The Smiley Smile Message Board

Smiley Smile Stuff => General On Topic Discussions => Topic started by: Shady on December 19, 2011, 12:20:18 PM



Title: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Shady on December 19, 2011, 12:20:18 PM
I'm sure it's been posted but it deserves it's on thread

Pretty interesting, most of Brian's band will be used and dates are booked in Japan already

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/exclusive-mike-love-talks-beach-boys-50th-anniversary-tour-20111219 (http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/exclusive-mike-love-talks-beach-boys-50th-anniversary-tour-20111219)


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Wirestone on December 19, 2011, 12:28:18 PM
Of note:

Brian Wilson has an incredible band. We're using most of his band. And we've got [current Beach Boys touring] drummer John Cowsill and our guitarist, Scott Totten. We're kind of blending things together.  I think, musically, it's going to be incredible.

How's the album coming so far?

We have not done much on that. There have been some songs written and we have recorded on a few things, just a handful of things. The next couple months are going to be, that's going to be our to-do list. There's a lot of creativity coming from myself, coming from Brian. David Marks has a title I really like, so I'm going to work with him on that.




Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Ron on December 19, 2011, 01:04:43 PM
I'm LOVING Mike Love lately.  This guy is awesome right now.  Hope he keeps it together, and Brian keeps it together.  Great interview, fantastic stuff.  I like the "voices in his head" comment at the end, essentially saying in his opinion when Brian lays out harmonies he thinks about the 'boys. 


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: The Shift on December 19, 2011, 01:29:40 PM
Nice interview, all seems sweet, relaxed, no-one gets dissed.

Good times.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Zach95 on December 19, 2011, 01:42:16 PM
Very nice interview, glad to hear about the inclusion of Pet Sounds and Smile material in the set list.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Wirestone on December 19, 2011, 02:29:42 PM
Well, performing Sloop, God Only Knows, Wouldn't It Be Nice and Good Vibrations (all of which Mike's band already does) counts as performing PS and Smile material.

Let's see if they do a full-on performance of Fire!


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Rocker on December 19, 2011, 02:54:51 PM
Ha ! Fire !!!   ;D ;D


I wonder if they will still hold Sounds Of Summer up when there will be a new best of. They just should stick to SOS imo. But then maybe they'll have a new hit in the summer.....


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: bgas on December 19, 2011, 03:11:24 PM
Nice interview, all seems sweet, relaxed, no-one gets dissed.



Except Dave


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: PongHit on December 19, 2011, 03:25:07 PM
the "voices in his head" comment at the end, essentially saying in his opinion when Brian lays out harmonies he thinks about the 'boys. 

BW himself said that — he said he still thinks in terms of their voices when writing vocal parts.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: JohnMill on December 19, 2011, 04:05:38 PM
Very nice interview, glad to hear about the inclusion of Pet Sounds and Smile material in the set list.

I'm not surprised, "Pet Sounds" is arguably their most popular album and "SMiLE" is obviously not as obscure as it once was.  Material from both albums should be staples of any Beach Boys show at this point their career.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Ron on December 19, 2011, 04:30:31 PM
Mike will be down with doing "Wonderful", he MikeLoves that song.  Really though if it's a career spanning concert, you can't expect them to do too much obscure Smile stuff, mainly just hit the high points because there's so many other tracks to do.  They're going to have to NOT PLAY some #1's likely to get everything included.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: 18thofMay on December 19, 2011, 04:45:55 PM
Mike will be down with doing "Wonderful", he MikeLoves that song.  Really though if it's a career spanning concert, you can't expect them to do too much obscure Smile stuff, mainly just hit the high points because there's so many other tracks to do.  They're going to have to NOT PLAY some #1's likely to get everything included.
I doubt that


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Chris Brown on December 19, 2011, 07:29:41 PM
Mike will be down with doing "Wonderful", he MikeLoves that song.  Really though if it's a career spanning concert, you can't expect them to do too much obscure Smile stuff, mainly just hit the high points because there's so many other tracks to do.  They're going to have to NOT PLAY some #1's likely to get everything included.

