Ep 160. The Beach Boys: Making Pet Sounds

The Beach Boys: Making Pet Sounds is a special episode of Showtime Specials that takes a behind-the-scenes look at the making of one of the most iconic albums in music history - Pet Sounds by The Beach Boys. The episode features interviews with band members, producers, and other artists who worked on the album, as well as archival footage and recordings of studio sessions.

The episode begins with an introduction to the band and their early music, which was largely focused on surfing and car culture. However, in the mid-60s, band leader Brian Wilson began to experiment with new sounds and styles, leading to the creation of Pet Sounds. The album was released in 1966 and is now widely regarded as a masterpiece of music production and songwriting.

Throughout the episode, we see interviews with Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine, and other members of the band, who discuss the creative process behind the album. They talk about the themes and concepts that inspired the songs, as well as the experimental recording techniques that were used to create the unique sound of the album. We also hear from producer Mark Linett, who worked on the remastered version of the album and offers insights into the engineering and mixing of the original recordings.

One of the major themes of the episode is the collaborative nature of the recording process. We hear from several artists who contributed to the album, including Carol Kaye, a renowned session musician who played bass on several tracks; Van Dyke Parks, who co-wrote the lyrics to several songs; and Tony Asher, who wrote several of the album's most beloved lyrics. Their contributions are highlighted as an essential part of the album's success.

The episode also explores the critical and commercial reception of Pet Sounds. Although the album was initially a commercial disappointment, it quickly gained a cult following and is now widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time. We hear from fans, journalists, and other artists about the impact that Pet Sounds had on them personally and on the music industry as a whole.

In addition to exploring the making of Pet Sounds, the episode also delves into the personal struggles and challenges faced by members of the band during this time period. Brian Wilson in particular struggled with mental health issues and the pressures of fame, and his story is woven throughout the episode. Through interviews with Wilson and others who knew him, we gain a greater understanding of the toll that the recording process took on him.

Overall, The Beach Boys: Making Pet Sounds is a fascinating look at one of the most groundbreaking albums in music history. Through interviews with the band, producers, and other collaborators, we gain a deeper understanding of the creative process behind the creation of Pet Sounds - and of the personal struggles that accompanied it. The episode is a must-watch for anyone who loves music, and it offers an inspiring look at the power of collaboration and creative experimentation.