Splashback - R E V I E W S

Reviews

Phil Dirt - KFJC Radio - Los Altos

MRS. MOTO Album

From the small suburban community surrounding KFJC comes Splashback. They've been together since 1993, and have been live performance guests on Surf's Up! a couple of times. Splashback have a pretty trad sound, but use a unique approach, not unlike what would happen if Paul Johnson were to write and play reverby surf. There are two guitars that work off each other very well, and original melodies with a most unusual structure and sound. There's a pedigree to this band as well, with both guitarists having been in the original surf band scene. Guitarist Dana Vincent played in his first surf band while an Air Force brat in Pakistan in the early sixties. Guitarist Bill Epps grew up musically with Dick Dale, Eddie &the Showmen, Dave Myers, the Rhythm Rockers and more, which led him to play guitar in his first Southern California surf band the Vara-Tones, whose single "Repeto" is a scarce commodity these days. By the way, former KFJC staffer Jeanne Hsu is the woman with the guitar on the cover. You'll find several factors individually rated, including: Production/Fidelity: fidelity, clarity, production values, and pressing quality. Performance: sense of ensemble, energy, emotion, and chemistry. Gotta Have It Factor: desirability. The reviews you find here are my opinion based on my tastes, 10 years of producing surf recordings, and 35 years of listening to surf music.

FOREVER GREMMY - A really cool melody line in an unusual surf bed. Dana has used a bit of the desert and a bit of the sea in this one. The infectious melody line is counter-pointed well by the rhythm section. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Effective Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].

FIREWATER - Jimmy Haskell wrote it, the Astronauts had a minor hit with it as a single, and Splashback have completely ignored all that, and come up with a most unique arrangement that give it a new character. If there's one hallmark of this band, it is the ability of Dana and Bill to write melody and rhythm parts that are quite unusual, or to rearrange classics as if they had written them, with those same unusual and highly personalized stylings. That skill allows them to take a familiar track, make it theirs, and even leave you not noticing it is a cover. That is a skill that is highly valued in a day when there are all too many covers out there. This track has been covered a lot, beginning back in the mid eighties when the Sid Presley Experience (pre-Godfathers) issued it on a 12" single. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Effective Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].

SIDETRIP - A trad surf beat under a Ventures-like melody provides a nice effect. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Effective Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Great To Have].

MRS. MOTO - The CD's title track is a most unusual surf tune. It has a punchy introduction, and big tones. It's a great tune to drive down 101 on a summer's day to. Very cool indeed! [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Effective Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].

SURF TREMOR - Shimmering and rhythmic. A simple melody line with a definite sixties feel. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Effective Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].

WHITECAP SERENADE - This mid-tempo tune brings images of warm breezes on a desert island, tropical and civilization challenged. Great tones. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Effective Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].

SLEEPWALK - One of the hardest of tunes to cover without a lap steel, and even then, who can overcome the gorgeous sound of the original? This is a good version, but nothing special. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Effective Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].

SURFER IN PARADISE - A medley of sorts, more a merger between "Stranger in Paradise" and "Telstar". The effect is quite interesting and unexpected. It makes you wonder if Joe Meek had this in mind when he wrote "Telstar". The guitar sounds are quite good here. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Effective Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Great To Have].

SHAKEDOWN - A heavy dirty rhythm under a simple melody line that's very pleasing on the ear. The interplay between the lead and rhythm are excellent here, and the changes work well too. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Effective Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].

STORM DANCER - In their usual way, Splashback have taken Jon and the Nightriders stunning and driven tune, and played it with all the speed but with a different more gentle sound. The result is another complete personalization of the track, and again demonstrates their ability to re invent the wheel, in the positive sense. Here, the result is a more mysterious rather than assaultive track. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Effective Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].

DUNE BUGGY - A few years back, Splashback played on my show for the first time. When they did this tune, it took me almost half way through before I realized what song it was they were covering. It sounded familiar enough sorta, but it was masked so well in their brand of individualization that I didn't recognize it. And I have loved the Surfaris' original for 35 years. While I like the live version from that show better, this is really good. What they've done to the arrangement totally changes the character of the song, and while it misses the original intent completely, it replaces it with a whole new meaning that is equally grand and powerful. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Incredible, Production: Effective Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Kill For It].

OVER THE EDGE - A totally unusual melody and a million nps (notes per second) delivery yield a really cool tune. The speed of the playing is in contrast to the gentleness of it, and counterpoints well against the back track. Nice job. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Effective Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].

Alan Taylor - PIPELINE Magazine

MRS. MOTO Album

Guitar four-piece Splashback comprises musicians who were around to enjoy instrumental rock music in its heyday. Guitarist Dana Vincent began playing seriously in the early sixties, starting off by learning early Ventures and Shadows material. He's a reverb and tremelo man at heart and, after spells playing hard rock and folk, returned to his first love by forming Splashback in March 1993. Dana contributes five of the seven originals on this their debut release, and mighty fine they are too.