In the US they only had 4 of them, so I wouldn't worry about that, although there will definitely have to be some of the more "minor" hits glossed over in order to make room for some hidden gems.  So far everything we're reading about this suggests that they're doing it right this time - new music from Mike and Brian (hopefully up to their mid-60's standards), Brian arranging vocals, everyone getting along.  I'm as much of a cynic as anyone, but, knock on wood, I'm really getting excited for this.  More than I thought I would be, actually.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Pretty Funky on December 19, 2011, 08:07:42 PM
I would suggest Mike could give a big 'up you' to all his critic's if he pushed for 'Cabin Essence' in the set. Him singing 'over and over.....' would cause a few of us to eat...er....crow! :o


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Runaways on December 19, 2011, 08:41:30 PM
i would say he'd be the one eating crow


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: b00ts on December 19, 2011, 09:05:02 PM
Mike will be down with doing "Wonderful", he MikeLoves that song.  Really though if it's a career spanning concert, you can't expect them to do too much obscure Smile stuff, mainly just hit the high points because there's so many other tracks to do.  They're going to have to NOT PLAY some #1's likely to get everything included.
The Beach Boys actually didn't have too many #1 hits, believe it or not. Still, you are right that they will have to make a choice between "art for art's sake and money for God's sake," as 10cc put it so eloquently. Here's hoping that they play some deep cuts.

Imagine "Funky Pretty" played live with Blondie Chaplin! That would be something to witness, for sure.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: vintagemusic on December 20, 2011, 04:45:41 AM
When Mike Love says, they have recorded on a few things, but not that much.
Thats so vague, what does he mean? can somebody interpret Mike Lovespeak.


Figure an album is roughly a dozen tunes, so "Do It Again" is one, and if they had
worked on say three tracks, thats four, thats a third of an album right there.

Unless they are going to record fifty songs and then argue about which ones to use,
I cant see that. I could see maybe recording 16-20, dropping a couple, using a couple
as exclusive bonus tracks for Itunes or a deluxe version.

Can anybody speak to the recording, do they have a block of time booked, are they
gonna write in the studio? or come in totally prepared with finished songs and vocal
arrangements ?


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Rocker on December 20, 2011, 05:47:52 AM
When Mike Love says, they have recorded on a few things, but not that much.
Thats so vague, what does he mean? can somebody interpret Mike Lovespeak.


Figure an album is roughly a dozen tunes, so "Do It Again" is one, and if they had
worked on say three tracks, thats four, thats a third of an album right there.

Unless they are going to record fifty songs and then argue about which ones to use,
I cant see that. I could see maybe recording 16-20, dropping a couple, using a couple
as exclusive bonus tracks for Itunes or a deluxe version.

Can anybody speak to the recording, do they have a block of time booked, are they
gonna write in the studio? or come in totally prepared with finished songs and vocal
arrangements ?

This is just my guess, but I think Brian's songs will be worked on like in the old Pet Sounds days. That means he writes and arranges them, probably records the music track and then the Beach Boys will add their voices. I don't know about the stuff from Mike, Al, Bruce or Dave. Since they are touring and have to book time at Capitol's studio (I'd like to think that this is so important to Capitol that they get time whenever they want), they can't take very much time experimenting. Does Brian have any tour dates in the near future ?


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Magic Transistor Radio on December 20, 2011, 06:05:12 AM
Well, if you think about it, it's 50 years of "Fun, Fun, Fun."    :deadhorse



Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: The Shift on December 20, 2011, 06:08:07 AM
When Mike Love says, they have recorded on a few things, but not that much.
Thats so vague, what does he mean? can somebody interpret Mike Lovespeak.


Figure an album is roughly a dozen tunes, so "Do It Again" is one, and if they had
worked on say three tracks, thats four, thats a third of an album right there.

