When the amiable surf ‘n’ sun strut that is the title song for Walk Don’t Run became a sudden number two national hit single, there wasn’t time for trivialities like blinking, breathing, or thinking in themes - although their cover of Santo and Johnny’s “Sleepwalk,” reinterpreted as a surfside saunter, might fit the ambulatory bill. The Ventures had to hit the road to capitalize on unexpected success being thrust upon them, and — without resorting to needle-lifter fillers — only had time for a tossed salad first album of assorted and sundry pop accessibility and choice picks, from originals (“The McCoy” is the real surf music McCoy) to other genres such as R&B ("Night Train") and even soundtrack music ("My Own True Love [Tara's Theme]").
Of course, Bogle and Wilson & Co. put their own rollicking guitar-heavy spin on their older selections and covers, including a runaway haywagon country take on Duke Ellington’s “Caravan,” and a twang-twinged turn on Bill Justis’ 1957 “Raunchy.”
Which it all comes down to, essentially, is a Ventures’ debut album where a lot was ventured, and a career longevity was gained. And, inevitably and ultimately, an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was earned, too.
Article comments
1 - wayne seay
The Ventures are the #1 instrumental group in the world!!! i have been a fan of them for over 40yrs. back in the early 60's from the first song i heard "Walk Don't Run" to the present day. this group of men in their early 70's can still "Rock" with the best of them. my heart was broken about 10+ years ago when the drummer Mel Taylor passed away but his son Leon stepped right in & the group never missed a "BEAT" they sound just as good as ever. they still do shows in Japan & have started touring in the US.
i was also pleased to finally know that they have been elected into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. this recognition has been long over due. the program will be telecast on VH1 on Monday night. i have never tired of the sound that these men can put out. they would take a song during 60's,70's 80's & 90's & play their versions in their instrumental form & they became successful in doing so. they have been "copied" by many various other groups & many other musical groups have been influenced by them too. they will live forever in the annuals of Rock & Roll instrumental music world. forever a fan!!!
wayne seay
2 - Gordon Hauptfleisch
Agreed, Wayne, and thanks for the comments. I'm just wondering what they are going to play for the award ceremonies. I don't especially like medleys, but I guess that's a practical way to go. (?)