Driftwood Caravan

Tall Tales / Gram Underwood Jan 24th 9 pm

2012-01-18T14:41:00.000-08:00

A Show with Friends this coming tuesday January 24th.. Come out for some fun.

The Copper Door
225 1/2 N Broadway
Santa Ana, CA

21+ 9PM Free

2011-12-19T22:45:00.000-08:00

Speakeasy Art Gallery Exhibition 13
DECEMBER 30
8 P.M.

Flyer design by Dan Browne

Featuring art works from:

Jerimy Lumia
James Real
Christina Platis
Jay Diebel
Kathy Miranda
Chad Huff
Amanda Abrego

LiVE PHOTO BOOTH by Zell Thomas

LiVE NAIL ARTISTS : Donne & Ginny Geer
for HEY, NICE NAILS! > heynicenails.com

with jams from:

FRIDAY
11:00 CMG + We are the night
9:30 Buffalo Stance
8:30 Driftwood Caravan
with Psychedelic Partners

San O' Sunset #1

2011-12-02T14:49:00.000-08:00

6" x 6" x 3"
Wood Backed, Lacquered Print

Everchanging

2011-10-26T14:12:00.000-07:00

So i just realized its been like a year since i've updated this thing. I figure now is a better time that ever to get back to it. I feel that its time to tell another story and let the inspiration bleed..

This is a doodle I did that sums up part of my inspiration. Ive also been playing Music and Its time to get back to making some boards. thanks to all of my patient friends..

The progression.

2010-11-13T14:29:00.000-08:00

Far from uptight. Keeping it clean and fluid and light.

A Week In The Life Of..

2010-11-09T15:29:00.000-08:00

Pictorial view of recent events with the help of friends, the ever so handy Hipstamatic app and other devices..

Livin' Good

Future Mat Riders Of America

2010-09-16T21:05:00.000-07:00

My son, River.. Now we just have to get him in the water..

Process Complete..Now Repeat

2010-09-10T16:37:00.000-07:00

In the midst of chaos Ive been lucky enough to spend some time pursuing smooth white redemption..

Finished Product From The Previous Post:

6'3 and fun

My Ice Bucket Arc Tail.. Topside.

Shoot.. Now all I need is some waves..

Up Next:

The Other White Meat...

50/50 Time

2010-08-31T16:06:00.000-07:00

Shaping Boards and Riding Mats..
This ones going in to glass. I'm hoping to share it soon.

Flat an thin. Pointed nose with an arc-tail..

Wide point forward with a mild step deck. Just how I like them..

Finely foiled rail with a turned up nose and a flipped down tail..

Taking my time, slow and steady..

On the other side of the coin:
Got an email from Dale yesterday with a montage of interesting neumatic mat pics from various sources.. Ive been spending some water time on my mat since the meet a couple weeks ago..It was cool to see a few of his mats there as well.. got to thinking how much fun I've had on my contrail in the past few years..
Here's one Andrew Stephen Buck at "the queen" on "tugboat". photo by Seth De Roulet

Here's another Andrew Stephen Buck in a tight little curl on "tugboat" photo by Seth De Roulet Love the lighting on this one.

A borrowed image from the bread man of prana on his trusty neumatic close to home..
Warren Pfeiffer waiting for what looks like the bow that will send his arrow flying..

The Machine ...

2010-08-18T17:37:00.000-07:00

Order Of Process...

2010-08-13T22:56:00.000-07:00

Here are some snaps from the process in the post below... My second hull.. shaped 100% by my own hands.. So Much Pleasure from the ones I had in the past made by Greg and Brian.. I Had to try it for myself.. I honestly feel that anyone who loves to surf owes it to themselves to try this (whatever the shape) at least once..

Does this make me a shaper? I consider myself more of a student inspired by the craftsmen who make the boards I love to ride...

New Habit..

2010-08-13T11:39:00.000-07:00

Ok... Im Hooked.. Making some boards using my own two hands with a strong dose of influence from Greenough, Greg Liddle and Hilbers.. Loving it..

I've got heaps to learn, but these days, its a welcome distraction.. Scary thing is.. I want to shape them as much as I want to surf them..Thanks to Jack and Jimmie for egging me on!

Fun Today

2010-07-30T18:10:00.000-07:00

Proned it today... Thanks for the nice fins DJ!

Playing Music and Viewing Art

2010-06-30T13:22:00.000-07:00

For those who might not know, I occasionally play some music with my band "the Underwood Brothers".. This will most definately be the case on July 10th at the Hurley HQ with Los Desperados Art Banditos, Dano, The Dynotones. The "Transition" show, as they are calling it, will be held in conjunction with our friends at Bat Skates and party favors will be provided by Primo and Barefoot wine..

Come down and get some free culture and have a good time while you are at it.. to see some of the cool art in advance, visit the bat skates web site for a sneak peek.

"Surf Exploration Vehicle"

2010-06-22T16:17:00.001-07:00

1987 Mako 171 (17' 1" )

90 hp Evinrude maintained by Penske's mechanics at IROC in New Jersey. A friend bought it from IROC who was a client of his. It's clean and reg. for 2011.

Perfect for coast surf exploration and trips to the remote breaks...

Get on it! Email me for price or to set up an appointment to see her if you are interested!

Flood Control 1938

2010-05-14T14:56:00.000-07:00

from the book: Surfing San Onofre to Point Dume: 1936-1942 - Photo: Don James

Lucky Lis

2010-05-11T21:16:00.001-07:00

5'6 x ? x ?.. 197? ... in Good hands for a cleanup (not a restore) ..Water-bound soon..

6'8 Liddle Musgo Anyone?

2010-04-30T17:34:00.000-07:00

This little Sweetheart of a board, my 6'8 Musgo Liddle has been my Malibu staple for the last two years. Freshly Bondo'd by KP, She's got plenty of Life left...