Unless they are going to record fifty songs and then argue about which ones to use,
I cant see that. I could see maybe recording 16-20, dropping a couple, using a couple
as exclusive bonus tracks for Itunes or a deluxe version.

Can anybody speak to the recording, do they have a block of time booked, are they
gonna write in the studio? or come in totally prepared with finished songs and vocal
arrangements ?

This is just my guess, but I think Brian's songs will be worked on like in the old Pet Sounds days. That means he writes and arranges them, probably records the music track and then the Beach Boys will add their voices. I don't know about the stuff from Mike, Al, Bruce or Dave. Since they are touring and have to book time at Capitol's studio (I'd like to think that this is so important to Capitol that they get time whenever they want), they can't take very much time experimenting. Does Brian have any tour dates in the near future ?

Studio musicians has to be a factor too -  if they're a combo of BW & M&B ban members as the new video implies, then they also have to be available for the sessions, and their touring commitments will be the same as Mike & Bruce's so I'd suspect several days in a row might need to be clear. That said, if Brian's already used musicians we're not really familiar with then he might be flying already.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Shady on December 20, 2011, 06:16:23 AM
The Brian question is so crazy..

Sounds like Mike hasn't talked to Brian in a while..

I won't believe this is happening till they are on stage at the Grammy's 


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Wirestone on December 20, 2011, 06:22:15 AM
Brian has been recording and working on new songs for several months. I believe in one recent interview he said he had 6 or 7. My bet is that those tracks for the basis to the new album. I suspect group vocals still need to be recorded. And Mike write some lyrics, of course.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Rocker on December 20, 2011, 07:11:34 AM
Well, if you think about it, it's 50 years of "Fun, Fun, Fun."    :deadhorse





We're very fortunate to 'Do It Again,' so to speak




I'd be really happy if Mike won't do that stuff. It's silly and in no way funny. I know so many people who think it's ridiculous and I agree.




Quote
Brian has been recording and working on new songs for several months. I believe in one recent interview he said he had 6 or 7. My bet is that those tracks for the basis to the new album. I suspect group vocals still need to be recorded. And Mike write some lyrics, of course.

That is, if Brian wants Mike to write lyrics. Maybe the songs were already finished with another lyricist. Of course a new Wilson/Love tune seems to be inevitable, stranger things have happened....


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: anazgnos on December 20, 2011, 07:28:27 AM
How do people feel about John Cowsill ending up with the drumming spot?  I feel like I've heard from multiple places that they drums have been a real weak spot in the BBs touring shows for a while, as compared to Brian's band.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Rocker on December 20, 2011, 07:31:58 AM
How do people feel about John Cowsill ending up with the drumming spot?  I feel like I've heard from multiple places that they drums have been a real weak spot in the BBs touring shows for a while, as compared to Brian's band.


No, never heard that. I always heard that the drums were very good at Mike & Bruce's shows. I like his drumming, too.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: AndrewHickey on December 20, 2011, 07:56:01 AM
How do people feel about John Cowsill ending up with the drumming spot?  I feel like I've heard from multiple places that they drums have been a real weak spot in the BBs touring shows for a while, as compared to Brian's band.

Don't know where you've heard that. The best thing about this reunion for me is that along with most of Brian's band, Cowsill and Totten are involved. Cowsill is a wonderful drummer - one of the two or three best live drummers I've seen - as well as having a great voice (and even though we'll have all five Beach Boys on stage, I'm sure the backing band will thicken those harmonies that are double-tracked on record). He's got fantastic stage presence, and seems to be a genuinely nice person too from the one time I've met him. He's the best thing about Mike & Bruce's current (very good) band.

You might be thinking of older, pre-2008, reviews. Mike Kowalski, who played with the band up to then, was an utter shambles at times, and a consistently poor player even at his best.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: anazgnos on December 20, 2011, 07:57:09 AM

You might be thinking of older, pre-2008, reviews. Mike Kowalski, who played with the band up to then, was an utter shambles at times, and a consistently poor player even at his best.

