Oceanica
author: John Koontz
This little instrumental CD - about an EP in length - comes to you from Sandy & the SurfSonics, a new Denver area group, who describe themselves as exiled and relocated beach bums. The SurfSonics is a private side project for the members.
The CD is a collection of five melodic ballads in traditional instrumental style. The hallmark of the band is multiple and alternating lead lines in different registers. The use of a baritone guitar gives it a dark, interesting texture. It's a great first release that leaves me looking forward with anticipation to the follow up reportedly in the works.
The instrumental cover of the Daytonas' G.T.O. reflects a lifelong love affair with the song, according to Sandy. The band's G.T.O. has perhaps a bit more of a relaxed, hypnotic feel than Ronny & the Daytonas' original, but is otherwise very evocative of it. Sandy gives us a minor key version somehow very evocative of the Daytonas' original, though he tells me that was actually in a major key.
Apart from G.T.O., this CD has rather a Latin feel to it. You can preview the CD at the group's MySpace site.
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Surf's Up!!
author: Rod W. Davey
What a cool cdr. If you're into surf instro this is a must for your collection. A little on the short side with only five songs, but these songs will get you hooked on Sandy & The SurfSonics. My favourite song is "Oceanica", but they're all cool. When listening all you'll be thinking about is the summer, the beach, cruising and surfin'. Can't wait for the next album.
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The Radical Rider
author: Larry Rodgers
When I listen to this tune I go back to the 60's and feel the magic all over again.The entire piece is put together in such a way that you will feel every note for the first time.
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Bring Your Towel
author: A.d.Brown
What an exceptional piece of craftsmanship that embodies the very essence of this genre. All of the tracks on Oceanica tell a different story and lead the listener on a journey to the edges of the sea.
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