Walk Don’t Run – THE VENTURES****

Morgen/Raunchy/Home/My Own True Love (Tara’s Theme)/The Switch/Walk Don’t Run/Night Train/No Trespassing/Caravan/Sleep Walk/The McCoy/Honky Tonk

First of many album chart entries from America’s most successful instrumental group, The Ventures. Despite their worldwide popularity they were relatively little known in the UK where The Shadows ruled the roost. Nevertheless, the Grammy winning title track single reached the top ten in both countries. (US:11)

“Although The Ventures were never a self-defined 'surf band', the Washington quartet found mass acceptance among America’s burgeoning surf culture. Of course, The Ventures attained international fame. To date, they have sold over a hundred million records making them the best-selling instrumental band of all time.”

“Walk Don’t Run is an example of why The Ventures became so successful. Given one word to describe the album I’d say fantastic. It also doubles up as one of those albums that can mesmerize and inspire musicians. These guys were no hacks.”

“If you haven’t already done so, get Walk Don’t Run into your bloodstream right away. This is one of the greatest instrumental bands ever and this album is one of their best.”

“This is a highly important album in the history of rock. The Ventures were all extraordinarily talented musicians, and this was certainly a high point in their early career.”

“The Ventures provided a true blueprint for so many bands, from the 60s up through today. Their twin guitar sound defined great instrumental rock. They were young guys on a roll when this came out in 1960. The recordings were basic (a good thing), with minimal effects besides reverb. It suits the music and the times.”

“It's another great Ventures album. If you love great guitar music this album is for you. The music is very exciting to listen to.”

“There have been lots of instrumental groups, but for sheer productivity and longevity, nobody touched The Ventures. Their trademark hard-driving and twanging guitar made them the most successful instrumental group of the sixties.”