On April 1, 1995, an unforgettable celebration of surf music history took place at the iconic Lighthouse Café in Hermosa Beach. Now, for the first time, this remarkable event will be available on vinyl, CD and digital, via Oglio Records for fans around the world to experience. Legends of Surf Guitar captures a pivotal moment when original surf pioneers and revivalists joined forces to celebrate the music that defined a generation. You can check out Legends Of Surf Guitar on Spotify Here, Apple Music Here
In the late 1970s and early ’80s, a new wave of surf instrumental revival bands — including Jon & The Nightriders, The Surf Raiders, The Malibooz, Los Straightjackets and others — reignited interest in the genre, setting the stage for events like this. Building on the momentum from films like Pulp Fiction and a surge of surf-centric radio shows, producer/radio host Les Perry and surf legend Paul Johnson organized the Lighthouse Surf Band Reunion, creating a once-in-a-lifetime musical homecoming.
The event brought together original players from the 1960s and the 1980s revival scene, including legendary names such as The Chantays, The Surfaris, Davie Allan & The Arrows, and special guests like Bob Dalley of The Surf Raiders and Bob Demmon of The Astronauts. Supporting the performers was a stellar backline featuring Don Murray (The Crossfires, The Turtles), Pete Curry (The Halibuts, Los Straitjackets), and John Blair (Jon & The Nightriders), who also co-produced the release alongside renowned engineer Mark Linett (The Beach Boys, Los Lobos, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Los Straitjackets).
Captured live,Legends of Surf Guitaroffers a vibrant, reverb-soaked journey through surf classics like “Mr. Moto,” “Wipe Out,” and “Pipeline,” as well as newer favorites from the genre’s revival era. The energy in the packed Lighthouse Café was electric, with dancers filling every inch of the floor and smiles all around — a scene lovingly recalled by special guest Elliot Easton of The Cars,who attended and contributed to the day’s recordings.
Legends of Surf Guitar is more than a concert recording — it’s a living document of a genre that continues to inspire musicians and fans alike. Featuring rare performances by some of surf music’s original and most revered figures, this release stands as a vibrant reminder of the enduring power and joyful spirit of surf guitar.
Produced by: Mark Linett and John Blair
Recorded by: Mark Linett and Elliot Easton at the Lighthouse Café, Hermosa Beach, CA
Mixed by: Mark Linett at Your Place Or Mine Recording, Glendale, CA
A portion of the original event proceeds benefited: KMAX radio and the Surfrider Foundation.
Order the 2xLP vinyl Here
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