Dana's Forever Gremmy gets things off to a flying start with a bright echoey lead over sections of rhythm chords and damped reverb picking. His Sidetrip theme has a red Indian and Skaterdater feel (skateboarders on the warpath?), while on Surf Tremor he goes for more of a ringing lead sound. This continues on into the melodic Whitecap Serenade whilst there is some deeper twang is parts of Shakedown which is set against treble breaks and heavy reverb phrases in this moody surf gem.

Bill Epps began playing guitar in 1960 and picked up on Dick Dale when he saw him perform with The Del-Tones at the Pasedena Civic Auditorium. Bill describes them as loud, heavy and awesome! Bill's own surf band The Vara-Tones were active throughout surf's first wave on 1963-65. Bill wrote the other two originals here. The exotic reverb-laden title tract Mrs. Moto which owes only its title to the Belairs' hit, and the fast driving reverber Over The Edge which provides a fitting climax to the set.

The first of the covers is The Astronauts' Firewater where Splashback generate a lush aural landscape of appropriately spitting an flowing sounds. Sleepwalk is the only ballad on the set and provides a contrast midway with its expressive lead over shimmering chords. There's a healthy dose of Telstar in the aptly retitled Surfer (Stranger) In Paradise which makes a great surf instrumental. Jon & The Nightriders' pacey Storm Dancer gets a flowing arrangement that works well and then Jim Fuller's Surfaris classic Dune Buggy is given a biting work-over.

Mrs. Moto is a 100% class album. There are no duff tracks, no fillers, and the performances, arrangements and sound are excellent. With the two guitarists working so well together, solid and sypathetic bass from Bob McInturff and real sixties drumming from Steve Kish, Splashback are a great band. They bring their love of the original surf sound to this production, but they are not a retro act as their own compositions show. Mrs. Moto is sure to be near the top of my play list in the next issue and no surf fan should be without it.

Davy Peckett - NEW GANDY DANCER Magazine

MRS. MOTO Album

Invigorating and totally revitalising surf guitar CD. Crisp, clear and rivetting playing with a rhythm section that doesn't overpower but support, sums up the four man Splashback who impress not only with their playing but their fine originals like Shakedown, Mrs. Moto and Surf Tremor. Drumming from Steve Kish is delightful and Bob McInturff's busy bass lines are exciting. Guitar men Dana Vincent and Bill Epps are experienced and talented and rise to the occasion on every track. Of the few covers, Sleepwalk gets a reverential treatment and the medley Surfer in Paradise - predominantly Stranger in Paradise and Telstar --is beautifully structured. Super debut CD!

Bob Dalley - SALT LAKE CITY SURF MUSIC APPRECIATION SOCIETY

MRS. MOTO Album

We have been in contact with Splashback for a few years and have enjoyed their early demo tapes. We have had the opportunity to hear Mrs. Moto in it's early stage and finally get to enjoy the polished project. It is very obvious that the group really enjoys playing these songs. They are full of life and the great spirit of the surfin' sixties. While many of the tunes are originals and done very well, Splashback plays homage to several other classics such as Sleepwalk (Santo & Johnny), Firewater (Astronauts), Dune Buggy (Surfaris) and Storm Dancer (Jon & the Nightriders). Splashback possess an excellent surf guitar tone and back beat. Lots of finger poppin' reverb throughout each tune. Sidetrip is an excellent example of the original material the group performs. If you really want to show everybody that you are not a gremmie, then buy this CD today and hear some real surf music for a change.

John Blair - DISCOVERIES Magazine

MRS. MOTO Album

There is, in fact, quite an abundance of good surf music emanating from all four corners of the globe these days. California remains the Mother Lode, however, and the San Francisco Bay area has a healthy collection of musically well-endowed surf bands it would seem. The latest is a relatively undiscovered gem of a band called Splashback. These guys are seasoned musicians who remind me a lot of the current incarnation of The Chantays. Their first CD, Mrs. Moto, is quite a surprise upon first listening. There's no dearth of reverb here and the melodies of the nearly all original dozen instros are quite infectious (especially on the title track, the Shadows-inspired "Whitecap Serenade" and the fresh-sounding cover of "Sleepwalk"). This is simply unpretentious, well-produced and nicely played surf instrumental music.

Robert Silverstein - 20TH CENTURY GUITAR Magazine

MRS. MOTO Album

Recently released by the California-based group Splashback is the CD Mrs. Moto. Inspired by the early '60s guitar instrumentals from The Ventures and The Shadows, guitarists Dana Vincent and Bill Epps have recorded a delightful album bound to entice all surf-rock buffs. 12 tracks of pure guitar instrumentals, Mrs. Moto includes a cover of "Sleepwalk".

