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Smiley Smile Stuff => General On Topic Discussions => Topic started by: Matt H on January 30, 2010, 09:44:12 AM



Title: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on January 30, 2010, 09:44:12 AM
I know there used to be a press release on Aljardine.com about a 3 song EP that was supposed to happen in January 2010.  Since January is almost gone, I checked iTunes, and did not see anything about this EP.  Then I checked Aljardine.com and the press release is gone.  Does anyone know anything about the EP release or a release date for Postcard From California?

Thanks,
Matt


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on January 30, 2010, 09:50:33 AM
It'll happen on December 21, 2012.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Eric Aniversario on January 31, 2010, 11:52:59 PM
I was wondering about this myself; thanks for answering my question.

I am disappointed, but not at all surprised.  I would LOVE to see the EP and the album to come out this year, but delay after delay after delay does not give me much hope.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: GoofyJeff on February 01, 2010, 06:55:49 AM
It'll happen on December 21, 2012.

Dang, my money was on February 31st...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Heartical Don on February 01, 2010, 07:15:56 AM
Why on earth does anyone have so much trouble releasing a simple single? The simplest no-brainers in the indie-circuit have no problem releasing a whole CD? Yet someone with Al's status doesn't succeed.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 01, 2010, 03:26:20 PM
It'll happen on December 21, 2012.

Dang, my money was on February 31st...

According to the Mayan long count calendar, the world ends on 12/21/12.  ;D


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on February 01, 2010, 04:16:40 PM
On December 21, 2012, when the press release is made and Al is ready to release the first pressing on the internet, as soon as he authorizes the release, the world as a whole will go black, all civilization will end, and four days later Al will be celebrating Christmas with the remaining life on the planet - Keith Richards and two cockroaches.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SG7 on February 01, 2010, 05:08:20 PM
... and somewhere a Beach Boys book will be eaten away by living bacteria :D 8)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: TdHabib on February 01, 2010, 06:15:55 PM
On December 21, 2012, when the press release is made and Al is ready to release the first pressing on the internet, as soon as he authorizes the release, the world as a whole will go black, all civilization will end, and four days later Al will be celebrating Christmas with the remaining life on the planet - Keith Richards and two cockroaches.
Don't forget Cher.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Heartical Don on February 01, 2010, 11:42:04 PM
On December 21, 2012, when the press release is made and Al is ready to release the first pressing on the internet, as soon as he authorizes the release, the world as a whole will go black, all civilization will end, and four days later Al will be celebrating Christmas with the remaining life on the planet - Keith Richards and two cockroaches.
Don't forget Cher.

...and the only remaining cultural artefact is the whole set of Smile tapes and acetates, floating somewhere in the Atlantic.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: rogerlancelot on February 02, 2010, 12:59:05 AM
It'll happen on December 21, 2012.

Dang, my money was on February 31st...

According to the Mayan long count calendar, the world ends on 12/21/12.  ;D

No, that's where the next world begins.  ;)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Heartical Don on February 02, 2010, 01:06:06 AM
It'll happen on December 21, 2012.

Dang, my money was on February 31st...

According to the Mayan long count calendar, the world ends on 12/21/12.  ;D

No, that's where the next world begins.  ;)

What about Jehovah's Witnesses?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on February 02, 2010, 02:40:42 AM
It'll happen on December 21, 2012.

Dang, my money was on February 31st...

According to the Mayan long count calendar, the world ends on 12/21/12.  ;D

No, that's where the next world begins.  ;)

What about Jehovah's Witnesses?

Had one at the door the other day selling copies of Al's EP but I instinctively said "no".  Been kicking myself ever since...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Heartical Don on February 02, 2010, 03:14:56 AM
It'll happen on December 21, 2012.

Dang, my money was on February 31st...

According to the Mayan long count calendar, the world ends on 12/21/12.  ;D

No, that's where the next world begins.  ;)

What about Jehovah's Witnesses?

Had one at the door the other day selling copies of Al's EP but I instinctively said "no".  Been kicking myself ever since...

 :lol superb...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: ESQ Editor on February 02, 2010, 12:19:49 PM
Not surprising to anyone, Al's been tweaking the EP. He's been busy, just appeared with Brian in the new "We Are The World" video/recording for Haiti, and he's been dealing with the poor weather conditions where he lives… Not exactly, conducive conditions for focusing on an EP.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on February 02, 2010, 12:40:59 PM
If a Jehovah's Witness came to my house bearing Al Jardine EPs, this is what would happen -

Me - Yes?
Jehovah's Witness - Yes, we have Al Jardine EPs for sale. $5 total.
Me - Alright then. (Slips $5 through mail slot) Now slip the CD in through here. (CD slips through mail slot)
Jehovah's Witness - By the way, sir, have you found Jesus?
Me - (Opening the door wearing glasses only) No! Let's go for a walk and find him!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SG7 on February 02, 2010, 01:06:11 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPY-NJRlyA8

 :)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Dove Nested Towers on February 03, 2010, 01:54:13 PM
On December 21, 2012, when the press release is made and Al is ready to release the first pressing on the internet, as soon as he authorizes the release, the world as a whole will go black, all civilization will end, and four days later Al will be celebrating Christmas with the remaining life on the planet - Keith Richards and two cockroaches.
Don't forget Cher.

And, of course, Larry King.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on February 03, 2010, 02:15:59 PM
I think Larry King died fifteen years ago and someone forgot to tell him, because he's certainly been killing his viewing audience with his incredibly boring programs.  :lol


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: bgas on February 03, 2010, 04:15:18 PM
Not surprising to anyone, Al's been tweaking the EP. He's been busy, just appeared with Brian in the new "We Are The World" video/recording for Haiti, and he's been dealing with the poor weather conditions where he lives… Not exactly, conducive conditions for focusing on an EP.

Oh the weather outside is frightful, but inside it's so delightful.... 
Sorry; but this sounds like just another lame excuse. Why bother trying to alibi Al, I ask.
How many years of tweaking does he really need?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SG7 on February 03, 2010, 04:29:46 PM
Not surprising to anyone, Al's been tweaking the EP. He's been busy, just appeared with Brian in the new "We Are The World" video/recording for Haiti, and he's been dealing with the poor weather conditions where he lives… Not exactly, conducive conditions for focusing on an EP.

Oh the weather outside is frightful, but inside it's so delightful.... 
Sorry; but this sounds like just another lame excuse. Why bother trying to alibi Al, I ask.
How many years of tweaking does he really need?

He needs another century...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on February 03, 2010, 04:38:53 PM
I think it's safe to say that with the Beach Boys no amount of tweaking will ever satisfy the fanbase. And that's a fact.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: bgas on February 03, 2010, 05:02:57 PM
I think it's safe to say that with the Beach Boys no amount of tweaking will ever satisfy the fanbase. And that's a fact.

WHAT!!?!?! 
You must think that we think they think we think they're some kind of opera stars


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on February 03, 2010, 05:34:16 PM
Al needs to cross his Ts and dot his Is carefully...there's a fine line between sounding heavenly and sounding like Mickey Mouse with a sore throat. :lol


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Heartical Don on February 04, 2010, 01:09:58 AM
It took me all of 49 years to realize who the real genius in the Beach Boys is.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: runnersdialzero on February 04, 2010, 01:16:27 AM
Meh, give the guy a break - he's approaching 70, not many people are touring and putting out new material to the extent that Brian or Mike is at that age if they're doing it at all. Hell, what would Brian even be doing if not for constantly being told to? Not that he doesn't enjoy it in some ways and to some extent, but...

I understand it sort of becomes his camp's fault when they're throwing out release dates, but still - be a little more patient.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Alex on February 04, 2010, 10:10:27 AM
I think Larry King died fifteen years ago and someone forgot to tell him, because he's certainly been killing his viewing audience with his incredibly boring programs.  :lol

"Weekend at Larry's"!!! :lol :lol


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on February 04, 2010, 11:06:05 AM
Let's not forget Mike Love's "Mike Love Not War" or whatever it's called has been supposedly finished for what, 3 -5 years, and it's still not out.

Love to know the real story on the Lovesters plan to release this baby.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on February 07, 2010, 10:39:17 AM
I doubt Michael has any delusions that he could get a record deal in 2004 or in 2010. Hence why Mike Love Not War is out there now, for the fans to hear.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on February 07, 2010, 02:08:40 PM
I doubt Michael has any delusions that he could get a record deal in 2004 or in 2010. Hence why Mike Love Not War is out there now, for the fans to hear.

I've heard it's "out there" but I've also heard there were additions and tweeks done from what's out there now.  He did put "Hungry Heart" and Santa's Going to Kokomo" on iTuens.  Why not his album(s).



Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Aegir on February 07, 2010, 07:56:02 PM
Cool Head Warm Heart got on the Hallmark CD a few years ago.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on February 08, 2010, 06:27:20 AM
"Hungry Heart" & "Santa's Going to Kokomo" on iTunes...

Both also out on CD -  the first on some BBs tribute thing from a few years back, together with Al's "Pappa Loved Momma", the second on the VA charity thing that came out before Christmas.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: smile-holland on February 08, 2010, 06:50:22 AM
Not entirely true. Mike's version of Hungry Heart was released on a Bruce Springsteen tribute CD from 2001. Al and Matt Jardine's cover of Papa Loved Mama was a contribution to the 1999 Garth Brooks Tribute CD


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: shelter on February 22, 2010, 07:04:23 AM
I just received a digital 4 song EP through e-mail (I send in a ticket stub for a BW show that Al was supposed to play).

Tracklisting:
1. Don't Fight The Sea
2. Tidepool Interlude
3. Campfire Scene
4. California Saga

(In case anyone has it and can't open the file, type in .zip after the file name)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: smile-holland on February 22, 2010, 07:29:53 AM
Serious?!

I've kept my ticket stub of one the European concerts where Al was scheduled as well, as at the time the fans were promised a free copy of the new AJ album if you handed over that stub. I've been waiting for years now...

So I assume this deal is now valid for the EP as well? In that case: where to go in order to get that EP?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on February 22, 2010, 07:47:26 AM
I just received a digital 4 song EP through e-mail (I send in a ticket stub for a BW show that Al was supposed to play).

Tracklisting:
1. Don't Fight The Sea
2. Tidepool Interlude
3. Campfire Scene
4. California Saga


Well this just got interesting.....


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: shelter on February 22, 2010, 07:59:51 AM
Serious?!

I've kept my ticket stub of one the European concerts where Al was scheduled as well, as at the time the fans were promised a free copy of the new AJ album if you handed over that stub. I've been waiting for years now...

So I assume this deal is now valid for the EP as well? In that case: where to go in order to get that EP?

Did you e-mail a scan of the stub to Al's management at the time?

This is what it said in the e-mail:
Quote
Dear Loyal Fans,
 
To all who replied with concert ticket stubs and that were promised a CD quite some time ago,
Al would like to repay your patience with 4 tracks from his first solo record. Al is still unable to
announce the actual release date, but did not wish to ask you to wait any longer.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: smile-holland on February 22, 2010, 08:30:12 AM
Hello Shelter,

I was under the impression that I had to wait until the release became reality. So I kept my stub (2 stubs actually (Amsterdam AND Groningen), but I guess I misunderstood them. Thanks for the info.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Beach Boy on February 22, 2010, 08:43:11 AM
I can't hear Mike at all on DFTS, but some voice at 2:49 sounds a bit like him, where one would sing "she says". And maybe Mike's on bvs too, but after all, some thought Mike sung on Wipe Out too, so, well ... .


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: GuyO on February 22, 2010, 09:54:13 AM
I can't even remember what I did with my ticket....

But good on Al for finally doing something. Opinions on production, mix, performance?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Stegibo on February 22, 2010, 01:11:43 PM
I can't hear Mike at all on DFTS, but some voice at 2:49 sounds a bit like him, where one would sing "she says". And maybe Mike's on bvs too, but after all, some thought Mike sung on Wipe Out too, so, well ... .
You can hear Mike from 2:04 to 2:30 and at 2:49.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: shelter on February 22, 2010, 01:41:28 PM
It's really just two real songs. 'Don't Fight The Sea' is cool. Not an overtly inspired song, but it's nice enough. The new version of 'California Saga' (with Neil Young) is cool. A charming, campfire-ish version. I like it. 'Tidepool Interlude' and 'Campfire Scene' are short fillers, the first is a piece of background music with spoken words by Alec Baldwin, the second is a short "prelude" to 'California Saga'.

I think this is going to be a pretty cool album. Maybe it could have some kind of 'Friends' vibe. No ambitious musical masterpieces but just some nice and relaxed summer evening music.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Rocker on February 22, 2010, 02:16:31 PM
Coll. Hope the album will come out soon too...
DFTS has some classic Mike-bassvocals. Love it. After all, it's the first new Beach Boys-recording in how many years?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 22, 2010, 02:31:11 PM
Coll. Hope the album will come out soon too...
DFTS has some classic Mike-bassvocals. Love it. After all, it's the first new Beach Boys-recording in how many years?

Not new. The basic track & Carl's vocal date from the late 70s/early 80s.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Rocker on February 22, 2010, 02:34:31 PM
Coll. Hope the album will come out soon too...
DFTS has some classic Mike-bassvocals. Love it. After all, it's the first new Beach Boys-recording in how many years?

Not new. The basic track & Carl's vocal date from the late 70s/early 80s.


I know. But I guess you also know what I mean....


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 22, 2010, 02:43:02 PM
Coll. Hope the album will come out soon too...
DFTS has some classic Mike-bassvocals. Love it. After all, it's the first new Beach Boys-recording in how many years?

Not new. The basic track & Carl's vocal date from the late 70s/early 80s.


I know. But I guess you also know what I mean....

Is Brian on this track too?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Stegibo on February 22, 2010, 02:47:38 PM
Yes, he is.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 22, 2010, 03:41:43 PM
I checked iTunes, and it isn't listed.  Is it available anywhere else?  I checked AlJardine.com and didn't see anything there either.

Any info appreciated!
Thanks,
Matt


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 23, 2010, 01:28:22 PM
I like what I'm hearing here...  ;D


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Smilin Ed H on February 23, 2010, 02:39:08 PM
When's the ep out officially?  Anyone? Please?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on February 23, 2010, 02:46:49 PM
 :)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 23, 2010, 03:00:27 PM
I guess since there is nothing on iTunes and nothing on AlJardine.com I will just have to wait until the official release date of 03/01/2343


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Beach Head on February 23, 2010, 03:28:08 PM
Somebody posted a link over on Brian's message board.  It's to an address at AlJardine.com.  Put in in your browser and it starts a download.  Once downloaded, though, the file has no tag, so your computer won't know what to do with it.  Rename it with a ".zip" tag, then you can extract the mp3's.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 23, 2010, 04:04:25 PM
Awesome, Thanks!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on February 23, 2010, 04:16:09 PM
Someone was dumb enough to post a link to download music on the blueboard?!? Wow.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 23, 2010, 04:20:21 PM
Someone was dumb enough to post a link to download music on the blueboard?!? Wow.

yeah, but it is at Al's website.  The dumber thing is that AlJardine.com is not secured.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 23, 2010, 04:22:18 PM
Sounds awesome to hear those voices together on Don't Fight The Sea!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 23, 2010, 04:27:07 PM
DFtS sounds like it belongs on Imagination. The delays and reverse echoes on the vocals ... icky. Those voices do just fine on their own, thanks.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: TdHabib on February 23, 2010, 04:39:28 PM
I loved "Don't Fight the Sea" despite the sometimes cheesy production business, it was really cool to hear all of the guys singing again...even if it was through several decades. I like it a lot.

