Surf-Rock Instro Review : 3 Balls Of Fire - The Best Of The Balls (1988-1998) 10th Anniversary Edition

https://www.3ballsoffire.com/

The 3 Balls of Fire is a group of exceptionally talented musicians known for their fiery guitar performances. Their latest achievement is the release of a compilation CD that is a true testament to their instrumental prowess, titled The Best Of The Balls (1988-1998) 10th Anniversary Edition.

Ten years is a long stretch, especially when picking and choosing the best tracks within that time frame. This CD contains fourteen tracks of this group's best.

 

I had never heard of this group until now; I don't know why. The 3 Balls of Fire are as good as any instro group I have ever heard, better than most. So why haven't I heard of them, you ask? I'm baffled that I haven't.

 

They come from a literal hotbed of music, Austin, Texas. They most definitely haven't got the national acclaim that they deserve. Unlike hundreds of other local bands strewn about the country, they are good enough to be recognized as a top-flight act. Whether or not that ever happens for them remains to be seen. Too many variables contribute to a group's success; unfortunately, one of the most critical points isn't always a factor: the group is outstanding.

 

This CD is a masterpiece! As a passionate fan of instrumental music, this compilation perfectly fits my musical preferences. The 3 Balls of Fire have genuinely outdone themselves with this one.

 

The most attractive concept about any instrumental music is its flexibility and ability to blend diverse styles to invent a new sound and style. The 3 Balls of Fire's music is a conglomerate of surf, rock, blues, and R&B played with spirit.

 

They can get it cookin' or slow it down to display their versatility and any subtle nuances a number may have. Those very factors require immense talent and patience to produce.

 

It's a shame I didn't hear about these guys ten years ago, but that doesn't matter now. Now I know who they are and can enjoy their music, and so can you! After hearing this overview of their career, I am sure you will seek more material from this group soon.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck

March 28, 2000

Note: Spotify stream now includes 20 tracks!

Tracks:
01. The Men With The Burning Guitars  

02. Chicks On Choppers  

03. Atom Smasher 

04. Island Girl 

05. The Kicker 

06. Black Out! 

07. Pipeline To Baghdad 

08. El Malpais 

09. Journada Del Muerto 

10.  Risin' Surf 

11. Machine Gun 

12. Kind Of Green

13. Beatnik 

14. The Men With The Burning Guitars (Reprise)