Definitely the kind of responses that I was looking for.  Cool to be able to read it from those that were there.

I hope this doesn't effect Rhino's wonderful deluxe CD re-issues. I am waiting for Instant Replay!!

You and me both.  I hope the detour into vinyl (Head) was just a detour and that we'll get that box.

It really is a pity.  NY show that I went to was sold out (or damn near) and the performance was killer.  I wouldn't believe bad performances or attendance, and I say that honestly as someone who didn't expect anything from this tour other than a last gasp.

Oh, yeah.  Welcome to the wacky world of Beach Boys fandom.  While I heard the songs on the radio in the '60s, I wasn't really a fan until 1988, when I heard Smiley Smile for the first time.  It went from there to Smile (via 20/20, The Smiley/Wild Honey twofer, and Surf's Up), to Pet Sounds, to all the rest (except for Summer in Paradise, I guess).  Those were good times.  Enjoy the ride.  

Much appreciated.  It's interesting, as my friend pretty much dared me to listen to Smiley Smile next as he detests it (but is a huge BB fan).  An interesting divide to be sure.  I look forward to it.

Is the old Smile Shop forum available to read somewhere? Would love to read the posts from that very special day.

I certainly would as well.

Hello all -

I am new to all of this... a friend of mine has been a BB/Smile addict for years, and despite attempts to expose me to them/it, I wasn't having it... until the announcement was made about the box set and I went and discovered it on my own.  I am now a Smile addict with the rest of the catalog waiting for me.  I've spent the last few weeks listening to everything I could obtain, and reading the posts here.  I'm officially obsessed.  HIGHLY informative posts here, even if it can be overwhelming and confusing for a new guy here.

So my question - what was it like the first night that BWPS was debuted?  Was there a collective gathering at the computer for those who couldn't be there?  What was it like as the setlist unfolded??  This must have been one of the most incredible times for the BB fan.  I suppose I'm looking for recollections as someone who missed out on it.