Album Review:

A curious compilation, this album is sometimes listed as Surf Kings, other times as simply Surfing. The spine reads Beach Boys Surfaris. No title is given on the labels to indicate the intended title.

'Surfin' Dance' (untruthfully credited to the Beach Boys on the label) is actually 'Vesuvius' retitled and was recorded by the New Dimensions. 'Latin Soul' is also misleadingly credited, this time to the Surfaris, though in reality, it was recorded by a separate band - Original Surfaris. Dick Dale had recorded two pre-surf tunes that can be found on various budget-label surf compilations to exploit the guitarist's sudden fame. 'Fairest of Them All' is one such tune. The Surf Kings' 'Big Board' is a great surf number, as is 'Night Surf Party.' The former appeared as 'Slippery Shillelagh' and the latter as 'High Boy Hauler' on Diplomat Records' Wild Hot Rod Wails compilation. I believe this is their original release. The Surf Boys' (or "Beach Boys" on the label) 'Surfin'' is actually the New Dimensions covering the Sentinals' 'Tor-Chula' from Big Surf. The Original Surfaris' (again credited to "Surfaris") 'Delano Soul Beat' is a fine cover of the popular surf tune. The second of the 50s Dick Dale songs is 'We'll Never Hear the End of It' and, while showcasing the rich lower register of Dale's voice, isn't surfy at all. 'Surf Water' is the best of the album's instrumentals though it also appeared on Diplomat's Wails. 'White Cap' is a typical fifties studio jam and was rereleased with engine overdubs as 'Four Banger' on the aforementioned compilation.

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Despite the cover touting names such as the Beach Boys, Surfaris, and Dick Dale, it's the Surf Kings that are the real attraction on this album, though their tracks are also available elsewhere. I must say that I far prefer the album cover of this release compared to other budget compilations. Overall a surprisingly strong release.