The first one is her when she was new.. $450 to the first taker.. I will most likely regret the sale but you most definitely will not. Email me if you want her. Ill most likely have it in the shop come tomorrow, but don't cry for me Argentina... this only means something else is in the works..

Dolphin Parts

2010-03-27T15:38:00.000-07:00

Mysto Wood Bellyboard gifted via Dangerwoman

Made the hand off to me ol' chum capn' gravy chops for further experimentation/ examination

Eno Via Sam

2010-03-26T11:53:00.000-07:00

Thanks Sam..(and Eno)

Good Things are Just Around The Bend!

2010-03-20T14:26:00.001-07:00

Hello Spring!

Desperados on the Move

2010-03-12T14:02:00.000-08:00

For all of you that made the Los Desperados show at Shelter last weekend, you know what this is about.. for all those who missed it.. don't miss this one.. we were honored to be asked by TV1 to open up for Dano as musical contributors.

Jeff Beals, Jerry Adams and myself will be performing some songs as the Underwood Brothers..this will be my first time in about 5 years playing music live so it should be fun..

if you are in the neighborhood, please stop by. Tom and his gang have started something really cool and I'm stoked to be part of it for the evening.

Click to enlarge the flyer image of all the details or go to the official Los Desperados web hideout

Los Desperados Art Banditos at Shelter Surf Shop – Saturday March 6th

2010-02-27T16:36:00.000-08:00

March 6th at Shelter Surf Shop – Los Desperados Banditos Music and Art Show

Featuring hi-class, lo-brow visual works by:

Tom Vadakan

Bigtoe

Candy

Miles Thompson

Greg Landers

Will Barton

with music by:

Ray Barbee and Dano and DJ sets by DJ Geaux Geaux

7pm – Free!!

2148 E 4th St

Long Beach, Ca 90814

For more information visit the official online art bandito hangout

Refreshments courtesy of Primo Beer

See You There!!

Fresh off the Press!!

2010-01-25T16:50:00.001-08:00

One of the various projects I've had brewing under Quiver Studio is now Live.. The official website for veteran OC shaper and all good dude Jack Sykes and Lineup Surfboards.

Among other shapes, this is THE GUY to go to for a rad 80's style twin.. this guy has more steeze in his planer than most guys on the block

Medway Wheelers

2009-12-26T14:54:00.000-08:00

Great mustache, better song..

Dudes and Dudettes.. This Saturday

2009-12-10T19:14:00.000-08:00

Blow off your holiday work parties, mid December weddings, and general busy-ness to come throw down..Really.. Kick off your shoes and make yourselves comfortable.. We're breaking out the 45's, Tyler has a batch of fresh work, Alex has a new sound and Primo donated 300+ free beers for the occasion.. Hope to see you there!

New Lemire Surfing Platforms Website

2009-11-04T17:49:00.000-08:00

Here's the latest from my other project Quiver. My partner Paul and the Lemire Surfboards website for our friend Billy Lemire with the hopes that we'd help him get a few more orders for his fine Surfing Platforms.. Billy builds a mean log and he is a solid guy.

Stop by and say hello!

#11

2009-10-23T17:54:00.001-07:00

Here's the transcript from an interesting conversation I had today with someone who had a number for a name. They randomly hit me up on my instant messenger:

this is eleven from from china we are sup MANUFACTURE I think i have sent u emails about our paddles

Graham Day
5:46
OK?

zj_sports@yahoo.cn 5:47 ha great , u still remember that so do u have intersts in our paddles? or i send u email one more ?

Graham Day
5:48
we dont do SUP

zj_sports@yahoo.cn 5:49 so kayak or rowing oars

Graham Day
5:49
no

zj_sports@yahoo.cn 5:49 sorry , could i know which business do u do

Graham Day
5:49
real surfboards made by hand by surfers in california

Thank you number 11...

Change of Season, Attitude and Direction

2009-10-21T14:32:00.001-07:00

Maybe its catching up with me a little late but the fall weather, my schedule and my motivation towards surfing and creative work seems to have taken a noticeable shift.

Although the change in mood and weather is probably small in the grand scheme of things, I am feeling that I just want to surf to surf, kick the surf scene burn out and politics that come along with it.

Im working on new projects. I am enjoying time with the wife and kids. I am stoked to have been able to get some water time in, twin keeling it with one of my best amigos. Music has been sounding good again but I still think the music business is something I don't want to return to anytime soon.

These all seem like things that should always be appreciated and kept in the forefront of conciousness but sometimes we loose focus for a moment.

ya dig?

Searching For MP

2009-09-20T13:10:00.000-07:00

Super Stoked on this one.. How many times have you watched MP's hull cutback sequence on Morning of the earth and just said to yourself...WTF?

Saturday October 17th at 7pm.. Free

Live Performance by Beau Young

Shelter Surf Shop
2148 E 4th St
Long Beach, CA 90808
(562) 342-4401

Centralized

2009-08-25T15:56:00.000-07:00

We traveled elsewhere this weekend looking for a change of scenery..

Shorebreak beat-down on semi barren landscapes somewhere on the California coast.. C - Tran and his 4'11 Mabile "The White Donkey"

Happy Birthday Lil buddy.. Prime Loves cake!

2009-07-10T14:35:00.000-07:00

Dale Always Gets Me Amped On Riding My Mat

2009-06-29T23:13:00.001-07:00

With his great stories and in-depth knowledge of mat surfing, Dale Solomonson always gets me amped on riding my Neumatic. He also always attaches amazing shots like these by Dane Peterson to his emails.

Warren Pfeiffer - Angourie "back Beach", NSW Australia

Photos by Dane Peterson.

These photos also show me not only what is possible but also how much I have to learn about making the most of my mat..

