The Bel-Airs

• Formed: 1961, Los Angeles, CA
• Disbanded: 1963
• Genres: Rock
• Representative Albums: "Volcanic Action!," "Origins of Surf Music 1960-1963," "Radio Days"
• Representative Songs: "Mr. Moto," "Volcanic Action," "Runaway"

Biography

One of the very first instrumental surf combos, this Southern Californian group recorded one of the first big regional surf hits, "Mr. Moto." Its heavily reverbed guitar lines, distinct Mexican melodic influence, and honking sax helped set the prototype for hundreds of songs that would be recorded in the next two to three years. None of the other material the group recorded in the early '60s was as successful or memorable; guitarist Paul Johnson was active decades later, often playing surf-style music. ~ Richie Unterberger, All Music Guide

Origins of Surf Music 1960-1963 [Bonus Tracks] Buy this CD

Volcanic Action! Buy this CD

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