The Beach Boys just released the live recording of their 50th Anniversary Tour which included all surviving original members of the band including Brian Wilson, Al Jardine, David Lee Marks, Mike Love and Bruce Johnston. The record is great, much better than I expected. It reminds me of the live show I was able to see last May in Atlanta with Beth, Tessa, Jonathan, my brother Jamie and my nephew by marriage, Adam.
I had been listening to the Beach Boys and dreaming of the Southern California beach scene (taking place a few miles from my Fullerton, California home down Brookhurst Road at Newport Beach, Huntington Beach and elsewhere) since the late 60s. When last year's tour was announced, I knew I had to score tickets. With the unpredictability of Brian, the fact that the Atlanta show was early in the tour meant that I would most likely get to see one of my musical icons. The show did not disappoint. In fact, my brother was able to get us backstage where we met Bruce Johnston and saw Al Jardine and Brian Wilson.
Looking back now while enjoying the new record which, at the reminding of my brother, will be an excellent poolside soundtrack, I am enjoying my memory of having seen this group of musicians together for what most likely will be the last time. Yet I am sad for the passing of time that reminds me of an era long since past. Having the opportunity to enjoy this still formidable music with my family helps me to reminisce with fondness and gets me really excited to be heading to Memphis this weekend with the Harvill Gang of Four to see Paul McCartney!