FUN

2009-06-11T21:38:00.000-07:00

OK.. so I thought I swore the Alaia off.. I love how it looks when done right but they are alot of work..I have since changed my mind. The pics above are of Jeff's newest creation. 7′0″x 18″x 2 1/4. It is made up of two thin layers of foam, a poplar deck, and a little bit of glass.. It has thin hard rails and the same bottom contours as his regular alaias. Paddles like a surfboard, glides like a wooden plank.. This thing is amazing..I kinda feel like im cheating but after all, its about having fun. Right?

Fresh Fruits for Rotten Vegetables at Shelter June 27th at 7pm with Light Music and City Fog Surfboards/Art

2009-05-27T13:11:00.000-07:00

Please Join us at Shelter Surf Shop on Saturday June 27th at 7pm for our first backyard surf movie screening of the summer and the US premier of Steve Cleveland's new film Fresh Fruits for Rotten Vegetables.

We'll also have a live musical performance by Long Beach's Light Music and Surfboards/Art from City Fog.

Bring the gang, the beach chairs and the blankets. Refreshments will be served.

7pm -11pm at Shelter Surf Shop

Shelter Surf shop is Located in the heart of Retro Row on 4th Street in Long Beach

Shelter Surf Shop
2148 E 4th Street
Long Beach, CA 90814
562-342-4401

See You There!

Bat Has His Own Channel..Get ready for a virtual caning

2009-05-24T17:41:00.000-07:00

Live From the Ponderosa, It's KP's Roundup . Stop By and say hello..

Zombie Killer

2009-05-03T17:07:00.000-07:00

Who says diamonds are a girl's best friend?? Erin is now the rightful owner of what was the black diamond... she has re-named it "the Zombie Killer". My advice? Don't be a Zombie..

Get a Hair Cut!! Save a Lis Fish!!

2009-04-25T06:56:00.001-07:00

What do does a Steve Lis fish have to do with getting a haircut? Well my buddy Jim is selling his Pristine Lis Fish on Craigslist right now because things are a little slow at the Hair Salon he owns in HB...Id hate to see him let that go. he Waited 2 years to get it and has only ridden it a couple times. Jim is a surfer and a hell of a dude who gives a great cut at a fair price and has worked hard to run his business for the last 20 years...

If you are in the area, please drop by his shop or call and make an appointment to get a cut from Jim so he doesn't have to part w/ his Lis..

Style Council International

maps.google.com

6492 Edinger Ave
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
(714) 846-6637
Get directions

Bojo Board

2009-04-22T06:41:00.000-07:00

One of Dirt's that is now owned by Trimmer..

I personally Like the old Laminate. I wouldn't mind having it on one of mine..

Bondo By KP.

Hey Jude...It's Not The Taxman

2009-04-15T10:12:00.000-07:00

This wont be the first time in his life that Jude gets referred to with a Beatles reference so his dad may as well be the first to break the ice..

Jude Elliott Day
Born 4/14/09
7lbs 13 oz

Woot!

Do you Know Where Your Hull Is ??

2009-04-15T09:27:00.000-07:00

My Dear Friends Kirk and Brian have started to use this thing called "technology" to penetrate the "blogosphere". It will probably contain subject matter pertaining to Sunday evening dinner specials and will refer to all the younger generations as "whipper-snappers"but they might also be laying down quite knowledgeable speak and documentation regarding one of our favorite shapes.. please stop by and give them some love at thier new blogwhich is called "rephullmen"

New Skin

2009-04-14T12:49:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the new suit Yo! (Yo is the maker of this suit's name and Reunion is his line of suits)

Slick, soft, warm and MIJ

Tomohawk

2009-04-07T19:20:00.000-07:00

Lovelace Point Concept Hull Take 2... 7'4 She-Hull made with Ice 9 blank and plant based resin..Rails sharp enough to scalp you.. (ask ryan bout his first hand experience)

Ive got nothing to say other than this thing jams... A Fast and responsive hull experience that belongs in any hull nut's quiver.. The only thing I can imagine offering in comparative words would be an Alaia made of foam and glass that can be paddled and turned. I Know I just got the Black Diamond but the extra length (for me) made a night and day difference. It doesn't surf or feel like a board that is over seven feet long.

I watched Worm, who is half my weight take a hand full of waves that I wish I had the camera for. She got it going pretty good..

Starting in May, I'll be taking orders for these in the shop for anyone who wants to give them a try.

(from the top) photo 4 taken from Ryan's blog

Bring Your Own Crowd..

2009-03-16T22:06:00.000-07:00

At this place, it wont get you aywhere..

A Fine assortment of blades by G1 and G2 shapers, a hell of a crowd, good waves and better company. Please excuse the overuse of this lineup. I think there were a few of us that were silly over the fact that our favorite concept was taking up so much wall space.

The Black Diamond

2009-03-06T18:03:00.000-08:00

Even though the waves were puny, This was the best thing to happen to me this week. I met up with Ryan Lovelace this morning on his way to the airport where he delivered "the Black Diamond". This is an updated version of "the Dead Sled". Super Bladed, Plenty Wide and fast. its so damn sharp that I cant wait to get it into real waves. Heres some pics that show it with skin on it..

Here's a shot of the maker getting all bird-like in the small soup..

Get on it!! I can help!

Watch your Ankles! Lovelace builds them sharp!

2009-02-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

Check out this pre-glass snap of the rail line on the Black Diamond Hull. After seeing pics of the She Hull in action and fondling the Dead Sled in person.. I must say that I'm pretty excited about this..
Word has it that the she hull is about to cross international lines and take a trip with a good friend of ours that I think rides these pretty good..

Ryan builds a nice board under his Point Concept label. I hope to post some photos of mine in action on the shelter blog soon!

Ready the Log and Jazz the Glass!

2009-02-24T09:47:00.000-08:00

Classic as Always.. This time they've replaced the outer space theme and PVC with Swords Guns, Stoke Mining, Kooks and Logs..

From Gnar Gnar and the gang.