Steven McParland - CALIFORNIA MUSIC Magazine

MRS. MOTO Album

If the Southland is where you think surf music belongs, then catch an earful of Splashback's CD debut, MRS. MOTO, an exuberant set of 12 more reasons why surf music has lasted so long. Of the dozen tunes, seven are group originals, with the rest being excellent cover versions of Firewater (The Astronauts), Sleepwalk (Santo & Johnny), Storm Dancer (Jon & Nightriders), Dune Buggy (The Surfaris) and the real highlight of the set, Surfer in Paradise, a perfectly moulded medley of Stranger in Paradise and Telstar. The CD is worth it for this alone, never mind the other great originals. And by the way, the title of the CD may sound strange, but it is a salute to one of the first recognisable surf tunes released, the Belairs MR. Moto, issued by Arvee Records during the summer of 1961. The Bill Epps penned title tune Mrs. Moto was also featured on California Music Magazine's sampler CD SOUNDS FROM THE INSIDE, VOL. 2.

Rich Hagstrom - LIVE WIRE Magazine

MRS. MOTO Album

Very '90s California surf band puts out first CD composed of men who first cut their teeth playing instrumental music in the '60s. The twin guitar rhythm and leads of Dana Vincent and Bill Epps are powerful on standards like the Astronauts' 'Firewater' and the amazing title cut where strong rhythms and the Spanish melody sound like a tip of the hat to surf pioneers Eddie Bertrand and Paul Johnson! This band is tops in my books; they take their Ventures and Dick Dale influences and, retaining the tones and punch of these '60s bands, forge fantastic originals like 'Whitecap Serenade' and 'Shakedown'. There's some ferocious double pickin' on 'Surfer in Paradise' (with nods to 'Stranger in Paradise' and 'Telstar'). Ditto for Jon and the Nightriders' 'Storm Dancer' and The Surfaris 'Dune Buggy' which are faithfully reproduced by the guitarists and their drivin' band!

Larry Belanger - ALL MUSIC GUIDE

MRS. MOTO Album

Splashback is a group of musicians who have a keen sense of what makes up great surf music. They incorporate tight drumming with multiple fills and precise accentuations. A well-thought-out bass line is always a key element to the infectious groove of each composition. The guitar work from Bill Epps and Dana Vincent is always ace with massive doses of the great reverb sound long associated with the true surf music essence. MRS. MOTO, the band's debut album captures the listener from the first track "Forever Gremmy". "Forever Gremmy" contains all the elements associated with roots surf music plus some tricks from the band's bag of goodies. Vincent and Epps lay down some tight phrases, while Bob McInturff on bass and Steve Kish on drums add their sharp rhythm section accents. "Sidetrip" with multiple time changes and intricate lead guitar work captures the listener in it's lair, never easing in intensity. The tightness within the band is clearly displayed on this gem. The ingredients all come from the book of surf recipes, but the end product is pure genius for the surf gourmet. If one is searching for fabulous guitar work, the title track "Mrs. Moto" will end the search. With heavily reverb-laced lead guitar phrases swapping off with squeaky clean lead guitar passages, one can not help but become engrossed the alluring presentation. As if Splashback's original pieces are not enough to please the diehard surf fan, they include some covers which blow the listener away. The classic surf tune which conjures up the fabulous duo Santo & Johnny, "Sleepwalk" is included among the twelve compositions on the album. What makes Splashback truly unique and original is the unconventional way they view surf music. The majority of surf tunes were three-basic-chord, high-reverb, guitar-rooted pieces. Splashback's original compositions are of a more complex formula, consequently the music has the familiar groove of the style with more color and depth. MRS. MOTO is a perfect example of Splashback putting their surf music theory on the line. So dive on in, Surf's Up Dude!

Phil Dirt - KFJC Radio - Los Altos

CHANGING TIDES Album

Splashback's second release is significantly stronger than the first, which is really saying something. The band has matured as a unit, and the differences between the two guitarists' writing continues to combine into splendid new works. Lots of trad roots, and a sense of now as well. Recommended.

