"This was the first time that Bob Keefe and the Surf Renegades performed as part of the Village of Manlius Summer Concert Series, and they were so much fun! Their music sounds great and we received multiple comments from audience members during and after the concert about how much they enjoyed the band. Great mixture of original songs, covers, and their own spin on some classic theme songs! Bob was also very easy to work with, and the band made the entire process smooth. It was a wonderful day!"
-Ryan Campbell, Village of Manlius Recreation Director (our performance 7/20/26)
"When I first entered the pub, I couldn't see any band or anything, and I just heard really nice music coming through the overhead system. Then when I went over to the bar, I saw that you guys were playing and realized THAT WAS THE MUSIC
I WAS LISTENING TO! You know, how sometimes you can tell if it's a live band or not just by listening to a few seconds of music? But you guys were flawless! I had a great time listening to your music."
Linda (from our performance at McGirk's Irish Pub on July 1, 2026)
I really appreciate this slideshow because it's not just you guys in the band playing on the pictures. You're actually showiing me sunny beautiful shots and colors and people from Town showing up to your shows. You're showing me community and that people are there and you're not playing to an empty room and that is so important and satisfying thank you!
Lola Drake (from our video slide show on Facebook at our performance at Sheldrake Point Winery on June 28, 2026)
"Seeing Bob Keefe and the Surf Renegades at Stonebend Farm was an absolute highlight. From the moment they started, the music never let up—flowing seamlessly from
classic hits into inventive surf rock interpretations that kept the entire crowd engaged and energized.
As a musician myself, I was especially impressed by the level of precision and professionalism on display. Their tight arrangements, polished transitions, and clearly well-rehearsed presentation made
it feel like more than just a show—it was a masterclass in surf rock performed by highly skilled musicians. Each player brought both technical ability and authentic style, elevating the entire
experience.
If you ever get the chance to catch them live, don’t miss it. They deliver a nonstop, high-caliber performance that’s just as enjoyable for casual listeners as it is inspiring for fellow
musicians."
Cameron Berger, drummer (at our show at Stone Bend Farm 6/5/26)
Hi Bob!
I wanted to reach out early to see if we can lock in the Surf Renegades for the 2026 season at Knapp. I had the chance to catch your set-in person and really enjoyed it—great energy, and a solid turnout! That’s exactly the kind of vibe we’re looking for.
SD (Events Manager, Knapp Winery)
(email received Oct., 2, 2025)
Thanks again for playing Music in the Hollow! You and The Surf Renegades sounded great and were so easy to work with.
It’s rare that a band is right on time, and you guys were ready to rock 10 minutes before showtime!
We get a hugely diverse age range from newborns and toddlers to folks in their 70s and 80s, and this show was a hit with everyone.
Keep Rockin’!
Doug Levine, Executive Director, State Theater of Ithaca
(From our performance on July 22, 2025)
Bob and the Surf Renegades absolutely ROCKED our Fourth of July celebration!
Bob was incredibly easy to work with—responsive, professional, and refreshingly easygoing, which made planning a 600+ person event that much smoother. The Surf Renegades were scheduled to perform mid-event, and their arrival, load-in, and setup were so seamless you’d hardly notice gear being carried through the venue. They were quick, efficient, and respectful of the space.
When the music started, the energy shifted—guests immediately gravitated toward the stage and filled the lawn with dancing and smiles. The band’s sound, stage presence, and ability to engage the crowd were top-notch.
I would recommend the Surf Renegades a hundred times over and encourage anyone to catch them live if they have the chance. Huge thanks to Bob and the entire band for making our event unforgettable!
Best,
Tania-lynn, Event Planner, Inn at Taughannock Falls
(From our performance on July 4, 2025)
Hi Bob,
Thanks so much for the great performance! We really
enjoyed having you and the Surf Renegades. The crowd & staff really enjoyed it as did
I. Sorry I did not get a chance to introduce
myself, I did stay for most of the first set and really enjoyed
it.
We'll definitely keep you in mind for future gigs.
Best,
M.W. (McGirk's Irish Pub, Binghamton)
(From our performance on May 24, 2025)
"I had the pleasure of sitting in on Bob Keefe and the Surf Renegades' live studio recording on October 12, 2024, where professionalism and musicianship in the room surpassed most bands I've worked
with in the business.
Their repertoire moves seamlessly between classic surf rock, beloved classic television themes, and intelligent originals that blend west coast rock, jazz, and blues.
The Surf Renegades are a top notch good time - offering something different than anything I've seen in the tri-state area!"
Hannah Martin, performer and composer,
Toronto, Canada
"Bob and the Surf Renegades played an amazing set with some surf classics (like a great rendition of Misirlou!) plus really clever surf arrangements (Riders on the Storm was a particular highlight).
A great, fun time from a group of excellent musicians!"
(From A.B., a patron at our performance at Salt Point Brewing on September 25, 2024)
"It was the perfect evening because of your music. Whenever we go somewhere and there is music, the music is always too loud. You guys sounded fantastic! The Surf Renegades played at the perfect volume where we could enjoy our dinner AND converse AND enjoy the music. Bravo!" M.C. and D.C.
(From a couple at our performance at Hector Hideaway on August 22, 2024)
"We're looking forward to having you back! Staff AND customers loved y'all and that doesn't always happen. I'll work on getting the hula girls here and I'm going to whip up something tropical for a drink special ;)" AND...
"We were most impressed by your ability to not overpower the room and I very much hope for tolerable weather so y'all can be outside and really let it rip!"
(From the management at Hector Hideaway about our performance on June 22, 2024)
"The Surf Renegades always infuse the audience with energy, often bringing them out of their seats to dance along with the tunes. Their setlist is chock-full of familiar favorites sure to bring a smile to every listener's face!" T.D., Manager
(From our performance at Liquid State Brewing North Shore on May 17, 2024)