Still Fighting for Something

2009-02-14T21:21:00.000-08:00

This battle has been won for now but its rad to think that Califonia's natural coastline, waves and future enjoyment of both are important to my mom and dad. My dad has been enjoying waves since the early 60s and still does today. My mom has supported his passion (and mine). I came across this photo while cleaning out my gallery.

Here's my Mom, Dad and River at last year's Del Mar public hearing against the 241 toll road

The Night Shift

2009-02-13T17:55:00.000-08:00

Made the trek up to the poderosa last night where I found Bat Masterson layin down the whoopass, pistol whipping passers by and dealing "L" blades.
Don't cut yerself!

Blue steel and the golden ticket

Dont Get Sassy!

As requested by prana... thumb update

2009-02-03T12:48:00.000-08:00

As requested by prana...

The many hours that passed last Saturday after my initial post were spent sucking down wine, several beers and even some rum. I split my nail with files and a razor thinking this would relieve the pressure and dig some of the foreign material out. This was a temporary solution that didn't do all that much for me.

This lasted well into the evening until that just stopped working.. My thumb was swollen, pulsing and I was in a crap ton of pain.. There was a few folks who I encountered that evening who can vouch for all this.

Lets get to the good part and the best advice i would pass on if this happened to someone who might be reading this at some point..

My ol pal Worm suggested I put my thumb down on the counter and roll the palm of my hand over it. It hurt like a bitch but I did and I struck oil.. I wont describe the stuff that came out but after this and a soak, it felt better. I repeated the process Sunday and yesterday and I was back in the water today.

Bring on the new nick names..

The Spaghetti Incident

2009-01-31T12:05:00.001-08:00

That white line in the middle of my thumbnail is a spaghetti noodle that got jammed under my thumbnail last night while I was washing the dishes. It hurts like a mo fo.. and for my next trick.. Home surgery ( I actually tried that last night) Hopefully growth will push it out..

At one point, Dale Solomonson and I got on the subject of home remedies for injury and illness and he had shared some info from conversations he had with George Greenough who has preformed many surgeries on himself. From dental work to cancer removal, it sounds like George has done it all.. WWGD?

Jon's "Quill Fin"

2009-01-18T15:23:00.000-08:00

Jon is hands down one of the craftiest dudes I know. When I met him, he rolled into Shelter with a hand made replica of the water housing George Greenough used to shoot footage for many of my favorite classic surf films including Innermost Limits of Pure Fun as well as a home made mat. He is also a fairly regular contributor to the blog Surf Matters

I happened to run into Jon yesterday at the beach in between sessions. In his pocket was a weapon.. errr.. I mean a "Quill Fin" which he shaped and foiled out of G10.. He'll be trying this out in a classing 70's watermelon hull shape that he dug out of the depths of someones rustic collection. No shots of the board yet but here's the fin:

Here's the hand made goods Jon brought in on our first meet:

What This is and What This is Not...

2009-01-16T15:37:00.000-08:00

This is not the Sun... (although it was as bright as the sun on this night)
This is not a Spaceman...(although he will tell you he is)

This is a surfboard.

The Mick Mackie Side-Cut Flex Tail twin is conceptually amazing (I say conceptually because I have not had the chance to ride it but it looks pretty damn cool). Kirk swung this by the shop the other day for us to take a peek. We actually had his personal Mackie 5'8 Flex Tail standard fish a couple months ago. It was a blast but the front end of this particular board looks as if it might argue less with those flexy pins under pressure.

The wide point on this side-cut flex tail is set a tad futher back.

Wild Mackie made Leaf-like Keels
Rasta keels cut and modified for flexxx..

Come Drink Beer With Me on 4th Street in Long Beach

2009-01-14T14:08:00.000-08:00

If you are making plans for the first half of this Saturday Evening (1/17) from 5 to 7pm and happen to be in or close to Long Beach, our friends at 4th Street Vine are holding a closed door beer tasting featuring the finest the Belgians. Here's the List of what we will be enjoying:

- St Bernardus ABT 12
- Duchesse De Bourgogne
- Maredsous 8 Dubble Abbey Ale
- Bosteels, Tripple Karmeleit
- Affligem Dubble Abbey Ale
- Abbeye Des Rocs Imperial Tripple
- Buffalo Belgium Stout
- Goudon Carolus Noel

If you enjoy beer (as I definitely do) , this will be a serious treat.

The event will closed door and limited to less than 50 so they are selling presale tix for $25 per person (which includes beer and snacks)

You can either stop by and grab a ticket, call and talk to Jim or Sophia or try your luck at the door.

4th Street Vine
2142 E 4th St
Long Beach, CA
562-343-5463

Surf-Knot art Extravaganza at shelter Surf Shop this Saturday 12/13

2008-12-08T11:21:00.000-08:00

Saturday December 13th at 6pm Sharp

Art by Tyler Warren..

Skateboarding Demo for T n T Skateboards..

Film Premier -The Tyler Warren Experiments by John Smart (copies will be for sale on DVD)

Music by The Mattson 2..

Refreshments will be served..

Greenough From Doug (and Surfer, September 69')

2008-11-30T12:28:00.000-08:00

A Couple of Nuggets from the wonderful pile of Vintage head food that Doug- E -Fresh brought me yesterday. If you enlarge the top sequence, you will see just how far ahead of his time George was in his style and approach to wave riding..I know that gets said a lot but the visual recognition never gets old...

the Japanese Matter(s)

2008-10-03T14:30:00.000-07:00

Here's a treat our friend Larry dropped off last Saturday. I cant say I know much about it but the pattern is rad. I'm assuming its post Hodgman since its made in Japan. Anybody know more?

Regardless, this primitive surf mat craft will be on display at Shelter for those who want a closer look.

New Tom Vadakan Site

2008-10-02T20:48:00.000-07:00

Tom Vadakan has a new site. his work is pretty darn rad so check it out if you get a chance.

