Album Reviews5/10
Stevie Wonder Made a Surf Album at 14, and It Mostly Missed
A look back at Stevie Wonder's 1964 surf-rock misfire, a brief curiosity in a legendary career that's less embarrassing than he claims.
CLAY TRIBUNE / THE ARCHIVE
Tag: surf rock
Album Reviews9/10
How the Beach Boys Bottled a California Summer and Found Their Voice on All Summer Long
The Beach Boys' 1964 album All Summer Long is a sun-drenched California classic, reviewed track by track with a 9/10 score.
Album Reviews7/10
63 Years On, the Beach Boys’ Third LP Shows Brian Wilson’s Production Outpacing His Lyrics
The Beach Boys' 1963 album Surfer Girl marks Brian Wilson's first solo production, blending surf pop with studio craft. A transitional record worth hearing.
Album Reviews6/10
Speed and Harmonies Almost Carry Surfin’ USA, a 1963 Cash-In That Barely Bothers to Hide It
The Beach Boys' 1963 cash-in album is a rushed but energetic early rock set, with one classic hit and plenty of filler. Track-by-track review.
Album Reviews6/10
Surfin’ Safari at 64: The Beach Boys’ Debut Is a Map Drawn in Crayon
A 1962 Beach Boys debut review: thin songs, bright harmonies, and a few genuine keepers. A time capsule that points to better things.