I must admit I thought it was unnecessary to hear "California Saga" again but nearly fell out of my chair when Neil Young started singing. Neil's one of my favorites, so that's a plus.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Aegir on February 23, 2010, 04:56:05 PM
Listening to Don't Fight the Sea right now. This is the first time I've smiled all day.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: jeremylr on February 23, 2010, 05:39:54 PM
Here's my initial impression:

I'm also listening to Don't Fight The Sea; mainly I wished they could have updated the keyboards, because they really date the song.  On the other hand, it's great hearing all the boys sing again.  I also like the drums, bass/ & guitars.  This song would have strengthened one of their late '70s/early '80s albums if it had been included.

Tidepool Interlude isn't bad.  I've just never been a huge fan of hearing narration (Alec Baldwin this time) in a song.  Same way I feel about TLOS.  The instrumental backing isn't bad, though.  Great piano.  I like how you hear the waves crashing at the beginning followed by the piano & shaker.   I'd rather just hear an instrumental version myself.

Campfire Scene:  I like it.  Only 40 seconds long; cool harmonica opening & then banjo (good job Al); Only wish it was longer.  It really sets the scene for California Saga.  Seems like Al was paying attention to Brian's That Lucky Old Sun LP while finishing this EP.  Neil Young sings here & on Saga below.


California Saga.  I guess Al was never completely satisfied with the original recording so he did it again here.   Nice hearing Neil Young sing with Al.  Not sure if he played guitar on this or not.  This song isn't marred by cheesy instrumentation.  I like it.  Also good hearing banjo on this.  Good guitar work & vocals & liked hearing train whistle.   Again, this song won't trump the original, but it's nice, & it certainly shouldn't embarass Al or BB fans.

Maybe next they'll come out with who played what on each song.  I'm looking forward to hearing the full LP.  You can understand why Al was a BB for so long.

One last thing on "Don't Fight The Sea:"  I didn't like the '80s sounding keyboard/synthesizer production, but I understand if Al was trying to preserve the track for historical purposes.  On the other hands, if he overdubbed instruments recently, he could have made the keys/synth more live/warm/real if that makes sense.


Note:  Hypehat,  thanks for catching me on my Cool Cool Water mistake.  Fixed now.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: hypehat on February 23, 2010, 06:01:09 PM
It's not Cool, Cool Water... the original California Saga has that too.

It's kind of lightweight, but nice. The TLOS comparisons are accurate - pleasant, but not going to blow any minds with ridiculous musical invention. Alec Baldwin's narration made me chuckle, but i blame 30 Rock for that rather than the narration itself  :-D

Not sure about Don't Fight The Sea as a song. I can kind of hear everyone on it (is that 80's Brian doing the overlapping 'Don't Fight The Sea's at the end of the verses?) but it's an average tune.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Sheriff John Stone on February 23, 2010, 06:47:28 PM
Not bad. Not bad at all.

I just hope inferior covers don't bring the project down. And, for all of the doubters who think the Beach Boys are too old or over-the-hill vocally, well, with some good production and studio aid, I think they blend quite nicely.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: TdHabib on February 23, 2010, 08:00:41 PM
I will admit I got a full chill hearing Carl sing that little verse by himself, and then picking him out in the harmony stack. Surely I won't get the chance to do this much more on new songs. He is missed.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Steve Mayo on February 23, 2010, 08:14:37 PM
wow..just heard these...got to admit i got the same satisfing smile on my face after listening to california saga here like i did back in 73 after hearing holland's version for the first time..
and i  firmly believe al has the best voice now of any of the remaining group members...sounds like al always did....  :)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Awesoman on February 23, 2010, 09:15:27 PM
I'm diggin' what I hear.  On "Don't Fight The Sea", is that "young Brian" singing with "old Brian"?  Or is that Matt Jardine singing falsetto?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: MBE on February 23, 2010, 09:23:54 PM
Don't Fight The Sea is the standout here. The production could be less cheesy but the voices and melody are pretty terrific. Hearing Al, Carl, and Brian together again is something special. I wonder how much was recorded now as opposed to 1980.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 23, 2010, 09:52:06 PM
Don't Fight The Sea is the standout here. The production could be less cheesy but the voices and melody are pretty terrific. Hearing Al, Carl, and Brian together again is something special.

And Mike.  :)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SG7 on February 23, 2010, 09:58:15 PM
Don't fight the sea I enjoyed a lot. Didn't expect to, but I did!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on February 24, 2010, 12:03:24 AM
So nice to hear the Boys on DFTS.  Great vocals.  Glad he got Mike to do some parts.  'Campfire Scene' is great, as is the new version of "CS".  "Tidepool Interlude" would have worked better with a vocal instead.

Overall, way to go Al!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: phirnis on February 24, 2010, 12:16:26 AM
"Don't Fight the Sea" reminds me of "Somewhere Near Japan". I'm actually glad it sounds the way it does, I don't mind the keyboards at all. To me, this song is an all-around pleasant surprise. Should've been a Beach Boys single.

I have to say I kind of enjoyed "Tidepool Interlude" despite the apparent cheesiness. Alec Baldwin's voice never fails to remind me of his outstanding performance in "Glengarry Glen Ross", however, which doesn't add to the overall bucolic vibe of this tune.  :-D

"California Saga" is the only low point for me. Always been a huge fan of the original Holland arrangement, so I have to say the new version is kind of underwhelming. Neil Young doesn't add anything interesting here.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: MBE on February 24, 2010, 01:56:04 AM
Don't Fight The Sea is the standout here. The production could be less cheesy but the voices and melody are pretty terrific. Hearing Al, Carl, and Brian together again is something special.

And Mike.  :)

Cool I didn't know he was on it.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on February 24, 2010, 03:14:29 AM
Don't Fight The Sea is the standout here. The production could be less cheesy but the voices and melody are pretty terrific. Hearing Al, Carl, and Brian together again is something special.

And Mike.  :)

Cool I didn't know he was on it.

For some reason, it was minor news here last year that Mike went in with Al and cut some vocals.  In my mind, it's the most positive BB development in years.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Nicko on February 24, 2010, 03:30:31 AM

For some reason, it was minor news here last year that Mike went in with Al and cut some vocals.  In my mind, it's the most positive BB development in years.

I don't think Mike actually went into the studio. I seem to recall reading that Scott Totten recorded Mike's vocals in a hotel room. I agree though that it certainly is a positive development as there have been periods in the recent past when Al probably wouldn't have asked Mike to contribute.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: runnersdialzero on February 24, 2010, 04:41:42 AM
Was "Don't Fight the Sea" worked on at any point after 78 but before more recently? Carl's vocal sounds closer to his 90s voice.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: c-man on February 24, 2010, 04:54:20 AM
Don't Fight The Sea is the standout here. The production could be less cheesy but the voices and melody are pretty terrific. Hearing Al, Carl, and Brian together again is something special. I wonder how much was recorded now as opposed to 1980.

There's an AFM contract for "Don't Fight The Sea"...recorded at the same session as "That Same Song" for the "15 Big Ones" album (basic track 4/27/76, sweetening the next day).  Players on the basic track were the same as those listed for "That Same Song" on the "15BO" back cover slick.  Al's website says the basic track is from 1978.  There was mention in the "Add Some Music" fanzine of Al working on the song in late 1980.  Al's website says it was recorded at Capitol's Studio A, and the general production style sounds like something from the "Still Cruisin'" era, so it was likely worked on in 1989 (when they had a deal with Capitol Records).  I would guess that's when Carl's (and Brian's) vocals were recorded.  If they used the 1976 basic track as a foundation, it could have Dennis' drumwork on it (other drums were obviously added later on, but the main drums COULD be him).  

Obviously something Al pulled out & worked on sporadically over the years (and decades).


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 24, 2010, 06:25:38 AM
Is Bruce on this track?  Who is singing "Just Let It Be" towards the end?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: dave maclean on February 24, 2010, 06:53:13 AM
Please note, the link to Als EP download has now been removed.  It was intended for the private use of those to whome the link was sent.  Dave Maclean


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Steve Mayo on February 24, 2010, 07:06:22 AM
get 'em early i always say.....  :)

ps----alan has a great cd coming out i feel....congrats al!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The infamous Baldwin Organ on February 24, 2010, 07:16:30 AM
Oh man...I really want to hear this. Is there a way to buy it?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on February 24, 2010, 07:25:50 AM
Wow.  WOW!

I LOVED THEM!

Cal Saga w/ Neil Young was great.

All of it was great!

Let's go Al!  The time has come!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Rocker on February 24, 2010, 07:35:38 AM
I like that everything is linked together with the water sounds. But I don't think Cal.Saga is that good. It's nice and ok for sure but the Campfire Scene is so good that imo it should've led to a better version.
I like Alec Baldwin's recitation very much. He puts in a lot of emotion. Much better that Brian's talking parts on TLOS or Stephe Kalinich's imo.
If the album has the same quality as this EP, then we're in for something very cool. But I hope that the fact that someone put out the link when it seems to have been only for ticket-buyers, won't hamper the release.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: smile-holland on February 24, 2010, 07:43:39 AM
Please note, the link to Als EP download has now been removed.  It was intended for the private use of those to whome the link was sent.  Dave Maclean

seeing how things were developing on several boards, that's no surpise to me at all...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on February 24, 2010, 07:51:57 AM
  ;D  ;D   ;D


edited  :hat


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on February 24, 2010, 08:14:10 AM
I just have to saw WOW again.

This was better than I expected.  :o


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on February 24, 2010, 08:41:23 AM
I am blown away. This is so much better than the initial demos Al posted on his website -  help for the way it's arranged cohesively here.

This is great -  some terrific backing vox, and Neil Young's vocal adds... well, I'm not sure yet precisely what it does add, but he's my Number 2 musical hero after BW, John Martyn, Dennis Wilson, Orinoco & Bungo etc, and it certainly adds something.

Also blown away that Al hasn't simply used the Cal Saga that was included on the ESQ freebie a couple or three years back -  that version was stunning, easily worth mainstream release, so I'm well-impressed he hasn't taken the lazy route.

And is this the best vocal performance buy a pod of whales on any CD, any where, any time???

Tidepool Interlude, like has been said, far better than the narration on Brian's album, real feeling in that voice. I'd say better than the Jeffers recitations on Holland, and I'm one of the few fans this side of Saturn who liked that stuff (am I allowed to say that, that I find that something from 2010 could be better than something from 1973?).  But who wrote the lyrics? Is this a collaboration with Stephen J Kalinich? If so, some of the best stuff of his I've heard yet too. Very evocative. Sod the idea of a mere postcard, I need a TICKET to California...!

EDIT: Answered my own question. This from a cutting on Al's own site:
"The track, “Tidepool Interlude” (found on both EP and album packages), includes a spoken word narrative from another special guest, actor Alec Baldwin, who is heard reading a poem written by Stephen John Kalinich, in a moving tribute to California and its natural beauty."


Campfire Scene is is exquisite. If there are more of these such linking tracks on the eventual album release, I'll be a very happy man indeed.

As a footnote, I seriously hope Al isn't discouraged by the fact that these files have been shared by a few fans. This is the best, the most effective promotion his album could have had. I'm sold, I'll buy.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: phirnis on February 24, 2010, 10:14:13 AM
As a footnote, I seriously hope Al isn't discouraged by the fact that these files have been shared by a few fans. This is the best, the most effective promotion his album could have had. I'm sold, I'll buy.

Couldn't agree more. I'm pretty sure I'm going to get my hands on it as soon as it's out.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 24, 2010, 10:17:35 AM
When the link was sent out to fans, did it say that it was just for them?  The link was on his own website, why wasn't there a username and password assigned so that it wouldn't be open to everyone?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on February 24, 2010, 10:47:54 AM
When the link was sent out to fans, did it say that it was just for them?  The link was on his own website, why wasn't there a username and password assigned so that it wouldn't be open to everyone?

Don't know what was said, as I'm playing catch-up. My impression is that the link was intended, in spirit, only for those who'd sent in stubs. Those of us who might get to hear the tracks via other mans are truly fortunate.



Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: runnersdialzero on February 24, 2010, 10:49:43 AM
I have to say I'm a lot more interested in what else Al has in store after hearing these tracks. I totally see the, "That was only meant for people with the ticket stubs," side, but you can count me in on this really grabbing my attention.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Rocker on February 24, 2010, 10:52:20 AM
I have to say I'm a lot more interested in what else Al has in store after hearing these tracks. I totally see the, "That was only meant for people with the ticket stubs," side, but you can count me in on this really grabbing my attention.


Yeah, it would be a very good way to promote the album (which was already mentioned in some magazine's, etc.) if they just put the whole EP up there to download for free. On the other hand, maybe that's exactly what they'll do but they just wanted to give it to the people with tickets earlier


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: smile-holland on February 24, 2010, 10:54:41 AM
When the link was sent out to fans, did it say that it was just for them?  The link was on his own website, why wasn't there a username and password assigned so that it wouldn't be open to everyone?

The personal e-mail that was received specifically mentioned not to share the link with others, as one was receiving it before the general public".

In case you wonder why: in 2007 almost days before the European BW/AJ tour was going to start, Al Jardine announced he wouldn't be there. As a compensation for those disappointed but loyal fans that had bought tickets to see them both, Jardine had made the promise to send a free copy of his new CD (which - according to Jardine - was the reason he wasn't able to attend the European concerts) to all fans that would e-mail him scans of the ticket stub after the concert took place. But we all know that since then a CD-release was postponed. Earlier this week, all fans that had sent scans of their stub, received an e-mail basically saying that "Al would like to repay your patience with 4 tracks from his first solo record. Al is still unable to announce the actual release date, but did not wish to ask you to wait any longer"

A nice gesture for sure... but of course it was a matter of time that the "don't share" remark wouldn't hold up for long.

And of course from the fan’s perspective it’s understandable that they would like to share this (great) EP with others. But a bit more low-profile would have been much smarter than for instance openly on the BLUEBOARD (of all places).

Hey, if I were Jardine, I’d probably say “if you can’t keep a promise, I pull the plug as well” too.


But at least the first reviews on this EP are (mildly to very) positive. If only if this would give him that last push to finally release the whole album…


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: smile-holland on February 24, 2010, 11:00:55 AM
When the link was sent out to fans, did it say that it was just for them?  The link was on his own website, why wasn't there a username and password assigned so that it wouldn't be open to everyone?

