January Birthdays 
The Aloha Joes - The Aloha Joes 7” (Self-Released)
Four rockin’ tracks of surf-inspired goodness from this Tybee Island trio. While they are unmistakably a surf band, connections to rock and metal of various decades can be made. I even get a hint of 90s hardcore in there. Overall, it’s an up-tempo, surfed-out, rock ‘n’ roll sound, or “surf 'n' roll” as they call it. Drew’s guitar melodies are smooth and catchy. Beau, the bassist is lively and while he doesn’t overpower the lead guitar, he’s not content to lay down simple rhythms either. Filling out the rhythm section, Evan, the drummer keeps the tide rolling with a capable cadence, engaging fills, and a healthy dose of surf beats. With a runtime just shy of 8 minutes, it’s a rollicking good time!
“Betty Cooper” gets the festivities off to a good start. Named after the ‘famed’ blonde guitarist of The Archies (in Archie Comics) this track is the musical metaphor for a day of fun in the sun on a blissful sandy beach. The Joes describe their music as “for surfers by surfers” and “Wetsuit Wiggle” gives us a glimpse into a struggle only a surfer would understand. This is undoubtedly my favorite tune of the four. From the opening crash of the reverb tank, the surfy guitar picking, to the drum roll that is the binaural equivalent of ‘getting barreled.’
The first track on the B-side is “Pinball Summer” and it starts with our beloved glissando. From there on out it’s non-stop surf 'n' roll. “Art Alexakis” was inspired by a chance encounter and an encouraging word from this California rocker. This is the tune where the band’s non-surf influences are apparent. The intro sounds like Dick Dale had a jam session with a 60s-era Sabbath. Then the surf 'n' roll kicks in! We are treated to a groovy bass solo, a few pick slides, brief solos, and then the needle calmly makes its way to the center of the disc.
There are 200 copies on ‘ocean blue’ vinyl housed in a side entry jacket within a polybag. The record was pressed in the USA at Gotta Groove. The artwork fits nicely with the music and carries a vintage and surf vibe. In fact, the center label resembles Mr. Zog’s.
Order your copy today before the tide goes out! Pick up a copy at:
https://thealohajoes.bandcamp.com/album/the-aloha-joes
As reviewed in Colorado Instrumental Fanzine Issue 3
—Matthew
Purchasae Colorado Instrumental Fanzine Issue 3
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Email: Matthew_e_clark_6@hotmail.com