I met Tom and his family a couple months ago at the shop and I hope to show his work there some time in the future.

1993 Eurovan GL (The Shoe Box) is up for grabs!

2008-10-01T11:38:00.000-07:00

Alas, It's true.. The Shoe box is up for sale. We are selling this trusty surfboard and passenger toting vehicle and will parlay the proceeds to a vehicle that we will call "Goldie". For those of you that have not seen it at the beach or at the shop, The box is a reliable and good looking machine!

For more info or interest in the van please check out the ad I have posted on The Samba or email me

Zipped! Not a CB But Pretty Damn Fun!

2008-09-19T13:21:00.001-07:00

Here's a few shots of the Terry Martin shaped Tyler Warren Zipper model set up as a three fin Bonzer. I had this in the shop for a minute and it just kept calling to me.. Riding it for the last few days, I've figured out why..

CA Gold

2008-09-18T17:01:00.001-07:00

Here's a few quick snappies from a Monday Family outing at the beach. There Wasn't much in the way of waves here but the sun was out, the breeze was blowing and classic California scenery was in bloom.

On the hike back we ran into a couple glide hungry characters armed with 10 '6 CC double enders and plenty of stoke. One of the guys was in his 60s and had been surfing here since he was 8. His mom and dad started surfing here in 39'. I myself had been coming here since I was my son's age.

Soul Check

2008-09-16T23:48:00.000-07:00

Ok, so its been about 7 months since I took that sharp left turn in life exiting the manipulative and dishonest industry that some people call the "music biz" to lead a life where I would work to build a greater relationship with the ocean and my family. Reflecting on this decision the other day, I realize that even though my wallet is a tad emptier, I now feel better than I ever have in my adult life thus far. I get to surf every day, I'm where I want to be when I feel like being there, I enjoy what I do for "a living" and I have plenty of time with the fam. I have also met more amazing people in this short time span than I feel I have met in the last 12 years.

Does Life get any better?

With another "little one" and the fall season on the way I gotta say that I'm not in need of much more and I hope to continue on the path I am on. More bees in the beard and more waves please..

See you at the beach or in the shop!

Q&A In The Lineup! Fuzzy Perceptions

2008-09-13T14:40:00.000-07:00

Over the last few outings with the Mat, I have been asked several interesting questions which I would like to answer here:

1. What kind of boogie board is that? It's not a boogie board..It's a pool toy.
2. Do you stand up On that thing?...Only every other tuesday (leap years only)
3. Don't they rent those at the pier? Let me consult my shamen on that one and I'll get back to you
4. Do you catch waves on that thing? HELL YES!!

Here' Some words that sum it up (in my opinion) from George Greenough by way of Dale Solomonson (Dale sent me this earlier in the week). However, I still and will always surf traditional boards and continue to experiment with whatever craft options come my way.

A few comments (years ago) about mat surfing by George Greenough:

"The funny thing about mats is that they're the easiest thing to surf
on a basic, beginner level, but they're the hardest thing to surf on
an advanced level. It takes 10 years of experience before you can
drive them anywhere near their potential. I've been riding mats day-in
and day-out for over 40 years, and I'm still learning things. I've
never been bored riding a mat, ever. They're just too challenging and
too much fun..."

"A mat has a variable shape. You shouldn't blow it up rock hard then
go out and ride it. You run it softer in small waves so the corners
will stretch out flatter and it will skim more, and a little harder in
powerful waves so it will be stiffer and hold in more. You can fine
tune the handling between rides by adding or letting out air. That's
an unbelievable thing to be able to do. It's like changing boards any
time you feel like it.

"I ride my mat really soft. When the mat's soft and you are running
down the wave there's very little water coming off the outer rail. You
can see this in pictures. As you throw a mat into a turn you squeeze
the front. That stiffens the mat up and it holds in through the turn.
You learn how to squeeze the front when you want to hold in and
release our grip when you want to break loose and skim.

"Mats are the most challenging things I've ever surfed on. I love the
way they feel too ride, and they work in any kind of wave. Also,
they're very easy to transport. You can roll up two mats, a pair of
fins and a wetsuit and put it into a handbag and carry it onto a
plane. If I had to ride one thing out of all the surfing vehicles I
have-- a mat would be my choice."

New Kind of Kick

2008-09-10T13:28:00.000-07:00

I've got a tar balloon and a fresh pair of ocean slippers!

Actualy, this simple yet high performance combo is a blast.. Due to the shift of air pressure created by your body and the wave, this craft has true variable rocker, and seems to adapt well to whatever the conditions may be.

It has been a really nice alternative to riding backside on the 6'8 musko

The new Voit Duck Feet are going to take some grinding of the spines to soften them up. Taking them to Jeff's for some work later this week.

Thanks to Greenough (and prana) for the inspiration/introduction to a new ride.

Shelter Party August 30th: Uner The Sun and Goin' Big

2008-08-18T18:43:00.000-07:00

Come Join Us at Shelter Surf Shop on Saturday August 30th at 8pm for a gathering of the tribes! Film, Art, Music and Liturature!

Here's the Lowdown:

Film and Art: Under The Sun by Cyrus Sutton. Scope the film trailer here:

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7qHrBWyBVc&hl=en&fs=1]

Literature :Book Signing with Kevin O'Sullivan for his book on the Hayday of Gotcha entitled "Goin' Big"

Music: TBD

Refreshments: Courtesy of The Pike Bar and Grill.

Be There or Be Square!!

Trippin' and Surfin' make time for bloggin!

2008-08-15T17:21:00.000-07:00

Ok... So no excuses here but in the last month, I have had about 4 days out of the water.. Waves, Travels, people and future craft thought have all been good. Here is a montage of the last months thoughts, activities, visits and interests. Could Capture it all in pictures but you'll get the idea.

Surfing Northern destinations.. Three Days of awesome rivermouth awesomeness and a well deserved break from le shoppe! My Fineline Gee Bee, Co-Pilot Dakota and I saw some great waves.

