Album Review:

The Marauders were Don Miller (drums), Steve Sober (guitar), Peter Geerlofs (lead guitar), Jim Pearle (piano) and Bill Stickney (saxophone). Though based in Pennsylvania, this first album, titled Check In with Supertorque / Penetration and Others (a mouthful by any standard), is squarely situated in the homegrown surf rock of Southern California. Presumably recorded March 3, 1964 (catalog number being "64-303"), Check In was laid to tape at Philadelphia Recording Center on Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118, according to the label.

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'Supertorque' may owe a deal to the Chantay's 'Pipeline' but it's still a pretty darn strong surf instrumental. The Ventures' 'Walk, Don't Run' seldom felt so energetic, and 'Out of Limits' gains from the lo-fi aesthetic. 'Popsicles, Icicles' by the Murmaids is an odd choice indeed but is pulled off well. The Pyramids' 'Penetration' shows the band at its tightest. 'Groundhog' is a cool surf jam. The piano on 'Apache' is rather laughable, while 'Tequila' rocks steady. The Rockin' Rebels' 'Wild Weekend' is straightforward. 'Guitar Shuffle Boogie' adds a new groove to the mix. Of course, no self-released record would be complete without the mandatory cover of 'Wipeout,' and the Marauders do not disappoint on this front. Duane Eddy's 'Wild Watusi' is performed with much vigor. Cleverly separated from 'Supertorque' by 12 tracks, the band closes out with a comparatively sloppy rendition of 'Pipeline'. 

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While many privately-pressed-garage-band releases of the era struggled to fill an entire album of quality material, the Marauders not only stuffed some excellent tunes into one package but also gave each an admirable performance. While Check In with Supertorque / Penetration and Others may be a lengthy title, it's highly recommendable.

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The Marauders would follow up with Maraudin' 65.