It is somewhat appropriate that I purchased the new Beach Boys compilation in the almost-midnight sun of Finland. Of course, there is nothing new here aside from six new stereo mixes and an alternate mix of Break Away. However, the intention of this compilation was not to appease the hardcore fans but to convince the Sounds Of Summer crowd that there was more to the Beach Boys than the biggest hits and Pet Sounds.
There is also an opportunity to showcase that there was more to the Beach Boys than Brian Wilson, and the democracy in showcasing all the other main band members seems appropriate. However, it is still telling that Brian wrote two-thirds of the track and produced another two cover versions.
Most of all, this compilation showcases the softer, reflective side of the band, and there is a feeling of calmness and almost healing power that permeates throughout the album. Sure, there is some early rock and roll (Catch A Wave, Hawaii, Little Honda, 409) but you also have the plea for romantic reconciliation (Kiss Me, Baby), the wonder of first love (Please Let Me Wonder) and the celebration of the joys of simple friendship (Friends). The “water” trio that seem to have been deliberately placed together (Cool Cool Water, Don’t Go Near The Water, California Saga) also exhibit a harmonic and healing quality, while All This Is That and Feel Flows both have a mystical quality to them.
The album also highlights a quartet of songs that represent for me the very height of Beach Boys music- the mental release of Break Away, the sheer beauty in melancholy of ‘Til I Die, the ornate fall and redemption of Surf’s Up and the title track that I reflected on just over two weeks ago.
If this album convinces even a small number of people of the breadth and depth of the Beach Boys catalogue, it would have served its purpose. Meanwhile, as hardcore fans, we can enjoy a new way of listening to our familiar songs and persuading our friends why this music is so important.
