The progressive rock ingenuity of ‘Spock’s Beard’ has
been mesmerizing music aficionados since the groups’ inception in 1992.
The band was formed in Los Angeles by Brothers
Neal Morse (Eric Burdon’s i Band, Transatlantic) and Alan Morse (Chad &
Jeremy, Spencer Davis). Alan Morse devised the ingenious pseudonym from a Star
Trek episode entitled “Mirror, Mirror” about a parallel universe in which a Mr.
Spock evil counterpart sporting a beard was characterized.
The group instantly generated a devout following
with their first two critically-acclaimed studio releases … The Light (1995) and Beware of Darkness (1996).
Subsequent studio releases … The Kindness of Strangers (1998),
Day for Night (1999), V (2000)
and their concept album Snow (2002).
Neal Morse left the group in 2002 to pursue a solo
career. Drummer Nick D’ Virgilio took over lead vocalist duties for the group
after Morse’s departure.
Feel
Euphoria their seventh studio album was released in 2003. It
was the first recording without their longtime vocalist and songwriter Neal
Morse. The group’s songwriting responsibilities were now equally shared between
its band members.
Subsequent studio albums …Octane (2005), Spock’s Beard
(2006) and X (2010).
In 2011, Spock’s Beard performed at the Sweden Rock
Festival and the High Voltage Festival at Victoria Park in London. Neal Morse
reunited with the band briefly during the High Voltage Festival.
Later in 2011, Nick D’ Virgilio left the group to
work with Cirque Du Soleil.
It was announced that Ted Leonard (Enchant) would
become their new lead vocalist while Jimmy Keegan (Santana) became their new
drummer.
The
latest album from Spock’s Beard is exhilarating new
music on a double- CD release entitled ‘Brief Nocturnes and Dreamless Sleep.’
It’s their eleventh studio album. The band’s current lineup is Alan Morse
(guitar, vocals), Dave Meros (bass guitar, vocals and keyboards), Ryo Okumoto
(keyboards, vocals); Jimmy Keegan (drums, vocals) and Ted Leonard (lead vocals,
guitars).
Original lead singer and songwriter Neal Morse
contributed on two tracks of the album.
Notable
tracks on the new album are (Disc 1)“Hiding Out”… A
hard rockin’ melody hybridized by Ted Leonard’s brilliant lyrical content, Kansas-like
vocalization and intricate synthesized keyboard and electric guitar arrangement.
It’s a powerful track and evocative to the progressive rock glory days of the
70’s. While the entire group shines brightly on this track, Alan Morse’s guitar
solo is positively explosive. “Treasure
Abandoned”… Is another exciting track. Leonard’s vocals are first-class,
reminiscent to the early days of Steve Walsh and Kansas, while orchestrated and performed by unadulterated
rock wizardry. “Submerged”… Is a
laid-back musical journey transcending progressive realm. “Afterthoughts”… Veers into Gentle Giant-type musical arrangements
supported by heavier rock riffs, synthesizers and hard-core drumming. “Something Very Strange” …All the
necessary elements for the quintessential progressive rock song are apparent on
this track and on the next one “Waiting
For Me” …An epic 12:36 music arrangement co-written by Brothers Alan and
Neal Morse.
(Disc
2 bonus) “Down A Burning Road”… Emphasizes
awe-inspiring lyrical content and musical expression. “Wish I Were Here” …A vibrant and intelligent avant-gardemusical creation penned by Alan Morse.The track features elements of
psychedelic and progressive rock.
Additional
credits on the album …Stan Ausmus (songwriting and guitar),
John Boegehold (songwriting, vocoder), Craig Eastman (violin, viola, hurdy
gurdy) and Neal Morse (songwriting, guitar).
Spock’s Beard recently concluded a European tour in
support of their new release. The tour was supported by Swedish prog-rock group
Beardfish and British prog-rock band Sound of Contact (Featuring Simon Collins,
Phil Collins son).
Spock’s Beard also recently released the “Submerged”
video.
Purchase
Ray’s very special memoir called ‘Check the Gs’ -The
True Story of an Eclectic American Family and Their Wacky Family Business …
You’ll LIVE IT! Also available for download on NOOK or KINDLE edition for JUST
.99 CENTS at amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com
- Please support Ray so he can
continue to bring you quality classic rock music reporting.
