There are four bands called the Riptides. 1. Brisbane band The Riptides was one of the classic Australian new wave groups. The band's blend of diamond-hard power pop, snappy surf melodies and whomping backbeat was irresistible and eminently danceable. After becoming one of the biggest drawcards on the Australian pub circuit during the early 1980s, The Riptides called it a day in 1983, although various incarnations have regrouped in the decades since, even recording a live album, titled Resurface in 1987.