Record Reviews

BEACH BOYS ~ FEEL FLOWS – THE SUNFLOWER & SURF`S UP SESSIONS 1969 - 1971 (SUPER DELUXE EDITION) CAPITOL 602508802188 (Barcode: 602508802188) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1969 - 1993 Released: 2021 This is another mammoth 5CD Box Set expanded reissue of albums recorded by the legendary American Pop / Rock group The Beach BoysFind albums by this artist. The material includes mostly music recorded between 1969 and 1971, but some live recordings included here go as far as 1993. The vast majority of the material is previously unreleased. Here is more detailed information: CD1 presents the album “SunflowerFind albums with this title” with twelve original tracks, six live versions of the songs from that album recorded over many years and nine bonus tracks. CD2 presents the album “Surf`s UpFind albums with this title” with ten original tracks, five live versions of the songs from that album recorded over many years and nine bonus tracks. CD3 presents nineteen tracks from the “Sunflower” sessions and additional ten a cappella tracks recorded between 1969 and 1971. CD4 presents eleven tracks from the “Surf`s Up” sessions, seven a cappella tracks recorded during the “Surf`s Up” sessions and six additional various bonus tracks. CD5 presents twenty-nine additional various bonus tracks. Renowned for their sublime vocal harmonies and divine songwriting, mostly by Brian WilsonFind albums by this artist, The Beach Boys produced some of the finest American Pop / Rock music ever, which loses nothing of its power, beauty and Artistic vision over the time. They had few competitors at the time and of course the music shines brightly in comparison to the non-music that surrounds us today. Sadly, the material included here marks more or less the decline of their illustrious career, which would last just a couple of great albums (see the “Sail On Sailor - 1972Find albums with this title” Box Set), although Brian Wilson still produces great music today. Overall, this Box Set is an obvious labor of love and a treasure trove of sublime timeless music. Although such detailed recording documents are perhaps most interesting to true fans of the group (those who are still with us, like myself), they are also extremely educative, to show the new generations what great music is all about. Personally, I love every second of those 5 CDs, which bring fond memories of times long gone. Nostalgia? Perhaps, but surely also way beyond…

Updated: 17/02/2024Posted: 17/02/2024

CD 5 Digibook Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

BEACH BOYS ~ SAIL ON SAILOR - 1972 (SUPER DELUXE EDITION) CAPITOL 602445859146 (Barcode: 602445859146) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1972 - 1993 Released: 2022 This is another mammoth 6CD Box Set expanded reissue of albums recorded by the legendary American Rock group The Beach BoysFind albums by this artist. The material includes mostly music recorded in 1972, but some live recordings included here go as far as 1993. The vast majority of the material is previously unreleased. Here is more detailed information: CD1 presents the album “Carl And The Passions – So ToughFind albums with this title” with eight original tracks and eight bonus tracks. CD2 presents the album “HollandFind albums with this title” with nine original tracks and seven bonus tracks, as well as the six-part suite “Mount Vernon And Fairway (A Fairy Tale)”. CD3 presents eleven tracks recorded live at the Carnegie Hall on November 23, 1972. CD4 presents fifteen more tracks from the Carnegie Hall concert. CD5 presents twenty-one tracks from various 1972 sessions. CD6 presents twenty various tracks, including six live versions of the songs from the two albums recorded between 1973 and 1993 and other studio recordings. Renowned for their sublime vocal harmonies and divine songwriting, mostly by Brian WilsonFind albums by this artist, The Beach Boys produced some of the finest American Rock music ever, which loses nothing of its power, beauty and Artistic vision over the time. They had few competitors at the time and of course the music shines brightly in comparison to the non-music that surrounds us today. Sadly, the material included here marks more or less the final stage of their illustrious career, although Brian Wilson still produces great music today. Overall, this Box Set is an obvious labor of love and a treasure trove of sublime timeless music. Although such detailed recording documents are perhaps most interesting to true fans of the group (those who are still with us, like myself), they are also extremely educative, to show the new generations what great music is all about. Personally, I love every second of those 6 CDs, which bring fond memories of times long gone. Nostalgia? Perhaps, but surely also way beyond…

