”The Surfaris were an American surf rock band formed in Glendora, California in 1962. They are best known for two songs that hit the charts in the Los Angeles area, and nationally by May 1963: “Surfer Joe” and “Wipe Out”, which were the A-side and B-side of the same 45 rpm single.
Wilson’s energetic drum solo made “Wipe Out” one of the best-remembered instrumental songs of the period. “Wipe Out” is also remembered particularly for its introduction. Before the music starts, Berryhill’s dad broke a board (imitating a breaking surf board) near the mic, followed by a maniacal laugh and the words “Wipe Out” spoken by band manager Dale Smallin. “Wipe Out” was written in the studio by the four original members (Berryhill, Connolly, Fuller, & Wilson). It was initially issued on the tiny DFS label (#11/12) in January, 1963. It was reissued on the tiny Princess label (#50) in February, 1963. It was picked up by Dot (45-16479) in April, 1963, and later reissued as Dot 45-144 in April, 1965. It sold over one million copies and was awarded a gold disc.
The band released a series of records, with two other singles, “Surfer Joe” (written and sung by Wilson) and “Point Panic” (another group-composed instrumental), having an impact on the charts. Point Panic is a renowned surfing venue in Hawaii after which the song was named.
The original 1963 membership remained intact until August 1965 when Connolly departed before their Japanese tour. Ken Forssi replaced him on bass for the tour. Fuller resigned after the tour and the band folded in early 1966.” [wiki]
“Ha ha ha ha ha, wipe out!.” Classic stuff, everybody knows [remember legendary chasing scene from “The Wanderers”?] but The Surfaris ain’t just ”one hit wanders”. They recorded several fine lps and 45’s and this here are three collections of their 60’s stuff from classic dragin’ & surfin’ tunes [cool instros as Scatter Shield, Murphy The Surfie, Point Panic, Waikiki Run, Burnin’ Rubber, Beat 65, Big Surge, Surf Scene, Dune Buggy, Scratch] to garage, pop & folk rock [especially ’77 comp. ”Gone With The Wave” with many interesting covers]. ”Wipe Out! The Best Of” comes with 6 bonus trax added by Mr.Eliminator, so you better watch out! Go Go Go For Louie’s Place! Dig !!!
SURFADELIC 