~~Pacific
Book Review says Ray Shasho is a product of the
second half of the 20th century, made in the USA from parts around the
world, and within him is every trend in music, television, politics and culture
contributing to his philosophical and comically analytical reflections
collected in his fine book of memories. I found Check the
Gs to be pure entertainment, fantastic fun and a catalyst to igniting
so many memories of my own life, as I too am within a few years of
Ray. So to all, I say if you have a bit of grey hair (or no hair),
buy this book! It’s a great gift for your “over-the-hill” friends,
or for their kids, if they are the history buffs of younger generations trying
to figure out why we are the way we are.
Dave Davies, guitar extraordinaire, vocalist and songwriter of The Kinks, is the founding member for the most precocious and critical bands in rock and roll history. The Kinks materialized musically in 1964 during the global hysteria of the British Invasion.
Dave Davies prolific power chords and older brother Ray Davies catchy lyrics scored commercially with “You Really Got Me” reaching #1 in the UK and #7 on the U.S. charts. That same year The Kinks released “All Day and All of the Night”another huge hit peaking at #2 on the UK singles chart and #7 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart in the U.S.
The Kinks quickly became one of the elite rock and roll music acts of the British Invasion.
THE NEW ALBUM‘I Will Be Me’by
Dave Davies is a powerful and ingenious statement. It’s Davies sixth
solo effort. The album features guest appearances by The Jayhawks,
Anti-Flag, British blues guitarist Oli Brown, jazz/rock guitarist Chris
Spedding, stoner rock/psychedelic group Dead Meadow, Aussie rockers The
Art, The Bloody Hollies, guitarist John Wesley, Geri X and others. The
opening track…“Little Green Amp” instantly
unleashes an unyielding rock and roll frenzy with a glorious flashback
to the days of The Kinks. Davies commanding guitar riffs and poetic
hardcore melodies are superlative. The following track … “Livin’ in the Past”
will be better appreciated at peak modulation, the song absolutely
rocks! Other notable tracks on the new Dave Davies release are … “Energy Fields” A surreal psychedelic rock journey that transcends the soul into new dimensions. “Erotic Neurotic” is a deranged and hip lyrical driven arrangement accompanied by guitar wizardry. “You Can Break My Heart” is another offbeat creation that exemplifies the sheer musical genius of Dave Davies. “Walker through the Worlds” …is my favorite track, a metaphysical interlude piloted by Davies spirituality and inner peace. Really cool tune! “Cote Du Rhone” (I Will Be Me)… is the ending and title track for the new album, the song illustrates Davies profound and significant songwriting. ... I Will Be Me is extraordinary and brilliant; I gave Dave Davies new release FIVE (5) STARS. (Cleopatra Label Group)
DAVE DAVIES was
born in London, England and grew up in a tight-knit musical family; he
is the youngest of eight children including six sisters. Davies was
well-versed on a variety of musical genres at an early age. After
learning to play the electric guitar, he performed with his older
brother Ray Davies when he was just 13 years old. The brothers recruited
bassist and friend Peter Quaife and formed The Ravens. A self-produced demo tape was discovered by record producer Shel Talmy.
In 1964, with Talmy’s guidance, the newly formed group landed a
contract with Pye Records. Before they signed the contract, the band
replaced their drummer with Mick Avory and recreated the bands moniker to The Kinks.
After The Kinks breakout chartbuster hits “You Really Got Me” and
“All Day and All of the Night,” from 1965-1967, The Kinks scored their
first wave of charted hits worldwide… “Tired of Waiting for you” ( #1 UK Hit, #6 U.S. Hit), “Ev’rybody’s Gonna be Happy”(#11 UK Hit), “Set Me Free” (#9 UK Hit, #23 U.S Hit),“See My Friends”(#10 UK Hit, #111 U.S. Hit), “Who’ll Be the Next in Line” (#34 U.S. Hit),“A Well Respected Man”(#13 U.S. Hit), “Till the End of the Day”(#8 UK Hit, #50 U.S Hit), “Dedicated Follower of Fashion”(#4 UK Hit, #36 U.S. Hit), “Sunny Afternoon”(#1
UK Hit, #14 U.S. Hit),“Dead End Street”(#5 UK Hit, #73 U.S. Hit),
“Mister Pleasant” (#80 U.S. Hit), “Waterloo Sunset”(#2 UK Hit) and
“Autumn Almanac” (#3 UK Hit).
In 1967, Dave Davies released his first solo single entitled “Death of a Clown”
(#3 UK Hit). Davies also released the singles “Susannah’s Still Alive”
(1968), “Lincoln County” (1968) and “Hold My Hand” (1969).