HOT CURL - "Hot Curl" is an edgy hard driving instro with surf roots and modern sounds. It has the ring of a Paul Johnson tune a la the Packards is some ways, but is distinctly Splashback. The similarity is in the melodic rolling lead lines delivered with distortion. It is also pure Dana Vincent...a great rockin' track. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].
FAULTLINE - On the trad side, Dana's "Faultline" rides the surf line fully. An excellent melodic riff, beautiful tone, and a delicate artful end. "Faultline" is a spectacular track. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].
DISTANT SHORES - Bill Epps' melodic sense is quite different from Dana's. His melodies are more like dribbling rivulets of pure water. Crystalline playing and sparkling guitar lines..."Distant Shores" is excellent! [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It]
LOCO-MOTIVE - Another Dana Vincent tune, with a warm melody and an adventurous sense of space and time. Warm like a spring day, smooth and polished, "Loco-Motive" is just plain cool. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It]
EL SERENO - Splashback has been playing this for many years in their live sets. It's immediately apparent that it comes from the pen of Bill Epps, with its stellar beauty and pristine guitar. It's long been a fave of mine, and now that it's finally on disc, well...enjoy! This fine tune also appears by the Vara-tones on their great CD. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Incredible, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Kill For It].
CLIMB TO THE TOP - The band has been playing this for a long time. It's gradually developed into a rich structure with maybe Paul Johnson influences. Beautifully played, this is a little sad and moody...must be from the loneliness of the "Climb To The Top". [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].
WAVECHASER - "Wavechaser" sports a fine melody line, with a solid structure beneath. Some of the smoothness and writing hints of Paul Johnson, yet it is freshly warm and infectious. There's joy amid these notes, boys and girls. Excellent delicate track. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].
HEADIN' OUT - Dribbly surf glissandos, richly reverbed lead guitar, delicately loud sound, and Bill Epps trademark big time crunchy surf monster sound...yup, that says it. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Kill For It].
SANDTRAP - The rhythm's the thing...restrained and delicate, moderately captivating, warm and round...almost makes you wanna get stuck in a "Sandtrap". The performance is letter perfect. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].
BEYOND THE BLUE - This utterly gorgeous Bill Epps tune is richly Spanish flavored, tropically breezed, and lazily drifting...a magnificent sojourn to an undiscovered cove. Very pretty. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Kill For It].
FIRST WAVE - Dana Vincent's "First Wave" has been in their set forever...it's about time it got the perfect studio treatment. The rolling second guitar lines are so very cool under this sparkling melody. It's forward looking with a rear view reverence. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Kill For It].
MIDNIGHT RUSH - The opening chords remind me of the Berzerkers' "Can't Trust Myself," but the textures and melody are completely different. "Midnight Rush" gradually warmly drifts through a gently sensual space with just a tad bit of vulnerability. Very nice. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].
SURF BLASTER - Both Splashback and the Vara-tones have been playing this Bill Epps tune for quite some time. One of Bill's strengths is his ability to take his own song into different lineups and give it variant treatments that render it anew. This is delicate and pristine where the Vara-tones' version is more energy driven. The dribbling glissandos here give you goose bumps, as do the damped line. Excellent! [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Incredible, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Kill For It].
WATER WAND - "Water Wand" is a playful number with a grin and a sense of restrained exuberance. Really nice phrasing...the tone and the ringing sustain give it a gentlemanly roundness while only slightly veiling the summer surf below. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].
MISS SHIFT - Almost wiggly whammy warms up this almost classical feeling melody...quite nice. [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].
NITE CREATURES - Pure trad...whammy...dribbling guitar...surf rhythms...and that recognizable Bill Epps sense of structure. A mere wisp of the fragrance of Jon and the Nightriders. Really nice track! [Surf Instrumental] [Performance: Notable, Production: Average Stereo, Gotta Have It Factor: Miserable Without It].

Alan Taylor - PIPELINE Magazine

CHANGING TIDES Album

Splashback are a four-piece from California who instil a fine sense of melody into their sweet surfin' sounds. Imagine the early Ventures with the benefit of some smoother guitar sounds and a touch of reverb and you're on the way. Add in a fine bunch of originals from the four band members and Changing Tides emerges as a very satisfying set.

Hot Curl introduces the show with rolling waves of notes and a catchy chorus riff as drummer Steve Kish lays about his kit for all he's worth. Faultline ups the intensity a notch with striking rhythm chords and a deep-throated lead from Dana Vincent. Dana's guitar partner Bill Epps steps upfront for Distant Shores with its alternating moods of danger and beauty. El Sereno is aptly swaying palms with just the rippling sea for company. Wavechaser bubbles along nicely while Headin' Out crashes out to ride some seriously high Hawaiian surf, this is definitely one for the surf film soundtracks with its menacing intensity.

Things chill out on Beyone The Blue, which rather rapidly assumed the name Beyond The Blue Lagoon around here. Exotically smooth without losing the atmosphere, this is one tasty ballad. The pip-pop damped reverb backing of Midnight Rush contrasts with the softly rounded lead to become more of a mid-tempo toe-tapper than the Pyramids blaster one might have expected. Of such little touches are attractive albums made.

Surf Blaster is bursting at the seams with barely contained menace, the delivery via clean picked reverb lead never quite overflowing into full-on attack. Finally, some Nite Creatures bring the event to an end with a fast-flowing, bubbly reverb-popper that sports an attractive melody and a super little arrangement.

That's ten obvious top-notch tracks to build your listening around whilst the others, which ain't half-bad, grow on you. This should join the equally excellent Mrs. Moto, Splashback's first album in every guitar fan's collection.

David Johenk - KCSB Radio - Santa Barbara

CHANGING TIDES Album

If you've heard Splashback's 1997 album MRS. MOTO and have been wondering when they plan on releasing album number two, then wonder no more my friends because it's here! Splashback is back with their second release entitled CHANGING TIDES which brings sixteen original tunes. Written primarily by the two guitarists Dana Vincent and Bill Epps (also of the Vara-Tones), Bob McInturff (bass) and Steve Kish (drums) get into the writing action as well. With an all band effort like this you know it's going to be tight and you know it's going to shred.