That's probably it.  Happy to be corrected on that.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Ron on December 20, 2011, 08:31:26 AM
Well, if you think about it, it's 50 years of "Fun, Fun, Fun."    :deadhorse





We're very fortunate to 'Do It Again,' so to speak




I'd be really happy if Mike won't do that stuff. It's silly and in no way funny. I know so many people who think it's ridiculous and I agree.

I know, right?  I'd also like for dogs to stop barking, and I"d like to have an alligator sit in my lap like a kitty kat so I could pet it. 


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: hypehat on December 20, 2011, 08:36:20 AM

(http://www.globalanimal.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Child-Holding-Pet-Alligator-300x225.jpg)

*raises eyebrow comically*


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: D409 on December 20, 2011, 09:53:43 AM
How do people feel about John Cowsill ending up with the drumming spot?  I feel like I've heard from multiple places that they drums have been a real weak spot in the BBs touring shows for a while, as compared to Brian's band.

Don't know where you've heard that. The best thing about this reunion for me is that along with most of Brian's band, Cowsill and Totten are involved. Cowsill is a wonderful drummer - one of the two or three best live drummers I've seen - as well as having a great voice (and even though we'll have all five Beach Boys on stage, I'm sure the backing band will thicken those harmonies that are double-tracked on record). He's got fantastic stage presence, and seems to be a genuinely nice person too from the one time I've met him. He's the best thing about Mike & Bruce's current (very good) band.

You might be thinking of older, pre-2008, reviews. Mike Kowalski, who played with the band up to then, was an utter shambles at times, and a consistently poor player even at his best.
Have seen the touring BB's twice - once in 2004 with Mike Kowalski drumming, and once in 2008 with John Cowsill - Cowsill's a far better drummer, and his vocals add a lot to the mix.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: absinthe_boy on December 20, 2011, 09:54:43 AM
I'm sure it's been posted but it deserves it's on thread

Pretty interesting, most of Brian's band will be used and dates are booked in Japan already

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/exclusive-mike-love-talks-beach-boys-50th-anniversary-tour-20111219 (http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/exclusive-mike-love-talks-beach-boys-50th-anniversary-tour-20111219)

That is a very balanced and open interview from Mike, and for sure I feel able to take everything he says there at face value.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Cam Mott on December 20, 2011, 10:23:24 AM
Andrew Hickey? Well I swan.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Wirestone on December 20, 2011, 10:30:58 AM
Quote
That is, if Brian wants Mike to write lyrics. Maybe the songs were already finished with another lyricist. Of course a new Wilson/Love tune seems to be inevitable, stranger things have happened....

I think, as "executive producer," Mike will rewrite lyrics on previously finished tunes to get a co-writing credit. Just a guess.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Rocker on December 20, 2011, 10:39:27 AM
Quote
That is, if Brian wants Mike to write lyrics. Maybe the songs were already finished with another lyricist. Of course a new Wilson/Love tune seems to be inevitable, stranger things have happened....

I think, as "executive producer," Mike will rewrite lyrics on previously finished tunes to get a co-writing credit. Just a guess.


I've often wondered what exactly an executive producer does. Can anyone tell me ?


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: PongHit on December 20, 2011, 10:49:32 AM
I've often wondered what exactly an executive producer does. Can anyone tell me ?

Sometimes it means, 'the guy who invested money.' But not sure in this case. Other times it means, 'a behind-the-scenes' mover/shaker, but not a hands-on creative person.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on December 20, 2011, 11:36:17 AM

(http://www.globalanimal.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/Child-Holding-Pet-Alligator-300x225.jpg)

*raises eyebrow comically*


:lol


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Alex on December 20, 2011, 11:49:04 AM
How do people feel about John Cowsill ending up with the drumming spot?  I feel like I've heard from multiple places that they drums have been a real weak spot in the BBs touring shows for a while, as compared to Brian's band.

