The poetry in “California Saga/The Beaks Of Eagles” is the pretentious part and goes on much to long for a bad idea. The song was written by Al Jardine and sung by Mike Love. It was a superior, joyful musical romp for the Beach Boys. It featured good vocals and simple lyrics with harmonies underpinning everything all of which added up to a listening treat.
“Trader” was a superior effort by Carl Wilson. Carl’s gritty vocals and Rieley’s sophisticated lyrics give it a unique but substantial feel. Dennis Wilson wrote the beautiful love song “Only With You” and then let Mike Love sing the vocals. This song was made for Dennis Wilson’s voice. Holland suffers from the fact that there were no Dennis Wilson lead vocals.
“Mount Vernon and Fairway (A Fairy Tale),” made up of six songs, is just too simplistic and childish. Brian Wilson created this project which was then rejected for the album. Carl Wilson resurrected the project and it was included on the album as a bonus 7” extra play record. By the time the decision was made to actually issue “Mount Vernon and Fairway” Brian Wilson had moved on so it was pressed as is which gives it an unfinished feeling. Later CD’s would include “Mount Vernon and Fairway” at the end of the CD which throws the musical vision of the album a little off kilter.
Holland was a very good effort for the Beach Boys and produced three superior songs; “Sail On Sailor, “Trader” and “California.” It still remains a pleasurable listening experience.
Article comments
1 - Bob
Good review. One note, it was Carl who sang Only With You, not Mike Love.
2 - petsoundss66
Another delightful review , however I beg to differ on one topic. "Only With You" was sung by Carl Wilson, not Mike Love!
3 - Davee Nicewonder
5/5
This album is a masterpiece