The link was sort of attached to the web site, but wasn't visible. You simply received a link and if you clicked on it, you got a direct download pop-up screen.

And the password thing might have worked for a (very) short while, but once downloaded I assume it would spread out to other fans soon after.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Mike's Beard on February 24, 2010, 11:02:06 AM
I think I speak for every person on this site when I say "JUST RELEASE THE F*#KING THING ALREADY AL!!!!!!!!"


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 24, 2010, 12:25:41 PM
When the link was sent out to fans, did it say that it was just for them?  The link was on his own website, why wasn't there a username and password assigned so that it wouldn't be open to everyone?

The link was sort of attached to the web site, but wasn't visible. You simply received a link and if you clicked on it, you got a direct download pop-up screen.

And the password thing might have worked for a (very) short while, but once downloaded I assume it would spread out to other fans soon after.

I get that, I guess if you put a password on it, and made it different for everyone, then you could track down who leaked it.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Steve Mayo on February 24, 2010, 12:39:14 PM
When the link was sent out to fans, did it say that it was just for them?  The link was on his own website, why wasn't there a username and password assigned so that it wouldn't be open to everyone?

The link was sort of attached to the web site, but wasn't visible. You simply received a link and if you clicked on it, you got a direct download pop-up screen.

And the password thing might have worked for a (very) short while, but once downloaded I assume it would spread out to other fans soon after.

I get that, I guess if you put a password on it, and made it different for everyone, then you could track down who leaked it.

well, not really ...if you know what to do....  :)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Peadar 'Big Dinner' O'Driscoll on February 24, 2010, 03:12:37 PM
Someone hook me up please. I was at 2 shows on that tour but I've no idea where the ticket stubs are.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on February 25, 2010, 12:40:30 AM
... I was at 2 shows on that tour but I've no idea where the ticket stubs are.

I was in the same boat - I attended a couple of those gigs, and have the stubs somewhere... I took the initial invite to mean "send in the stubs themselves" and as I knew I'd buy the album anyway I decided I'd rather hang on to the stubs for my collection. Never envisaged the CD giveaway, as I'm sure is the case with many here.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Peadar 'Big Dinner' O'Driscoll on February 25, 2010, 06:00:05 AM
yep, would be great if someone could upload to sendspace or rapidshare or something and send us a pm.

The main reason I went to those shows was to hear Al sing live as I've seen Brian several times. Still have not seen Al live  :(


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on February 25, 2010, 06:35:28 AM
So, I have been listening to the EP again this morning.

Short but sweet is all I can say.  Damn, Al did a GREAT job on these and to hear Carl's voice again in the mix?  :o  :o  :o  :o  :o

I personally can't wait to get the complete CD as I think it will be wonderful to listen to.

I think the Alec Baldwin "Tidepool Interlude" is well done, the "Campfire Scene" builds just right to flow into "California Saga"

I really don't think that Al's camp will be that upset that these tracks have been "leaked" to others without tickets.  The fact that so many people are getting a chance to hear these songs does nothing but drum up more interest in the CD and the fact that the songs and production are top notch, people are certainly more hungry for the full product.

People, these tracks are really, really good.

"What is this feeling that I cannot grasp that is hopeful?  California.  California, you are everything to me."


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: punkinhead on February 25, 2010, 06:56:20 AM
next 4 tracks are available when you send in 4 proofs of purchase on a Al's new toothpaste and/or velcro shoes


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The infamous Baldwin Organ on February 25, 2010, 07:01:56 AM
I heard it this morning, and I LOVE it. I'm aware of it's history, but to me DFTS is The Beach Boys. They've still got it...and I want more! I hope it gets on the radio.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Stegibo on February 25, 2010, 07:23:03 AM
I'd love it if they would release Don't Fight The Sea as a Beach Boys Single.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Peadar 'Big Dinner' O'Driscoll on February 25, 2010, 07:35:08 AM
These tracks dropped from the sky into my computer.
sorted! ;D


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: grillo on February 25, 2010, 07:48:08 AM
LOVE it. Way WAy WAy better than I ever imagined.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on February 25, 2010, 08:16:00 AM
I'd love it if they would release Don't Fight The Sea as a Beach Boys Single.

I like that idea.

I still think the remaining BBs could put together a good album between them, and the way forward might be for a bunch of (what would really be) solo tracks with other members doing guest backing vox on them. I hadn't expected such strong stuff from Al and I take my hat off to him.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 08:21:02 AM
I think most of us agree that it would be possible for a totally competent, enjoyable album to come from the members of the former band if they all were interested in doing so. (I'd strongly suggest that there are few to no classic tunes yet to be done, but who knows?) The issue, though, remains that they apparently don't want to. For better or worse, being in bands isn't the same as fantasy football. Fans don't draft players and rack up points. So it's all wishful thinking.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The infamous Baldwin Organ on February 25, 2010, 08:21:37 AM
It's great- I won't even feel embarrased to listen to it in front of friends! When was the last time you could say that about a new BB-related release!? haha :)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on February 25, 2010, 08:24:17 AM
I think most of us agree that it would be possible for a totally competent, enjoyable album to come from the members of the former band if they all were interested in doing so. (I'd strongly suggest that there are few to no classic tunes yet to be done, but who knows?) The issue, though, remains that they apparently don't want to. For better or worse, being in bands isn't the same as fantasy football. Fans don't draft players and rack up points. So it's all wishful thinking.

I hear and agree wholeheartedly with what you're saying -  that's way I reckon the solo tracks/guest vox avenue might be a route to go down. Al's just proven it can be done, even with BBs who are no longer with us...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 08:26:04 AM
But the very reason it got done (one could argue) was that it was an Al Jardine project, not a Beach Boys one. Nobody had to vie for control or influence or recognition for that reason. Make it a Beach Boys project and there are complications straight away. (There is also the issue of how many Carl Wilson vocals on usable songs remain...)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on February 25, 2010, 08:47:39 AM
But the very reason it got done (one could argue) was that it was an Al Jardine project, not a Beach Boys one. Nobody had to vie for control or influence or recognition for that reason. Make it a Beach Boys project and there are complications straight away. (There is also the issue of how many Carl Wilson vocals on usable songs remain...)

Agree again -  I have an unfortunate idealistic streak of optimism in these matters that rarely equates with realism!

Take the Songs From Here and Back release that Hallmark put out a couple of years ago: that also brought together estranged Beach Boys in the form of solo songs on a BBs album. Brian had a duet with the late Carl on his 2004 effort GIOMH. Now we have estranged and deceased BBs singing together (probably not in person, unfortunately -  or perhaps fortunately) on a solo track. It's not such a great leap any more, I reckons.  And bear in mind that Al's fairly laid-back, fuller material here sounds more like the Beach Boys than the Beach Boys did on Summer in Paradise.

Incidentally, I'm listening to Campfire Scene again and have to say the vocals far outclass the Brian Wilson Band's. Far more BBs-like. Which some might say isn't the point of a solo effort, but for me it is something I like to hear in the music I listen to. One of the major reasons I listen to the Beach Boys is that they sound like the Beach Boys.

Does anyone have access to a full list of credits?

I'm more and more impressed by this little collection, with every airing.

And more optimistic as a result.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Heartical Don on February 25, 2010, 08:59:53 AM
It's great- I won't even feel embarrased to listen to it in front of friends! When was the last time you could say that about a new BB-related release!? haha :)

Superb remark. In their later years, I listened to new BBs stuff with headphones, with my student rooms fimly locked, and clad in a bhurqa.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 09:03:19 AM
In their later years, I listened to new BBs stuff ... clad in a bhurqa.
So did dressing like Mike Love help?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on February 25, 2010, 09:05:18 AM
Songs From Here and Back ... brought together estranged Beach Boys in the form of solo songs on a BBs album. Brian had a duet with the late Carl on his 2004 effort GIOMH. Now we have estranged and deceased BBs singing together on a solo track....

Rereading this, I wonder if it actually just sounds tacky, and disparate?

You views please, ladies and gentlemen?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 09:08:13 AM
I think the revisitation of deceased people's work is touchy. No blanket objections, but it's easy to ruin on both aesthetic and moral grounds.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Heartical Don on February 25, 2010, 09:17:39 AM
In their later years, I listened to new BBs stuff ... clad in a bhurqa.
So did dressing like Mike Love help?

Um, it did. During 'Kokomo', I actually levitated a couple of times.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 09:24:02 AM
In their later years, I listened to new BBs stuff ... clad in a bhurqa.
So did dressing like Mike Love help?

Um, it did. During 'Kokomo', I actually levitated a couple of times.
Aw big fuckin deal: I can just make the few-hour drive down to MIU and do that. (If you've never seen various TV clips of that place, you're missing out ... youtube must have them. They sit cross legged and hop on (or rather off of) their asses. They claim eventually they can levitate, but mostly it's just buttjumping from what I can tell. HOLY buttjumping.)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Sheriff John Stone on February 25, 2010, 12:14:36 PM
The issue, though, remains that they apparently don't want to. For better or worse, being in bands isn't the same as fantasy football. Fans don't draft players and rack up points. So it's all wishful thinking.

I could not disagree more. If a new Beach Boys' album was discussed, voted on, or actually negotiated by a record company (Capitol Records?), I could see the surviving Beach Boys - Mike, Bruce, David, and, yes, Al, hopping on that train - in a hurry. The only question mark would be Brian, and, I think if Melinda took an extended vacation, Brian would find a way to join them also. How could the guys listen to "Don't Fight The Sea" and not be excited about the possibilities?

One of the major arguments about a reunion album (and concert) was the quality of their vocals. With all due respect to Carl, who sounded great in "Don't Fight The Sea", if you took him out of that mix, how do you think they ALL still sounded? You don't think Bruce would ruin that mix do you? Maybe we could put THAT argument to bed, too.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: grillo on February 25, 2010, 12:22:42 PM
(...) material here sounds more like the Beach Boys than the Beach Boys did on Summer in Paradise.

Incidentally, I'm listening to Campfire Scene again and have to say the vocals far outclass the Brian Wilson Band's. Far more BBs-like. Which some might say isn't the point of a solo effort, but for me it is something I like to hear in the music I listen to. One of the major reasons I listen to the Beach Boys is that they sound like the Beach Boys.

I'm more and more impressed by this little collection, with every airing.

And more optimistic as a result.
I agree that the backgrounds are WAYYYYY better than the boy-band sound of BW's band and, and along with Mike's Cool Head prove that these guys are doing more justice to the BB legacy than BW has bothered trying. Does that sentence make sense...?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Sheriff John Stone on February 25, 2010, 12:24:30 PM
(...) material here sounds more like the Beach Boys than the Beach Boys did on Summer in Paradise.

Incidentally, I'm listening to Campfire Scene again and have to say the vocals far outclass the Brian Wilson Band's. Far more BBs-like. Which some might say isn't the point of a solo effort, but for me it is something I like to hear in the music I listen to. One of the major reasons I listen to the Beach Boys is that they sound like the Beach Boys.

I'm more and more impressed by this little collection, with every airing.

And more optimistic as a result.
I agree that the backgrounds are WAYYYYY better than the boy-band sound of BW's band and, and along with Mike's Cool Head prove that these guys are doing more justice to the BB legacy than BW has bothered trying. Does that sentence make sense...?

A lot.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on February 25, 2010, 01:42:46 PM
I agree that the backgrounds are WAYYYYY better than the boy-band sound of BW's band and, and along with Mike's Cool Head prove that these guys are doing more justice to the BB legacy than BW has bothered trying. Does that sentence make sense...?

Jesus friggin' Christ...we've only been making this point for eons!

Way to take the Good Sheriff's and my idea as your own, though. Royalties, please. :)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: TdHabib on February 25, 2010, 02:13:40 PM
Personally, I think BW's band's BVs are out-of-this-world. I love them, they are great.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on February 25, 2010, 02:14:21 PM
RE: Al's CD
jardine@jps.net
Wed 2/24/2010 10:36 AM

Not yet, but glad everyone is enjoying them!

________________________________________
Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2010 8:20 AM
To: jardine@jps.net
Subject: Al's CD!

Lots of excitement over the full tracks people have heard – any official release date yet?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: TdHabib on February 25, 2010, 02:18:52 PM
Personally, I have said many times that I think BW and his band can be really groovy, I just think that the Beach Boys reunited (Brian, Al, Mike, Bruce and David) would be a really boring prospect. If the past events (Brian and Al's aborted tour in 2007) were anything to go by, the insider story would be ten times more interesting.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SG7 on February 25, 2010, 02:29:21 PM
Personally, I think BW's band's BVs are out-of-this-world. I love them, they are great.

I'm not quite understanding the hatred for these guys. If I thought they were "boyband" sounding or not up to the standards of the orginals, I would never have seen them hmm how many times... 13 times since 2004! I know some folks don't like them because they sound too much like the record unlike some of the other bands. I however enjoy that. It's AMAZING to see this stuff duplicated live. I never realized the amount of people it takes to play this stuff till I saw them live. Call me bias or whatever, but judging them on the basis of The Beach Boys themselves is just ridiculous. They are  two separate things and diss them all you want, but they are a good chunk of the reason Brian Wilson is back. Just saying.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on February 25, 2010, 02:32:38 PM
Just my opinion but BW and his minions are a bad cover band.  Get me a blanket and a pillow if I have to stay, otherwise, I'm out the door.

The groovy factor is not there with me.

Again, just my $.02

This is for another thread but is Brian back?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on February 25, 2010, 02:59:59 PM
Personally, I think BW's band's BVs are out-of-this-world. I love them, they are great.

I'm not quite understanding the hatred for these guys. If I thought they were "boyband" sounding or not up to the standards of the orginals, I would never have seen them hmm how many times... 13 times since 2004! I know some folks don't like them because they sound too much like the record unlike some of the other bands. I however enjoy that. It's AMAZING to see this stuff duplicated live. I never realized the amount of people it takes to play this stuff till I saw them live. Call me bias or whatever, but judging them on the basis of The Beach Boys themselves is just ridiculous. They are  two separate things and diss them all you want, but they are a good chunk of the reason Brian Wilson is back. Just saying.

Hope I haven't been mistaken in this -  I love the BW band and their harmonies -  yes, Not Dick Dale, B IS back and has been a while, whether on form or not; TLOS is solid proof of that.  I thought BW's band's harmonies were untouchable in current BBs-dom... until I heard these Al Jardine tracks. BW & Co are a GREAT cover band. Al's ensemble, however, sounds more like the real deal, and sounds like the real deal on top contemporary form.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Smilin Ed H on February 25, 2010, 03:00:15 PM
Here we go again.... Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on February 25, 2010, 03:15:49 PM
Objectivity has taken over our fine forum...I'm so proud. :)

Sweet dreams.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 25, 2010, 03:23:00 PM
Quote from: Not Dick Dale link=topic=8412.msg141714#msg141714 date=1267137158
This is for another thread but [b
is[/b] Brian back?

Well...

