Ever since the rockabilly revival of the 80s (Adam Ant and Stray Cats, sure, but I'm really talking about the Cramps, Rev. Horton Heat and Untamed Youth), there has been a confluence of that sound with surf music. Dick Dale's later work didn't shy away from incorporating rockabilly, and after hearing this album from Lucky 757 (that last bit is the area code of the band's home base of Portsmouth, Va.) I decided to reach into the past and see if that connection was always there.

Lucky 757 Lonesome Lagoon (self-released)

With the Ventures, yes. With the Beach Boys, no. And since (outstanding) pop acts like them and Jan and Dean stole the airwaves, that poppy version of surf music kinda stuck. But in some areas, like Portsmouth, there was always a more native version. The Outer Banks of North Carolina (just south of Portsmouth) has kept the shag torch alive for ages. And while shag and rockabilly aren't particularly good friends, I use that reference to explain that there are lots of versions of surf and beach music (not to mention rockabilly), and in some universes they meet.

All that introduction is to say that this album will be welcomed by fans of Dick Dale and the Untamed Youth. Lucky 757 does work with a sound from yesteryear, but it brings those ideas into the present day. These songs cook with intensity, even a lovely midtempo piece like "Reflecting".

Sure, Lucky 757 doesn't challenge the listener. This is music for dancing and having a good time. And some seriously ripping guitar work, just for kicks. In fact, kicks are what this is all about. There are plenty here. Don't just dip your toe in the water. Swim with the sharks.

Jon Worley