Summer. Just thinking about summer brings certain things to my mind: Grilling hotdogs in the front yard, air conditioner running full blast, and going to the beach on a sunny day. The beach brings something to mind as well as I sit in my dimly lit apartment, the glow from my monitor casting a warm light over the room: The Beach Boys.
The Beach Boys are an American muggle band formed in 1961 in California. Their early music was known for their vocal harmonies and surf rock themes. They are recognized as being one of the most influential bands to come out of the early rock and roll era. They drew upon many inspirations, such as 50s rock and roll, black r&b groups, and jazz-based vocal groups, to get their unique sound. The band gained national recognition after releasing a few top ten singles. Their sound became known as the "California sound" and few people could think of California without thinking of the Beach Boys.
Pet Sounds, their eleventh studio album that was released in May of 1966, was initially met with lukewarm reception. In the UK, however, it was met with instant success.
The Beach Boys are one of the most critically acclaimed rock bands of all time. They were one of the few American rock bands to remain highly relevant during and after the British Invasion in 1964. Between 1964 and 2010 they had over 80 tracks place on the charts, with 36 topping the top 40 US charts. They have also sold over 100 million records, making them one of the top selling artists of all time.
Yes, they became THE definitive sound of California and summer time. A lot of bands took influences from them, the Beatles being one of the best known bands to name them as an influence.
So it's easy to summon up the sounds of "Surfin' USA" during these summer months. To picture ourselves on a beach somewhere, bathing in the sun, the pop rock sounds of The Beach Boys playing in our ears.
I would personally recommend "Student Demonstration Time", "Wouldn't It Be Nice", and "Sloop John B" for those wishing to get into the band.
That being said, this Mai Tai won't drink itself, so I have to get back to that. Until next time, dear readers. Keep rocking. Keep the music ALIVE.