7/09/2025

Documentary Review and Interview With John Blair: Sound of the Surf

Website

Buy The DVD

Note: I have included an interview with John Blair, who played a crucial role in completing this film, despite the passage of 30 years and the untimely death of the person who started it.

Vision Films recently released their tribute to surf culture, Sound of the Surf. If you're a fan of surf instrumental music and curious about its origins, evolution, and resurgence, this documentary is a treasure trove of information. It's a testament to the genre's rich history and the characters who shaped it, preserving their legacy for generations to come.

 

I would paraphrase that as the life and death of surf, and how it has continually renewed itself from the first to the third wave and into the present day. It's a story of resilience and adaptability, inspiring a whole new generation of bands and listeners.

 

The genre is often cited as both simplistic and powerful. Over the years, many subgenres have formed, making the genre more complex and eclectic. Many of the cornerstones have remained, like having songs generally run in the 2-minute-plus range and providing colorful artwork for recordings ranging from 7” 45s to full-length albums.

 

A series of events led to the creation of this music and contributed to the culture of surfers. Before surfers claimed the music as their own, they listened to jazz because it was complementary in terms of expression, much like riding the waves.

 

The Rendezvous Ballroom and The Lighthouse were key venues at the beginning. Dick Dale, considered the father of surf, was eventually fired from the ballroom because someone deemed it "evil devil music." Now, how silly is that? Yet, many people bought into it. That, of course, did not stop the tidal wave of interest that was to happen. Soon, there would be hundreds of surf instrumental bands all over the U.S., and it would spread worldwide.

 

At least that is how it all started with the King of Surf, Dick Dale. His influence is undeniable.

 

The genre remains male-dominated to this day; however, when it first began, there were two central female characters, Kathy Kohner and Kathy Marshall. Kathy Kohner (Gidget, which stands for girl midget) decided that she wanted to write about her experiences, and her father took all the notes, wrote the book, and it was later adapted into a film in 1959. That propelled everything else to new heights, prompting an increase in movies and music about surfing. Kathy Marshall was good enough to play on stage with Dale and join a band. Dale anointed her “The Queen of Surf.” There is more to the story, of course, but you will have to watch the film.

 

Eddie Bertrand (of the Bel-Airs and Eddie and the Showmen) asked Fender to build a cabinet with two speakers for a bigger sound. And they did, but wanted it hushed because they were not producing them. Then, within a month or so, it became the standard, and Fender reaped the benefits.

 

John Blair formed Jon and the Nightriders in 1979 and released Surf Beat '80. This is what ignited the second wave to save the genre from falling into obscurity. It never truly went away; however, everything covered in the film was part of the music's growth and reach.

 

John had a significant hand in this documentary and handled all the narration for the film. He had the perfect demeanor and voice to pull it off.

 

When the 1990s rolled around, it was dubbed the “third wave.” At this time, some bands decided to mix punk with surf, creating an entirely new sound. So now surf morphed into something else entirely, spurring on a whole new generation of bands and listeners.

 

So that is the short version of what you will see and hear in this excellent documentary. It will create awareness and provide many people with a valuable history lesson on surf instrumental music. There is always something else to learn other than what you already know, so make sure you check this film out!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Surf Music and Art Founder

July 7, 2025


60TH ANNIVERSARY 2LP EDITION OF THE PRETTY THINGS + LIVE AT THE 100 CLUB SET FOR RELEASE ON MADFISH (1st August 2025)

TRANSPARENT YELLOW & RED VINYL IN WIDE-SPINE PACKAGING

Celebrating six decades since their incendiary arrival, this double LP brings together two distinct yet complementary snapshots of The Pretty Things’ raw power and unfiltered spirit.

Disc one revisits their eponymous 1965 debut - urgent, swaggering and unapologetically loud - a record that sidestepped polish in favour of presence, capturing the band just as they were: sharp-edged, determined, and miles ahead of the curve. From the pounding drive of “Road Runner” to the ragged charm of “13 Chester Street,” this is where their reputation was forged.