In my heart, he's always been around.  ;D


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: TdHabib on February 25, 2010, 03:34:26 PM
I just want to know when liking the BW band became a band thing.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: grillo on February 25, 2010, 04:03:06 PM
I agree that the backgrounds are WAYYYYY better than the boy-band sound of BW's band and, and along with Mike's Cool Head prove that these guys are doing more justice to the BB legacy than BW has bothered trying. Does that sentence make sense...?

Jesus friggin' Christ...we've only been making this point for eons!

Way to take the Good Sheriff's and my idea as your own, though. Royalties, please. :)
Check's in the mail...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 04:19:32 PM
The issue, though, remains that they apparently don't want to. For better or worse, being in bands isn't the same as fantasy football. Fans don't draft players and rack up points. So it's all wishful thinking.

I could not disagree more. If a new Beach Boys' album was discussed, voted on, or actually negotiated by a record company (Capitol Records?), I could see the surviving Beach Boys - Mike, Bruce, David, and, yes, Al, hopping on that train - in a hurry.
Yes ... but you don't count in this, because you're a fan. Just as I don't count, because I'm a fan. It doesn't matter what we think could be the result of such a discussion. You think the actual guys are sitting around, wishing fans would raise the idea of a reunion so they could hop on board? Nobody ever thought of that before? They aren't asked it in every single fucking interview? C'mon, SJS. They aren't doing it because, for one reason or another, they don't want to.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: runnersdialzero on February 25, 2010, 04:29:31 PM
EVERYBODY DANCE


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Wirestone on February 25, 2010, 04:29:50 PM
This debate, if there is one, is based on a track that has vocals from dead and 20-year-younger members of the band. Any new recording would not -- could not -- sound like this.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 04:33:27 PM
Any new recording would not -- could not -- sound like this.
Right. Because keyboards don't include those sounds anymore.  ;D


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Sheriff John Stone on February 25, 2010, 04:51:24 PM
The issue, though, remains that they apparently don't want to. For better or worse, being in bands isn't the same as fantasy football. Fans don't draft players and rack up points. So it's all wishful thinking.

I could not disagree more. If a new Beach Boys' album was discussed, voted on, or actually negotiated by a record company (Capitol Records?), I could see the surviving Beach Boys - Mike, Bruce, David, and, yes, Al, hopping on that train - in a hurry.
Yes ... but you don't count in this, because you're a fan. Just as I don't count, because I'm a fan. It doesn't matter what we think could be the result of such a discussion. You think the actual guys are sitting around, wishing fans would raise the idea of a reunion so they could hop on board? Nobody ever thought of that before? They aren't asked it in every single friggin' interview? C'mon, SJS. They aren't doing it because, for one reason or another, they don't want to.

I know I don't "count", but that's not the purpose of my posts, or constantly bringing it up. :-D I was simply offering an opinion (haven't we heard that recently?) on a message board. But I will disagree slightly that fans' thoughts or "wants" don't matter. Maybe the Beach Boys themselves don't read/listen to this stuff, but word does get out, and things get back to people, maybe even a record company person who is a fan and happens to read BB/BW message boards. I don't think James Guercio decided to release POB totally out of the goodness of his heart. He heard/read the "requests", I'm sure.

Of course The Beach Boys themselves aren't sitting around wishing fans would push for a reunion (well, I DO think Mike Love is), but this is the second consecutive post that you said that they (the group) don't want to do it - and again, I respectfully disagree. If an album deal from Capitol Records was offerred to Mike, Al, Bruce, and David, which gave them the opportunity to write, produce, and record music, - as The Beach Boys - I think they'd jump at it. Why wouldn't they? What better recording prospects do they have going? Why keep recording music that nobody hears? And that goes for Al Jardine, solo artist, too.

But, an album won't happen unless Brian is aboard, because I don't see any offer being made without Brian's participation. Now, if you want to say that Brian doesn't want to do it, you would have a better argument. But, because Brian has a problem telling the truth, I guess we won't know until it either happens or doesn't happen - and then I won't totally believe he didn't want to! :police:


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 04:58:22 PM
It's all well and good who believes or agrees or disagrees with whatever ... but I'm going by facts. They haven't gotten back together. It's common sense to assume everyone involves understands the business benefits for them getting back together. So someone (or someoneS) involved doesn't want to. I can THINK they want to all day long. I can BELIEVE they'd really love it if they did. But so far those thoughts and beliefs haven't really borne much fruit.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Sheriff John Stone on February 25, 2010, 05:05:23 PM
It's all well and good who believes or agrees or disagrees with whatever ... but I'm going by facts.

It's not a fact that the surviving don't want to record an album together. Just because they are not under contract to do one, or haven't done one in twenty years, doesn't mean they don't want to do one.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 05:11:50 PM
I think it's in his "Neither Victims Nor Executioners" where Camus says that at the end of a day, no matter how bad our circumstances, we're all responsible for our own situation in that we choose to remain in them (or, alternatively, remove ourselves from them ... in that case, in the ultimate sense). Whatever sinister outside factors are preventing the triumphant return of the Boys, I can't help but think perhaps they have had the primary say in not continuing to work together.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Sheriff John Stone on February 25, 2010, 05:19:05 PM
This is rock & roll, brother, and, at the end of the day, Camus never got the chance to research the Beach Boys' story. They defy all logic - or philosophy.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 05:21:36 PM
Not a lot that can be said in response to that, I guess. Hope your theory that all will end well comes true, because it would sure be a tragedy if all those living people somehow were denied the one thing they want most in the world.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Sheriff John Stone on February 25, 2010, 05:25:21 PM
Keep hope alive! Now go put on Under The Red Sky and re-listen to it with an open mind - and another glass of wine...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 05:26:59 PM
I am seriously pushing my limit...this is why I have a job. Not to make money, but to limit the time available for drinking.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 05:27:14 PM
OK, and to make money. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to listen to the Muppet Movie soundtrack for the fifth or sixth time today.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on February 25, 2010, 05:35:51 PM
This debate, if there is one, is based on a track that has vocals from dead and 20-year-younger members of the band. Any new recording would not -- could not -- sound like this.

Mike's vocals are all new, as are Al's lead (I assume).  Instrumentally, Brian's Band is amazing!   Vocally, they aren't the Beach Boys.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Nicko on February 25, 2010, 07:05:38 PM
Can't say that I can see any point in comparing the various factions of the band now. I prefer just to judge any new songs on their own merit and I am pleasantly surprised by what Al's come up with (as I was with Mike's Cool Head, Warm Heart).

Don't Fight The Sea is a genuinely good recording imo with excellent vocals and a strong production.

Tidepool Interlude is pleasant musically and I never really mind the spoken word stuff that the band does. If it's a mistake, then at least it's the mistake of overreaching. The line, 'majesty moves through me majestically' is a shocker though.

Campfire Scene is a nice short lead up to California Saga.

Which is a decent cover and fits well with the other 3 tracks.

Bottom line for me is that as the band members haven't released that many good songs since Holland, so I'm happy to enjoy any that come along.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 07:41:30 PM

Don't Fight The Sea ... a strong production.

Disagree. Do you by chance like the Imagination production?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Nicko on February 25, 2010, 07:52:48 PM

Don't Fight The Sea ... a strong production.

Disagree. Do you by chance like the Imagination production?

You know, I think they may just have been produced by different people. And I don't consider the productions to be identical.

I do like the vocals on both Imagination on DFTS though.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 25, 2010, 07:59:37 PM
Obviously they're produced by different people, and certainly they're not identical. But I think the biggest flaw in DFTS is its production, which has its adult contemporary cousin in Imagination. But, Al being Al, it's not just slick, it's gimmicky in spots. (No airplane sounds, though. Which is nice.)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: MBE on February 25, 2010, 09:04:00 PM
Keep hope alive! Now go put on Under The Red Sky and re-listen to it with an open mind - and another glass of wine...

Hey I like that album.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: lance on February 25, 2010, 09:16:49 PM
I  like the Don't Fight the Sea song. The rest of the songs are pleasant filler. Production no bother to me on this one, I think it suits.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Bedroom Tapes on February 25, 2010, 11:22:17 PM
WOW!  I Love Don't Fight the Sea!  As someone posted earlier, it really should be released as a Beach Boys single.  I would love to hear that on mainstream radio.  I also really like Al's rendition of California.  Now I'm really looking forward to his solo album release, go AL!!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: runnersdialzero on February 26, 2010, 02:52:14 AM
I think the difference between "Don't Fight the Sea" and Imagination, production-wise, is that the former still has a fair amount of balls while the latter has absolutely none. Both a bit cheesy, yes, but there's still some punch in the drums and the vocals don't sound like they were recorded triple tracked with the other instruments inside of a cave.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Dancing Bear on February 26, 2010, 03:15:18 AM
Don't Fight the Sea is a good song. Not as good as California, but as good as Santa Ana Winds. And that's a good thing. Ok, the production is cheesy and screams '80's Starship' in places, but it's good to hear Al, Carl, Brian and Mike in the same track after all these years. California is charming, and if the CD is supposed to be - and I think it should be more clearly - Al's songbook, it works well in that vein.

Oh, now I get it. DFtS sounds like Moody Blues in the 80s.  :-D


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on February 26, 2010, 04:01:32 AM
Can't say that I can see any point in comparing the various factions of the band now. I prefer just to judge any new songs on their own merit and I am pleasantly surprised by what Al's come up with (as I was with Mike's Cool Head, Warm Heart).

Don't Fight The Sea is a genuinely good recording imo with excellent vocals and a strong production.

Tidepool Interlude is pleasant musically and I never really mind the spoken word stuff that the band does. If it's a mistake, then at least it's the mistake of overreaching. The line, 'majesty moves through me majestically' is a shocker though.

Campfire Scene is a nice short lead up to California Saga.

Which is a decent cover and fits well with the other 3 tracks.

Bottom line for me is that as the band members haven't released that many good songs since Holland, so I'm happy to enjoy any that come along.
Very nicely put. And yes, I hadn't spotted the "majestic majesty" line (thematic link to Brian's "Hello Queenie" comment at the Queen's jubilee gig?); just been absorbing the atmosphere of the piece really. Awkward slip.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on February 26, 2010, 06:17:10 AM
I think Al's production sounds great with a sense of "space" in it.

Thank god it isn't that Spectorish wall of noise sh*t.  Let it breathe baby!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The infamous Baldwin Organ on February 26, 2010, 08:57:39 AM
Although it's not cutting edge, I would argue for the production quality on Don't Fight The Sea. The track was apparently started in 1978, and it certainly doesn't feel quite that old to me. The music has a quality to me that fits into the later period Beach Boys recordings from the 80s, but without the horrible digital reverb that was so overused at the time. Is it totally new; no. But in a way, it helps it fit in if you were going to make a compilation of later period Beach Boys recordings. I'm a fan of this tune.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 26, 2010, 09:52:07 AM
I don't totally hate it. But the wave sounds, the whale (?) sound, the intro keyboard sound, the echo on Carl's vocal (1:45) and the reverse echo on the vox (section beginning at 2:58). All those things strike me as gimmicky and sure-to-be-dated (actually dated already). The rest of it, I'm actually fine with. Sounds good.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: ESQ Editor on February 26, 2010, 11:01:32 AM
Don't Fight the Sea is a good song. Not as good as California, but as good as Santa Ana Winds. And that's a good thing. Ok, the production is cheesy and screams '80's Starship' in places, but it's good to hear Al, Carl, Brian and Mike in the same track after all these years. California is charming, and if the CD is supposed to be - and I think it should be more clearly - Al's songbook, it works well in that vein.

Oh, now I get it. DFtS sounds like Moody Blues in the 80s.  :-D

Mike Love doesn't appear on this version. Al sings the baritone parts.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: TdHabib on February 26, 2010, 11:14:33 AM
Don't Fight the Sea is a good song. Not as good as California, but as good as Santa Ana Winds. And that's a good thing. Ok, the production is cheesy and screams '80's Starship' in places, but it's good to hear Al, Carl, Brian and Mike in the same track after all these years. California is charming, and if the CD is supposed to be - and I think it should be more clearly - Al's songbook, it works well in that vein.

Oh, now I get it. DFtS sounds like Moody Blues in the 80s.  :-D

Mike Love doesn't appear on this version. Al sings the baritone parts.
Really? Well so much for the "they harmonize so well today" argument: it's just an old (1980s?) Carl and Brian and tons of new Al's.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 26, 2010, 01:41:25 PM
Don't Fight the Sea is a good song. Not as good as California, but as good as Santa Ana Winds. And that's a good thing. Ok, the production is cheesy and screams '80's Starship' in places, but it's good to hear Al, Carl, Brian and Mike in the same track after all these years. California is charming, and if the CD is supposed to be - and I think it should be more clearly - Al's songbook, it works well in that vein.

Oh, now I get it. DFtS sounds like Moody Blues in the 80s.  :-D

Mike Love doesn't appear on this version. Al sings the baritone parts.

Do we know if Mike will be on the Album version?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The infamous Baldwin Organ on February 26, 2010, 01:45:58 PM
Don't Fight the Sea is a good song. Not as good as California, but as good as Santa Ana Winds. And that's a good thing. Ok, the production is cheesy and screams '80's Starship' in places, but it's good to hear Al, Carl, Brian and Mike in the same track after all these years. California is charming, and if the CD is supposed to be - and I think it should be more clearly - Al's songbook, it works well in that vein.

Oh, now I get it. DFtS sounds like Moody Blues in the 80s.  :-D

Mike Love doesn't appear on this version. Al sings the baritone parts.

Do we know if Mike will be on the Album version?

I hope so. I listened carefully for him, and the voice that could have been Mike's part was only present for a few bars. I certainly think Mike could add something.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on February 26, 2010, 01:48:41 PM
Don't Fight the Sea is a good song. Not as good as California, but as good as Santa Ana Winds. And that's a good thing. Ok, the production is cheesy and screams '80's Starship' in places, but it's good to hear Al, Carl, Brian and Mike in the same track after all these years. California is charming, and if the CD is supposed to be - and I think it should be more clearly - Al's songbook, it works well in that vein.

Oh, now I get it. DFtS sounds like Moody Blues in the 80s.  :-D

Mike Love doesn't appear on this version. Al sings the baritone parts.

Can you share the details of the track?  Who's on it, who sings what and when was it all done? 

And if Mike isn't no this version, what's the plan for the Mike Love vocals recorded last year?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: ESQ Editor on February 26, 2010, 02:11:20 PM
The "impression" I get is no, but Al is notorious for changing his mind as much as he changes his socks. So we'll see.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Stegibo on February 26, 2010, 02:37:01 PM
I can hear Mike clearly on DFTS.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 26, 2010, 02:40:12 PM
I can hear Mike clearly on DFTS.

Mike's contribution was recorded in an hotel room on Scott Totten's laptop - I would be exceedingly surprised if they were technically up to par.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Stegibo on February 26, 2010, 02:41:19 PM
Mmh, for me, it sounds very similar to his voice.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 26, 2010, 02:58:51 PM
Mmh, for me, it sounds very similar to his voice.

