Post by Sheriff John Stone on Nov 26, 2021 12:53:36 GMT
As promised, here is the second half of my cd-r twofer. I'm gonna say right off that this installment is likely to be controversial. In fact, I can think of one or two other forums where I'd be likely tarred and feathered! Just remember, this is just my personal alternate universe based on opinion and taste, and I certainly welcome other folks' take on this little exercise.
As y'all know, I'm not a huge fan of the Surf's Up album. IMO, there's a few great tracks on there and some not so great. I've mashed up my favorites with a number of the unreleased tracks from that year. In my fantasy world, the SMiLE album was released on schedule in 1967, and while we can debate till the end of time whether that album could've made a big splash, I like to think that the song "Surf's Up" was somewhat of a hit in that time period (or at least a cult classic). With that idea in mind, the song's inclusion on a 1971 album becomes unnecessary. So I'm calling my 1971 reimagining Landlocked.
LANDLOCKED (1971)
Side One
1. It's a New Day
Once again, a perfect leadoff to an album. A catchy, rocking song with a positive message. And what a great way to introduce new member Blondie. Gone is "Don't Go Near the Water" which I kind of despise. Use that song for a TV psa or something....
2. Long Promised Road
Let's keep this one in the second slot. It's a soulful rocker and still has positive lyrics. I really had to tinker with the EQ on this one. The SACD is very toned down on highs, while the FF track seems to overcompensate with ear splitting shrillness. I was able to take that one and shave back some of those highs.
3. Big Sur
My favorite version of "Big Sur" by far, and a nice gentle break after the one-two punch of rockers. It's nice to hear more Mike on this set. He (like the other Beach Boys in their own way) had shining moments as a lead singer.
4. 4th of July
Ok, being the fourth track is purely coincidental! I just noticed that oddity! But I feel like this majestic track belongs here. I had to tame the lows a bit. When those drums come in, things around the house--and my car--rattle, and not in a good way.
5. Sweet and Bitter
Another stellar lead by Mike. Is it just me, or does Mike sound a lot like Al here? I realize this track isn't exactly finished but it stands up pretty well. Obviously this set is dominated by mellow songs, but I guess that's where things were at overall.
6. Lookin' At Tomorrow
This is the FF version without the phasey effects and the piercing "Ba ba bahh" part toward the end. I trimmed off the chatter and false start at the beginning. I think this makes a better side one closer than "Student Demonstration Time". I know, I used to defend that song quite a bit, but I've grown tired of it. GONE!
Side Two
1. Seasons in the Sun
I don't know if this could've been a single for the Boys or not, it's all debatable. Terry Jacks' hit single from '74 will always be THE version. Still, this is a nice vocal from Carl and leading off the side with it seems logical.
2. It's Natural
Another nice vocal from Mike. I know this track is very incomplete, but I polished it up a little by reprising the one and only verse at the end.
3. Til I Die
What can I say? Arguably the bestest song from Surf's Up absolutely has to be on here!
4. Old Movie
Even though this became "Cuddle Up" on the next album, it sounds great as an instrumental with that incredible flute part.
5. Feel Flows
Goes without saying....
6. (Wouldn't it be Nice To) Live Again
A perfect closer, to me, with it's cool jazzy instrumental jam at the end.
And there it is. I'm ducking for cover now!
No need to duck for cover. I like your mix. I have no problem with deleting "Student Demonstration Time"; IMO it's one of the worst songs on the Surf's Up album. I'm glad you included "4th Of July". I think it's a very good song. I don't know if what we hear/have is complete, but it's complete enough. And, I never thought of closing Side 1 with "Lookin' At Tomorrow", but lyrically it works the way you have your album set up.
A couple objections... This doesn't necessarily apply only to you, but also with other opinions I've read, but I think "Big Sur" works better on Holland than the Surf's Up era. And, I think I prefer the Holland version over the earlier version. Are you sure I can't have you reconsider the fate of "Don't Go Near The Water" (look at the title of your album )? You took some chances with the sequencing on Side 2, especially the closing four. I have to play it more...Again, this doesn't apply to only you - I've read it on other boards, too - but I just don't hear "(Wouldn't It Be Nice) To Live Again" as an album closer.