The second LP shifts to the heart of London, 2010: The 100 Club. Still charged, still uncompromising, the band tore through a set that balanced reverence with rebellion. Live At The 100 Club is a snapshot of The Pretty Things still locked into the sound and spirit they helped define, with original members Phil May and Dick Taylor leading the charge.

PRE-ORDER THE PRETTY THINGS + LIVE AT THE 100 CLUB

DISC 1
A.1 Roadrunner [03:12]
A.2 Judgement Day [02:46]
A.3 13 Chester Street [02:22]
A.4 Big City [02:01]
A.5 Unknown Blues [03:48]
A.6 Mama, Keep Your Big Mouth Shut [03:03]
B.1 Honey, I Need [01:59]
B.2 Oh Baby Doll [03:01]
B.3 She’s Fine She’s Mine [04:24]
B.4 Don’t Lie To Me [03:53]
B.5 The Moon Is Rising [02:33]
B.6 Pretty Thing [01:38]

DISC 2
C.1 Roadrunner (live at The 100 Club) [03:19]
C.2 Judgement Day (live at The 100 Club) [02:37]
C.3 13 Chester Street (live at The 100 Club) [03:07]
C.4 Big City (live at The 100 Club) [02:34]
C.5 Unknown Blues (live at The 100 Club) [04:30]
C.6 Mama, Keep Your Big Mouth Shut (live at The 100 Club) [03:01]
D.1 Honey, I Need (live at The 100 Club) [02:17]
D.2 Oh Baby Doll (live at The 100 Club) [03:04]
D.3 She’s Fine She’s Mine (live at The 100 Club) [05:20]
D.4 Don’t Lie To Me (live at The 100 Club) [04:15]
D.5 The Moon Is Rising (live at The 100 Club) [03:49]
D.6 Pretty Thing (live at The 100 Club) [02:49]

"Mr. May’s snarling vocals and rebellious persona helped make his band, the Pretty Things, an influential part of the 1960s British scene.” - The New York Times

"The man David Bowie listed as God in his address book stuck two fingers up at rules about music, sex and life itself – and made the most glorious noise doing it” - The Guardian

"May’s yowling vocals, were as ferociously potent as anything recorded during the 1960s British beat boom.” - The Times

"Although the Pretty Things did not achieve the fame of many of their peers in the UK rock scene, they were beloved by musicians, including Aerosmith and, most famously, David Bowie” – Pitchfork

The Pretty Things + Live At The 100 Club (60th Anniversary 2LP) will be released on Madfish on 1st August 2025. Pre-order here.


www.Madfishmusic.com

Press inquiries: Keith James, Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

7/04/2025

Prog Rock Review: Jethro Tull - Still Living In The Past (5 CD/BR/BOOK)

Release Date:  July 11, 2025

Label: Chrysalis

Website

Steven Wilson’s remasters of the Jethro Tull catalog have reinvigorated the sound of the music and brought further attention to their entire catalog.

Still Living In The Past is a comprehensive package that includes five CDs, featuring Steven Wilson remixes in 24/96 PCM stereo and DTS 5.1 surround, a flat transfer of the original album, and bonus unreleased original mixes. These unreleased mixes, which offer a fresh perspective on the band's classic tracks, are a treasure trove for Jethro Tull fans. It is also available in a 2 LP set.

 

Additionally, it includes the Live at Carnegie Hall 2025 remix in 24/96 PCM and DTS 5.1 surround, as well as four promotional films. It is all presented in a book format, containing a wealth of information about the band’s recording sessions and live shows. For those interested in the lyrics, they are included.

 

The mixes on CD1 and CD2 are clean and vibrant, showcasing the exceptional performances by the band members. Martin Barre’s guitar, consistently brilliant during his years with the band, also shines on CDs 4 and 5, offering a faithful representation of his talents. Having seen Jethro Tull perform live several times during his time there, I can attest that he was the perfect fit for Ian’s songs.

 

Other highlights are some superb flute playing from Ian, and his voice was powerful. The entire band was a well-oiled machine consistently. John Evans had some moments of his own on the keyboards, notably on CD4 “With You There To Help Me / By Kind Permission Of.” The opener on that CD, “Nothing Is Easy,” was terrific as well. The bottom end was spot on, per usual, and Barre just took off in the live setting.

