In contrast to most Surf compilations, Surf Beat delivers the surf hits in lesser-known versions like Pipeline by The Challengers or Dick Dale's Misirlou as Misirlou Twist. The featured recordings, some of which are very rare, demonstrate Surf's lasting influence on popular music. Surf rock is regarded as one of the pioneering styles of punk rock and psychobilly. The accompanying 36-page colour booklet was painstakingly researched and written by surf rock icon John Blair from Los Angeles and contains many previously unknown details and rare photos. Featuring The Challengers, The Super Stocks, Dave Myers, The Catalinas, Al Casey, Jan & Dean, The Ventures, The Fabulous Playboys and many others.