An instantly memorable guitar riff that rose and fell like ocean waves, as well as a dynamic drum solo punctuated by urgent chords, made "Wipe Out" a massive surf instrumental hit. Losing control of his right drumstick, Ron Wilson resorted to hitting the crash cymbal with his bare hand as the track ended. As for the sound effects and signature cackle at the song's beginning, rhythm guitarist Bob Berryhill said, "I went out and got a cement-soaked board from somewhere outside and just cracked it over the mike and Dale Smallin, who was our original manager, let out a laugh."