Surf Music Fever Hits Seattle: SurfXSurfwest Festival Brings the Groove to Darrell's Tavern

Seattle's music scene is about to get a major dose of surf rock energy as the annual SurfXSurfwest Festival returns to Darrell's Tavern. This two-day summer celebration is the only event of its kind in the city, showcasing the best of instrumental surf and rock 'n' roll music from local, national, and even international acts. Get ready to immerse yourself in the laid-back vibes and infectious rhythms that have made this festival an underground phenomenon.

Ride the Wave of Surf Music Nostalgia at SurfXSurfwest

Surf Music: A Blast from the Past

Surf music, a genre that rose to prominence in the late 1950s and early 1960s, is making a comeback at the SurfXSurfwest Festival. This style of rock music, closely associated with the Californian surf culture, was all about capturing the energy and spirit of the waves. With its driving beats, twangy guitar riffs, and infectious melodies, surf music embodied the carefree, youthful essence of the era. "It was a phenomenon that occurred in the early 1960s," explains Evan Foster, a founding member and guitarist of the Seattle-based band The Boss Martians. "It was just about the fundamentals of what rock and roll meant – it was kind of associated with youth energy, teen energy, kids going to the beach, and surfing."

A Festival for the Surf Music Faithful

For the past five years, the SurfXSurfwest Festival has been a haven for surf music enthusiasts, providing a platform for both local and national acts to showcase their talents. "We started doing this festival five years ago," says Daniel Dyckman, the owner of Darrell's Tavern. "We've just kind of grown it over the years, and it has grown to be an underground phenomenon." The festival's lineup features a diverse array of surf and instrumental bands, including Seattle's own The Boss Martians, as well as international acts like Banzai Surf from Mexico City.

A Truly Unique Experience

What sets the SurfXSurfwest Festival apart is its commitment to creating a truly immersive and enjoyable experience for attendees. "It's super chill, and the music is really fun," Dyckman says. The festival offers a range of amenities to enhance the summer mood, including food trucks, a DJ, and, of course, plenty of refreshing beverages. Bands perform on both outdoor and indoor stages, ensuring that the music never stops, even as the sun sets.

A Celebration of the Northwest's Surf Music Scene

For Evan Foster and The Boss Martians, the SurfXSurfwest Festival holds a special significance. "I can't tell you how grateful we are and how fortunate we are to have a really killer festival locally," he says. "There was nothing like that going on; you know, back in the day when we were younger and first started." The festival's success has not only provided a platform for local talent but has also helped to solidify Seattle's reputation as a hub for surf music enthusiasts.

A Weekend of Surf, Rock, and Good Times

Whether you're a seasoned surf music aficionado or simply looking to discover new bands and dance the night away, the SurfXSurfwest Festival has something for everyone. "Thirteen bands over two days pretty much guarantees that you'll come to a festival like this and find at least one or two or more bands, so you can say, 'God, this is awesome,'" says Tian Doan, the festival's promoter. "You don't have to know the songs and you don't have to be a surfer either."So, grab your friends, put on your best beach-inspired attire, and get ready to ride the wave of surf music nostalgia at the SurfXSurfwest Festival. It's a weekend of pure, unadulterated fun that you won't want to miss.