Album Review:

Appearing nearly four years after the surfing craze initially took the US by storm, Squiddly Diddly’s Surfing’ Safari was an exceptionally late addition to the surf music genre. Breaking the mold from most other Hanna-Barbera character records of the era (see Hot Rod Granny), there are no stories or songs sung by the titular cartoon character to be found here. Interestingly, the only mention of the cartoon octopus is in the opening track. The remaining 11 songs are straightforward surfing tunes recorded in a mid-late sixties style with many classic surf guitar overtones baked in.

The sun-drenched reverb takes a backseat to a cleaner Challengers-esque style, which really works here. Refreshingly, eight of twelve tracks are vocal numbers. It’s nice to hear something produced separately from the typical 4 producing teams of surf music (Terry Melcher/Bruce Johnston, Jan Berry, Brian Wilson, and Gary Usher). ‘Nose Rider and ‘Surf Is Up Today’ are probably the best out of all the vocal tracks. However, the real reason to track down this release is the instrumentals. Both 'Surf Busters' and 'Gremmies' are exquisite surfy tracks played in a heavier style than earlier surf bands ever could. The original 'Shoot the Tube' possesses a jazzy flute solo over the top of a twangy guitar.

A highly prized collectible, this album can go for a large sum - especially in VG+ condition, so if you find one, my advice is to grab it!

CHOICE CUTS:

surf busters / gremmies / surf is up today / nose rider / shoot the tube