Agree - I thought it was him too, but I'm very reliably informed it isn't.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: TdHabib on February 26, 2010, 03:02:23 PM
AGD, correct me if I'm wrong as I really don't know, but weren't Brian's demo vocals (and, so, that means some of the ones that made the final product) for TLOS recorded onto Scott's computer? Or was it a real studio setup?

And, while I'm at it, am I wrong in this chronology of the TLOS project:
Summer 2006-Brian and Scott write and record the basic tracks (keyboards, percussion etc.) and vocals for their new songs in a demo setting at Scott's studio
Summer 2007-Scott and Darian sequence the piece in L.A. while Brian and company tour Europe, Scott records a few new things like the vocal for "Southern California" that made the rounds
Spring 2008-Brian and band record the backing tracks and some new lead and all backing vocals for the final release.

Or were Brian's demo vocals from Summer 2007?

Just always wanted to know...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 26, 2010, 03:22:14 PM
An extremely large percentage of modern pop music--especially of the "indie" (horrible and inaccurate term) variety--is recorded on laptops or home setups. The "in a hotel" part would be what is more likely to have made it inferior quality.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The infamous Baldwin Organ on February 26, 2010, 03:32:06 PM
Personally, I don't entirely buy that. If you know what you're doing, you can record a nice sounding performance pretty much anywhere. The legendary Robert Johnson tapes were made with him singing into a wall of a hotel room; obviously not the same idea at all, but doesn't mean a hotel room is going to ruin the sound.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Aegir on February 26, 2010, 03:38:21 PM
I think it was a particularly noisy hotel room with a cheap omnidirectional mic.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 26, 2010, 03:52:38 PM
Personally, I don't entirely buy that. If you know what you're doing, you can record a nice sounding performance pretty much anywhere. The legendary Robert Johnson tapes were made with him singing into a wall of a hotel room; obviously not the same idea at all, but doesn't mean a hotel room is going to ruin the sound.

Lindsey Buckingham recorded a lot of his "Under The Skin" album in hotel rooms while on tour, and the sound is good.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on February 26, 2010, 04:15:50 PM
Of course this is the guy who needed thirty-odd years to make sure the sound of "Loop de Loop" was just so...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on February 26, 2010, 04:26:43 PM
Mmh, for me, it sounds very similar to his voice.

Agree - I thought it was him too, but I'm very reliably informed it isn't.

And yet another mystery from the Beach Boys.  What and where is Mike's vocal; why wasn't it used.....
These guys really have a knack for creating story and intrigue.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Sheriff John Stone on February 26, 2010, 04:28:57 PM
Mmh, for me, it sounds very similar to his voice.

Agree - I thought it was him too, but I'm very reliably informed it isn't.

And yet another mystery from the Beach Boys.  What and where is Mike's vocal; why wasn't it used.....
These guys really have a knack for creating story and intrigue.

Fun, innit? :police:


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on February 26, 2010, 04:43:40 PM
Personally, I don't entirely buy that. If you know what you're doing, you can record a nice sounding performance pretty much anywhere. The legendary Robert Johnson tapes were made with him singing into a wall of a hotel room; obviously not the same idea at all, but doesn't mean a hotel room is going to ruin the sound.

Lindsey Buckingham recorded a lot of his "Under The Skin" album in hotel rooms while on tour, and the sound is good.
An extremely large percentage of modern pop music--especially of the "indie" (horrible and inaccurate term) variety--is recorded on laptops or home setups. The "in a hotel" part would be what is more likely to have made it inferior quality.

Agree Luther!  Technology allows some pristine music going into a laptop.  I'm sure Scott has at his disposal a tubed mic, tubed compressor, Digital interface, 32/64 bit 96 htz program (Reaper?)  and bam, beautiful clean sound.

What Luther is alluding too is A/C noise/ thin walls/echo/acoustics.  It's one thing to record an instrument DI (direct) into the audio interface but vocals in a hotel room could be tricky.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: c-man on February 26, 2010, 05:53:04 PM
Personally, I don't entirely buy that. If you know what you're doing, you can record a nice sounding performance pretty much anywhere. The legendary Robert Johnson tapes were made with him singing into a wall of a hotel room; obviously not the same idea at all, but doesn't mean a hotel room is going to ruin the sound.

Lindsey Buckingham recorded a lot of his "Under The Skin" album in hotel rooms while on tour, and the sound is good.
An extremely large percentage of modern pop music--especially of the "indie" (horrible and inaccurate term) variety--is recorded on laptops or home setups. The "in a hotel" part would be what is more likely to have made it inferior quality.

Agree Luther!  Technology allows some pristine music going into a laptop.  I'm sure Scott has at his disposal a tubed mic, tubed compressor, Digital interface, 32/64 bit 96 htz program (Reaper?)  and bam, beautiful clean sound.

What Luther is alluding too is A/C noise/ thin walls/echo/acoustics.  It's one thing to record an instrument DI (direct) into the audio interface but vocals in a hotel room could be tricky.

But defintely doable, in this case...Mike's voice has traditionally been recorded very close-mic'd, and therefore as long as the signal was clean, it would probably be usable.  AND...I really have a hard time believing it's not Mike on "DFTS".  The bass vocals in the last two choruses, and the "She said" part sound EXACTLY like him, not just tonally, but attitude-wise.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on February 26, 2010, 07:12:31 PM
Personally, I don't entirely buy that. If you know what you're doing, you can record a nice sounding performance pretty much anywhere. The legendary Robert Johnson tapes were made with him singing into a wall of a hotel room; obviously not the same idea at all, but doesn't mean a hotel room is going to ruin the sound.

Lindsey Buckingham recorded a lot of his "Under The Skin" album in hotel rooms while on tour, and the sound is good.
An extremely large percentage of modern pop music--especially of the "indie" (horrible and inaccurate term) variety--is recorded on laptops or home setups. The "in a hotel" part would be what is more likely to have made it inferior quality.

Agree Luther!  Technology allows some pristine music going into a laptop.  I'm sure Scott has at his disposal a tubed mic, tubed compressor, Digital interface, 32/64 bit 96 htz program (Reaper?)  and bam, beautiful clean sound.

What Luther is alluding too is A/C noise/ thin walls/echo/acoustics.  It's one thing to record an instrument DI (direct) into the audio interface but vocals in a hotel room could be tricky.

But defintely doable, in this case...Mike's voice has traditionally been recorded very close-mic'd, and therefore as long as the signal was clean, it would probably be usable.  AND...I really have a hard time believing it's not Mike on "DFTS".  The bass vocals in the last two choruses, and the "She said" part sound EXACTLY like him, not just tonally, but attitude-wise.

Yes, and why go to all the trouble of recording Mike and not use it.  Unless there is another version that's going to be used on another project.  Like a 50th Aniv. release.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 26, 2010, 09:43:44 PM
Personally, I don't entirely buy that. If you know what you're doing, you can record a nice sounding performance pretty much anywhere. The legendary Robert Johnson tapes were made with him singing into a wall of a hotel room; obviously not the same idea at all, but doesn't mean a hotel room is going to ruin the sound.

Lindsey Buckingham recorded a lot of his "Under The Skin" album in hotel rooms while on tour, and the sound is good.
An extremely large percentage of modern pop music--especially of the "indie" (horrible and inaccurate term) variety--is recorded on laptops or home setups. The "in a hotel" part would be what is more likely to have made it inferior quality.

Agree Luther!  Technology allows some pristine music going into a laptop.  I'm sure Scott has at his disposal a tubed mic, tubed compressor, Digital interface, 32/64 bit 96 htz program (Reaper?)  and bam, beautiful clean sound.

What Luther is alluding too is A/C noise/ thin walls/echo/acoustics.  It's one thing to record an instrument DI (direct) into the audio interface but vocals in a hotel room could be tricky.

But defintely doable, in this case...Mike's voice has traditionally been recorded very close-mic'd, and therefore as long as the signal was clean, it would probably be usable.  AND...I really have a hard time believing it's not Mike on "DFTS".  The bass vocals in the last two choruses, and the "She said" part sound EXACTLY like him, not just tonally, but attitude-wise.

I also thought "she said" was him at first listen... but listening again, it's not.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SloopJohnB on February 27, 2010, 01:20:24 AM
I don't know about the "she said" part, but the low "don't fight, don't fight the sea, y'don't" parts from 2:05 to 2:15 and 2:20 to 2:30 sound EXACTLY like Mike.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: TdHabib on February 27, 2010, 04:22:04 AM
AGD, correct me if I'm wrong as I really don't know, but weren't Brian's demo vocals (and, so, that means some of the ones that made the final product) for TLOS recorded onto Scott's computer? Or was it a real studio setup?

And, while I'm at it, am I wrong in this chronology of the TLOS project:
Summer 2006-Brian and Scott write and record the basic tracks (keyboards, percussion etc.) and vocals for their new songs in a demo setting at Scott's studio
Summer 2007-Scott and Darian sequence the piece in L.A. while Brian and company tour Europe, Scott records a few new things like the vocal for "Southern California" that made the rounds
Spring 2008-Brian and band record the backing tracks and some new lead and all backing vocals for the final release.

Or were Brian's demo vocals from Summer 2007?

Just always wanted to know...
Please don't let me wonder...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 27, 2010, 11:15:03 AM
AGD, correct me if I'm wrong as I really don't know, but weren't Brian's demo vocals (and, so, that means some of the ones that made the final product) for TLOS recorded onto Scott's computer? Or was it a real studio setup?

And, while I'm at it, am I wrong in this chronology of the TLOS project:
Summer 2006-Brian and Scott write and record the basic tracks (keyboards, percussion etc.) and vocals for their new songs in a demo setting at Scott's studio
Summer 2007-Scott and Darian sequence the piece in L.A. while Brian and company tour Europe, Scott records a few new things like the vocal for "Southern California" that made the rounds
Spring 2008-Brian and band record the backing tracks and some new lead and all backing vocals for the final release.

Or were Brian's demo vocals from Summer 2007?

Just always wanted to know...

Scotty's home (=bedroom) studio can be seen on the TLOS DVD - looks like he's got a good semi-pro setup there.

Brian's demo vocals are from summer 2006.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: adamghost on February 27, 2010, 10:25:12 PM
If you have the right mic and pre-amp, you can do studio quality vocals just about anywhere.  You just have to be have basic knowledge of where and how to sing into the mic, and be careful of levels and pops.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Exapno Mapcase on February 28, 2010, 02:21:10 AM
Mike's not on it?!  Oh no!  I hate it in that case!   ::)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 28, 2010, 03:29:56 AM
Mmh, for me, it sounds very similar to his voice.

Agree - I thought it was him too, but I'm very reliably informed it isn't.

This is confusing...

Just listened again... and if you stood me up in the witness box and asked me under oath if Mike was on "DFTS", then I'd have to say "yes".

For comparison, btw, the original TJ version:

http://www.filestube.com/3e7bc6972a0e8a1f03ea/details.html (http://www.filestube.com/3e7bc6972a0e8a1f03ea/details.html)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 28, 2010, 05:11:11 AM
If Jacks' released "Y' Don't Fight The Sea," in 1976, how much of this song is him vs. Al? 


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Nicko on February 28, 2010, 06:05:01 AM
Mmh, for me, it sounds very similar to his voice.

Agree - I thought it was him too, but I'm very reliably informed it isn't.

This is confusing...

Just listened again... and if you stood me up in the witness box and asked me under oath if Mike was on "DFTS", then I'd have to say "yes".

For comparison, btw, the original TJ version:

http://www.filestube.com/3e7bc6972a0e8a1f03ea/details.html (http://www.filestube.com/3e7bc6972a0e8a1f03ea/details.html)

Credit to Al, I would say that the new version urinates all over the original.

In some ways, I don't think it matters that much whether it is Mike on the new recording. More important to me is that Al wanted him to be there and Mike was willing to contribute. Scott Totten said that he wasn't really happy with the quality of the recording of Mike's vocals so if it wasn't up to scratch then that's no surprise.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Dancing Bear on February 28, 2010, 06:44:18 AM
Wait a minute... Who wrote 'Don't Fight the Sea'?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 28, 2010, 07:14:25 AM
Wait a minute... Who wrote 'Don't Fight the Sea'?

Well, duh, Terry Jacks ?  Thought this was common knowledge since about 1980.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 28, 2010, 07:18:41 AM
If Jacks' released "Y' Don't Fight The Sea," in 1976, how much of this song is him vs. Al? 

All of it - he wrote it.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 28, 2010, 07:19:56 AM
Wait a minute... Who wrote 'Don't Fight the Sea'?

Well, duh, Terry Jacks ?  Thought this was common knowledge since about 1980.

BMI.com lists Al Jardine & Terry Jacks, which is why I asked.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Dancing Bear on February 28, 2010, 07:22:21 AM
Add a double duh for me... I had never heard it in my life - in the times of old, some tracks got airplay in some countries and none in others - and I just figured it was an Al Jardine original. Oh my.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 28, 2010, 07:22:26 AM
Wait a minute... Who wrote 'Don't Fight the Sea'?

Well, duh, Terry Jacks ?  Thought this was common knowledge since about 1980.

BMI.com lists Al Jardine & Terry Jacks, which is why I asked.

Not done an A/B, but I think Alan changed a few words.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 28, 2010, 07:28:00 AM
Andrew, on the unreleased page of Bellagio it says "Don't Fight The Sea (a collaboration with Terry Jacks dating from late 1980)."  Did Al changed the lyrics back then?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 28, 2010, 07:47:53 AM
Andrew, on the unreleased page of Bellagio it says "Don't Fight The Sea (a collaboration with Terry Jacks dating from late 1980)."  Did Al changed the lyrics back then?

Yes - the title was mentioned back then when Alan was talking about a solo album. My use of the word 'collaboration' there is a trifle misleading.  :)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: c-man on February 28, 2010, 08:20:50 AM
This production really spans the decades...Al's website says the basic track is from '78, but there's an AFM contract for a session in April '76.  Next we heard of it being worked on was late 1980.  The production style (and Carl's and Brian's vocals) on the final version really sound like "Still Crusin'" era BBs (and the fact that Al's website says it was recorded at Capitol's Studio A would fit with that era).  I think it was also mentioned in conjunction with the album he was planning with his sons ('98/'99).  If Mike IS on it, his parts were done in 2008, and if the final mix was done sometime in the last two months, that would mean five decades.  Could this be some kind of record (for a record)?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on February 28, 2010, 10:02:13 AM
Is Bruce on this track?  Who is singing "Just Let It Be" towards the end at 2:54?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: TdHabib on February 28, 2010, 10:40:40 AM
Is Bruce on this track?  Who is singing "Just Let It Be" towards the end at 2:54?
I think that's Alan personally.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: c-man on February 28, 2010, 11:21:00 AM
Is Bruce on this track?  Who is singing "Just Let It Be" towards the end at 2:54?
I think that's Alan personally.