 

Throughout the live tracks, you will hear many moments when the band had more room to stretch out and improvise, adding an element of excitement and spontaneity. At the height of their success, they were a great live band, capable of cutting loose on extended jams and delivering impressive improvisations.

 

Classic JT, such as “Teacher,” “Living In The Past,” ‘The Witch’s Promise, " and “BourĂ©e,” are always a treat. Then “Dharma For One (Live)” explodes with instrumentation; it's one of the best cuts. And “My God,” where Ian informs the audience on the intro, “for those who use God to lean on, it is not my cup of tea.” People familiar with the band and Ian's beliefs, both religious and political, understand him and can set those aside to enjoy the music. I always have myself. I realize he's an intellectual, and his lyrics can be profound and cerebral, but that's what makes the music so much better; it prompts you to reflect and think more deeply. You can think of it as music and beyond, making for a unique combination that has entertained millions of music lovers worldwide.

 

Still Living In The Past is an extraordinary addition to the remasters series and a must-have for those who want to hear rare demos and live material from the band at its peak, when it was becoming world-renowned.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Progressive Music Reviews Founder

July 2, 2025

Full tracklisting

5CD/BR

CD ONE:

ORIGINAL MIXES, REMIXES, EDITS & DEMOS 1968-1971

1. A Song For Jeffrey (Remixed at Morgan Studios in April 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

2. Love Story (Remixed at Morgan Studios in April 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

3. A Christmas Song (Remixed at Morgan Studios in April 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

4. Living In The Past (Remixed at Morgan Studios in April 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

5. Driving Song (Remixed at Morgan Studios in April 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

6. Sweet Dream (Remixed at Morgan Studios in October 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

7. Singing All Day (Remixed at Morgan Studios in October 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

8. Teacher (US Album Version) (Remixed at Morgan Studios in October 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

9. Inside (Andy Johns Mix) (Mixed at Olympic Studios on 18th September 1969 by Andy Johns)

10. My God (Early Version) (Mixed at Morgan Studios on 12th April 1970)

11. Just Trying To Be (Mixed at Morgan Studios on 12th April 1970)

12. Wond’ring Aloud Again (Demo)** (Recorded on 2-track at Morgan Studios in June 1970)

13. Wond’ring Again (Mixed at Morgan Studios in June 1970)

14. Lick Your Fingers Clean (1970 Mix) (Mixed at Island Studios on 31st December 1970. Working Mix #4)

15. Locomotive Breath (DJ Single Edit) (Mixed at Island Studios in February 1971, edited for US Radio in March 1971)

16. Life Is A Long Song (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971)

17. Up The ’Pool (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971)

18. From Later (Alternative Master Mix) (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971. Unused master mix)

19. Life Is A Long Song (Alternative Master Mix) (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971. Unused master mix)

**Mono recording

 

CD TWO:

LIVING IN THE PAST (Part One)

The Steven Wilson Stereo Remixes [Sides 1 & 2] except+

1. A Song For Jeffrey (2025 Remix)

2. One For John Gee (2025 AI remix from mono master)

3. Love Story (2025 Remix)

4. A Christmas Song (2018 Remix. Previously released on This Was 50th Anniversary Edition book set)

5. Living In The Past (2016 Remix. Previously released on Stand Up Elevated Edition book set)

6. Driving Song (2016 Remix. Previously released on Stand Up Elevated Edition book set)

7. Bourée (2016 Remix. Previously released on Stand Up Elevated Edition book set)

8. Fat Man (2016 Remix. Previously released on Stand Up Elevated Edition book set)

9. Singing All Day (2013 Remix. Previously released on Benefit Enhanced Edition book set)

10. Sweet Dream (2013 Remix. Previously released on Benefit Enhanced Edition book set)

11. 17 (2013 Remix. Previously released on Benefit Enhanced Edition book set. Edited in 2024)