Don't know where you've heard that. The best thing about this reunion for me is that along with most of Brian's band, Cowsill and Totten are involved. Cowsill is a wonderful drummer - one of the two or three best live drummers I've seen - as well as having a great voice (and even though we'll have all five Beach Boys on stage, I'm sure the backing band will thicken those harmonies that are double-tracked on record). He's got fantastic stage presence, and seems to be a genuinely nice person too from the one time I've met him. He's the best thing about Mike & Bruce's current (very good) band.

You might be thinking of older, pre-2008, reviews. Mike Kowalski, who played with the band up to then, was an utter shambles at times, and a consistently poor player even at his best.
Have seen the touring BB's twice - once in 2004 with Mike Kowalski drumming, and once in 2008 with John Cowsill - Cowsill's a far better drummer, and his vocals add a lot to the mix.

Kowalski used to be really good, too...


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Jon Stebbins on December 20, 2011, 11:52:34 AM

You might be thinking of older, pre-2008, reviews. Mike Kowalski, who played with the band up to then, was an utter shambles at times, and a consistently poor player even at his best.
At his best, in the 60's and 70's Mike Kowalski was a fabulous drummer, and anyone pointing out his deficiencies in his later days should be made aware of that fact.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: D409 on December 20, 2011, 12:05:59 PM

You might be thinking of older, pre-2008, reviews. Mike Kowalski, who played with the band up to then, was an utter shambles at times, and a consistently poor player even at his best.
At his best, in the 60's and 70's Mike Kowalski was a fabulous drummer, and anyone pointing out his deficiencies in his later days should be made aware of that fact.
Can't say fairer than that, humble pie duly eaten !


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Roger Ryan on December 20, 2011, 12:18:16 PM
If I'm understanding Mike correctly, David has an idea for the title of the album so maybe the thing won't be called DO IT AGAIN which I suspected. Then again, why does Mike feel he needs to "work" with David on the title? Does Mike always have to have his hand in the titling of albums? Or, is he referring to a "title track" that David thinks would be good for the record?

All the same, the weak puns and the constant hyping on greatest hits sales is tiresome. Really, this is almost the same interview Mike has given for the last decade right down to his wish to work with cousin Brian again...which feels a bit odd considering they have already announced a new album they're recording together!


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Jon Stebbins on December 20, 2011, 12:23:14 PM
If I'm understanding Mike correctly, David has an idea for the title of the album so maybe the thing won't be called DO IT AGAIN which I suspected. Then again, why does Mike feel he needs to "work" with David on the title? Does Mike always have to have his hand in the titling of albums? Or, is he referring to a "title track" that David thinks would be good for the record?

All the same, the weak puns and the constant hyping on greatest hits sales is tiresome. Really, this is almost the same interview Mike has given for the last decade right down to his wish to work with cousin Brian again...which feels a bit odd considering they have already announced a new album they're recording together!
A writer will often refer to a song as a "title", in this case I think Mike is referring to a song of David's that he wants to collaborate with him on, and/or perhaps Dave has a title or concept for a song that Mike thinks will be appropriate for the new record.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: HeyJude on December 20, 2011, 12:38:34 PM

You might be thinking of older, pre-2008, reviews. Mike Kowalski, who played with the band up to then, was an utter shambles at times, and a consistently poor player even at his best.
At his best, in the 60's and 70's Mike Kowalski was a fabulous drummer, and anyone pointing out his deficiencies in his later days should be made aware of that fact.

I’ve heard what I believe are very early examples of his drumming with the BB’s, and it did indeed sound just fine. I don’t know what happened or what the circumstances were, but pretty much every recorded example I’ve heard from BB shows once he rejoined the touring band in the early-mid 80’s had sounded passable at best, and pretty shaky at worst. The drums at so many of these shows just sound really stilted, and often with beats and fills totally dropped. Dennis’ drumming at shows from 1980 that we have on film/video or audio sounds far better. Something like the great late 1993 Paramount Theatre show with the 43-song setlist is hampered by some really weak drumming (and some dated-sounding 90’s keyboards I suppose).