A Fresh 6'8 Liddle Arc Tail Hull. Super Smooth, Fast and Fun!

Johns stoke, his home made mat, original voit spearfisherman fins and replica Greenough camera water housing.

Surfing weekdays and seeing Prana in the water (Photo by Barrel Yoda)

Innermost Limits of Pure Fun Screening at Shelter Surf Shop 7/26

2008-07-12T11:45:00.000-07:00

C’mon down to Shelter on July 26th at 7pm for live music, refreshments and an outdoor screening of George Greenough’s Classic Film “Innermost Limits of Pure Fun”.

Our friends Ovideo will be performing their own live soundtrack to segments of the film while other segments will be worked out via the film with the original soundtrack by Dennis Dragon and The Farm .

This is hands down one of our favorite surf films of all time and features the likes of Chris Brook, Robert Conneely, Danny Hazard, Russell Hughes, George Greenough, Gary Keys, Terry Keys, Bob McTavish, Dickie Nelson, Ted Spencer, Davide Treloar, and Greg Weaver.

For those unfamiliar with the film, here’s a brief synopsys:

The Intermost Limits of Pure Fun”
A film by George Greenough

This release is essential watching because it is a cinematic masterwork of the highest magnitude. In it, George Greenough chronicles ground zero of the shortboard revolution as it evolved in 1968. This highly personalized film is the prime instigator’s perspective of the innovations that changed surfing forevermore as they came down. Track the inside out with George in groundbreaking point of view sequences that are utterly unique. Experience remote Australia and hidden California as ridden by Mac T, Ted Spencer, Baddy Treolar, Chris Brock, Gary Keys, Russell Hughes and a brigade of the underground’s best. Revel in the morphic hand hewn artwork of Patty Hennick. Hear the distinctive improvisational soundtrack which was scored on the spot by Dennis Dragon, (before the Surf Punks), his brothers Doug and Daryl, (the Captain before Tennille), and Denny Aaberg, (before Big Wednesday).

Rare Sighting!

2008-06-26T15:53:00.000-07:00

This post comes a little late but I am still super stoked that I saw pranaglider out in the water doing his thing on his 8' Jim Phillips egg last weekend. Why is this a big deal you ask? Well, you average (and already rare) prana sighting consists of him riding a surf mat (which is also an amazing craft in its own right). There has been some discssion in the past on his blog about getting out there and surfing upright. From what I understand, he was out on a twinnie the day before. Either way, prana was there with stoke to share!!

Thanks Prana!!

Shindig at Shelter June 28th!

2008-06-15T14:46:00.000-07:00

Help us kick off the Summer on June 28th at 7pm at the premier party for “Tales from the Black Van” and Live Music by the Growlers!! The new Mexican restaurant on the street (Lola’s) will be providing Liquid refreshment as well as Chips and the most excellent Salsa! Here’s Some info on the entertainment for the evening:

Tales From The Black Van.. Sick Gnar Shredski featuring Al Knost, CJ Nelson, Scotty & Turkey Stopnik, Mitch Abshere, Herbie Fletcher, J Acuna, Loafer, Jared Mell and other slashers. Check out the trailer here

The Growlers.. Epic Garage Ricking and Rolling. Check em out here

Get here early and Grab some Mex for dinner at Lola’s. They will be hooking us up with Liquid refreshment and appetizers for the party! Mention Shelter when you go in and get 10% off your bill!

See You There!!!

Buckethead

2008-06-10T16:39:00.000-07:00

Ok. This has absolutely nothing to do with surfing but its pretty damn funny. This is my son and these photos are about 30 seconds apart. The missing part is when he dumped all of his Star Wars Guys out of the bucket. Here's what happened next:

1. Look at me dad! I have a bucket on my head!

2. Wait..I'm kinda tired.
3. Outie!

Scallywags on Patrol

2008-06-03T18:34:00.001-07:00

Copper Dove, Head Scallywag and yours truly spending quality time on Monday morning.

Dove acting sketchy in the back

Nuggets aboard the SS Sea hag

Sea tree from Barnacle Bill the Sailor

Sea O' Crete'

Waiting for something to happen..

The surf was meager but we were eager!

Religious Artifact

2008-06-03T18:17:00.000-07:00

On loan from the church of glide:

No..he doesn't live here anymore...

Thanks for this KP!! Stoked to have it hanging up in the shop.

This Morning...

2008-05-17T15:03:00.001-07:00

The Phantom limb next to Randy's Racer 5..

Fin up on calm waters..

Mysto mist..

Headed down south early before we opened the shop today with Randy Gibbs, Bill Livingston and my Dad to try and grab some morning magic.. Mother nature passed on giving us waves but spent its energy on the weather and scenery..

I was hoping to have conditions which would allow me to complete my review of the phantom limb but that will have to wait until next week...

Nice thing is that the water was finally warm enough to wear a little less suit and free up the arms and shoulders...

The Phantom limb and Snaggletooth!

2008-05-08T18:25:00.000-07:00

Fineline 6'2 Parabolic Stubby Hull AKA "The Phantom Limb"

Equipped with a 9" GL Flex, the Idea is little board big flex and lots of drive.. Experiments begin this weekend.. Photographic and written documentation of performance analysis to come..

5'9 Der Uberflaven AKA "Snaggletooth"

A fish with double concave from Nose to tail, channeled wings and a fin setup that can be best described as "reverse Jobson".
Thanks Brian for temporarily satisfying my voracious appetite for the "strange craft". More on these boards soon..

Faux Summer

2008-05-05T23:16:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday's nice weather and moderate swell reminded me of the opportunity for end of day sessions that summer evenings provide.. after a long week, it was time to take "The Big Liddle" and "The Gremlin" out for a surf...The Gremlin is what we are calling the new stubby hull by Tim Stamps and I have to that so far, I am really diggin' it.. I'll post more on this board soon!

