Happy 50th anniversary! HOLLAND released today in 1973

Perceived at the time as more cohesive and successful than its predecessor, HOLLAND is an LP that has stood the test of time. Bookended by two songs written by Brian, and with strong songs contributed by all of the other band members, it was warmly received in the press at the time and was an encouraging commercial success, giving the band and their long-term fans a great deal of hope that the "new" Beach Boys were going to continue to reclaim their place at the pinnacle of the rock/pop world.

It didn't quite turn out that way, but fifty years later the LP remains one of their finest, and is a testament to the yeoman efforts of Carl, operating as the band's "executive producer" during this time frame. Along with those duties, Carl provided evocative lead vocals for Dennis' two songs featured on the LP, and contributed one of his finest and most heartfelt songs, "The Trader," a track demonstrating that the "new" Beach Boys were capable of casting a net far beyond their southern California roots.

I hope everyone considers giving the LP a listen today to honor one of the group's finest collective achievements. Long live HOLLAND!

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