12. Teacher (UK Single Version) (2025 Remix)

13. The Witch’s Promise+ (Remixed at Morgan Studios in October 1971 for the Living In The Past album)

14. Teacher (US Album Version) (2025 Remix)

15. Inside (2013 Remix. Previously released on Benefit Enhanced Edition book set)

16. Alive And Well And Living In (2013 Remix. Previously released on Benefit Enhanced Edition book set)

17. Just Trying To Be (2011 Remix. Previously released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

+Remastered by Steven Wilson, 2025

 

CD THREE:

LIVING IN THE PAST (Part Two)

The Steven Wilson Stereo Remixes [Sides 3 & 4] except+

1. By Kind Permission Of (Live) (2025 Remix)

2. Dharma For One (Live) (2025 Remix)

3. Wond’ring Aloud (Early Version) (2011 Remix. Released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

4. Wond’ring Again (2011 Remix. Released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

5. Lick Your Fingers Clean (2025 Remix)

6. Up To Me (2011 Remix. Released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

7. Hymn 43 (2011 Remix. Released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

8. Locomotive Breath (2025 Remix)

9. Life Is A Long Song (2011 Remix. Released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

10. Up The ’Pool (2011 Remix. Released on Aqualung Adapted Edition book set)

11. Dr. Bogenbroom+ (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971)

12. From Later+ (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971)

13. Nursie+ (Mixed at Sound Techniques Studios in June 1971)

BONUS TRACK

14. Locomotive Breath (Unplugged Mix) (2025 Remix)

+Remastered by Steven Wilson, 2025

 

CD FOUR:

LIVE AT CARNEGIE HALL, NOVEMBER 4, 1970

Part 1: 2025 Steven Wilson Stereo Remix

(Recorded on 16-track by Fedco Audio Labs at Carnegie Hall, New York, NY

on November 4, 1970. Engineered by Kim King, assisted by Vin Leary and Dave Palmer)

1. Introduction to Nothing Is Easy

2. Nothing Is Easy

3. Introduction to My God

4. My God (including flute solo)

5. Introduction to With You There To Help Me

6. With You There To Help Me / By Kind Permission Of

7. Introduction to A Song For Jeffrey

8. A Song For Jeffrey

9. Introduction to To Cry You A Song

10. To Cry You A Song

 

CD FIVE:

LIVE AT CARNEGIE HALL, NOVEMBER 4, 1970

Part 2: 2025 Steven Wilson Stereo Remix

(Recorded on 16-track by Fedco Audio Labs at Carnegie Hall, New York, NY

on November 4, 1970. Engineered by Kim King, assisted by Vin Leary and Dave Palmer)

1. Introduction to Sossity; You’re A Woman

2. Sossity; You’re A Woman / Reasons For Waiting

3. Introduction to Dharma For One

4. Dharma For One (including drum solo)

5. Introduction to We Used To Know

6. We Used To Know

7. Guitar instrumental

8. For A Thousand Mothers

 

CD1: Tracks 9, 10, 12, 14, 18 & 19, CD2: 1, 2, 3, 11, 12 & 14,

CD3: 1, 2, 5, 8 & 14, CD4 & CD5 Previously Unreleased

 

DISC 6: BLU-RAY AUDIO

Steven Wilson studio remixes in 24/96 PCM stereo

(and Steven Wilson studio remasters in 24/96 PCM stereo)

Steven Wilson studio remixes in DTS 5.1 surround

 

Steven Wilson remixes [sides 1 & 2]

Steven Wilson remixes [sides 3 & 4]

 

Flat stereo 24/96 transfer of original

Living in the Past studio album reels (UK & US versions combined)

 

Flat stereo 24/96 transfer of bonus unreleased original mixes

 

Live Carnegie Hall 1970, 2025 remix in 24/96 PCM stereo

Steven Wilson Live Carnegie Hall 1970, 2025 remix in DTS 5.1 surround

 

BLU-RAY AUDIO/VIDEO

The Witch’s Promise (March 1970 Promo Film)

Teacher (UK Single Version, March 1970 Promo Film)

Teacher (US Album Version, March 1970 Promo Film)

Life Is A Long Song (September 1971 Promo Film)

 

BD RUNNING TIME: Approx 355 minutes. REGIONS: A, B & C. VIDEO: BD50 - Aspect Ratio: 1080i59.94 / 1080p23.976

AUDIO: 96/24 PCM Stereo and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. EXEMPT FROM CLASSIFICATION

7/03/2025

John Blair Interview (Part One)


I had the opportunity to speak to another surf music legend and author, John Blair, of Jon and the Night Riders.

