Surf enthusiast John Blair formed this revivalist band in Riverside, California in 1979. It joined a new generation of acts, including the Surf Raiders, the Evasions and the Wedge, devoted to continuing the heritage of ‘classic’ 60s surf/hot rod attractions. The Nightriders were initially envisaged as a studio-only band, but made their live debut in October 1980, supporting Dick Dale And The Deltones at the Santa Monica Civic Centre. Surf Beat 80 captured the Nightriders’ grasp of the genre and tours of Europe in support of its release proved successful. Subsequent recordings, including a collaboration with producer Shel Talmy, continued in a similar vein which, although entertaining, was of cult interest only.