In 1968, The Kinks released their critically-acclaimed concept album Village Green Preservation Society. It
was the last album to feature all original Kinks band members as
bassist Peter Quaife left the group. Brothers Dave and Ray Davies would
become the longest lasting members of The Kinks until their eventual
demise in 1996.
Although The Kinks enjoyed enormous commercial success in the United
States, an unresolved dispute with the American Federation of Musicians
during their 1965 tour had sidelined the group from performing in
America until 1969.
In 1970, The Kinks “Lola”
written by Ray Davies reached #2 on the UK charts and #9 in the U.S.
The song was inspired after watching their band manager, Robert Wace,
dance with a transvestite. The song brought The Kinks back into
prominence.
Also in 1970, Their single “Apeman” reached #5 in the UK and #45 on the U.S. charts.
In 1971, the band’s recording contracts with Pye and Reprise Records
had expired. The Kinks signed a multi-album deal with RCA Records. The
Kinks experimented during the RCA years with a series of theatrical
concept albums and rock operas (1971-75).
In 1976, The Kinks signed with Arista Records. During this period, Van Halen scored a Top 40 Hit with a Kinks cover “You Really Got Me” (#19 U.S. Hit).
In 1977, the Sleepwalker album was released. The band returned to its rock and roll roots after years of concept albums. Low Budget (1979) became one of their most successful albums in America, peaking at #11 on the U.S. album charts.
The Kinks recaptured both Top 40 and top selling album status again in 1983 with the release of “Come Dancing” (#6 Billboard Hot 100 Hit) from the State of Confusion (#12 Billboard Album charts) album. The album also spawned the single “Don’t Forget to Dance” (#58 UK, #29 U.S.). Word of Mouth (1984), their final album with Arista Records generated “Do It Again” (#41 U.S. Hit) their last single on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart.
Sadly, original Kinks bassist Peter Quaife died in 2010.
In 2004, Dave Davies suffered a serious stroke as a result of high blood pressure.
I had the rare pleasure of chatting with Dave Davies recently about
his brilliant new album … his current personal status with older brother
Ray Davies … yoga, meditation and spiritualism in his recovery process
from a major stroke … and will there be a Kinks reunion?
Here’s my interview with guitarist, singer, songwriter and co-founder of the legendary ‘Kinks’ …DAVE DAVIES.
Davies was currently on a mini U.S. tour when we talked … Ray Shasho: Hi Dave, you must be somewhere in California by now? Dave Davies: “I’m in San Diego. The tour is going great and I’m loving it. Ray Shasho: Did you bring your Gibson Flying V on the tour? Dave Davies: “(Laughing) well, the balance is all wrong but it’s still pretty good to look at.” Ray Shasho: Dave, I know you’ve suffered a stroke back in 2004, how have you been feeling? Dave Davies: “I feel fine, a bit tired today. It’s
been a long couple of weeks but it’s been great and the audience
reaction has been wonderful, they were all into it and everybody loves
the new album, so it looks good.” Ray Shasho:What was it like to grow up in a household with six older sisters? Dave Davies: “It was quite amazing really. I think
it really helped the creative process when you’re a kid; women have a
different approach in creativity and emotions than men do. So it was
good that we had that kind of influence. The artistic side of our family
was very important because one person encourages the other. It was a
vey enlightening place to be as a kid because of all the music and
dancing and my dad played banjo, my sisters played piano and sang. My
family making music was like a folk background really, banging on
tabletops, playing banjo and all kinds of things.” Ray Shasho: It must have been great to have a musical family
because I’m sure they supported your decision to become a professional
musician. Dave Davies: “That’s right, there was never any
money but my mom put two pounds deposit on my first guitar, a Harmony
Meteor; it was the same guitar that I used on “You Really Got Me.” I
wish I had kept it.” Ray Shasho:”Do you have a nice collection of guitars at home? Dave Davies: “Nope, I probably have four or five guitars left.” Ray Shasho: Your website has a link entitled “Spiritual
Planet” that is very informative in exploring all areas of metaphysics.
It’s a very positive and uplifting site. Dave Davies: “We’ve tried everything else and it
doesn’t work. So the inner process joined with the outer process is
vital. We need balance. We need to balance our inner life with our outer
life. Nature is always sitting there waiting to help us but we have to
do the work. Nature is probably the greatest teacher that we’ll ever
have …the earth and nature.” Ray Shasho: Your spirituality probably played a big part in the recovery process from your illness. Dave Davies: “Of course. I may not have gone through
it without that inner faith, belief or energy. Everything is energy
now. And what is the point of being a pessimist? Tell me the purpose of
it because I don’t get it. It’s so easy for us to talk ourselves out of
things; we need to talk ourselves into things more. Everything around us
… nature, people, animals, our lives and the environment depends on how
we approach the whole world around us. It should be an exciting time
because each individual adds a little more positive energy to the whole.