Stylistically, this CD has it all. While being a modern surf release it definetely has a traditional sense to it. Another nice thing about this disc is that it breathes: it's got its surf burners such as HOT CURL, HEADIN' OUT, SURF BLASTER, and NITE CREATURES but it also has the pretty and scenic EL SERENO, BEYOND THE BLUE, and WATER WAND.

Splashback definitely delivers with CHANGING TIDES. So if you thought that MRS. MOTO was a far out achievement then paddle your board back to shore because something is happening on the beach...it's CHANGING TIDES.

Ray Forth - NEW GANDY DANCER Magazine

CHANGING TIDES Album

We haven't seen our pals SPLASHBACK live for awhile; they've been keeping a low profile, but will soon be doing a couple of shows in the area, including one here in San Francisco. And, their long awaited second record is out!

Mrs. Moto's returned, sporting a black leather jacket (and skirt) instead of a kimono. But not to worry, the band's sound hasn't changed to a splash-and-burn approach! SPLASHBACK continues to produce the same melodic (and rockin') music you've come to expect since their excellent first CD.

How could they improve on that first recording, which rated a TEN, and was on everyone's Best of the Year lists? Well, all original tunes, greater depth in the music, longer cuts (fifteen minutes more music than MRS. MOTO), and even a Hot Rod vocal (MISS SHIFT)!

My personal favorites: HOT CURL, LOCO-MOTIVE, SANDTRAP, and (especially) NITE CREATURES, (all up-tempo) are as good as the first CD's originals, which were as good as the classic covers therein. But the rest of the cuts aren't chopped liver! A fast HEADIN' OUT has a slight Dick Dale flavor. SURFBLASTER is perhaps a skewed Surf Rider.

They're all enhanced by the exciting Fender interplay between guitarists DANA VINCENT and BILL EPPS, who co-composed the traditional, yet fresh-sounding material. CLIMB TO THE TOP has some particularly tasty guitar sounds. BEYOND THE BLUE, DISTANT SHORES, and EL SERENO have catchy melodies, and there's lots more!

BOB "BOBSTER" MCINTURFF's fluid bass work keeps it humming along nicely. One small quibble, the record doesn't seem to have been mixed as brightly as the first, and more importantly, STEVE "THUMPER" KISH's first-class drumming is too often buried (give the drummer some!). Nonetheless, fans of SPLASHBACK will not be disappointed with this new release. Now we can begin waiting for the third one!

John Blair - DISCOVERIES Magazine

CHANGING TIDES Album

Several surf and rock instrumental bands have recently issued their second studio CDs, follow-ups to critically acclaimed debut efforts between 1996 and 1998. It's easy to comment on all these, because all are excellent efforts - perhaps in different ways - but all of them are certainly among the best releases in the genre for the year 2000.

Splashback's 1998 CD Mrs. Moto was a sparkling first effort from this left coast traditional surf band. Their latest, Changing Tides, is no less noteworthy: 16 originals, all of them nicely crafted with a tasteful use of reverb. This is a difficult feat for most instrumental rock bands - to resist the temptation to cover other songs - but Splashback does it well on Changing Tides!

Paul Johnson - BELAIRS/Rock Instrumentals

CHANGING TIDES Album

I thoroughly enjoyed Changing Tides from beginning to end! A great album. No kidding - I like every tune on it - the melodies have such inventiveness and variety that it never lags. I also appreciate the subtlety and moodiness, and the range of emotion that comes through. It has that "romantic" mystique about it like the best surf music of old (a quality that is missing from much of the "splashier" stuff most of the third wave bands are doing today).

If I had to pick fave tracks, I'd say Loco-Motive, Beyond the Blue and Midnight Rush. And I got a kick out of Miss Shift - it reminded me of those old Gary Usher hot rod sessions I played on, only much hipper... So - you have a new fan, and I'll look forward to your next record!

Larry Belanger - DOWNEAST REVIEWS

CHANGING TIDES Album

Track 1 - Hot Curl - The high gear tempo of the first track gets the beach party in gear. The bass riffs from Bob McInturff in conjunction with Steve Kish's intricate drum fills lend a strong foundation for the guitar attack which is the root of this instrumental. (Excellent)

Track 2 - Faultline - With an infectious groove this piece has the flavor of 60's surf but the blend of a modern production. The start is very powerful, but the bottom drops a notch after that, making it an enjoyable aural adventure. Jimi Hendrix was certainly wrong when he said surf music would never be heard again, because Splashback brings it back with a beautiful fury. (Excellent)

Track 3 - Distant Shores - This tune has a contagious melody which has extreme melodic depth and dynamics. The simplistic reverb filled electric guitar phrases are equally balanced by complex phrases which make for an exhilarating listen. The busy drumming from Steve Kish add fills in key passages lending to the full rich sound and complementing the active bass guitar riffs. (Excellent)

Track 4 - Loco-Motive - The Loco-Motive is running down the track at top notch speed with intricate precision on this track. The beautiful melodic guitar chops are masterfully presented with a grace and elegance which few guitarist could hope to equal. This band has studied the surf genre very closely and are able to contribute excellent compositions to carry the torch of the masters. (Excellent)

