Marty Stuart Unveils New Surf-Inspired Album ‘Space Junk’

Nashville, TN — Country musician Marty Stuart and his band, The Fabulous Superlatives, have released their latest album, “Space Junk,” exclusively on vinyl for Record Store Day, with only 1,700 copies available. This two-record set showcases a unique blend of surf music and Western soundtrack sounds, drawing inspiration from the 1960s. The album captures the essence of surf culture and pays homage to legends like Dick Dale and Ennio Morricone.

The album cover features striking artwork by Herb Alpert, famed jazz musician and trumpeter known for his melodies with The Tijuana Brass. Stuart’s longtime fans will recognize the surf-influenced instrumentals, which have become a staple during live performances.

Stuart’s fascination with surf music began in the late 1950s, when artists like Dick Dale popularized the genre. Dale’s unique sound, crafted with a Fender Stratocaster, captured the feeling of surfing and the ocean, propelling the surf music trend globally. The album’s sound also nods to Morricone’s iconic score for spaghetti Westerns and the famed James Bond themes, introducing a captivating mix of genres.

Attention to detail is evident in “Space Junk,” with the band using an array of vintage instruments and careful recording techniques. Collaborator Mick Conley played a significant role in the album’s engineering, ensuring a rich sonic experience. Famed for his iconic 1954 Telecaster guitar, Stuart incorporates a B-bender device for signature sound bends, enhancing the album’s musical depth.

The album features original compositions from Stuart and his bandmates, Kenny Vaughan, Harry Stinson, and Chris Scruggs. It was recorded at various studios, including Nashville and the iconic Capitol Studios in Hollywood.

Tracks like “Graveyard” open the album with an exhilarating energy, reminiscent of spy-thriller soundscapes. “All The Pretty Horses” echoes the classic Western themes, earning contributions from Gary Carter of Connie Smith’s band.

Other standout tracks include “El Zorro,” which blends bossa nova influences, and “Rhapsidio Sangre de Cristo in E Major,” featuring orchestrated string sections and Latin percussion. Each song captures the spirit of the surf genre while embracing the band’s original flair.

“With ‘Space Junk,’ we wanted to create something special for our fans and embrace the sounds we grew up loving,” Stuart said in a statement. “It’s a labor of love that we believe music enthusiasts, especially surf and Western soundtrack fans, will truly appreciate.”

Availability of the album remains limited to local record stores, with no immediate plans for digital streaming or downloads. Fans are anticipated to treasure this meticulously crafted collection, honoring both surf and music history.

As Stuart continues to evolve as an artist, his commitment to pushing musical boundaries is evident in every note of “Space Junk.” While fans eagerly await wider distribution, the excitement surrounding the fresh release suggests a promising journey ahead for both Stuart and The Fabulous Superlatives.