It’s really simple stuff really. There is so much more to life than the
big picture that is out there. The ancient cultures came to grips with
the inner side of life, so we need to learn from these ancient
cultures.” Ray Shasho: Dave, I‘ve talked with a lot of artists who are
connected with their inner selves and like yourself, seem to always
generate an aura of positive energy. Dave Davies: “It’s all tied in with the creative
process. It’s not something apart from it but it’s all kind of linked in
with it. So it seems obvious to me, for artists who have that sense of
creative expression to perceive things that are beyond us. When we
realize how much we don’t know, I think that’s when we start to learn.
When we shut off and think we know everything, I think that’s dangerous.
It’s the same with religion, like if we climbed up three rungs of a
ladder and we’ve found “the truth.” We’re never done learning, its one
step at a time. Then absorb the information and move forward, always a
forward moving process. There’s also a thought process, you make a move
and have to sit and contemplate the energy of the action. It’s a journey
and I think we can define our own future from the inside out.” Ray Shasho: So much to learn and so little time. Dave Davies: “That’s true but we’ve got to try. With
what time we’ve got we have to utilize it. I really have never
understood why things need to be … ever since birth we’re kind of
brainwashed to think we can’t do things. You’ll never amount to
anything or you can’t do this or can’t do that. We kind of carry that
with us and we have to get rid of it.” Ray Shasho: Yes, there are always people trying to rain on our parade. Dave Davies: “Those people are insensitive and we need to find out what makes those people insensitive and go from there.” Ray Shasho: Dave, the new album is a powerful and ingenious
statement. With all the crap that is being played on American radio, all
I got to say is …God bless you man! I’m giving it five (5) stars! Dave Davies: “Thanks Ray …you made my day!” Ray Shasho: The opening tracks “Little Green Amp” and “Livin’
In The Past” instantly unleashes and unyielding rock and roll frenzy,
but the tune that totally captivated me was “Walker Through The Worlds” … definitely my favorite song. Dave Davies: “I’m so pleased, that is a key song to
the whole album. That’s the one that I wondered what people’s reaction
would be. It’s kind of like an innocent and eternal hope for the future.
Sometimes the more you write about something the less you express;
sometimes things can be expressed for its sounds, tones and a few
words.” Ray Shasho: Do you normally write the lyric or the music first? Dave Davies: “It depends on what sort of song it is.
With songs like “Livin’ In The Past” it was really the first thing I
wrote. I wanted to get a Kinks type riff and then wrote the lyrics.
“Walker Through The Worlds” was really about mood, feelings and
imagination so it was a totally different approach.” Ray Shasho: I also enjoyed the track “Energy fields” … simply mesmerizing. Dave Davies: “That song is about the nuts and bolts
of the things that I’m really into. Scientists are finding out now what
mystics and yogis knew tens of thousands of years ago. About “energy
fields” and the emotional world is a field of energy. Humans are a body,
mind and soul, or spiritual being and are all run by energy fields.
We’re finding out about all these things that the ancient ones knew all
about. It’s like a part of every day life. We’re living in an abundance
of energy fields, or dimensions or both. And we’re unlimited in our
potential.”
“My favorite part on “Energy Fields,” at the end of the track is a
little girl laughing, and to me it’s a child watching the world, her
friends, and so-called grownup people, and the way they try to
understand the world. But the little child girl at the end laughs … it’s
a part of my humor as well. Trying to explain the universe and then
turn it on its head … but we still don’t know.” Ray Shasho: Dave your voice sounds amazing! Dave Davies: “When you get older your voice matures
and doesn’t get worst, I think it develops and matures with age.
