Hello . . . from Illinois

[mlanoue]

Hi, everyone.  I've been lurking for a few months, but have finally decided to officially join the board, because my wife and I are going to the BAD show at Ravinia this Friday and it just seems like the right thing to do!  I'm 41, have obviously been aware of the Beach Boys my entire life, but unfortunately never took them seriously until last year.  For years, though, I've known that some of my favorite bands were admirers of the BBs--like the Beatles and Apples in Stereo, but I was always too cheap and lazy to actually go out and pick up a copy of Pet Sounds to see what all the fuss was about.  Finally, with the releases of the Smile Sessions and then TWGMTR and my joining Spotify, I could indulge my curiosity and listen to album after album!  I wish I had done this a long time ago.  Now, I have to buy the actual discs! 

My 8 year-old daughter absolutely loves "Heroes and Villains" and, really the whole SMiLE album--the 2004 version mostly.  I'm still transfixed by Pet Sounds, mostly.  And, I've actually never hated "Kokomo," either.  Though I remember when it was brand-new and I was riding with my friend to High School. I thought, "Kokomo is in Indiana.  Whoever wrote this is dumb." 

Anyhow, I still have a lot to learn, but I'm learning it here.  So, thanks!

[Lowbacca]

It's quite rare to have a fan of the Apples who wasn't a BBs fan first or discovered the Apples through Brian Wilson's music.

Welcome to the board! And have fun at the BAD gig!

[smile-holland]

Welcome mlanoue, and enjoy your undoubtly many future visits on this board.