The Beach Boys’ album *Pet Sounds* is a landmark in rock music history. Celebrated for its innovative recording techniques, beautiful melodies, and meticulous arrangements, it transformed the idea of a rock album into a thematic listening experience. While some modern listeners might initially dismiss The Beach Boys as a surf band, *Pet Sounds* is frequently ranked among the top three albums of all time.
The genius behind *Pet Sounds* is Brian Wilson. Inspired by The Beatles’ *Revolver*, Wilson stopped touring with The Beach Boys to focus on recording and producing this album. He enlisted the Wrecking Crew for session work and collaborated with Tony Asher on lyrics. Wilson wrote all the music, except for “Sloop John B,” a Bahamian folk song popularized by the Kingston Trio, which he arranged exquisitely.
Brian Wilson – Sloop John B
In 2016, Wilson’s voice had changed from the 1966 release of *Pet Sounds*, but his musical talent remained evident. Al Jardine, an original band member, sang lead for the late Carl Wilson, maintaining the group’s vocal excellence. Brian Wilson’s arrangements, known for their intricate harmonies, often had a heavenly quality, with Brian’s falsetto shining through.
After releasing “Good Vibrations,” Wilson experienced a well-documented breakdown, partly due to resistance from bandmates Mike Love and Al Jardine to his musical innovations. This led to a reduction in his contributions to the band’s recordings as he faced physical and mental health challenges. Here’s the original 1966 “Sloop John B” video, filmed for the UK’s *Top of The Pops*.
The Beach Boys – Sloop John B
Directed by the band’s publicist Derek Taylor and filmed by Dennis Wilson at Brian Wilson’s LA home, the video captures a unique moment in time. Some critics feel “Sloop John B” doesn’t fit with the rest of *Pet Sounds*’ Baroque pop style, while others believe it complements the album’s overarching theme of disorientation.
Towards the end of the 20th century, Brian Wilson was seen as a reclusive, damaged genius. However, he began a solo career, performing with good bands and maintaining his mastery of pitch and phrasing, even though his voice had changed. In his second act, Wilson toured *Pet Sounds* and completed his legendary *Smile* album. He continued to perform, occasionally with The Beach Boys, until his last concert in July 2022. Wilson, now under conservatorship due to dementia, remains a revered figure in music history.
To end on a high note, here’s the vibrant, timeless video for Brian Wilson’s masterpiece, “Good Vibrations.”