I really don't think it's Alan.  Could be Bruce...maybe from 1989, when Brian and Carl did their parts.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 28, 2010, 11:34:03 AM
Is Bruce on this track?  Who is singing "Just Let It Be" towards the end at 2:54?
I think that's Alan personally.

I really don't think it's Alan.  Could be Bruce...maybe from 1989, when Brian and Carl did their parts.

Seriously doubt Bruce is on this.



Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Smilin Ed H on February 28, 2010, 12:07:56 PM
89?  79 or 82, isn't it?

I thought BW added new vocals.

Whatever, I like it.  Would've sat nicely on LA, but so would two or three other tracks from that time...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Howie Edelson on February 28, 2010, 12:11:55 PM
I have it on excellent (one might say ultimate authority) that Mike Love's recent vocals were NOT used on "Don't Fight The Sea."


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SloopJohnB on February 28, 2010, 12:24:19 PM
Wait a minute... Who wrote 'Don't Fight the Sea'?

Well, duh, Terry Jacks ?  Thought this was common knowledge since about 1980.

BMI.com lists Al Jardine & Terry Jacks, which is why I asked.

Not done an A/B, but I think Alan changed a few words.

...And he added a whole verse! Not for the best in my opinion. His "polar bear" lyrics just don't fit with the rest of the song.



I thought BW added new vocals.

I think he did. I remember reading that Brian had recently added his vocals to "Don't Fight The Sea". Besides, I'm hearing "today's Brian" on the record, not "1989's Brian".



I have it on excellent (one might say ultimate authority) that Mike Love's recent vocals were NOT used on "Don't Fight The Sea."

Then, who does the bass parts?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on February 28, 2010, 12:49:40 PM
Then, who does the bass parts?

Rich Little ?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Howie Edelson on February 28, 2010, 12:57:31 PM
I don't know who it is. Could barely get through the track once upon receiving it. Maybe it's "Rich Little Al Jardine"?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Rocker on February 28, 2010, 01:02:05 PM
Then, who does the bass parts?

Rich Little ?


No, I think he's back at preaching....       :-D


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: TdHabib on February 28, 2010, 01:05:05 PM
Could barely get through the track once upon receiving it.
Ha! Does that mean you don't like it, Howie?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Howie Edelson on February 28, 2010, 01:44:10 PM
It's more of an indifference than a dislike. It's like new Ringo album tracks, meaning the artists that move you the most making music that moves you none.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on February 28, 2010, 08:31:11 PM
It's more of an indifference than a dislike. It's like new Ringo album tracks, meaning the artists that move you the most making music that moves you none.

Howie - thought you and Al were buddies?  Your previous articles and info on Al gave the stuff glowing reviews?  Why the about face?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Howie Edelson on February 28, 2010, 09:02:54 PM
Hey Surfrider! Not an about face, it's just not too easy on my ears. Very '80s and not that indicative of the rest of the album. He's got some beautiful, major stuff coming like "San Simeon" and "And I Always Will" (with Brian) which is just great "Jardine" and much more organic sounding. My hangup is more with the production than anything else. The song's fine. All I need is Al and a guitar and I'm happy. I dig the "California Saga" remake (I really loved the '90s one) I like Al sounding rural -- voice, wood and string -- not midi DX7 Beach Boys. That said, I didn't mean to come off too harsh about it.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: TdHabib on February 28, 2010, 10:29:59 PM
All I need is Al and a guitar and I'm happy.
If only we could get that Jardine folk album.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on March 01, 2010, 05:19:10 AM
All I need is Al and a guitar and I'm happy.
If only we could get that Jardine folk album.

Or any Jardine album.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Autotune on March 01, 2010, 08:39:42 AM
Please, correct if wrong

Al- old (1990s?) + new vocals (polar bear verse, etc. plus maybe backing vocals)

Jardine family & friends- backgrounds (all new)

Carl- lead section + chorus vocal (all recorded in the early 1990s)

Brian- his vocals are all recent

Bruce- not in it

Mike- recorded new vocals but were not included in the EP version


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on March 01, 2010, 09:15:16 AM
Of course this is the guy who needed thirty-odd years to make sure the sound of "Loop de Loop" was just so...

And if Brian only took the same attention to detail we would have a palatable Smile album!  Too bad.  :hat


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on March 01, 2010, 09:16:06 AM
Of course this is the guy who needed thirty-odd years to make sure the sound of "Loop de Loop" was just so...

And if Brian only took the same attention to detail we would have a palatable Smile album!  Too bad.  :hat
You think Loop de Loop is better than BWPS? To each his own.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on March 01, 2010, 09:16:49 AM
Is Al's 90's version of Cal Saga available online somewhere?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on March 01, 2010, 11:31:25 AM
Please, correct if wrong

Al- old (1990s?) + new vocals (polar bear verse, etc. plus maybe backing vocals)

Jardine family & friends- backgrounds (all new)

Carl- lead section + chorus vocal (all recorded in the early 1990s)

Brian- his vocals are all recent

Bruce- not in it

Mike- recorded new vocals but were not included in the EP version

Stand to be corrected, but I think Carl's vocal is from late 70s/early 80s.

And... despite what my exceedingly reliable source tells me, my ears say Mike's on it.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on March 01, 2010, 11:50:50 AM
Hey Surfrider! Not an about face, it's just not too easy on my ears. Very '80s and not that indicative of the rest of the album. He's got some beautiful, major stuff coming like "San Simeon" and "And I Always Will" (with Brian) which is just great "Jardine" and much more organic sounding. My hangup is more with the production than anything else. The song's fine. All I need is Al and a guitar and I'm happy. I dig the "California Saga" remake (I really loved the '90s one) I like Al sounding rural -- voice, wood and string -- not midi DX7 Beach Boys. That said, I didn't mean to come off too harsh about it.

Thanks Howie - gotcha!  Are "San Simeon" and "And I Always Will" (with Brian) 'Postcard from CA' tracks?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Howie Edelson on March 01, 2010, 01:52:56 PM
They are.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: send me a picture and i'll tell you on March 01, 2010, 02:02:11 PM
Is Bruce on this track?  Who is singing "Just Let It Be" towards the end at 2:54?

Pretty positive that's Brian.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on March 01, 2010, 02:32:26 PM
Hey Surfrider! Not an about face, it's just not too easy on my ears. Very '80s and not that indicative of the rest of the album. He's got some beautiful, major stuff coming like "San Simeon" and "And I Always Will" (with Brian) which is just great "Jardine" and much more organic sounding. My hangup is more with the production than anything else. The song's fine. All I need is Al and a guitar and I'm happy. I dig the "California Saga" remake (I really loved the '90s one) I like Al sounding rural -- voice, wood and string -- not midi DX7 Beach Boys. That said, I didn't mean to come off too harsh about it.

Thanks Howie - gotcha!  Are "San Simeon" and "And I Always Will" (with Brian) 'Postcard from CA' tracks?

Track listing here:

http://www.aljardine.com/


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on March 01, 2010, 03:08:59 PM
Hey Surfrider! Not an about face, it's just not too easy on my ears. Very '80s and not that indicative of the rest of the album. He's got some beautiful, major stuff coming like "San Simeon" and "And I Always Will" (with Brian) which is just great "Jardine" and much more organic sounding. My hangup is more with the production than anything else. The song's fine. All I need is Al and a guitar and I'm happy. I dig the "California Saga" remake (I really loved the '90s one) I like Al sounding rural -- voice, wood and string -- not midi DX7 Beach Boys. That said, I didn't mean to come off too harsh about it.

Thanks Howie - gotcha!  Are "San Simeon" and "And I Always Will" (with Brian) 'Postcard from CA' tracks?

Track listing here:

http://www.aljardine.com/


Wasn't sure Brian was on "And I Always Will".  And "Campfire Scene" is not listed as a track on Al's site. (I'm hoping it's attached to "CS").  Seems like Brian's all over this album (well, three tracks at least).  'Drivin' is still one I can't wait to hear the full version of.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on March 01, 2010, 04:05:10 PM
Wasn't sure Brian was on "And I Always Will".  And "Campfire Scene" is not listed as a track on Al's site. (I'm hoping it's attached to "CS").  Seems like Brian's all over this album (well, three tracks at least).  'Drivin' is still one I can't wait to hear the full version of.

If he is on "And I Always Will," then he is on at least 4 tracks:

And I Always Will
Drivin'
Honkin' Down The Highway
Don't Fight The Sea


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on March 01, 2010, 04:43:20 PM
Wasn't sure Brian was on "And I Always Will".  And "Campfire Scene" is not listed as a track on Al's site. (I'm hoping it's attached to "CS").  Seems like Brian's all over this album (well, three tracks at least).  'Drivin' is still one I can't wait to hear the full version of.

If he is on "And I Always Will," then he is on at least 4 tracks:

And I Always Will
Drivin'
Honkin' Down The Highway
Don't Fight The Sea

That's right.  That's four tracks; 1/3 or the album.  Wished Brian had used Al on TLOS.  Woulda made it a lot better!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Autotune on March 02, 2010, 04:50:11 AM
Please, correct if wrong

Al- old (1990s?) + new vocals (polar bear verse, etc. plus maybe backing vocals)

Jardine family & friends- backgrounds (all new)

Carl- lead section + chorus vocal (all recorded in the early 1990s)

Brian- his vocals are all recent

Bruce- not in it

Mike- recorded new vocals but were not included in the EP version

Stand to be corrected, but I think Carl's vocal is from late 70s/early 80s.

And... despite what my exceedingly reliable source tells me, my ears say Mike's on it.

It sounds like Mike to me too. The Carl vocal sounds like from the SIP era to me (compare to Remember walking in the sand or Problem Child).


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on March 02, 2010, 06:16:59 AM
Not listed on the main page but does anyone know if Billy Hinche or Bobby Figeroa are on any of the tracks?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on March 02, 2010, 11:22:06 AM
They are.

Howie - maybe you can solve this mystery.  Is Mike on this version of "DFTS"?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: smile-holland on March 02, 2010, 11:28:30 AM
They are.

Howie - maybe you can solve this mystery.  Is Mike on this version of "DFTS"?

Howie already confirmed that on page 11...


I have it on excellent (one might say ultimate authority) that Mike Love's recent vocals were NOT used on "Don't Fight The Sea."


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on March 02, 2010, 03:32:42 PM
They are.

Howie - maybe you can solve this mystery.  Is Mike on this version of "DFTS"?

Howie already confirmed that on page 11...


I have it on excellent (one might say ultimate authority) that Mike Love's recent vocals were NOT used on "Don't Fight The Sea."


Oops, so he did.  How did I miss that.  My bad.

So the question/mystery Howie is - why isn't Mike on it?  And do you know if his vocals are to be used for another version?

I have this sneaking suspicion that there is some secret 50th Anniversary Project afoot.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on March 12, 2010, 08:45:40 PM
Just noticed that Al's website lists Bruce Johnston as being on his album as well.  Does anyone know what song he is on?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on March 12, 2010, 09:50:35 PM
Just noticed that Al's website lists Bruce Johnston as being on his album as well.  Does anyone know what song he is on?

Not "DFTS".


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on March 13, 2010, 10:56:50 AM
Maybe we all got bum info about DFTS.

Possibly Mike and Bruce did some vocals for another track(s).  It's definitely new On Al's site that Bruce is on the album.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Wirestone on March 13, 2010, 11:40:10 AM
Are we certain, as people now seem to think, that the BW vox on DFTS are new?

Because, if so, it's the fittest we've heard the falsetto in some time.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: c-man on March 13, 2010, 12:18:54 PM
Are we certain, as people now seem to think, that the BW vox on DFTS are new?

Because, if so, it's the fittest we've heard the falsetto in some time.

I have it on excellent authority that at lest SOME of BW's vocals on that track date from the "Still Cruisin'" sessions in '89.  I also think that's when Carl's vocals are from.  BUT...Brian may very well have done some more singing on it in 2007 when he was in the studio with Al.

Also...Mike Love is now listed, in addition to Bruce Johnson, by Al's website as a guest on the album.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on March 13, 2010, 01:41:12 PM
Also...Mike Love is now listed, in addition to Bruce Johnson, by Al's website as a guest on the album.

Maybe 'someone' read this thread, took another listen to the track and realised...'something'.  ::)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on March 13, 2010, 02:18:28 PM
Also...Mike Love is now listed, in addition to Bruce Johnson, by Al's website as a guest on the album.

Maybe 'someone' read this thread, took another listen to the track and realised...'something'.  ::)

Andrew, do you think Bruce is on this track as well?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Awesoman on March 13, 2010, 06:03:17 PM
Please, correct if wrong

Al- old (1990s?) + new vocals (polar bear verse, etc. plus maybe backing vocals)

Jardine family & friends- backgrounds (all new)

Carl- lead section + chorus vocal (all recorded in the early 1990s)

Brian- his vocals are all recent

Bruce- not in it

Mike- recorded new vocals but were not included in the EP version

It sounds like there are old vocals from Brian along with more recent ones. 


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on March 14, 2010, 03:26:45 AM
Also...Mike Love is now listed, in addition to Bruce Johnson, by Al's website as a guest on the album.

Maybe 'someone' read this thread, took another listen to the track and realised...'something'.  ::)

Andrew, do you think Bruce is on this track as well?

"DFTS" ? Nope, 'cause he told me he wasn't when I asked him earlier this week.  ;D


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on March 14, 2010, 05:48:01 AM
"DFTS" ? Nope, 'cause he told me he wasn't when I asked him earlier this week.  ;D

Did he tell you which track he is on, and can you tell us?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on March 14, 2010, 05:59:57 AM
"DFTS" ? Nope, 'cause he told me he wasn't when I asked him earlier this week.  ;D

Did he tell you which track he is on, and can you tell us?

Nope, 'cause his name wasn't in the credits when I asked. I will, but I try not to bug him too much about BB trivia (although it amuses him no end that we're obsessed with this kind of thing).


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on March 14, 2010, 09:06:26 PM
"DFTS" ? Nope, 'cause he told me he wasn't when I asked him earlier this week.  ;D

Did he tell you which track he is on, and can you tell us?

Nope, 'cause his name wasn't in the credits when I asked. I will, but I try not to bug him too much about BB trivia (although it amuses him no end that we're obsessed with this kind of thing).

We are obsessed with how many tacos Brian ate when he produced Smile; so is it any wonder there is a strong interest hearing the details two Beach Boys, who seemingly hated each other/sued each other; burying the hatchet and recording together?  This album is probably the closest thing we are ever going to have to the Beach Boys recording together  again. 


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Smilin Ed H on March 15, 2010, 12:31:26 AM
If it ever comes out...

It is quite something to see the names Brian Wilson, Carl Wilson, Mike Love, David Marks and Bruce Johnston listed as featuring on an Al Jardine album, though.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on March 15, 2010, 03:44:15 AM
We are obsessed with how many tacos Brian ate when he produced Smile ... 

I recently met the guy who ran the taco stand in LA at the hub of the area closest to Capitol, Western Recorders, Sunset, and all those other studios, back in '66/'67.

