I don't think I have ever read such adoring liner notes before, and
amazingly so all the comments were true. This CD lives up to all the
ranting and raving bestowed upon the pop genius Brian Wilson. Once
the musical mastermind behind the legendary Beach Boys sound, he has
been venerated and sited as a pioneer of pop music since the sixties.
He is arguably the most important and influential person in the history
of pop music. Over the past few years he has come out of his self
imposed reclusive environment and put out a great studio album titled
"Imagination" in1998, and a comeback live recording called "Live At
The Roxy Theater" in 2001. Now for 2002 we have the ultimate live
Brian Wilson experience, the entire "Pet Sounds" album recorded live
at London's Royal Festival Hall. Wilson and his band played for four
sold out dates there and this is the result of those magical evenings of pop heaven.
Brian's voice is slightly worn, but he still has the warmness and
smooth delivery that make every song a memory to hold onto. Many music
luminaries were present for the performances. Roger Daltry commented-"The
humanity just pours out of him." And it's evident that Wilson sounds
as if he is back on track and has returned in a big way, focused once
again on the creative process. It will be interesting to see if all
of the touring initiates another studio album.
In addition to his back up band, The Wondermints, whom I remember
being part of the annual International Pop Overthrow concert series
which draws thousands of people to see hundreds of pop bands perform
yearly, provide stellar back up vocals. His entire casts of musicians
are on very high level of professionalism, which of course would be
required for Wilson's music. The harmonies they provide are reminiscent
of what was accomplished while Brian was with the Beach Boys. Everything
is in perfect sync on every song, and it all falls together so beautifully.
This is one of the most enjoyable and superior live sessions I have
ever had the pleasure to hear.
Exceptional tracks are "Wouldn't It Be Nice," "Sloop John B," and
"Caroline No." On "Don't Talk (put your head on my shoulder)" Brian
tells the crowd that they can close their eyes while listening or
just listen. Either way its pure Wilson magic at work. The pumped
up crowd gives a rousing ovation for every song. It's a real special
treat to hear all of this great music immortalized on CD in a live
setting. Just close your eyes and listen and you will be transported
back to another time and place. Isn't music wonderful?
Songs:
1. Show Intro
2. Wouldn't Be Nice
3. You Still Believe In Me
4. That's Not Me
5. Don't Talk (put your head on my shoulder)
6. I'm Waiting For The Day
7. Let's Go Away For Awhile
8. Sloop John B
9. God Only Knows
10. I Know There's An Answer
11. Here Today
12. I Just Wasn't Made For These Times
13. Pet Sounds
14. Caroline No
Credits:
Brian Wilson-lead vocals, keyboards
Jeffery Foskett-guitar, vocals
Bob Lizik-bass
Jim Hines-drums, vocals
Scott Bennett-keyboards, vibes, percussion, vocals
Paul Mertens-tenor & baritone saxophone, flute & alto flute, clarinet, harmonica
Taylor Mills-vocals, percussion
Andy Paley-percussion, guitar
The Wondermints: Darian Sahana (keyboards, vibes, vocals), Nick Walusko
(guitar, vocals), Probyn Gregory (guitar, french horn, trumpet, tannarin,
keyboards, vocals)
