The Smile Sessions is a Beach Boys album that was recorded in the 60s after Pet Sounds but never finished or released in full until now, 2011. The project was never completed because the band's main songwriter, Brian Wilson, went crazy.
Before I start I need to say that I didn't listen to the entirety of the tracks. After the album finishes (the first 19 songs) there are several CDs worth of studio outtakes and other not-completed material that I am not interested in hearing.
The Smile Sessions is about average length (48 minutes) but five of the 19 main tracks are under two minutes long. Most of the songs transition well with a great flow, especially towards the beginning where some of the tracks feel like they were made to be next to each other. The instrumentation is of the same quality as Pet Sounds. Brian Wilson's distinct falsetto vocals and vocal harmonies are present, creating entertaining, lovable melodies for most of the songs. The tracks have many layers of instruments, vocals and other sounds, making for interesting and rewarding re-listens. The songs are well produced and sound crisp.
Much of what made Pet Sounds an amazing album is present on Smile, only some of the tracks feel unfinished. The songs are solid and stand up well in re-listens. I would recommend
this album to anyone who enjoys the 1960s Beach Boys, especially for
fans of Pet Sounds. The Beach Boys have not disappointed (Well, maybe a 40 year wait would count as a disappointment) me with this release.
Track Highlights: Our Prayer, Gee, My Only Sunshine, Look (Song for Children), Child is the Father of Man, Surf's Up and Good Vibrations.
7/10
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