RAM-BUNK-SHUSH Santa Barbara's Premier Surf Band

RAM-BUNK-SHUSH, named after a song by The Ventures, was formed in July 2005. The members are Butch Aharonian, lead guitar; John Chrisman, rhythm guitar; Roger Runjavac, bass; and Mike Williams, drums and percussion. More information on each of the members is contained in the biographies section. RAM-BUNK-SHUSH performs favorites such as Wipe-Out, Pipeline, Mr. Moto and Surfing Hollow Days. You can listen to selected songs under the music section of this site. We strive to be Santa Barbara's premier surf band.

What is surf music? This is a question that the members of RAM-BUNK-SHUSH are frequently asked. The style comes from the same beginnings as the more traditional forms of rock in the late 1950's and 1960's. What sets the music apart from straight rock is the lack of modifying the sound with electronics. The only enhancement may be the use of the mechanical reverb built into the amplifiers of the day. The early surf movies, such as "Barefoot Adventure" and "Slippery When Wet," had jazz soundtracks. The producers of these films were looking for music that was progressive, driving and more in-line with surfing. Thus, movies such as "Surfing Hollow Days" was introduced with the new sound and the rest became history. A very good summary of the history of surf music can be found at Wikipedia. RAM-BUNK-SHUSH plays with the original sound in mind. You will not see any fancy pedals or special effects devices on the set of RAM-BUNK-SHUSH. What you see is what you hear.

To obtain the authentic "surf sound," one turns to Fender. The guitar models of choice include Stratocasters, Jaguars and the Jazzmaster. While some bands, including The Ventures, also utilized Mosrite guitars, RAM-BUNK-SHUSH sticks to Fender equipment. Some of our guitars are custom-modified by Earl Reinoehl Custom Guitars. We also stick to the simple spring reverb for a true sound. To date, no one in RAM-BUNK-SHUSH has blown up an amp. However, we have blown a few breakers in our time.

NEWS FROM THE ROMPER ROOM-Well, it was fun while it lasted. Eveyone has moved on. Butch and John have joined forces with some other local talent under the name Riptides. Thank you to all of you that came out to support us and to our sponsors. It was great.

THE RAM-BUNK-SHUSH SPONSORS

Classic Surf Instrumental Rock