LINK: Merrell Fankhauser ‘Best of’ two-CD set released

http://www.timespressrecorder.com/articles/2012/05/03/ae/ae38.txt

“The Best of Merrell Fankhauser” two-CD set has been released by Gonzo MultiMedia, the United Kingdom company that recently released “The Best of the Tiki Lounge” two-DVD set of his local TV show.

The new compilation of Fankhauser’s music from 1963 to the present includes more than 90 minutes of vintage tracks and previously unreleased material.

Considered one of the main innovators of surf music and psychedelic folk rock, the South County singer, songwriter, guitarist led The Impacts instrumental group that had the international hit “Wipeout.”

Fankhauser has published and released more than 300 songs and performed with some of the best musicians of the rock era.

“It was a difficult task to pick a group of songs from nearly 40 albums,” he said, adding, “I found a few unreleased gems along the way.”

A number of the 32 tracks are hard-to-find, highly sought-after collector's items that have been out of print for many years, Fankhauser said.

The CDs include songs by Merrell and The Exiles, from 1963 to ’64; Fapardokly from 1966; Merrell and HMS Bounty from 1968; MU from 1971 to ’74; and solo work with various musicians from 1976 to 2011.

Fankhauser has presented a number of television programs over the years and currently hosts “Tiki Lounge” that airs on the Central Coast as well as in Southern California, Hawaii and parts of the East Coast.

Gonzo MultiMedia UK recently released “The Best of the Tiki Lounge,” a two-DVD set featuring interviews with and performances by notable musicians.

“The Best of Merrell Fankhauser” and “Best of the Tiki Lounge” sets can be purchased by visiting www.gonzomultimedia.co.uk.