When I went to California in the early 60's, most of the Surf bands had lead and rhythm guitar, bass and tenor, with, sometimes an organ (usually, and old Vox or M-100).

Often because of skill limitations and the need to have a repetitive, strong open E or A note, bands would tune down 1/2 step. Eb (1'st string) or Ab (2nd string) were more comfortable keys for the horn, and the deeper "triple-picked" bass notes recorded better (think "Pipeline"). The keyboard player just had to learn six chords...three each in Eb and Ab (HA)!


Russ (Three chord) Lay