After my previous outing with a Palace Records hot rod release, Hot Rod Rally by the Sunset Dragsters, it took me a while to consider locating this release. Thankfully, this Hot Rodders Battle / Rock And Roll was given slightly more attention than the Sunset Dragsters album. While many budget labels would slap engine sound effects over previously recorded jazz tracks, this album features some newly recorded tracks that are more-or-less (emphasis on less) attuned to the 1964 hot rod sound. 

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'Dragstrip Doll' is a so-so hot rod instrumental, helped by a surfy rhythm guitar. 'Hot Rod' is a jazzy hit more in line with the early 50s jive. 'Dragstrip Blues' is based on the Isley Brothers' 'Shout.' 'Wrecked T-Bird' fairs slightly better. 'Bonneville Beat' is one of the better numbers. 'Fluster Buster' is better skipped as is the gospelly 'Super Torque.' 'Look Out Baby' is a jazzy jam not in line with surf music while 'Hot Rod Pad' sounds like the backing track in a low-budget Hot Rod movie. The slow 'Burnt Rubber' is a slightly more interesting tune than the previous three tracks. 'Crazy Jag' is marred by too much sax as is 'Racing Pistons.'

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The revving engine overdubs are here, as are the old-school jam sensibilities, but the music on Hot Rodders Battle / Rock And Roll is slightly more aligned with the Hot Rod style than most albums of its caliber. Still, unless you find one for $1, I advise you to skip it...