Track 5 - El Sereno -This tune is beautifully executed with marvelous electronic effects to the electric guitars adding intense dynamics. The powerful rhythm section which blast forth when needed are a key attraction in the beauty of the piece. It is the melodic expertly crafted electric lead guitar licks which carry this tune to the ultimate height though. (Excellent)

Track 6 - Climb to the Top - One has to wonder where these amazing artists come up with the captivating melodies, as on this tune, which they appear to create with ease. The unconstrained instrumental allure which flows from each musician gels into another outstanding composition. (Excellent)

Track 7 - Wavechaser - The old surf tunes would allow one to conjure up memories of the calm serene nature of riding that special wave. Splashback brings the listener flashbacks of that art with this tune, which allows one to virtually search out that big wave via their instrumental conveyance. (Excellent)

Track 8 - Headin' Out - Kick the reverb up, was the intention with this uptempo number. It does the job with a powerful presence in the intricate lead guitar presentations which lend to the dynamics. The straight ahead rhythm section has some tight breaks which serve to display the professionalism of the musicians. (Excellent)

Track 9 - Sandtrap - Steve Kish's steady drumming leads off this gem. The mellow lead guitar licks build with an intensity which creates an excellent ambience. The lead guitar presentations change persona by switching the tone of the guitars, which adds interesting tonal color to the infectious melody. (Excellent)

Track 10 - Beyond the Blue - The slow waltz groove of this tune has the elegant sound quality which Santo & Johnny made their mark with. Splashback incorporates heavy vibrato where Santo & Johnny would feature steel guitar licks. The beauty in the melody is soothing and has a tremendous calming effect. The exceptional stability of the musicians is amazing and such a joy to experience. (Excellent)

Track 11 - First Wave - The layered guitars create such a full sound that the rhythm section can expand and add numerous fills adding to the overall depth and color. The melody is familiar in comforting style, but the originality comes from the unique presentation. The tempo is quick with a very danceable groove to do those 60's dances like the swim, pony and mashed potato. (Excellent)

Track 12 - Midnight Rush - The clean rhythm guitar sound on this tune is a strong foundation which is balanced by the bass guitar playing off the chord changes. The drum fills are intricate, but never prevail over the other instruments, complementing the overall instrumental presentation. (Excellent)

Track 13 - Surf Blaster - The drum intro for this piece has a traditional surf quality with many rolls. The quick tempo is a blend similar to many of the 60's surf bands, incorporating many key lead guitar phrases. The tune is almost a medley of surf guitar riffs, making the listening adventure a unique experience. (Excellent)

Track 14 - Water Wand - Splashback manages to stay within the 60's surf style of music, but they have a modern-esque approach to the feel and quality of the end product. This tune is an excellent example with the expansion on traditional surf guitar chops creating an original tonal quality and an engrossing melody line. (Excellent)

Track 15 - Miss Shift - This tune moves away from the encompassing surf tonal essence and veers toward a more traditional Rock sound. The reverb is turned down and the rhythm chords are intensified with a powerful presence. Steve Kish's drumming is smoking with key fills. Another element which separates this tune from the others, the fact that it has vocals, and with a rockabilly quality also. (Excellent)

Track 16- Night Creatures - For the closing track on the album, Splashback cranks up the reverb and pulls out all the fancy lead guitar riffs from their bag of tricks. What an excellent Surf tune to rock the night, or day, with. The excellent presentation of tight musicians creating a piece of vibrant musical art, fills the void felt by Surf music aficionados for too many years. (Excellent)

Larry's overall impression:

The element that attracts many listeners to bands who focus on the genre of instrumental surf music is the lack of vocals. Splashback does include one tune with vocals on the album, "Miss Shift", but the heart and soul of the surf guitar sound is there, allowing one to forgive the slight of hand. On the rest of the peices from the album one can relax and enjoy music for it's instrumental content in much the same way as people who are moved by classical pieces. The rock element in Splashback's surf sound is the tempo and the basic beat, but the expressive guitar riffs layered with heavy reverb are what make their music as powerful as it is. Splashback brings back true instrumental surf music in a pattern which will make the lover of 60's surf tear up a bit. It is so refreshing to hear a band bring back this lost but not forgotten art with such a high quality sound. If one is looking to get an album to fill the void when the Dick Dale album isn't on the deck, then "Changing Tides" is the album to pick up. Continuing in the tradition of guitar rooted surf bands, Splashback brings melodic songs to the table for this album. Bringing back the sound which sold millions of albums for bands like the Ventures seems like a speculative venture, but with a quality sound such as Splashback has, it is a welcomed presentation and a positive move. There is still a generation purchasing albums who desire more surf music, and possibly a younger generation will stumble upon this lost art of making great instrumental music via Splashback's powerfilled compilation, "Changing Tides". I for one, thank Splashback for bringing back the music which I love with the continued tradition of the masters of the genre. Thank You!

