If you like rock and roll even the slightest bit, you need to check out Los Straightjackets. This foursome from Texas really knows how to bring the house down. They are by far the best instrumental (rock/surf) band working today. Drawing inspiration from Dick Dale, Link Wray, and the Surfari's (to name a few) the Straightjackets blister through 12 tracks on their new album. The problem with most surf bands is that their songs all pretty much sound the same, not these guys. Every song on their new album, The Velvet Touch, is extremely complex, and remarkably original. Here's my opinion on some of their songs...

TRACK 1. kwanga!
This one nails you between the eyes right out of the gate. You can't get much more "surf" than this song. Try to stay under 100 m.p.h. if this song is playing in your car.

TRACK 2. Rockula
Plan 9 From Outer Space anyone? I can only guess that this song is a homage to the b-rated horror movies of the 50's & 60's. outstanding! It rumbles along like the 'Giant Gila Monster', creeps you out like the 'Return of the Fly', and doesn't let up until people are screaming in terror (literally).

TRACK 6. Tempest
I had the pleasure of seeing the Straightjackets open for Reverend Horton Heat and this is the song they opened with. Easily the best (and catchiest) song on the album. The guitar solos on this track completely kick ass, the drums are brutal and frantic.

TRACK 10. Sterno
Equal parts Duane Eddy and Dick Dale, this is music to start a fight with.

Los Straightjackets play 4 on the floor surf rock that refuses to slow down. Pick up any of their albums, you won't be disappointed. See them in concert, and you'll be raving about them just like me.





Recommended: Yes