Tracklist:

1. Hawaii Five-O
2. Lovin’ Things
3. Galveston
4. The Letter
5. Don’t Give In To Him
6. Theme From “A Summer Place”
7. Medley
   1. Spooky
   2. Traces
   3. Stormy
8. Medley
   1. Aquarius
   2. Let The Sunshine In (The Flesh Failures)
   3. Games People Play
   4. I Can Hear Music
   5. Dizzy

Notes:

The Ventures’ 1969 album “Hawaii Five-O” is a captivating instrumental rock album named after the popular TV series of the same name. Released on Liberty Records, the album features the iconic theme song composed by Morton Stevens, which became a major hit, reaching #4 on the Billboard Pop Singles chart. The album’s success was further propelled by its blend of energetic rock instrumentals and melodic tracks, showcasing the band’s versatility and musical prowess.

The album includes a mix of original compositions and covers, with tracks like “Lovin’ Things,” “Galveston,” and “The Letter” demonstrating the band’s ability to reinterpret popular songs with their signature guitar-driven sound. The Ventures’ rendition of “Theme from A Summer Place” and the medley of “Spooky,” “Traces,” and “Stormy” added to the album’s appeal, offering listeners a diverse musical experience. The album’s arrangements, produced by Joe Saraceno and engineered by Lanky Linstrot, were praised for their sophisticated and polished sound.

Critics and fans alike lauded “Hawaii Five-O” for its infectious grooves and the band’s tight instrumental interplay. The Ventures, consisting of Don Wilson on rhythm guitar, Gerry McGee on lead guitar, Bob Bogle on bass, and Mel Taylor on drums, delivered performances that were both technically impressive and emotionally engaging. The album’s success helped solidify The Ventures’ status as one of the premier instrumental rock bands of their era, and it remains a beloved classic among fans of the genre.

The legacy of “Hawaii Five-O” extends beyond its initial release, as it continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal and influence on subsequent generations of musicians. The album’s title track, in particular, has become an enduring piece of television and music history, frequently covered and referenced by artists across various genres. The Ventures’ contribution to the instrumental rock genre with this album is a testament to their enduring talent and the lasting impact of their music.