Pod Sounds

Did they do this song backwards? We take a magnifying glass to the Wilson-Asher team’s apprehensive post-adolescent anthem. The lady doth like the tambourine *way* too much. You could probably play this tune in church and no one would notice. Honorable mentions: Thomas Gray, Carly Simon, and Wurlitzer organs.

You know perfectly well this is where you should be to learn about track two. And boy does it throw us into the lyrical deep end. Lots to unpack in the mind of a narrator who may be no different from his creator. How does Brian use the musical scale, and how do his bandmates use the syllable “ah”? Also discussed: Phil Harris and the Aristocats, Puritan memoirist Mary Rowlandson, and what part of speech the word “should” is.

And now for the songs! Today we do a close reading of the iconic opening track. How does Brian pull off bitonality? What are the veiled complexities of the lyric? Is this the greatest bridge of all time?? Also touched on: the Bee Gees’ songwriting history and why timpani are the sexiest drums.

Today we get into the specifics of the album—who was involved in it, where and how it was made, what sounds are on it besides those made by the pets. We also discuss Paul McCartney’s bass-tone origin story, Rolling Stone magazine’s revamped “greatest” lists, and various groups who have come under the album’s influence. Plus, Bing Crosby vs. David Crosby?

The inaugural episode finds us—Cecilia and Gil—introducing ourselves and telling personal and cultural histories of The Beach Boys. Shout-outs along the way to Annie Lennox, Frank Sinatra, and Sir George Martin, among others. We play “Is This Song About a Girl or a Car?” Then we ask the big questions, like who actually surfed and what insights (if any) Brian Wilson has to offer into his craft. Most crucially, who is Rhonda, and why do we need her help?

(there’s a bit of overlap in the audio but we’re working out the kinks. also sex work is work)

The Beach Boys’ PET SOUNDS turns 55 this year! Get ready for a deep dive into the history and mystery of the album with two music writers and fans. Coming soon wherever you get your podcasts.