I asked him exactly that question but he was unable to give me a precise answer, and claimed that he couldn't remember whether Brian preferred chocolate or vanilla ice cream with his Readywhip (as if!).

He's currently in my cellar, blindfolded and bound to the radiator with gaffer-tape; I've set up a cold water drip directly on to his forehead; he's been in total darkness for a while now, with only "Country Love" and "First Love" playing at full volume, echoing round the cellar walls. I think he might start to talk soon.

I just wondered whether any of you other guys on this board have any other questions I could put to him about the SMiLE era while he's there. I'm fairly confident he'll be agreeable about providing definitive answers within the next week or two.

The guy who used to deliver pizzas to Brian and Marilyn's house back in the day folded after a couple of months... and before you ask, the answer's deep pan Hawaiian!

Don't thank me, I'm just glad I can help clear up a few unanswered details from the SMiLE era.





(Waits for the Don to pile in...)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on March 15, 2010, 11:24:49 AM
We are obsessed with how many tacos Brian ate when he produced Smile ... 

I recently met the guy who ran the taco stand in LA at the hub of the area closest to Capitol, Western Recorders, Sunset, and all those other studios, back in '66/'67.

I asked him exactly that question but he was unable to give me a precise answer, and claimed that he couldn't remember whether Brian preferred chocolate or vanilla ice cream with his Readywhip (as if!).

He's currently in my cellar, blindfolded and bound to the radiator with gaffer-tape; I've set up a cold water drip directly on to his forehead; he's been in total darkness for a while now, with only "Country Love" and "First Love" playing at full volume, echoing round the cellar walls. I think he might start to talk soon.

I just wondered whether any of you other guys on this board have any other questions I could put to him about the SMiLE era while he's there. I'm fairly confident he'll be agreeable about providing definitive answers within the next week or two.

The guy who used to deliver pizzas to Brian and Marilyn's house back in the day folded after a couple of months... and before you ask, the answer's deep pan Hawaiian!

Don't thank me, I'm just glad I can help clear up a few unanswered details from the SMiLE era.





(Waits for the Don to pile in...)


So funny - not often I get a belly laugh from this board.  Great!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on March 15, 2010, 11:50:29 AM
He's currently in my cellar, blindfolded and bound to the radiator with gaffer-tape; I've set up a cold water drip directly on to his forehead; he's been in total darkness for a while now, with only "Country Love" and "First Love" playing at full volume, echoing round the cellar walls. I think he might start to talk soon.

I just wondered whether any of you other guys on this board have any other questions I could put to him about the SMiLE era while he's there. I'm fairly confident he'll be agreeable about providing definitive answers within the next week or two.

Why does that scenario remind me of the Soviet film The Ascent?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Wrightfan on March 15, 2010, 07:53:43 PM
So...does Al's EP come out first or does http://beachboyscentral.com/ open?  :lol


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Rocker on March 16, 2010, 08:18:58 AM
So...does Al's EP come out first or does http://beachboyscentral.com/ open?  :lol


It will be released as a download on BeachBoysCentral   :-D


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Wrightfan on March 16, 2010, 08:39:26 AM
So...does Al's EP come out first or does http://beachboyscentral.com/ open?  :lol


It will be released as a download on BeachBoysCentral   :-D

You could be a music executive man   ;D


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: shelter on March 16, 2010, 11:05:33 AM
If it ever comes out...

It is quite something to see the names Brian Wilson, Carl Wilson, Mike Love, David Marks and Bruce Johnston listed as featuring on an Al Jardine album, though.

If these guys are all on the album than Al really should somehow include Dennis too. Maybe Al could for instance take a recording of Dennis talking, and put it on an interlude, an intro or an outro or something... I'd love that.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: c-man on March 16, 2010, 02:00:53 PM
If it ever comes out...

It is quite something to see the names Brian Wilson, Carl Wilson, Mike Love, David Marks and Bruce Johnston listed as featuring on an Al Jardine album, though.

If these guys are all on the album than Al really should somehow include Dennis too. Maybe Al could for instance take a recording of Dennis talking, and put it on an interlude, an intro or an outro or something... I'd love that.

Well...if "Don't Fight The Sea" uses the original track recorded in 1976, then Dennis IS included, as he drummed on that version.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: b00ts on March 16, 2010, 09:54:10 PM
"Don't Fight The Sea" sure does seem to have Mike Love singing the bass vocal from approximately 2:20 to 2:30. Perhaps promotional considerations for a potential 50th anniversary reunion are preventing Al from listing all the Beach Boys as performing on DFTS?

Edit: I know this has been discussed up thread and dismissed; I am asserting that Mike is on the track in spite of what the liberal media might want you to think.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on March 16, 2010, 10:47:32 PM
"Don't Fight The Sea" sure does seem to have Mike Love singing the bass vocal from approximately 2:20 to 2:30. Perhaps promotional considerations for a potential 50th anniversary reunion are preventing Al from listing all the Beach Boys as performing on DFTS?

Edit: I know this has been discussed up thread and dismissed; I am asserting that Mike is on the track in spite of what the liberal media might want you to think.

My ears agree with you.  ;D


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: c-man on March 17, 2010, 04:45:10 AM
"Don't Fight The Sea" sure does seem to have Mike Love singing the bass vocal from approximately 2:20 to 2:30. Perhaps promotional considerations for a potential 50th anniversary reunion are preventing Al from listing all the Beach Boys as performing on DFTS?

Edit: I know this has been discussed up thread and dismissed; I am asserting that Mike is on the track in spite of what the liberal media might want you to think.

More than just 2:20 to 2:30...I hear his voice on all the choruses after Carl's verse lead, and on the "She said" part. 


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on March 17, 2010, 01:29:22 PM
This is beyond fascinating -- Al's noted the album for how long?  It's been on his page for how long?  Now the credit list of "guests" has been changed and updated?

Damn.

This is the most interested I have been in any Beach Boys related activity in years.

Who knows what this CD with turn into?

It sounds to me like the thing is still evolving........


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: rogerlancelot on March 24, 2010, 01:50:14 AM
I finally just listened to the EP and I am impressed. I can handle a cd of this type of material. At first I was reluctant, but.....


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on April 05, 2010, 06:08:43 PM
Does anyone have an update on when this album will be released?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Custom Machine on April 05, 2010, 07:04:03 PM
Does anyone have an update on when this album will be released?

Yeah.  Al's album will be released in it's present form if and only if none of the tracks are used for a Beach Boys 50th Anniversary Reunion Album.  Personally, I'd like to see the reunion album and tour (or at least concert) happen.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on April 06, 2010, 06:34:56 AM
When the recent tracks were "leaked" to ticket holders we all were pretty worked up and felt like we may actually see the CD during our lifetimes - now I'm slipping back to the point where I hope my children or grandchildren will get a chance to enjoy it.

Here's to hoping! :beerhoping!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Paulos on April 06, 2010, 01:48:25 PM
I had DFTS stuck in my head at work today, a very enjoyable song indeed. Not too sure about the spoken word track though, I keep hearing Baldwin as Jack Donaghy!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: LostArt on April 07, 2010, 04:31:46 AM
I had DFTS stuck in my head at work today, a very enjoyable song indeed. Not too sure about the spoken word track though, I keep hearing Baldwin as Jack Donaghy!

I can't listen to that spoken word thing, either.  I keep thinking of the "Schweddy Balls" skit.

http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/nprs-delicious-dish-schweddy-balls/2846/


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: ESQ Editor on May 03, 2010, 09:11:06 AM
Al's EP is scheduled for iTunes in mid May. He is currently going to change a few things around on the album, and told me that he wants to get the album out before the summer is through. The iTunes EP may possible include artwork that's been previously unavailable.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on May 03, 2010, 10:45:12 AM
Al's EP is scheduled for iTunes in mid May. He is currently going to change a few things around on the album, and told me that he wants to get the album out before the summer is through. The iTunes EP may possible include artwork that's been previously unavailable.

David, I know Alan's something of a perfectionist but... seriously, this is getting to be silly. The semi-official leaking of four tracks perked interest that was understandably flagging after some three years of prevarications and delays but honestly, if the album doesn't come out this year then I think even the hardened Jardinistas are going to say "ah, **** it". Is there a west coast musician alive that isn't on it ?  ::)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on May 05, 2010, 02:42:26 AM
Al's EP is scheduled for iTunes in mid May. He is currently going to change a few things around on the album, and told me that he wants to get the album out before the summer is through. The iTunes EP may possible include artwork that's been previously unavailable.

David, I know Alan's something of a perfectionist but... seriously, this is getting to be silly. The semi-official leaking of four tracks perked interest that was understandably flagging after some three years of prevarications and delays but honestly, if the album doesn't come out this year then I think even the hardened Jardinistas are going to say "ah, **** it". Is there a west coast musician alive that isn't on it ?  ::)

Seconded... "previously unavailable artwork" can't be placed in a CD player and revelled in!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on May 05, 2010, 09:51:22 AM
Any news is good news I suppose.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Loaf on May 05, 2010, 03:17:36 PM
Al, if you're reading this, just fodaing put it out and get on with solo album #2.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: ESQ Editor on May 05, 2010, 04:41:11 PM
Latest is that there will not be an EP… But what do I know?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on May 06, 2010, 12:58:31 AM
Latest is that there will not be an EP… But what do I know?

This is a "why the *** am I a Beach Boys fan ?" moment if ever there was one.  ;D


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: bgas on May 06, 2010, 04:59:56 PM
Latest is that there will not be an EP… But what do I know?

This is a "why the *** am I a Beach Boys fan ?" moment if ever there was one.  ;D

Ahh, ya know, why a big to-do about not releasing an EP, when he's probably not releasing an album, either?
Let's all forget about it, stop talking about it, and maybe he'll surprise us with a full length release for the 75th anniversary...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on May 06, 2010, 05:04:09 PM
Seriously, no EP?  Do we at least get the unreleased artwork?   :p


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: grillo on May 06, 2010, 05:19:29 PM
Doesn't everybody already have the ep? Why release something that the only people who would ever buy it already have?  For once I think Al is making a sound business decision. Hopefully he'll continue in that vein and release the mother humping album!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Awesoman on May 06, 2010, 11:08:39 PM
Put the damn thing out, Al.  Seriously.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: punkinhead on May 07, 2010, 06:52:04 AM
previously unavailable artwork


what is that suposed to mean? obviously, if Al hasn't put out an album, than it would be unavailable


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on May 07, 2010, 07:46:25 AM
previously unavailable artwork


what is that supposed to mean? obviously, if Al hasn't put out an album, than it would be unavailable

At this rate it is previously unavailable everything. Let's go Al, it's too late for dental school, focus on the CD.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: ESQ Editor on May 11, 2010, 04:56:39 AM
A few updates.

I was talking with Al about his album, and he's calling his album an attempt at a concept-style Moody Blues album. He said. "It's like several years in the life of Al Jardine." Also, don't go by Al's website. The lineup on the site is not a true reflection of the final product. Al also expressed his desire to release the album very soon. 


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Dancing Bear on May 11, 2010, 06:07:35 AM
"It's like several years in the life of Al Jardine."
He could name this CD "Still Waiting for a Bus".  :-D


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on May 11, 2010, 06:56:59 AM
He said. "It's like several years in the life of Al Jardine."

That's epic baby.

In all seriousness, it's good to hear he wants to finish this.  We all just hope he does.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on May 11, 2010, 08:11:36 AM
Al also expressed his desire to release the album very soon. 

David, I'd find that a lot more comforting had he not said the exact same thing in early 2007.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on May 11, 2010, 09:43:14 AM
"It's like several years in the life of Al Jardine."
He could name this CD "Still Waiting for a Bus".  :-D

Hell by the time it comes out it could be named "Still Waiting for a newer teleportation device".


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Matt H on May 11, 2010, 02:47:35 PM
A few updates.

I was talking with Al about his album, and he's calling his album an attempt at a concept-style Moody Blues album. He said. "It's like several years in the life of Al Jardine." Also, don't go by Al's website. The lineup on the site is not a true reflection of the final product. Al also expressed his desire to release the album very soon. 

Why doesn't he update the website to be accurate?  It seems like the whole point of the website is to promote the new album.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: the captain on May 11, 2010, 03:45:44 PM
"It's like several years in the life of Al Jardine." 
So the album recreates the sound of him turning up and down faders, re-recording and deleting takes, and adding and subtracting guest stars to a song or two?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Awesoman on May 17, 2010, 07:22:17 PM
A few updates.

I was talking with Al about his album, and he's calling his album an attempt at a concept-style Moody Blues album. He said. "It's like several years in the life of Al Jardine." Also, don't go by Al's website. The lineup on the site is not a true reflection of the final product. Al also expressed his desire to release the album very soon. 

And I express my desire to become a multi-millionaire and spend the rest of my life traveling.  Doesn't mean it's gonna happen though.  PUT THE DAMN THING OUT, AL!!!   >:(


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: tpesky on May 17, 2010, 07:46:19 PM
I thought it was a California themed album...now its Moody Blues.....!?!?!?!?  How does that happen? Come on Al, just put SOMETHING OUT! :spin :ahh


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: mtaber on May 17, 2010, 07:58:07 PM
Postcard from California... but Al can't bring himself to actually drop it in the mailbox...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: JaredLekites on May 17, 2010, 09:18:36 PM
The kind woman in charge of the waiting list told me it was tentatively scheduled to be released in late Spring 2010. This was last week. I don't know how "in the know" she is.

I really like the rough tracks on Al's website. "Don't Fight The Sea" sounds great to me there (could use a few more vocals on Al's bit but otherwise, it's as good as an unissued Beach Boys-era track gets). I hope the final product (if any) doesn't stray too much from it.

One of the tracks was "inspired" by the Moody Blues' "Tuesday Afternoon". My guess is that Al has expanded on that idea and now wants to rewrite or add a couple things and subtract a little. Perhaps he's waiting for Justin Hayward to fly in and do a vocal? :)

Is he going for the "Lucky Old Sun" vibe?



Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on May 18, 2010, 12:37:54 AM
The kind woman in charge of the waiting list told me it was tentatively scheduled to be released in late Spring 2010. This was last week. I don't know how "in the know" she is.

Maybe her calendar is defective, but hasn't she noticed it IS late spring 2010 ?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Paulos on May 18, 2010, 09:57:28 AM
The kind woman in charge of the waiting list told me it was tentatively scheduled to be released in late Spring 2010. This was last week. I don't know how "in the know" she is.

I really like the rough tracks on Al's website. "Don't Fight The Sea" sounds great to me there (could use a few more vocals on Al's bit but otherwise, it's as good as an unissued Beach Boys-era track gets). I hope the final product (if any) doesn't stray too much from it.

One of the tracks was "inspired" by the Moody Blues' "Tuesday Afternoon". My guess is that Al has expanded on that idea and now wants to rewrite or add a couple things and subtract a little. Perhaps he's waiting for Justin Hayward to fly in and do a vocal? :)

Is he going for the "Lucky Old Sun" vibe?