Jeff McCallum -Spoon Bender

2008-04-30T15:10:00.000-07:00

New Sled Greenough Inspired... McCallum crafted. According to Jeff, He is working on a stand up version that will cost less than the 3k that this baby will set you back.

In the meantime, we can all drool over this one!

Rincon Gold!

2008-04-14T21:55:00.000-07:00

You pickin' up what im layin' down? Here's one interesting piece of redwood that had washed up on our last trip to the queen of the coast. RT has a knack for finding this stuff.

Strange Craft

2008-04-08T15:45:00.000-07:00

Amongst all the log doggin', butt wigglin' and wave sweeping going on at the beach this last Sunday, I managed to capture images of some folks doing things a little bit different.. Alaia's, Mats, Hulls and even a mysto Ski-critter (when's the last time you saw one of these guys ?).. Pranaglider and RT shared the mat, RT also dug up sand with his hull-shovel and Jeff wrestled with the Alaia.

I was the clown that left his suit in the driveway at home (ever done this?)

Redwood Alaia Sighting

2008-04-06T14:10:00.000-07:00

Jeff Beck is a man of many talents. Although most know him by his well crafted Comp Sand Balsa/EPS boards, here he is with his freshly finished 6'2 Redwood Alaia. In the Background is RT with the Green Genie; my newly acquired lime green Fineline MP.

Close Relatives of Casper

2008-04-01T23:26:00.000-07:00

The bottom three boards made a special appearance at this year's AB3. Mind warp provided to you by Bauguess, Eaton and Kenvin. Inspiration by Simmons...

Casper-esque

2008-03-28T19:53:00.000-07:00

The new ride wrapped in plastic at Swift HQ. I Cant wait to get my grubby little mitts on it.. RK and Phil will be bringing this up when they come to the Sacred Ride show at Shelter tomorrow night. Id say this is a prime example of a wave vehicle that will help channel the sacred ride.. Thanks RK, Joe, Mike, Phil for hooking me up with this sweet ride.. Thanks to Bob Simmons for inspiring its creation!

Be there...

2008-03-18T23:22:00.001-07:00

I went to this last year and will look forward to the trip to Cardiff Reef for as long as AB3 is put on. Rad people, rad boards, and hopefully some surf to try all those sweet boards in!

Get there early this Saturday, March 22nd and join in the fun!

Future quiver for my main man River

2008-03-16T21:17:00.000-07:00

At the request of fellow blogger Pranaglider, here it is..the modest quiver of a board peddler:

9'6 Hobie Altar III with tapered cedar stringer
7'6 Liddle Smoothie
6'6 CI MSF (This one's up for grabs)
6'4 5 fin Bonzer Pod
6'0 Nine Lights Fish
6'0 Kane Garden Twinzer (Lar-mo)
5'10 North County Gimmy Fish (Graham and Jimmy shaped)
5'10 Brom Fish

A 5'6 Casper is on the way.. RK and Phil tell me its almost done...Up after that.. Josh Hall

Time...

2008-03-10T23:30:00.000-07:00

For the few of you that may have been wondering, I have not abandoned my blog or the favored activity of viewing blogs (coined by chum as brocrastinating). A lot has been going on lately and it has to do with my assessment of the value of my time.. Time, in my opinion, is the most valuable thing we have. We never truly know how much we are given and can never get it back once it has been spent. It seems it can be bought but is greatly undervalued. It can be shared but must be shared with those who truly value it.

Last week I decided I was going to change the way I spent my time and it all started with the the photo posted above. Instead of going into work, with my good friends Jeff and RT, I chose to spend some time on a Ventura point break at sunrise. Having the support of these guys as well as my wife and family, I was able to see how my time would be better spent.. It has a lot to do with doing something I truly have a passion for.

For the meantime this is where you will find me. Please feel free to come and celebrate the good use of time with Kim and I at Shelter on March 29th where we hope to be with all of our friends and family.

A Couple of New Friends

2008-02-15T23:00:00.000-08:00

Master Shaper Steve Brom and the amazing "Brom Fish" that he made for me. River is on my side itchin' to get his hands on it.

5'10"- full opaque purple tint with insane, hand brushed pinlines by Steve.

Blue keels to match! This is one of the most beautiful and well made boards I have ever owned. It will make its debut tomorrow. Don't be surprised if you see some like this in a certain local shop here in Long Beach soon. Thanks for the rad board Steve!!

First Kid On The Block

2008-02-09T21:29:00.000-08:00

the Sim-Fish is a unique concept in celebration of the revolutionary design ideas of Bob Simmons..this adaptation comes from the minds of Kenvin and Eaton and the hands of Joe Bauguess..
Wide base, low profile Keels
Rolled edges on the nose, subtle concave out the back and a wide swallow tail make this board fast and responsive..

Jimmy is the first.. I think I'm in line to be number two less some of the length and the swallow...Hopefully Ill get to post some shots of this thing in action soon!

Making a mess..

2008-02-03T18:04:00.000-08:00

Although yesterday was an awesome day of surfing down south with Jeff and RT, today was another typical so-cal winter day full of wet weather and a warmly welcomed empty schedule because of it. I have a great appreciation for the interactive experience with all of mother nature's moods, but lately, I have decided to stay out of the rain and put my creative energy to use. For the last month, I have been working on some new stuff with an old friend.

After a two year break from writing music or playing live, I must say I'm a little rusty but not short of ideas or motivation. River is adding to the challenge of the experience by constantly unplugging things while I am tracking and turning my rig on and off mid session. I can already tell he loves music and musical instruments..

If for some reason this all comes together, I will be sure to share it with you..

