Space Pop-Surf Review: Merrell Fankhauser-Area 51 Suite

Website: http://www.merrellfankhauser.com

It has been several years since Merrell Fankhauser released new studio recordings (he has also released several compilations and DVDs over the years). Rockin and Surfin was a 2004 release that I enjoyed immensely, so it was no surprise that I had a similar experience listening to the latest release, Area 51 Suite. Please remember, music fans, that Fankhauser has been getting it done in the recording studio since the '60s and has overcome health issues and every other obstacle thrown his way to continue entertaining us all. Two versions of the release are available, the CD and the CD/DVD, which feature music videos and interviews with people from the ET and Sci-Fi community.

 

This collection of tracks, called space pop, is a delightful blend of influences with a significant surf undertone. The subject matter, revolving around space and extraterrestrials, adds an intriguing layer to the instrumental tracks, creating a unique and captivating hybrid of 'space pop.'

 

The first and title track, "Area 51," effectively creates an air of mystery and intrigue. Indeed, that was the intent, so mission accomplished and a great way to open the curtain to the show.

 

"Signals From Zoran, " also an excellent track, takes a page out of the surf-instrumental book.

 

The following track, "Stardazed," is a slower bluesy ballad that puts you in a starry-eyed mood and may have you looking up at the sky, wondering who is out there watching us.

 

"Bimini Road," an underwater rock formation near North Bimini Island in the Bahamas, is a very appropriate surf-blues number that takes you on an underwater adventure. Instrumental music, if it is terrific, takes little time to create a picture of the track title in your mind; here again, Fankhauser succeeds.

 

"Shadow People" is a picturesque instrumental that brings those in the shadows to life. The music flows along and rocks its way into your psyche, making it inevitable to start thinking about unexplained phenomena and people you do not know or why they are here. It's one of the more complex and changing tracks that takes things to another musical level for the artist.

 

Then, to switch things up yet again, "Cocktails In Space" is entirely different from all the previous tracks. It includes a segment with a flute, giving it a new-age feel and texture.

 

When "Crash Landing" comes at you with a synthesizer depicting a spacecraft coming your way and Merrell's guitar kicks in, it forms a spy thriller surf sound that keeps you hooked. This track was the one that reminded me a lot of his previous surf-instrumental work. Many tracks begin with a spacey laser or craft landing-like sound to ensure you stay with the overall Area 51 Suite theme.

 

The biggest treat for old and new fans will be Fankhauser's most prolific track, "Calling From A Star." I go back to 1999 with Merrell, and that is when I first heard of this fantastic track. The title says it all, and his voice is exceptional, backed by perfectly placed instrumentation. I don't think he could have recorded a better track in his long and influential career. Every track offers the listener something different, and even though the premise is visitors from outer space, you will hear the diversity of an artist on display at every turn. Surf, space, pop, rock, blues, and country- about every main genre- get superb coverage on this eclectic slice of musical excellence.

 

This is a solid release and one of Merrell Fankhauser's most exceptional releases in his career. He has made some great music over the years, and this reminds us all once again of his importance to the history of rock music and how his capabilities to entertain have not waned. His candle is still burning brightly, and Area 51 Suite gives you a one-way ticket to the stars.

5/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Area 51, Calling From A Star, Crash Landing

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Founder MuzikReviews.com

May 12, 2013

Tracks:

Disc 1

1. Area 51

2. Signals From Zoran

3. Stardazed 

4. Bimini Road 

5. Catalina USO 

6. Crash Landing

7. Aliens In The Mist

8. Shadow People 

9. Cocktails In Space

10. Lost Continent Blues

11. Alien Talk

12. Calling From A Star

 

Disc 2

1. Area 51 

2. Vitina Marcus: Interview

3. Alien Talk

4. Dr. David Jungclaus: Interview

5. Out on the Desert

6. The Little A'le'inn 

7. Beyond The Rainbow

8. Calling From A Star

Surf Rock DVD Review: Merrell Fankhauser-Rainbow Bridge Revisited

Merrell Fankhauser and the island of Maui have a strong connection. The artist lived there for 14 years, during which Maui became a hotspot for UFO sightings. Fankhauser not only experienced these phenomena himself but also came to know the people who were eyewitnesses to those events, forming the basis of his unique perspective and musical inspiration.

Rainbow Bridge Revisited is a CD/DVD set that Fankhauser put together for Gonzo Multimedia and was released in June of this year. It offers a unique blend of music, interviews, and original footage, making it a must-have for fans of surf rock and UFO phenomena. Fankhauser's ability to translate his experiences into music has carved out a unique niche, and this set is a testament to his multifaceted talent.

 

Rainbow Bridge, the original movie, was the Jimi Hendrix movie. Fankhauser sets out to interview some of the remaining cast members of that movie. On the DVD, you get firsthand accounts of UFO sightings through interviews and original footage of surfers set to some of Merrell's great surf rock tracks. This unique blend of music and UFO stories, including the classic and appropriate "Calling From A Star," Will pique your interest. The rocking surf tunes set the tone. One of my all-time favorites and the best Merrell has ever performed is "Monster Swell." The track is filled with all the drama and unpredictability of the ocean. The song goes through several changes and is a complete surf-rock masterpiece. "Wild Gyrations" is another classic that will put the sun in your heart, the beach's warm sand on your toes, and images of surfers riding the immense waves of the Hawaii surf.

 

Although the footage of the surfers is quite old, it conveys the theme and location quite well. If you are looking for an HD-quality video, this is not it. If you appreciate up-close interviews, hearing about experiences of UFO sightings, and surf rock music, then you will love this set.

 

Merrell has always done a terrific job providing fascinating stories, interviewing people with tales, and adding great music to complete the experience. His dedication and passion for this project are truly admirable, and it's something you, as a fan, will surely appreciate.

 

Watching and listening to all this puts your head elsewhere, offering a different perspective. Some of the people being interviewed were spaced-out old hippies, but you cannot deny some of the events that have taken place on the islands of Hawaii. These accounts are just a part of the long history of extraterrestrial sightings that have been witnessed over the years, a history that you, as a fan of surf rock and UFO phenomena, are undoubtedly part of. What makes it unique is the involvement of Merrell Fankhauser, one of the most respected and admired musical talents ever known. This is a documentary you will not want to miss!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Founder MuzikReviews.com

October 13, 2013