Mystical and poignant …
By David Beard
It was Thursday, January 26, 2017. Shortly after the performance in Spartanburg, SC, I entered Mike Love’s dressing room as he was just finishing up autographing 20-plus albums for ESQ giveaways. After sharing pleasantries, Mike began talking about his upcoming release; a two-disc set comprised of newer recordings coupled with a second disc of re-recordings of classic Beach Boys hits.
After hearing Mike describe his upcoming release I was tentative, and initially didn’t understand the reason for re-recordings. I did, however, appreciate the concept of “turning on” a fan base to new material while reminding them of what put Mike on the musical map in the first place. The concept made sense, and each of The Beach Boys have re-recorded songs for solo releases, so it isn’t surprising.
Then Mike explained that he was working with Michael Lloyd. Lloyd worked with Kim Fowley in the sixties, and his success spans six decades and well over 100 motion picture soundtracks; including supervising “Dirty Dancing” and producing the hit, “I’ve Had The Time of My Life.” Having worked with The Osmonds, Barry Manilow and Belinda Carlisle, his work is said to have earned over 100 gold and platinum records. While these recording acts don’t speak to the genre of classic rock, Lloyd’s experience does speak directly to doing the project professionally.
As the year progressed I remained optimistic, but skeptical. Then Mike’s Facebook page began posting song and video snippets, and on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2017, a snippet of the song “Ram Raj” was posted. This was mystical. Unusual. Now I was interested.
UNLEASH THE LOVE
A breakdown
For longtime followers of The Beach Boys most of the titles on Disc 1 might not seem all that new. “Daybreak Over the Ocean” (“Daybreak”), “Crescent Moon” (“Glow Crescent Glow,” “Love Like In Fairytales”), “I Don’t Wanna Know” and “Too Cruel” originate from First Love, and “Getcha’ Back” (1985’s Beach Boys’ self-titled LP), “Cool Head, Warm Heart” (2006’s Hallmark release Songs From Here and Back) and “Pisces Brothers” premiered on Queen Latifah’s show in February of 2014. With all this material already having circulated for – in some cases – decades many may ask why bother? The main reason is clear; the recordings are mostly love songs that Mike has wanted to properly record and share. They’re important to him.
The other material on Disc 1 is rooted in TM, philosophy and spiritual growth. This lends itself to Mike’s world view … Providing a firsthand glimpse into his own personal experiences and life cycle. All in all, pretty interesting, and some of it is completely unexpected.
DISC 1 — Now
SIDE A
All the Love in Paris: Mike is joined on backing vocals by Christian and Brian Love on this nod to old Beach Boys style recordings, and Jeffrey Foskett’s soaring falsetto sways in the background like a visceral palm tree.
Getcha’ Back: Really nice re-recording with updated lyrics, and the adult contemporary driven focus works with the thunderous backbeat provided by John Cowsill.
Daybreak Over the Ocean: A lush and beautiful surprise in waiting. This song has been circulating for over 30 years. The song unusually lush and full of pulse. The best thing about this song? Like the others, it isn’t rushed.
I Don’t Wanna Know: Gospel funk I guess … Hayleigh Love is incredible, and the echoing “don’t wanna know” at the fade sounds eerily like Carl Wilson.
Too Cruel: The main variation between this version is Christian Love sang lead on Mike Love, Not War, but this version features Mike on lead.
Crescent Moon: This recording – like the others – benefits from Michael Lloyd’s nuanced production.
SIDE B
PHILOSOPHICAL (TM-BASED) SONGS
Intentionally, it’s more interesting to review this section as a combined set because this grouping of songs is replete with a deeper spiritual meaning. It’s my hope this music speaks and connects with a more mature and appreciative audience, with the mindset of listening to the message. If you enjoy the message then you’re in for a treat.
If you’re like me, and feel Brian Wilson is a genius when it comes to allowing his inner expressive side to be exposed through music, then you might enjoy dialing into these songs. This is Mike Love philosophical pop, and it’s innovative. Honestly, you have to use “All This Is That” as the spiritual marker in preparation of these songs.
Cool Head, Warm Heart: A saying by Maharishi that Mike implemented into song. Essentially “spiritual impressionism.”
Pisces Brothers: The spiritual trip continues with this nod to George Harrison and a respectful wink toward Carl Wilson.
Unleash The Love: It’s easy to be cynical in life, but don’t let the title throw you … the song’s message is palpable.
Ram Raj: An album favorite; replete with ancient history and mystical chants. I Mean, who knew Mike Love could write something as spiritually compelling as this? Brian Wilson wrote “Til I Die,” Al Jardine sings about life in Monterrey and here’s Mike Love singing about Holy temples. That’s what makes The Beach Boys so amazing! Many have made the argument that Dennis Wilson was the group’s soul, but they all have a different “soul.” This is a standout recording and unlike anything I’ve heard from any of the group members. As a bonus, Mike is in “All I Wanna’ Do” (Sunflower) vocal form.
10,000 Years Ago: A song of examination of mankind with vivid textures of gospel and jazz seeping through the grooves.
Only One Earth: Let’s take care of the planet … For me, allowing myself to listen to message was enlightening; pay attention and take care of mankind, so future generations have a chance to have good lives. A real family affair, Christian, Brian and Ambha Love are in perfect harmony, but Hayleigh Love’s reading sets the stage for what follows; a strong message.
Make Love, Not War: Sounds like a KISS recording … Like “All Hell’s Breaking Loose.” It may seem lyrically hokey, but when you sit back and listen to the message it’s rather important. Worse case scenario: you might tap your foot.
“ … We released 20 doves. I held them in my hands, and I could feel each bird’s heartbeat pulsating. I let them go into the air one bird at a time initially with a final release of nearly a dozen doves … symbolizing peace. This experience reminded me of the fragility and miracle of life.” — Mike Love
DISC 2 — Then
Highlights from this re-recorded set is The Beach Boys band playing all the instruments on each track, so you have a firsthand opportunity to hear how seasoned/well-oiled they are. Bruce Johnston, Scott Totten, Jeffrey Foskett, Tim Bonhomme, John Cowsill, Brian Eichenberger and Randy Leago bring flawless musicianship and vocal execution to each of the recordings. For what it’s worth, these are possibly the best re-recordings Mike has ever done. The songs feel and sound fresh; the same way the current concert performances are being executed.
For me, the most important element of these re-recordings is that they represent the incredibly impressive and vast Wilson/Love catalogue. You know, the one that changed music forever?
©2019 David M. Beard/All Rights Reserved