drag music...who knew drag boat music was so similar???