Bill Wardwell - Surf Music Enthusiast

KFJC EL NINO BREAK Show

For my 52-year-old ears, these guys from the Los Altos area were the hit of the show! Bill Epps on lead guitar with Dana Vincent on lead and rhythm proved to be an absolutely AWESOME combination. Bill played a '78 Fender Stratocaster into a Fender Reverb Tank and blackface Fender Bandmaster amp. These guys mixed up some classics with many of their own compositions and simply NAILED IT! When you think of SPLASHBACK, think of surf TONE, TONE, TONE! The band's first CD titled Mrs. Moto is now available. Buy one and you'll see what I mean!

Ray Forth - NEW GANDY DANCER Magazine

CLUB COCODRIE Show

Friday night, September 11th, the Cocodrie Club hosted the latest in a series of Beach Party/Tiki Festival affairs held at different venues around San Francisco. I had met two uber babes on holiday from Germany earlier at another club, and invited them to the clambake. They didn't know surf music, not even the APEMEN or LOONEY TUNES, and didn't know the VENTURES! But they knew "Pulp Fiction". I told them they were going to hear one of the best in SPLASHBACK, whose first CD is still one of my favourites. They opened the show (!) with an excellent set. Unfortunately, the place was about half-full, and hadn't really started jumping, but they were well received just the same. From the CD, SPLASHBACK played "Side Trip", "Mrs. Moto", "Whitecap Serenade", and "Shakedown", all very rockin"! Other winners, both originals and covers, were "Torque Wrench", "Killer Dana", "Cove", "University Boulevard", "Surf Blaster", "Wild 'n Wendy", "Hot Curl", "Distant Shores", "First Wave", "TR-6", and "Bennet Cerf". Saluting Duane Eddy, a tasty medley of "Rebel Rouser", "Ramrod", and "40 Miles of Bad Road" was a big hit with the audience. The set was finished off with a throbbing "Miserlou"!

Ray Forth - NEW GANDY DANCER Magazine

SEVEN NOTES Show

Here's another band we've not seen for a couple of years. They simply haven't been around, except for the rare gig or benefit in their South Bay area, which we never see listings for. And it happened again (they called to tell me) just a short while back at the SEVEN NOTES Club in San Francisco.

I was surprised when I got to the SEVEN NOTES Club (just up the street from Bimbos) to find there were no tickets available! The headliners (an unknown to us, vocal band) and SPLASHBACK's fans had filled the place. Fortunately BILL EPPS (Guitar), STEVE KISH (Drums), and BOB McINTURFF (Bass) were lolling out front, and the "BOBSTER" got me inside (thanks!). After saying hello to guitarist DANA VINCENT, I chatted with a few people I know, as well as some foxy wahines who, it turned out were with the other band, were not instro fans, and were not interested.

The nice thing about having SPLASHBACK open was we didn't have long to wait, and it was but a few minutes until the band took the stage ripping into the powerful and melodic HOT CURL, followed by the equally effective SURF BLASTER. And they kept coming; WAVECHASER, DISTANT SHORES, and FAULTLINE! All five off the newish CHANGING TIDES CD, and sounding as strong as the first record. Naturally the new material took on a greater scope than the recording, which I hadn't been playing with the frequency of MRS. MOTO, but since the show, I have been! Stopping to catch a breath, DANA said to the audience, "As you can see (and hear), we don't sing!" The response from the instro segment of the audience was loud and prolonged clapping and hooting! That's the spirit!

Mixed in with their own worthy originals were some interesting covers; a smokin' HAWAII-5-0, MOONLIGHT SURFER (remember the DEADLY ONES? IT'S MONSTER SURFIN' TIME? HAL BLAINE, et. al.?), LINK WRAY's I'M BRANDED, and from LOS STRAITJACKETS, UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD and CALHOUN SURF. Exciting covers from the first CD included DUNE BUGGY (SURFARIS), FIREWATER (ASTRONAUTS), and SURFER IN PARADISE (STRANGER/TELSTAR combo), which was dedicated to this correspondent by Bassman BOB in between laying down a heavy bottom end of sound! Drummer STEVE's fine percussion work (TAMA kit) was further enlivened by an ever-changing array of "hats"; fezes, Jester's cap, Bullwinkle head, and various other floppy-eared headgear which one couldn't help grinning at!

MRS. MOTO met MR. MOTO in an obvious (and delightful) pairing. DUANE EDDY was well- served with REBEL ROUSER/RAMROD/40 MILES OF BAD ROAD (surf style). SHANGHAIED, BULLDOG, and RAM-BUNK-SHUSH were thrown in for good measure. LAIKA AND THE COSMONAUTS may not have done FLOATING (at their show), but SPLASHBACK's all-FENDER line-up more than compensated! I don't want to give the impression that SPLASHBACK's show was top-heavy on covers. It wasn't. The band's creative and musical compositions are the equal (and often superior) to the records of others, and they gave the audience the best from both CDs!

