January Birthdays 
From Reverb Central
Lava Pups - Into The Flow ***
Paul The Pyronaut plays rhythm on this recording from one of his guitar students. Bill T. has been only playing for a short while, so there are imperfections in delivery, but I have to agree with Paul about the caliber of the songs. Given tome to flesh out arrangements and become more fluid on guitar, the strong writing on these songs will evolve into excellent surf instros.
Picks: Into The Flow, Link Man, Out Of The Vortex, Sea Witch, Pacifica Blue, Lava Tube, Magma Runner
Track by Track Review
Into The Flow ***
Surf (Instrumental)
"Into The Flow" is an easy going track with a catchy melody riff. Superb rhythm patterns provide the best light in which the melody can unfold. I like the melody a lot. The lead is tentative in places, but if you're not a player, you may not notice.
Link Man ***
Surf (Instrumental)
The melody structure of "Link Man" is reminiscent of "Into The Flow" in places, but distinctly different for the most part. Interesting ideas.
Out Of The Vortex ***
Surf (Instrumental)
"Out Of The Vortex" is an interestingly written song, with good arranging. The surf-pop nature of the melody is catchy, and the dramatic changes interesting too.
Sea Witch ***
Surf (Instrumental)
Whammy chords, and rough glissandos drive a very cool song. There's development work needed here, but this is a fine piece of writing and a satisfying listen. It reminds me a bit of "Surf Punk" from Shark Bait.
Pacifica Blue ****
Surf (Instrumental)
Gentle island chords and imagery flow from this soothing number. "Pacifica Blue" provides a lovely view of clear and placid waters on a summer afternoon. Very easy to like.
Lava Tube ****
Surf (Instrumental)
"Lava Tube" is among the most engaging tracks here, with a fine melody, dribbling double picked lines, chunky rhythm, and an endearing sound. A bit sad, but still playful.
Magma Runner ***
Surf (Instrumental)
"Magma Runner" is a bit riffy at times, and somewhat tentative, but there's promise in the muted rhythm, drums, and bass. and some nice passages. Potential for excellence.
The Cruncher ***
Surf (Instrumental)
A pleasant melody delivered tentatively over a surf bed. As this gets fleshed out and more liquefied, it will become a very cool song.