Shhhh, Al might be reading this and think that yes, he does need to add more vocals delaying the release yet further.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: jimmyboy on May 18, 2010, 04:45:08 PM
I hope he loses the R & B version of "Help Me Rhonda". It was truly awful. This from a fan of Al.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: JaredLekites on May 18, 2010, 06:25:13 PM
I enjoyed the remake of "Help Me Rhonda", actually. I like what Steve Miller brings to the table. Not as good as the Beach Boys versions but certainly different enough to enjoy.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Awesoman on May 18, 2010, 09:38:25 PM
I enjoyed the remake of "Help Me Rhonda", actually. I like what Steve Miller brings to the table. Not as good as the Beach Boys versions but certainly different enough to enjoy.

I concur.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: JaredLekites on May 19, 2010, 01:52:47 PM
I would also add that The Beach Boys played bluesy arrangements similar to Jardine's new version in their 70s concerts. Even the rendition of "Rhonda" from Live In Knebworth is rather different from the studio takes.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on May 19, 2010, 08:06:32 PM
One of the tracks was "inspired" by the Moody Blues' "Tuesday Afternoon". My guess is that Al has expanded on that idea and now wants to rewrite or add a couple things and subtract a little. Perhaps he's waiting for Justin Hayward to fly in and do a vocal? :)

Dude....Al Jardine and Justin Hayward on the same record is a great idea. Imagine if Justin managed to do a song with Carl. Wow. The mind boggles at those two voices on the same record. Brian played at Wembley with the Moody Blues in 1986; he did Sloop John B and Help Me Rhonda with the Moodies backing him. John Lodge had a lot of great things to say when he introduced Brian. Of course, this was Landy-era Brian, so I imagine the appearance was mainly for publicity. Brian was in his reedy mid-80s voice, but he was quite sensational that night. At least to me. Thank John-Roger for bootlegs.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on May 20, 2010, 02:35:52 AM
One of the tracks was "inspired" by the Moody Blues' "Tuesday Afternoon". My guess is that Al has expanded on that idea and now wants to rewrite or add a couple things and subtract a little. Perhaps he's waiting for Justin Hayward to fly in and do a vocal? :)

Dude....Al Jardine and Justin Hayward on the same record is a great idea. Imagine if Justin managed to do a song with Carl. Wow. The mind boggles at those two voices on the same record. Brian played at Wembley with the Moody Blues in 1986; he did Sloop John B and Help Me Rhonda with the Moodies backing him. John Lodge had a lot of great things to say when he introduced Brian. Of course, this was Landy-era Brian, so I imagine the appearance was mainly for publicity. Brian was in his reedy mid-80s voice, but he was quite sensational that night. At least to me. Thank John-Roger for bootlegs.
So this show is "out there"?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Christian on May 20, 2010, 09:26:46 AM
So this show is "out there"?

Yes, the show, a charity for "Stars Organization for Spastics" (Wembley Arena, 1986, December 5th) is available on a 2 CD-R bootleg.



Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on May 22, 2010, 03:22:30 AM
Many thanks ... none of my usual fellows have it but Patience Maybe rewarded.
 :hat


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on June 06, 2010, 06:45:07 PM
A few updates.

I was talking with Al about his album, and he's calling his album an attempt at a concept-style Moody Blues album. He said. "It's like several years in the life of Al Jardine." Also, don't go by Al's website. The lineup on the site is not a true reflection of the final product. Al also expressed his desire to release the album very soon.  

Apparently, something is out.

This, from the BBB Board:  http://www.b2g5.com/boards/board.cgi?action=read&id=1275513932&user=bellagio

"I'm very fortunate to have received one of the few 4 Track Promo CD EP's that Al has produced (thanks, Big D ). It has a picture sleeve, with Al on the front, and a cutesy family of polar bears dozing on the Arctic ice on the reverse. The track info states:

DON'T FIGHT THE SEA (3:47)
with Brian, Carl, Mike, Bruce, Matt and Al

TIDEPOOL INTERLUDE (1:38)
a moment of reflection with Alec Baldwin

CAMPFIRE SCENE (0:40)
with The Hillbillies

A CALIFORNIA SAGA (2:56)
featuring Neil Young, David Crosby, Stephen Stills and The Hillbillies

Beyond this, I have no further info about Bruce's contribution to DFTS - maybe he'd like to visit us sometime and elaborate?"


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on June 07, 2010, 12:15:54 AM
A few updates.

I was talking with Al about his album, and he's calling his album an attempt at a concept-style Moody Blues album. He said. "It's like several years in the life of Al Jardine." Also, don't go by Al's website. The lineup on the site is not a true reflection of the final product. Al also expressed his desire to release the album very soon. 

Apparently, something is out.

This, from the BBB Board:  http://www.b2g5.com/boards/board.cgi?action=read&id=1275513932&user=bellagio

I'm very fortunate to have received one of the few 4 Track Promo CD EP's that Al has produced (thanks, Big D ). It has a picture sleeve, with Al on the front, and a cutesy family of polar bears dozing on the Arctic ice on the reverse. The track info states:

DON'T FIGHT THE SEA (3:47)
with Brian, Carl, Mike, Bruce, Matt and Al

TIDEPOOL INTERLUDE (1:38)
a moment of reflection with Alec Baldwin

CAMPFIRE SCENE (0:40)
with The Hillbillies

A CALIFORNIA SAGA (2:56)
featuring Neil Young, David Crosby, Stephen Stills and The Hillbillies

Beyond this, I have no further info about Bruce's contribution to DFTS - maybe he'd like to visit us sometime and elaborate?


Bruce told me when this thing first popped up that he wasn't on it... so I'm guessing he was referring to a recent contribution, and that he's part of the earlier sessions.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: ESQ Editor on June 07, 2010, 08:25:28 AM
I received a copy of Al's EP. ESQ will be running the cover art in the summer edition. I recently spoke in length with Al about "Don't Fight The Sea" and he confirmed that Bruce is on the chorus and has been since 1978-79 when Al, Carl and Bruce recorded vocals. It took 10+ years for Al to get Brian on the song, and then last year -- thanks to Scott Totten -- Mike was able to add his vocal. Two songs from Al's upcoming album, "Honkin' Down The Highway" (with Brian) and "Drivin" (with Brian, David, Dewey and Gerry) are included in ESQ's summer CD, An ESQ Offering From The Boys of Summer.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Exapno Mapcase on June 07, 2010, 11:12:29 AM
So this isn't the version of DFTS that many of us have heard?
Don't suppose DW is on drums or percussion?
When's the damn thing being released?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Mike's Beard on June 07, 2010, 11:36:58 AM
In some respects I'm starting to think of this project less as an Al Jardine solo and more as the final Beach Boys album. Seeing who's singing with who(even if the participants are years in doing so apart) makes this feel very special indeed.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on June 07, 2010, 11:57:48 AM
So this isn't the version of DFTS that many of us have heard?

As far as I'm aware, yes.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Paulos on June 07, 2010, 01:34:06 PM
So this isn't the version of DFTS that many of us have heard?
Don't suppose DW is on drums or percussion?
When's the damn thing being released?

I think thats the question we all want answering, come on Al, you're the only Beach Boy apart from Ricky who hasn't released a proper solo album, just release the damn thing!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: ESQ Editor on June 07, 2010, 01:38:29 PM
One of the tracks was "inspired" by the Moody Blues' "Tuesday Afternoon". My guess is that Al has expanded on that idea and now wants to rewrite or add a couple things and subtract a little. Perhaps he's waiting for Justin Hayward to fly in and do a vocal? :)

Dude....Al Jardine and Justin Hayward on the same record is a great idea. Imagine if Justin managed to do a song with Carl. Wow. The mind boggles at those two voices on the same record. Brian played at Wembley with the Moody Blues in 1986; he did Sloop John B and Help Me Rhonda with the Moodies backing him. John Lodge had a lot of great things to say when he introduced Brian. Of course, this was Landy-era Brian, so I imagine the appearance was mainly for publicity. Brian was in his reedy mid-80s voice, but he was quite sensational that night. At least to me. Thank John-Roger for bootlegs.

Justin released a CD called "Classic Blue" in the 1990s. The CD includes his cover of "God Only Knows."


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: c-man on June 07, 2010, 04:10:44 PM
So this isn't the version of DFTS that many of us have heard?
Don't suppose DW is on drums or percussion?
When's the damn thing being released?

If they used any part of the original 1976 track, then yes, Denny could very well be on drums.  Many other parts were obviously added (in the '80s, from the sound of things), including some heavily-processed drum fills.  But to the ears of at least one expert whom I inquired with, the basic drum track COULD have been recorded at Brother Studio circa 1976, at a session which also included Ed Carter on guitar, Tim Drummond on bass, and Brian Wilson (probably on organ).


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on June 07, 2010, 07:56:00 PM
Justin released a CD called "Classic Blue" in the 1990s. The CD includes his cover of "God Only Knows."

1989 to be exact. I should know. The Moodies are my OTHER favorite band. :)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: warnakey on June 08, 2010, 09:57:32 AM
I just looked on wikipedia and saw this about the new Al Jardine album:

"It will also feature a cover of "Honkin' Down the Highway" from the 1977 album The Beach Boys Love You."

Screw that crap.



AL JARDINE, IF YOU ARE READING THIS, STOP COVERING BAD SONGS AND WRITE YOUR OWN NEW MUSIC WITH HUMAN EMOTION IN IT. (i hope the America collaborations don't disappoint)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Exapno Mapcase on June 08, 2010, 10:54:16 AM
That's a bad song.  I await your first album with a certain anticipation...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Wirestone on June 08, 2010, 11:41:43 AM
From the look of things, none of the songs Al has cut are really new ... they're all thinly disguised rewrites of other people's songs (Postcard from California -- Rhinestone Cowboy, etc.) or songs he's tinkered with for 20-plus years (And I Always Will).

Nothing wrong with any of this, of course. But it's not like he's sitting on a pile of undreamt-of gems,


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Mr. Cohen on June 08, 2010, 11:47:38 AM
"Honkin' Down the Highway" has THE premiere bass line of the 20th century. Never before has dumb simplicity met with insanely catchy in such a glorious manner. Same thing with the drum fill before the song. It's like the grooviest toddler you ever heard got a hold of a drum set. That weird synth in the background takes us back to "Wendy", except now we're taken to the time when the singer won Wendy over. How could this be bad? You are no longer a BBs fan, sorry.  >:(


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Foster's Freeze on June 08, 2010, 12:36:23 PM
"Honkin' Down the Highway" has THE premiere bass line of the 20th century. Never before has dumb simplicity met with insanely catchy in such a glorious manner. Same thing with the drum fill before the song. It's like the grooviest toddler you ever heard got a hold of a drum set. That weird synth in the background takes us back to "Wendy", except now we're taken to the time when the singer won Wendy over. How could this be bad? You are no longer a BBs fan, sorry.  >:(

Well said.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on June 08, 2010, 12:41:47 PM
"Honkin' Down the Highway" has THE premiere bass line of the 20th century. Never before has dumb simplicity met with insanely catchy in such a glorious manner. Same thing with the drum fill before the song. It's like the grooviest toddler you ever heard got a hold of a drum set. That weird synth in the background takes us back to "Wendy", except now we're taken to the time when the singer won Wendy over. How could this be bad? You are no longer a BBs fan, sorry.  >:(

Well said.

Agreed  - the original bites!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on June 08, 2010, 03:34:30 PM
So this isn't the version of DFTS that many of us have heard?
Don't suppose DW is on drums or percussion?
When's the damn thing being released?

It would seem to be the same version we have heard (that was released online for a day).  Those who speculated they were hearing Mike were probably right.  I seriously doubt that Al, who works at a snails pace, decided to produce two entirely different vocal mixes.  The fact that the song titles on the online EP and the CD version are exactly the same leads me to believe they are the exact same recordings.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: c-man on June 08, 2010, 03:49:32 PM
Those who speculated they were hearing Mike were probably right. 

Probably?  :)


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: ESQ Editor on June 09, 2010, 05:30:06 AM
So this isn't the version of DFTS that many of us have heard?

As far as I'm aware, yes.

It is the same recording that everyone has heard. Brian, Mike, Al, Carl and Bruce are on DFTS.   


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Stegibo on June 09, 2010, 05:32:12 AM
When can you hear Bruce?


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Andrew G. Doe on June 09, 2010, 10:03:45 AM
Pretty sure Bruce sings "just let it be" at 2.58.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Exapno Mapcase on June 09, 2010, 12:00:56 PM
Oh, let's hope Denny's percussion or drums are somewhere in the mix!


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on June 09, 2010, 12:57:49 PM
I wonder if Al actually knows who plays what.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Jason on June 09, 2010, 02:01:24 PM
It is kinda strange that the "new" songs on Al's album seem to go back only to 1976. During the Holland period he had a few songs written; I can think of Canyon Summer and Dr. Tom right off of the top of my head although apparently only the latter was recorded and presumably still exists in some form. But we can all thank f*** that Rubles wasn't redone for this album. That one is on a Country Love/Keepin' the Summer Alive level of horribleness.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: c-man on June 09, 2010, 03:58:53 PM
Oh, let's hope Denny's percussion or drums are somewhere in the mix!

Well, I think there's a good chance...the info on Al's website says the basic track is from '78...the only AFM sheet I've run across for the song is the one from '76, so I think it's a case of guessing on Al's part and "only" being off a couple of years.  However, the website info also says the basic track is from Capitol Studios...highly unlikely for that point in time, when the Boys were signed either to WB or CBS (depending on whether we're talking '76 or '78), so more likely they did some overdubs at Capitol in '89, if they worked on it during the "Still Cruisin'" days...and from the sound of the synths on the final product, they did (in fact, Al reportedly told a very believable source of mine as much several years ago).  Personally, I think Carl's lead vocal is from around '89 as well (timbre-wise, it is SO like his vocals on "SC" and "SIP").  Maybe Al, Carl and Bruce all added backing vocals in '78 (during the "Light Album" days), synths, Carl's verse lead, and BW's vocals were done in '89, Matt was added in '97, and finally Mike in '08.  Plus a lot of other steps along the way, from the sound of things.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Exapno Mapcase on June 09, 2010, 11:29:42 PM
I thought BW's were added when he was touring with Al?  Or maybe some of them were...


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: c-man on June 10, 2010, 05:18:37 AM
I thought BW's were added when he was touring with Al?  Or maybe some of them were...

My guess is that SOME of them may have been (along with his vocals on other songs).  But my informed opinion is that the really prominent high BW parts are from '89.  Al's comments, as reported by Dave Beard awhile ago, support this as well.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: Exapno Mapcase on June 10, 2010, 10:09:14 AM
Thanks.


Title: Re: Al Jardine EP
Post by: The Shift on June 10, 2010, 10:15:05 AM
Cripes, I hope this issue of ESQ has an accompanying definitive feature detailing exactly who did what on this track, right down to who swept the studio floor once "Keep It Clean" was finally satisfied with the mix...!