Beach Boys Party came about because Capital Records wanted a new Beach Boys album in time for Christmas. Brian Wilson was busily working on what would become Pet Sounds and had neither the time nor inclination to produce another studio album that would interfere with this vision in progress. The idea for Beach Boys Party was to gather the group and some friends in the studio, drink a few beers, and just let the tape roll while the Beach Boys sang a few songs. This haphazard affair made the Christmas deadline and ended up selling more copies than Pet Sounds. Go figure.
This unrehearsed and largely forgotten Beach Boys album did serve its purpose well. Capital records made money and Brian Wilson saved time.
Brian Wilson may have tinkered with this album a bit in the studio, such as adding an electric bass to back the all acoustic guitar playing, but given its sloppy nature and the number of off key notes, it probably was just put in its final form as quickly as possible.
The passable songs begin with “Mountain Of Love” with a fine lead vocal by Mike Love. “You’ve Got To Hide Your Away” which showcases Dennis Wilson’s underused vocals, chugs along with an odd beat that is at least interesting. “Devoted to You” contains a beautiful duet by Brian Wilson and Mike Love. They had always been fans of the Everly Brothers and this presentation is a fitting tribute. “Barbara Ann” was a hit for the Regents in 1961 and would become a number two hit for the Beach Boys in early 1966. The odd thing about this song is that the lead vocal was song by Dean Torrence of Jan & Dean. Whether this was planned or spontaneous it became a huge hit for the Beach Boys and kept them in the public eye.
Article comments
1 - James A. Gardner
David: While I don't always agree with them, I've been enjoying your Beach Boys reviews.
And while "Party" is near the bottom of my list of BB releases, I think I regard it more highly than you do. My feeling is the casual, sophomoric qualities were intentional, intended by Brian to make the "party" recording sound legitimate.
As you are probably aware, this album was a sham; the phony party effects were recorded separately from the loose renditions of the songs.
I think, as a bid to buy time, it was clever and it includes some fun renditions (although I don't care if I never hear this version of "Barbara Ann" again).
And "Party" is at least notable for introducing the "unplugged" concept!
Please keep the reviews coming.
2 - Curth
I totally agree with Mr Gardner. There was no attempt at making anything progressive here ,although it turned out to be something totally original, as James said, the unplugged concept that was about 20 years ahead of it's time.