As a Ventures fan since the early sixties (yeah, they're getting up there), I'm always on the lookout for great surf instrumental bands. Here's a short list: Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet, Huevos Rancheros, Los Straitjackets, etc. This is the first album to have grabbed me in a long time, although it's from the mid-nineties. Above all, the Aquas write great melodies. A lot of surf bands just riff with plenty of bass and drums. Nothing wrong with that, but in the end - can you hum it? Most of these songs have a moonlit, slightly menacing sound (with a touch of lounge). The album cover image captures it perfectly. The guitar work is sterling, very clean and simple as surf rock should be. Just enough reverb to give it that edge. My suggestion? Pour yourself a scotch, turn out the lights, put on your shades and crank it. Doesn't get any better. Meanwhile, spare a thought for Bob Bogle (Ventures co-founder), who apparently is quite ill. Rock on, Bob!
March 23, 2008Another beautiful-sounding guitar instrumental disc from the "Aquas". This one is fairly laid back, and didn't knock me out like "Nomad", but I think it's one of those discs that will "grow" on me. I think "Day in the Life of a Private Eye" summarizes the concept here--"Guitar Noir" could be good music for "Film Noir".
As a Shadows fan for over 40 years, I can see their influence at work here--clean, distinctive, melodic playing--if Miles Corbin isn't a Hank Marvin disciple, I would be very surprised.
Nice one !
August 24, 2002 |  | Stylish, Suave theme tracks for Private Investigators |  |
Of course, the cover art is striking. Palm trees framing a cat's eye moon over the golden gate bridge. A view only obtainable from Treasure Island. Its easy to forget that San Franscisco was the home of Sam Spade--a place where Vertigo could be made--Mort Sahl could tell topical jokes between jazz sets, or people would pass around a jug of wine at a poetry reading. This music has all the ambience of the cool, old, San Fransciso of pulp detective novels, beats and cool jazz. I absolutely totally do not understand the remarks of those reviewers who were disappointed in this cd. Comparisons with previous Aqua Velvets releases is unfair. This collection of tunes stands on its own merits. Those you you who don't get it--read the Maltese Falcon or The Big Sleep while you listen--it will start to make more sense to you.
July 12, 2001I was disappointed in this CD. I have a copy of their earlier collection, Nomad, which is one of the best New Surf releases ever. This doesn't compare. I got this CD expecting a more subdued atmosphere with a little mystery and espionage thrown in. Unfortunately, they sound like a bad Vegas Lounge act. I should know, I live in Vegas. My advice would be to skip this CD and pick up Nomad instead. I hate to say that because I really do like The Aqua Velvets. Maybe next time.
July 4, 2001Nothing relaxes me like this disk after a hectic day at work! Just kick back with a dry Vodka Martini and fall into the trace the AV's induce. Also great background for a low-key and laidback party...
February 2, 2000More reviews at Amazon.com ...
(9 reviews)