This was a great conversation, and learning about how things happened for John was fascinating.

Give it a listen!


7/02/2025

Jann Klose Brings NYC To Life In Mesmerizing Stop-Motion Video For “When I’m With You”

Photo Credit: Sam Casey

Jann Klose Brings NYC To Life In Mesmerizing Stop-Motion Video For “When I’m With You”

New York City, NY - Internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter Jann Klose has unveiled the official music video for his latest single, “When I’m With You,” a joyful, synth-rock celebration of human connection. The video—shot entirely using stop-motion cinematography—was directed by Texas-born filmmaker Sam Casey and filmed on location throughout New York City, including iconic landmarks like Times Square, Lincoln Center, and the High Line.

The visually captivating video is the product of over 2,000 photographs, taken in a whirlwind six-hour shoot. Each frame was carefully captured one step at a time—echoing the lyricism and sentiment of the song itself. Jann’s idea to incorporate the concept of a “Daumenkino” (flipbook in German) into the visual storytelling adds a personal and playful layer to the experience, blending innovation with heart.

“I had this idea of shooting a full-on stop motion music video in NYC and pitched it to Sam just days after we met,” says Klose. “He loved it and jumped on board immediately. It was exhausting but exhilarating, and the result is beautiful. Along the way, we engaged with random fans on the street—something that really reflects the soul of the song, ‘When I’m With You.’

Director Sam Casey embraced the challenge of using stop motion in a city that never pauses: “This is the first project I’ve done using stop-motion, and it was a blast. Jann’s vision for the flipbook opening—his ‘daumenkino’—set the tone. Shooting in NYC with moving elements all around us while controlling just one or two subjects gave the video a surreal, dreamlike quality. You don’t get multiple takes with stop motion, which makes each frame more intentional and alive.”

Watch the Music Video for “When I’m With You” here

The single, co-written with Everett Bradley (Bon Jovi, Seal), is a vibrant and emotionally resonant anthem about intimacy, presence, and joy. Everett also co-produced and performed on the track, with production support from Marcus Dembinski, known for his work on Klose’s previous single “Surrender.”

“Now it’s an upbeat celebration with deep undertones of the human connection experience,” says Bradley.

Dembinski adds: “We leaned into influences like 80s synth pop, Billy Joel, A-ha, and the B-52s, and paired them with Jann’s powerhouse vocals and acoustic energy to craft a new sound for him—one that’s bold, bright, and honest.”

With its one-of-a-kind stop-motion artistry, spontaneous New York moments, and heartfelt storytelling, the “When I’m With You” music video is a vivid reminder that joy lives in the little things and connection is always just one step away.

About Jann Klose:
Jann Klose is an award-winning singer-songwriter who has released seven albums and two EPs. His work has amassed over 10 million streams, with songs charting on Top 40 radio in both the U.S. and South Africa. Raised in Kenya, South Africa, Germany, and the United States, Klose’s global perspective continues to shape his cross-genre sound.

He has lent his voice to the film Greetings from Tim Buckley, and his music has appeared in MTV Cribs, Married Young, One Little Finger, and more. His stage credits include touring productions of Jesus Christ Superstar and The Who’s Tommy, and he’s the creator and host of the acclaimed podcast Making Sound with Jann Klose.

Jann has opened for and collaborated with major artists including Pat Benatar, John Oates, Suzanne Vega, The Yardbirds, Annie Haslam, and Rosanne Cash.

Follow Jann’s socials for all the latest news:
https://jannklose.com/
https://www.facebook.com/jann.klose/
https://www.instagram.com/jannklose/
https://threads.net/@jannklose
https://www.youtube.com/jannklose

Press inquiries: Keith James, Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Melissa Conradie, Melissa Conradie Agency, PH: +27 83 601 0487 (South Africa), melissa@melissaconradie.co.za