After a failed attempt to see Surfer Blood at their free show at Amoeba on Thursday (who knew that rock shows could start on time. 6 p.m., really?), and battling with a host of other writers, and even my editor, my quest was finally realized.  Surfer Blood! My favorite album of the year: all the hype, all the backlash — the truth would finally be revealed.

But first, The Turbo Fruits.

The Turbo Fruits blew up Bottom of the Hill on Friday. When Jonas Stein jumped in the audience for the last song of their set and whaled on his guitar as the audience formed a circle around him and gleefully jumped up and down, it was a foregone conclusion: nobody was topping this. With a blues sound that is big in the U.K. and a little reminiscent of Jack White, the Turbo Fruits played with swagger and confidence. With songs ranging from “Volcano,” an ode to a THC vaporizer, to a rocking rendition of “Bad Moon Rising,” the guys from Tennessee know how to throw a party.

Surfer Blood came on after a brief break and jumped into the Astro Coast opener “Floating Vibes.”  The guitar work was solid, and immediately it was apparent that lead singer John Paul Pitts traded in some of the softer vocals on the record for a growl. It was a good, visceral choice, especially following the Turbo Fruits. “Anchorage” and “Take it Easy” showcased the band’s ability to switch up the pace, while “Swim” had the place rocking. The guys lack any brooding, and seem to be enjoying the ride. They smiled at each other and the audience for most of the night, and genuinely seemed to be having fun. It transferred to the audience and made for a great show.

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