MP3: Subsurfer – “Girl Problem”
MP3: Subsurfer – “Simon”

San Diego has always been known for its surfing, but it can now pride itself on being the home of “subsurfing” too.

The buzz around the newly formed Subsurfer has grown in recent months, thanks to rocking sets at Bar Pink, the Casbah, and the Adams Ave Street Fair. And with the release of their debut album, We Are Stars, on November 28, the grit-pop group is set to make waves so big they’ll wash away that sandcastle you spent all afternoon building.

With their fuzzed-out guitars and everyman vocals, Subsurfer turn the dial back to grunge, evoking bands like Nirvana, Pavement, and Weezer. David Montalbano’s warbled croon is refreshingly laid back, commanding your attention without ever seeming like it’s trying.

On the We Are Stars highlight “Girl Problem,” the four-piece is joined by Nervous Wreckords frontman Brian Karscig — he also produced the album — who lays some whispered harmonies over the palm-muted power chords and crackling snare hits. Touches like that are what make We Are Stars so instantly endearing, cozying up to you like a forgotten favorite from your old cassette pile.

In honor of We Are Stars’ release, Subsurfer are doing a pair of radio interviews set to air on November 27: a live one with Tim Pyles on FM 94.9 and a pre-recorded one on KPRI 102. You can also catch them on November 28 at Soda Bar or on December 28 at the Casbah.

Upcoming Subsurfer shows
Nov 28th – Soda Bar
Dec 1st – Bar Eleven
Dec 11th – Tin Can Ale House
Dec 28th – The Casbah