I haven’t heard many examples of Cowsill’s drumming, but what I have heard sounds miles better than any drumming in any version of a “Beach Boys” touring band since Dennis and Bobby Figueroa were drumming in the 80’s. 


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Pinder's Gone To Kokomo And Back Again on December 20, 2011, 01:00:10 PM
Cowsill rocks and make The Beach Boys sound/feel like a band!


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Aegir on December 20, 2011, 01:02:01 PM
Kowalski was a great drummer... 40/50 years ago. He played on Nick Drake's "Bryter Layter" ! But his last few years with the Beach Boys, he was pretty bad.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Justin on December 20, 2011, 01:21:20 PM
Getting Cowsill was a good move...I always enjoyed his work with Mike's group.  


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Roger Ryan on December 20, 2011, 01:45:09 PM
If I'm understanding Mike correctly, David has an idea for the title of the album so maybe the thing won't be called DO IT AGAIN which I suspected. Then again, why does Mike feel he needs to "work" with David on the title? Does Mike always have to have his hand in the titling of albums? Or, is he referring to a "title track" that David thinks would be good for the record?

All the same, the weak puns and the constant hyping on greatest hits sales is tiresome. Really, this is almost the same interview Mike has given for the last decade right down to his wish to work with cousin Brian again...which feels a bit odd considering they have already announced a new album they're recording together!
A writer will often refer to a song as a "title", in this case I think Mike is referring to a song of David's that he wants to collaborate with him on, and/or perhaps Dave has a title or concept for a song that Mike thinks will be appropriate for the new record.

Yes, re-reading that portion of the interview, I agree that your interpretation is the most likely. Okay, I'm putting money down again that the album will be called DO IT AGAIN.  ;D


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Pretty Funky on December 20, 2011, 01:52:44 PM
....and that will be the song they play at the Grammys.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on December 20, 2011, 01:59:43 PM
If I'm understanding Mike correctly, David has an idea for the title of the album so maybe the thing won't be called DO IT AGAIN which I suspected. Then again, why does Mike feel he needs to "work" with David on the title? Does Mike always have to have his hand in the titling of albums? Or, is he referring to a "title track" that David thinks would be good for the record?

All the same, the weak puns and the constant hyping on greatest hits sales is tiresome. Really, this is almost the same interview Mike has given for the last decade right down to his wish to work with cousin Brian again...which feels a bit odd considering they have already announced a new album they're recording together!
A writer will often refer to a song as a "title", in this case I think Mike is referring to a song of David's that he wants to collaborate with him on, and/or perhaps Dave has a title or concept for a song that Mike thinks will be appropriate for the new record.

Jon, you seem to be ignoring the fact that David wasn't on the original video or sessions.  Care to fill us in on how David coming on board happened?  If they had planned to add David later, there would have been a parking sign with David's name on it.

I'm still flabbergasted that he wasn't included from the get go!


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Jon Stebbins on December 20, 2011, 02:54:31 PM
If I'm understanding Mike correctly, David has an idea for the title of the album so maybe the thing won't be called DO IT AGAIN which I suspected. Then again, why does Mike feel he needs to "work" with David on the title? Does Mike always have to have his hand in the titling of albums? Or, is he referring to a "title track" that David thinks would be good for the record?

All the same, the weak puns and the constant hyping on greatest hits sales is tiresome. Really, this is almost the same interview Mike has given for the last decade right down to his wish to work with cousin Brian again...which feels a bit odd considering they have already announced a new album they're recording together!
A writer will often refer to a song as a "title", in this case I think Mike is referring to a song of David's that he wants to collaborate with him on, and/or perhaps Dave has a title or concept for a song that Mike thinks will be appropriate for the new record.
Jon, you seem to be ignoring the fact that David wasn't on the original video or sessions.  Care to fill us in on how David coming on board happened?  If they had planned to add David later, there would have been a parking sign with David's name on it.