By the way, anyone sat down and spent some time with the new Surfer's Journal yet? Nice job on the Mirandon Bros. peice RK. I have been waiting to read this for a long time. The thing on Steve's house is great. I had the pleasure of being invited there a few months ago and I am Super stoked to have had that opportunity... I was just awestruck at the level of thought and creativity that had gone into that place.. Seeing Steve's garage and having discussion of music and how it compares to surfing that evening made me realize that it was time to draw from the old well once again..

Fools Gold...Memory's Treasure

2008-01-30T21:30:00.000-08:00

While I Am Away...

2008-01-24T23:02:00.000-08:00

Well... The boards have been in the car for almost 2 weeks but have not seen action.. Maybe my keeping them in there is just an example of my overwhelming optimism.. Yes the glass is always half full...While its raining and conditions aren't the most favorable to be surfing or even mind surfing, it is a good time to hang with Kim and Riv, listen to music (currently listening to Swervedriver - 99th dream, and the Gutter Twins), play music (currently writing for my new yet to be titled project) and help prep Shelter for its grand Re-opening.

All of these things are welcome distractions when the surf just isn't working out..

Dims = Short x Wide x Thick...

2008-01-15T21:34:00.000-08:00

Here's something you don't see every day. This is an Eaton shaped bing twin fin stubby circa 1970. I picked this up on a tip from a friend on Craig's list where it had been sitting in someones storage unit in down town Long Beach. Its kind of a beater and according to Richard Kevin was "everything that simmons did right...done wrong". Still, this is a specimen which represents a part in the evolution of the twin fin design and will contribute to completing the never ending quest for unique planing experiences . It will be cleaned up, ridden a few times for nostalgic measure and eventually put on display at Shelter for all to see. Back in the day the likes of Rolf Arness and Corky Carrol made these things work. The fin system on this thing is something I have not seen anywhere else (for good reason by the looks of the design).

Jimmy Is Stoked

2008-01-09T17:12:00.000-08:00

Heres the goodness begotten for modest sum of money, 2 years wait, and 39 emails. A Steve Lis Fish. Jimmy Says we won't even be allowed to look at it. The dude posing in the pic is Lis himslef. The riding of fishes is a splendid thing indeed! Pics of Jim gettin' down on it to come..

River Learns The Word "Gnarly"

2008-01-03T08:57:00.001-08:00

Thanks to my dad, My 18 month old son learned the word "gnarly" after seeing this San Diego sunset on the way back from a family outing on new years day.. On the flip side, my wife and I think that my sister taught him the words " oh shit"...

Peace Happiness and Prosperity in 2008!

2007-12-31T23:05:00.000-08:00

Radness in 07:
-Met alot of amazing people all of whom I hope to be lucky enough to have as friends for life
-Made good on new years resolution to surf at least 150 days out of the year
-Celebrated my Son's first year in this world.. here's to many more Riv!
-Teamed up with the Wifey to open up a rad surf shop

Anticipated radness in 08:
-Repeat the 150 days of surfing (replacing past experiences with new waves, new tools and new locations)
-Continue to meet more amazing people, be the best I can for my existing friends and do my part to contribute to the surfing community that I am lucky enough to be part of
-Break the dawn patrol cycle at least once a week to surf with my brothers
-Update my Blog at least once a week.

I have some larger things in the works that are being fueled by burning ambitions. I can't wait to put the wheels into motion and share the experiences with you all!!

Happy New Year!

Shelter Shindig!

2007-11-28T19:51:00.000-08:00

Be There Or Be Square!!

New Addictions... Old Vice

2007-11-25T23:39:00.000-08:00

As Promised, here are a couple shots of my finished 6'0 Balsa over EPS Nine Lights Fish

Bottom and side view of my 7'6" Liddle Hull. See it being put to good use here.

Hull of a Day

2007-11-20T22:09:00.000-08:00

Turbo!

Presto!

"Meaningful content" provided by Matt Lyons. Here we have Megabro RT making the most out of a couple of nice leftward peelers on his 6'8" Liddle hull last Wednesday, November 14th somewhere behind the Orange Curtain. The Riding of Hulls is a beautiful thing!

Explore Your Innermost Limits

2007-11-15T20:57:00.000-08:00

George Greenough - Innermost Limits Of Pure Fun (intro)

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Ok..two video posts in a row and I don't like to be self critical but I'm feeling like I am neglecting my personal commitment to provide purposeful, original content. With swells in the water and a full workload over the last two weeks, I'll leave this worthy substitute..Sit back and enjoy a few clips from this George Greenough Classic. This can also be taken as an invitation to find and explore your own Innermost Limits of Pure Fun.

In the meantime, check out mega-bro RT's fine concoction of imagery and ramblings. Superbly original..

Sabbath-esque

2007-11-01T23:15:00.000-07:00

In the description of this blog, I did state that I would be posting about music I am listening to from time to time and tonight I will make good on this. Here is a live clip from Witchcraft; another fine Scandinavian export who boast likeness early Sabbath or Blue Cheer and a present a sound that i would say could be labeled as post- psych doom. The transflux of melodic blues noodling is the kind I like to have reverbrating through my head on a nice long right.

Local On Location

2007-10-30T20:06:00.000-07:00

Here's another look at some of the amazing waves we had a week ago down south at a not so secret spot. My friend, Bolsa regular, artist, and shaper of North County surfboards puts some of Gibbs goods to the test. Jim is a super friendly guy and can often be seen down at Bolsa tearing it up on one of his signature twinzers or twin keel fish. Go Jimbo Go!

Good Way To Start The Week

2007-10-23T22:35:00.001-07:00

Heres how the week started out for us down at the ol' megatrough. Strong offshore winds and mixed s and NW swells create a rare sight around these parts.

For a good part of the morning there was very few people in the water. Here's wooden wave chariot craftsman Jeff Beck getting into it a little later in the morning on his five fin nine lights Balsa/EPS bonzer. Coincidentally, this was the day Jeff handed me my newly completed Balsa/EPS twin fin. this was not the board to ride that day..Pics of the completed board to come..