Updated: 17/02/2024Posted: 19/01/2024

CD 6 Digibook Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend

BEACH BOYS ~ THE SMILE SESSIONS (DELUXE EDITION) CAPITOL 5099902766324 (Barcode: 5099902766324) ~ USA ~ Classic Pop Recorded: 1966 - 1967 Released: 2011 If any album in the history of recorded music deserves the “legendary” status, “SmileFind albums with this title” is certainly a worthy candidate. Devised as a follow up to the brilliant “Pet SoundsFind albums with this title” album by The Beach BoysFind albums by this artist and their resident genius / creative director Brian WilsonFind albums by this artist, it was supposed to be the Mother of all albums, the ultimate musical thrill and the decisive blow in the Beach Boys / BeatlesFind albums by this artist imaginary competition. Wilson devised the idea and technique for what was supposed to become the “Smile” album when he started to record to famous “Good Vibrations” single, while still working on “Pet Sounds”. From the summer of 1966 and months into 1967 Wilson recorded hours upon hours of material, which was to be later edited into finished songs using elaborate studio wizardry, splicing, overdubbing and any previously known trick in the book, and then some. Unfortunately Wilson became increasingly erratic and disturbed as the work progressed, fighting with his own demons, fears and drug abuse, which eventually led to abandoning the project / album completely. Luckily for us, music lovers, the session tapes of the “Smile” project were saved, some of them circulating in the bootleg circles for many years. Jump forward to 2004, when the rejuvenated Wilson, in much better mental state and drug free decided to revisit the “Smile” concept and recorded a contemporary version of the “Smile” songs, a project, which was very well received both by critics and public alike. This led to Wilson’s work of reconstruction of the “Smile” album, using the original tapes, which was eventually released in late 2011 as “The Smile Sessions” in several versions: a normal 2CD version, a Deluxe 2CD Box Set (this one) and the lavish and extravagant Special Edition Deluxe Box Set with 5 CDs, 2 LPs and 2 singles. So much for the history behind this album, and now let’s talk about the musical content; in retrospect it’s obvious that “Smile” was definitely a brilliant piece of music and a work of a visionary Artist. The completely innovative approach to creating music, at least as far as Pop was concerned, marks “Smile” as a prophetic and pioneering step forward. The question is, however, if now, almost five decades later, the music manages to retain its vitality, credibility and conceptual integrity? Regardless of what the subjective answer the above question is, one must admit that the music still sounds damn good, especially those sublime melody lines, vocal harmonies and layers upon layers of sound all falling into place like pieces of a complex puzzle. The bonus material enables us a glimpse into the creative process of recording this music step-by-step, sound upon sound, which is still truly amazing. Perhaps this version of “Smile” is not as grand as it might have been if it was ever finished back then, but it is the best we’ll ever get, so let’s enjoy it. It is certainly worthy an honorable place in any serious record collection, as long as people still remember who the Beach Boys were. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 17/02/2024Posted:

CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

CHARLES LLOYD / JASON MORAN ~ HAGAR`S SONG ECM 2311 (Barcode: 602537245505) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2012 Released: 2013 This is a beautiful duo album by veteran US saxophonist Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and much younger pianist Jason MoranFind albums by this artist, who plays with Lloyd since several years. The album comprises of fourteen pieces, eight of which are Jazz / Rock / Pop standards, which receive here a very special treatment and one is an original composition by Lloyd. The remaining five are also composed by Lloyd and constitute a musical suite, which gives the album its title. Lloyd´s status as a player is beyond legendary and his latest output completely defies the limitations that age imposes on people, which is absolutely astounding. His tone, sensibility, aesthetics and virtuosity are simply stunning and being enhanced by maturity and experience give a new meaning to the term "musical perfection". Moran, one of the most important pianists to emerge on the US scene in the last decade, proves to be both a worthy partner and a faithful supporter to Lloyd´s artistry. Lloyd´s decision to revisit some of the most iconic Jazz standards, as well as no less iconic pieces by Bob DylanFind albums by this artist or Brian WilsonFind albums by this artist (the Beach BoysFind albums by this artist) is somewhat surprising, as he is known to concentrate mostly on his original material. These Jazz standards are obviously very dear to his heart to return to them with such love and sensitivity. The non-Jazz material is a nice reminder of the period when Lloyd´s music was a part of the emerging Jazz-Rock scene in the US, one of the most exciting periods in music history. Lloyd plays flutes on this album, which is also quite a rare occasion to be reminded how beautifully he can handle that instrument as well. The interplays and musical conversations between him and Moran are a striking example of mutual empathy, understanding and respect between musicians, regardless of their age difference. Overall this is a superb album, full of deeply moving music from start to finish, perfectly and most sensitively performed by Master musicians and beautifully recorded. One can hardly ask for anything more as far as musical aesthetics and creativity are concerned. This is superb music in every respect and a must for any serious Jazz listener.

CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

BRIAN WILSON ~ AT MY PIANO DECCA 602438500383 (Barcode: 602438500383) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 2021 Released: 2021 This is a solo piano album by American Pop / Rock songwriter Brian WilsonFind albums by this artist, which presents new interpretations of fifteen of his most famous songs composed over the years. People familiar with Wilson’s brilliant songwriting will of course recognize these tunes immediately, while these new, very delicate and often subdued interpretations presents a somewhat nostalgic look at his impressive career, emphasizing his wonderful sense of melody. The album offers a simple, room quality sound rather that a fancy concert hall ambience, which adds to the charm and intimacy of the whole affair. Obviously each listener will hear in parallel to these solo piano pieces his own memories as they were recorded by The Beach BoysFind albums by this artist, creating an individual mixture of reality and subconscious music memories. Although it might seem a tad vain to play a tribute to himself, Wilson certainly deserves some slack and our respect and admiration for his contribution to music over the years, which had only a very few equals. Overall, this is a wonderful trip down the memory lane, which inspires splendid memories of superb musical peaks Wilson deserves a credit for, in view of his unique talent as a songweaver of the highest order. Absolutely delightful!