SPLASHBACK original gems included BEYOND THE BLUE, NIGHT CREATURES, SHAKEDOWN, EL SERENO, LOCO-MOTIVE, (the terrific) FOREVER GREMMY, FIRST WAVE, SANDTRAP, and many more. The band has a knack for coming up with thoughtful melodies, a traditional flavor and a contemporary edge, though without the tweaked-out thrashing that passes for modern surf for many bands. And did we praise the two-guitar line-up? None of that budget surf stuff here! DANA and BILL are both wailin', providing the ensemble with a rich, full sound. Missing from the set list was MISS SHIFT, though the inspiration and voice were in the audience in the form of ROBERTA VINCENT, DANA's wife, a charming lady.

There was time for one more tune, so SPLASHBACK left the crowd (already sated from a brilliant set of originals and covers) with a crunching version of the CHANTAY's KILLER DANA (VINCENT?), which capped off the evening for us in stylish form (we didn't stay for the "headliner"). If you're fortunate enough to have SPLASHBACK visit your town, I strongly recommend that you catch their show. A potent combination of originality and musicianship, this band doesn't disappoint! And you don't need to be a surf music fan to appreciate their talent, you just need to like good instrumental guitar music!

Ray Forth - NEW GANDY DANCER Magazine

BEACH CHALET Show

Splashback has been a personal favourite since hearing them on a compilation record. The subsequent "Mrs. Moto" CD and seeing them live, confirmed and solidified my appreciation of the band. Splashback, from the South Bay area, hadn't played in San Francisco for almost two years. The Beach Chalet is far off the beaten city track and the audiences ebb and flow according to the weather. You're dependent on the diners staying on to drink and fill out the small number of instro fans. Happily the number of regulars on Thursday nights has been steadily increasing, and it is a beautiful night and the place is packed. The second floor Brewery-Restaurant overlooks the Pacific Ocean; the sunsets are spectacular and the food is pretty good - and the beer!

Splashback performed three sets on an unseasonably warm Saturday night at the end of March. Opening with Nokie's "Surf Rider", "Moonlight Surfer" (Deadly Ones) and "Floating" (Laika and the Cosmonauts), they proceeded to a frisky half-dozen originals from their second CD "Changing Tides"; rollicking, reverb-riddled versions of "Distant Shores", "Wavechaser", "Beyond the Blue", "First Wave", "Freefall", and "Night Creatures". "Cherry Pink, Surf White" was a sassy take on the Prez Prado hit (and Ventures' cover). "Panic Button", "Mercy of the Wave" and "Aqua Dancer" picked up the pace, and the set ended with a strong "Pipeline".

Dana Vincent's and Bill Epps' guitar work is always tasteful; in fact, along with the Shi-Tones, Mach IV, and Shig and Buzz, they epitomize the very best in melodic instrumental rock. Not surprisingly, all are heavily influenced by the Ventures and the Shadows, with a healthy respect for the traditional aspects of the genre.

The second set was a fun-filled ride spanning the chronology of instrumental rock as we know it, with John Blair's "Storm Dancer" kicking it off. Splashback's excellent "Firewater" preceded a Duane Eddy triad of "Rebel Rouser", "Ramrod", and "40 Miles of Bad Road". The band's own version of "Torque Wrench" (smokin'!) bridged the way to a Ventures' segment - "Hawaii-5-0", Walk Don't Run", "Perfidia", and "Lullaby of the Leaves" - very nicely executed. The rhythm section of Bob 'Bobster' McInturff on bass and Steve 'Thumper' Kish on drums propelled the dual guitars in unwavering momentum, especially in "I'm Branded" and "Rumble" (Link Wray). After the tributes, the audience was treated to a swingin' hodge-podge of classics; "Midnight Run" (Pyramids/Superstocks), "Mr. Moto" and "Bedlam" (Paul Johnson), and "Bulldog" (Fireballs/Ventures). A Crunching "Miserlou" brought a most satisfying second set to a close!

I've never seen Splashback do three sets (or even two!), as they've generally shared the bill. The two sets we'd just heard would have been an exemplary show, so this third go-around seemed like extra icing on the cake - or foam on the wave! A stinging "Hot Curl" (which opened the second CD) got things going, while a super-Mescal "Tequila" set up a couple more Ventures' faves, "Shanghaied" and "Ram-Bunk-Shush". The band did a fine version of the Vy-dels' "Unknown". "Faultline" (Dana Vincent) and "Surfblaster" (Bill Epps), both off the second CD, rocked out prior to a tasty "Calhoun Surf" (Los Straitjackets) and the old Dickster's "Surf Beat". A credible "Good, Bad, and the Ugly" was almost as good as Splashback's 'Stranger/Telstar' combo - "Surfer in Paradise". These guys were definitely rockin' the chalet! Another handful of smokers including "Bennet Cerf" and "Hydrogen Highway" kept the dancers moving, and the show concluded with Splashback's climatic rendition of the Chantays' "Killer Dana", which the band has appropriated for obvious reasons (Dana Vincent)! If this show does turn out to be their swan song, the band will have gone out in style. But you never know, they might surprise us and (I can't resist!) splash back (cue the groans!)!