I'm still flabbergasted that he wasn't included from the get go!
I think you might be thinking that leaked "full" version of the video is authorized, and i think its just an early cut that was leaked by someone who had a "in progress" version. I know Dave has been talking to Mike and Al about reunion possibilities since last year. I also know he wasn't at the initial Do It Again session (as I reported on this board many months ago), but that he was subsequently brought in at Brian and Mike's request to put both rhythm and lead guitar on the Do It Again track. Whether the other Beach Boys, the video's director, or whomever were all on the same page regarding David's place in this I don't know. But I know Mike and Brian basically insisted he be involved. I have no idea of the actual chronology in which this occurred in relation to the aforementioned video production. Maybe the cart got a bit ahead of the horse, or something like that. I assume the whole concept has evolved from its May inception to now, and will probably evolve a bit more until we hear the actual released version. Like you, I'm real happy Dave is included, and I know he's looking forward to touring and recording more with the other guys.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: b00ts on December 20, 2011, 05:09:19 PM
Kowalski was a great drummer... 40/50 years ago. He played on Nick Drake's "Bryter Layter" ! But his last few years with the Beach Boys, he was pretty bad.
Yes! Bryter Layter is a hell of an album. I asked Kowalski about it when I met him; I wanted to confirm that it was the same Mike Kowalski who played with The Beach Boys.

Edit: I know this is a fascinating story. I may option it for a film one day.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: donald on December 20, 2011, 05:59:50 PM
Gotta add.........To me, John Cowsill sounds a lot like Dennis' style on drums, only better.  Perfect for this new, improved, BB tour band in terms of achieving "the sound".  Very glad he and Scotty are a part of this.  This melding of the two bands and original members is surprisingly, refreshingly great.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on December 20, 2011, 07:49:03 PM
If I'm understanding Mike correctly, David has an idea for the title of the album so maybe the thing won't be called DO IT AGAIN which I suspected. Then again, why does Mike feel he needs to "work" with David on the title? Does Mike always have to have his hand in the titling of albums? Or, is he referring to a "title track" that David thinks would be good for the record?

All the same, the weak puns and the constant hyping on greatest hits sales is tiresome. Really, this is almost the same interview Mike has given for the last decade right down to his wish to work with cousin Brian again...which feels a bit odd considering they have already announced a new album they're recording together!
A writer will often refer to a song as a "title", in this case I think Mike is referring to a song of David's that he wants to collaborate with him on, and/or perhaps Dave has a title or concept for a song that Mike thinks will be appropriate for the new record.
Jon, you seem to be ignoring the fact that David wasn't on the original video or sessions.  Care to fill us in on how David coming on board happened?  If they had planned to add David later, there would have been a parking sign with David's name on it.

I'm still flabbergasted that he wasn't included from the get go!
I think you might be thinking that leaked "full" version of the video is authorized, and i think its just an early cut that was leaked by someone who had a "in progress" version. I know Dave has been talking to Mike and Al about reunion possibilities since last year. I also know he wasn't at the initial Do It Again session (as I reported on this board many months ago), but that he was subsequently brought in at Brian and Mike's request to put both rhythm and lead guitar on the Do It Again track. Whether the other Beach Boys, the video's director, or whomever were all on the same page regarding David's place in this I don't know. But I know Mike and Brian basically insisted he be involved. I have no idea of the actual chronology in which this occurred in relation to the aforementioned video production. Maybe the cart got a bit ahead of the horse, or something like that. I assume the whole concept has evolved from its May inception to now, and will probably evolve a bit more until we hear the actual released version. Like you, I'm real happy Dave is included, and I know he's looking forward to touring and recording more with the other guys.

Thanks Jon.  Appreciate your answering my question!  I'm ecstatic that David is in there.  And that maybe one/more of his tunes might make the album.  Carl and Dennis are irreplaceable but using David's creative force could bring a whole new magic to this project.  I'd love to see Ricky and Blondie appear at a show but it be a huge letdown with no David.  Can't wait to see him up there with the other four as I was too young to see him during the early days.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: AndrewHickey on December 21, 2011, 04:55:29 AM
Andrew Hickey? Well I swan.

