What makes Calling Up Spirits by Dick Dale notable?

This album is notable for revitalizing Dale's career and introducing his sound to a new generation, blending traditional surf elements with modern instrumentation. It received positive reviews from critics, asserting his status as a key figure in instrumental rock and surf music. By 1996, Dick Dale was a seasoned musician known as the 'King of the Surf Guitar,' having pioneered surf rock in the early 1960s. 'Calling Up Spirits' marked his return to recording after a decade-long hiatus, showcasing his enduring influence and ability to adapt within the evolving music landscape.

How many songs are on Calling Up Spirits?

Calling Up Spirits has 13 tracks, running approximately 53 minutes.

Released 30 years ago

Calling Up Spirits

Dick Dale · 1996

53 min · 13 tracks · rock and roll

A vibrant fusion of surf rock and experimental instrumentals, electrifying listeners with dynamic guitar riffs and rhythmic innovation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Nitrus — The opener sets a high-energy tone with rapid-fire guitar work that exemplifies Dale's signature style, establishing the album's electrifying atmosphere right from the start.
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Fever — This track showcases Dale's versatility, transforming a classic into an instrumental piece where the interplay between the guitar and percussion creates an intoxicating groove.
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Temple of Gizeh — A standout piece that combines exotic scales with intricate melodies, reflecting Dale's adventurous spirit and ability to infuse world influences into his surf rock foundation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album blends surf rock with experimental elements, maintaining a distinctive sound while exploring varied rhythms.

What we noticed

The album opens with a fast-paced track featuring rapid guitar riffs and driving percussion, setting an energetic tone.
The last three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, creating a reflective atmosphere that contrasts with the earlier intensity.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Nitrus 3:29
2 The Wedge Paradiso 2:37
3 The Pit 2:38
4 Fever 4:46
5 Doom Box 3:04
6 Catamount 3:05
7 Window 4:23
8 Calling Up Spirits 3:50
9 Temple of Gizeh 6:16
10 Bandito 5:32
11 Third Stone From the Sun 6:32
12 Peppermint Man 4:11
13 Gypsy Fire 3:14

What to play next

Listen next

Spacial Disorientation

2001

Go back to

Unknown Territory

1994

Full Dick Dale discography Artists like Dick Dale

instrumental rock surf music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata