A few months ago, my co-worker at MTV UK pointed me in the direction of Surfer Blood (thanks Luke). The five-piece band from Florida recently ventured to New York City for a gig with The Drums, and I was lucky enough to attend the show. I really enjoyed their performance, and bought their debut album before it was even released (it officially came out on January 19).

I’ve listened to Astro Coast for about two weeks now, and I’m addicted. Vicious guitar riffs and distorted vocals pave the way in this record, which is laden with upbeat fist-pumping songs (no, not like Jersey Shore fist pumping or anything like this link here shows). Surfer Blood plays “this is our sound, take it or leave it” music that is hard not to like. Its definitely heavily influenced by both 60s and mid-90s music, which in this case is a very good thing.

Before seeing them live, I had no idea that they hadn’t even released a full-length LP. The experienced sound and excellent production value of the CD made it seems as if they were already well established. Make sure to check out Swim, Take It Easy, Harmonix, Twin Peaks, and Catholic Pagans.

If you hadn’t heard about Surfer Blood, you have been missing out big time. Don’t worry though! Jump on board the bandwagon because this is one group not to miss. One warning, however, you may feel compelled to dance like an idiot while listening to this album, so just make sure not to make a COMPLETE fool of yourself. Now check out the track below as well as this link (click here) to the album in iTunes.

Surfer Blood nearly struck gold with Astro Coast, so I’m giving it a 4 bee rating. Enjoy!