Updated: 18/02/2022Posted: 18/02/2022

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

BRIAN WILSON ~ NO PIER PRESSURE (DELUXE EDITION) CAPITOL 602547215239 (Barcode: 602547215239) ~ USA ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 2014 Released: 2015 In 2012 The Beach BoysFind albums by this artist celebrated half a century of musical activity, but that does not seem to slow the band´s founder, leader and creative Genius Brian WilsonFind albums by this artist, who keeps a hectic schedule working on several new projects since. This album is a result of that activity, being his eleventh solo studio album. It comprises entirely of new original songs written by Wilson, which of course calls for a celebration. Several guest artists appear on this album, including Beach Boys cohorts Al JardineFind albums by this artist and David MarksFind albums by this artist, and several much younger artists. This Deluxe Edition adds five additional songs that do not appear on the standard edition. Wilson proves again that he has very little competition as far as writing beautiful melodic songs and no competition whatsoever as far as singing vocal harmonies. This album is a celebration of melodic vocal music, which is simply perfect, and which lost absolutely nothing of its impact over time. Classic qualities are here to stay and Wilson is a Master of his trade, basically saying: here I am, listen and shut up, unless you can do better. The album was severely criticized by quite a few "reviewers" in the American press, which simply means they know absolutely nothing about music values. True, some of the production techniques are perhaps somewhat commercial and one track is pretty bad, but honestly these songs are miles ahead of the infinite number of crappy songs offered by others on today´s shameless music market. The vocal parts are simply brilliant, with absolutely no competition anywhere in sight, which the critics simply miss completely. Overall this is the good old Brian Wilson, with a slightly updated production coating, but keeping his basic qualities intact. Anybody who can appreciate a great vocal harmony and a superbly crafted tune will definitely love this album, as for the others, who cares…

CD 1 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

BRIAN WILSON ~ REIMAGINES GERSHWIN DISNEY 5099990650024 (Barcode: 5099990650024) ~ USA ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 2010 Released: 2010 This is the ninth solo studio album by The Beach BoysFind albums by this artist founder, leader and creative Genius Brian WilsonFind albums by this artist, who keeps producing great music as if the passing of time eluded him completely. This very special project presents Wilson´s homage / tribute to America´s greatest ever composer of songs, George GershwinFind albums by this artist, who´s musical heritage changed the face of popular music. Wilson arranged ten of Gershwin´s most popular songs in his very special way, using superb vocal harmonies and a big Orchestra. He also selected two unfinished Gershwin´s songs and completed them for the inclusion on this album. The twelve songs were bookended by a couple of arrangements of fragments taken from Gershwin´s "Rhapsody in Blue". Although Gershwin´s songs have received endless interpretations by Jazz musicians, they are rarely seriously treated by Pop / Rock artists, certainly in recent years. Wilson creates an amalgam of Gershwin´s music with his vocal and orchestral arrangements that are his trademarks for the last half a century. The result is a beautiful melodic blend of classic Beach Boys / Wilson songbook that embraces Gershwin´s music tenderly, lovingly and most importantly respectfully. Wilson was described by some "critics" as "competing" with Gershwin and using his fame to boost his own hype. That is obviously ridiculous to anybody seriously listening to this album, as it content emphasizes above anything else Wilson´s deep love for Gershwin´s music. There is perhaps nothing very extraordinary in these arrangements, but since they differ so much from the usually heard Jazzy interpretations, they are a breath of fresh air. Wilson obviously contributes to cementing the position of Gershwin´s music as America´s cultural contribution to the world. His own contributions belong, of course, to the same category, without any need of competing for this status. The album is a great fun to listen to and "is here to stay" :)

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

BRIAN WILSON ~ THAT LUCKY OLD SUN (LIMITED EDITION) CAPITOL 5099923414228 (Barcode: 5099923414228) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock This is the seventh studio album by legendary American singer / pianist / songwriter Brian WilsonFind albums by this artist, recorded with a large group of musicians, including brass and string sections. Multi-instrumentalist / vocalist Scott BennettFind albums by this artist gets co-writing credits on most of the songs and Van Dyke ParksFind albums by this artist recites short narratives. The album presents seventeen tracks, four of which are narrations, dividing the rest of the tracks into five song cycles. The Limited Edition set adds a DVD with a documentary and live performances of two songs. The music is everything one may expect from Wilson: brilliant melodies and exquisite vocal harmonies combined into the sunny California vibe, which makes this album the closest to Wilson’s Beach BoysFind albums by this artist sonic legacy. This is perfect Pop / Rock music of its kind and Wilson remains a Master of the trade when it comes to composing and performing it. It is the 21st Century but the music remains completely valid and enjoyable despite the passing time. Whatever happened (or didn’t) in music in the meantime, a great melody and perfect harmonizing always works, at least for me. Overall, as long as Wilson is able to produce such wonderful albums, I’ll be always happy to listen to them and enjoy them, being grateful for his talent. Every Beach Boys / Wilson follower should find this absolutely indispensable.

Updated: 16/04/2022Posted: 16/04/2022

CD+DVD 2 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend