When Tom Petty plays without his beloved Heartbreakers, it's hard for anyone but an expert to discern much of a difference. But when the Heartbreakers strike out on their own without Tom Petty . . . well, then you have the Blue Stingrays.
Surf and Burn is a thoroughly entertaining album, filled with countrified surf and just a touch of disco sheen. Unlike the ominous tones of Dick Dale's manic guitar, the Blue Stingray's take a laid-back, low-tide approach to surf, cultivating a wonderfully breezy Hawaiian feel. And like most surf albums, this one is best when listened to straight through, from start to finish, giving it time to create that blissful escapist mood.
That's not to say there aren't some standout moments, however. The band blows its "secret identity" on the rockabilly-tinged "Malibu Babylon," with its delicious blues licks throughout, and Petty's patented lovesick howl would fit nicely on top of the peppy "Ju Ju Beads." But this is a showcase for the other guys, and Surf and Burn establishes this group not only as fine musicians, but exceptionally fine songwriters as well. These are notably nimble songs, straightforward in melody yet complex in execution, with a solid structure that allows plenty of room for meandering musical side trips. Too bad this band of mystery men, so secretive about their identities that they refuse even to don a pseudonym, say they will never go on the road.
The Blue Stingrays are finally out of retirement with the release of Surf-n-Burn, their fourth and only album ever. For, although their music is an international passport, the band refuses to be known, even to themselves. The story from Epitone Records is that the Blue Sting Rays will not play live, will not be seen by anyone and refuse to receive anything for their time and effort. Indeed, Surf-n-Burn was recorded in a pitch-black studio, with the recording engineers all wearing blindfolds. Amazingly, the album was recorded without a hitch and the proof is this flawless collection of classic surf tunes like "Monsoon," "Malibu Babylon" and "Stingray Stomp." The fact that no one knows who these people are is all the better reason to grab a copy and listen to the unearthly "Land of the Unknown," and surfers everywhere will appreciate "Surfers Life" and "Green Sea." For those who miss the intrigue of the Iron Curtain, there's "Russian Roulette," "Brave New World" and a chilling surf rendition of "Goldfinger." Anonymous surf music at its best! Epitone is a division of Epitaph Records. Call them if you want to know more. Apparently, they're being the Brujeria of surf guitar. Good luck in locating them!
Epitaph Records, 6201 Sunset Blvd., Suite 111, Hollywood, CA 90028