Yeah, I'm still alive. I lurk here (reading on a feed-reader) but don't have time to post (been working *LONG* hours, and also writing books).


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: AndrewHickey on December 21, 2011, 04:57:18 AM

You might be thinking of older, pre-2008, reviews. Mike Kowalski, who played with the band up to then, was an utter shambles at times, and a consistently poor player even at his best.
At his best, in the 60's and 70's Mike Kowalski was a fabulous drummer, and anyone pointing out his deficiencies in his later days should be made aware of that fact.

He may well have been - I know he played with some very good people other than the BBs. I'm only going from what I saw in 2001, 2002 and 2004, but I'm very aware that people get older and less capable of doing strenuous physical jobs. No slight on him in his prime was intended.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Rocker on December 24, 2011, 02:48:55 PM
I think when Mike talks about doing Smile tracks, he doesn't mean Good Vibrations. They'll probably do H&V (it'd be interesting to know if it's gonna be the Smile version, which would be new for Mike, Bruce, Al and David to perform on stage) maybe Wonderful. I don't know if it would be possible that they play Surf's Up.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Ron on December 24, 2011, 07:17:26 PM
Al Jardine singing H&V = WINNING.  Always has been, always will be.  Find ANY tape of H&V with Al singing, and it's good, and yes, I'm including the stuff for that shitty Australia show in '78 or whatever. 

I listened to the Hallmark cd that came out a few years ago, again today, and listened to "P.T. Cruiser".  Al still sounds good man.  Song was pretty blah, but he still has that tone and sound he always did.  I hope they throw Al a few leads on this new stuff, cannot wait to see what they all come up with. 


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Justin on December 24, 2011, 07:24:21 PM
Agreed Ron.  I hope they give Al H&V...Brian could come in nicely in the middle part with "...in the cantina..." 


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Justin on December 24, 2011, 07:28:02 PM
I think when Mike talks about doing Smile tracks, he doesn't mean Good Vibrations. They'll probably do H&V (it'd be interesting to know if it's gonna be the Smile version, which would be new for Mike, Bruce, Al and David to perform on stage) maybe Wonderful. I don't know if it would be possible that they play Surf's Up.

A nice SMiLE section could go

Our Prayer
Heroes and Villians
Vega Tables
Wonderful
Surf's Up

Hope they represent SMiLE as generously as they would with Pet Sounds.


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Ron on December 24, 2011, 07:31:29 PM
Seeing Mike, Brian, Al, Bruce, and David Freikin' Marks do "Vega-Tables" on stage might kill me.  I don't know if I'll be able to stand that. 


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Justin on December 25, 2011, 04:50:42 PM
Same here....I was just listening to the 1993 recording from New York and thought it sounded mighty fine with the group then. 


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Pretty Funky on December 26, 2011, 03:28:11 PM
I made a semi-serious post elsewhere about the chance of the band doing a live gig/ album/ DVD of SMiLE with a orchestra. The more I think about it the more I think that either SMiLE or a live Pet Sounds gig recorded would be a great one-off opportunity to capture live either (or both!) of rocks greatest works.



Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Ron on December 26, 2011, 03:55:22 PM
I dunno.  They've already really done that perfectly with Brian's band.  I think it's much more likely we'll get a 2cd set of one of the 'reunion' gigs with greatest hits/smile/pet sounds stuff mixed together. 


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: bossaroo on December 26, 2011, 06:29:53 PM
it would be awesome if they did some of the unfinished SMiLE pieces that Brian finished in '03.

the entire 2nd Movement works for me!


Title: Re: Mike Love Talks to Rolling Stone about the Reunion
Post by: Ron on December 26, 2011, 07:29:27 PM
That might make sense... Mike has a penchant for "Wonderful", they could do that song and just do the rest of the movement behind it.  Very tough to sing that live though, without the young band just handling it.