Sometimes we don’t always reach our potential until we get older.” Ray Shasho: How’s your relationship with brother Ray Davies these days? Dave Davies: “It’s not too bad. He does what he does
and I do what I do. It’s tricky, people are different and sometimes
it’s easier to get along with a total stranger than your own family.” Ray Shasho:Do you and Ray chat with each other once in awhile? Dave Davies: “Mainly business …emails. The thing
about the older brother and younger brother is …what happens is that the
younger brother often takes on the responsibility of the older one. The
older sibling will often get angry or upset because he has to take the
initiative, but the older brother sometimes needs to chill-out and
listen to the younger brother, because he may have something poignant or
more important to say. Older brothers will always criticize and try to
put you in your place and its bullsh*t! Ray Shasho: Dave, I have a similar relationship with my older brother, I feel your pain man. If brother Ray Davies called you up one day and said he wanted to do a Kinks reunion … what would you say to him? Dave Davies: “I would say define that, what does that actually really mean? Ray Shasho: Well, the new album has definitely opened up a whole new world for you. Dave Davies: “I’m so excited that people like it and
it gives you leverage to talk about things you want to talk about and
spiritual ideas. I’ve also been very interested in psychology, astrology
and behaviors, so it gives me an opportunity to talk about all kinds of
things.” Ray Shasho: What forms of meditation do you practice? Dave Davies: “The sort of meditation I do now is
more in tune with the ancient Tibetan practices. They work very intently
with the mind, trying to control the mind to enable the body to
function in a more balanced way. A major problem in modern society is
that we give our power away too easily. We can’t develop self will
without hard work, discipline and controlling emotions. We can’t define
our spiritual life by the physical world, but it’s there to help us.
There are wonderful Tibetan practices that people can do and it’s all
about clearing the mind and a continuing process of purification.”
“I’m a big fan of Carl Jung when he talked about the collective
unconscious. In certain Tibetan practices, Lama’s, high priests,
meditate in a certain way where it affects the whole of the mind. There
isn’t only one mind; we like to think that we’re wrapped up in our own
world and we’re encouraged to be like that. But really we need to
realize that everything we think, express, say and feel is a whole
mechanism of being a human being. I’m a great believer of things being
in the balance system of microcosm and macrocosm. I really like those
two worlds and I think the smaller can affect the greater.” Ray Shasho: Dave, here’s a question that I
ask everyone that I interview, If you had a “Field of Dreams” wish, like
the movie, to play or collaborate with anyone from the past or present,
who would that be? Dave Davies: “I’d like to sit at a table for dinner with Eddie Cochran, Carl Jung and Swami Vivekananda … music, mind and spirituality.” Ray Shasho:Dave, thank you for being on the
call today, but more importantly for all the great KINKS music you’ve
given to us and the brilliant new music you continue to bring. Dave Davies: “Thanks Ray, take care!”
Purchase Ray’s very special memoir called ‘Check the Gs’ -The True Story of an Eclectic American Family and Their Wacky Family Business … You’ll LIVE IT! Also available for download on NOOK or KINDLE edition for JUST .99 CENTS at amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com- Please support Ray so he can continue to bring you quality classic rock music reporting. ~~Pacific Book Review says Ray Shasho is a product
of the second half of the 20th century, made in the USA from parts
around the world, and within him is every trend in music, television,
politics and culture contributing to his philosophical and comically
analytical reflections collected in his fine book of memories. I found Check the Gs to
be pure entertainment, fantastic fun and a catalyst to igniting so many
memories of my own life, as I too am within a few years of Ray. So to
all, I say if you have a bit of grey hair (or no hair), buy this book!
It’s a great gift for your “over-the-hill” friends, or for their kids,
if they are the history buffs of younger generations trying to figure
out why we are the way we are.
Mike Love
is the high-spirited singer, songwriter and founding member for perhaps
the greatest and most cherished rock bands in the U.S.A., The Beach Boys. Since the group’s inception in 1961, Mike Love has been The Beach Boy’s quintessence lyricist and showman.
The Beach Boys will be performing at Tampa’s Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on July 18th at 8:30 p.m.,
as part of the Hard Rock Heatwave summer event promotion. Tickets for
the 21and over concert are $69 and available through Ticketmaster
outlets, the Hard Rock Store inside the casino at 5223 Orient Rd, or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Visit the Seminole Hard Rock Tampa official website at www.seminolehardrocktampa.com.
The Beach Boys founding member Mike Love and longtime keyboardist & vocalist Bruce Johnston, who joined in 1965, will be accompanied by a group of incredible musicians including Love’s son Christian Love on guitars, Randell Kirsch (bass guitar & vocals), Tim Bonhomme (keyboards & vocals), John Cowsill (drums &vocals) and Scott Totten (musical director, guitar, vocals). John Cowsill was also the drummer for the group that inspired The Partridge Family … The Cowsills.
Brian Wilson, Al Jardine and David Marks will be taking their own lineup on the road for a separate summer tour in 2013. The Beach Boys history:In 1961, the three brothers -- The oldest Brian, Carl and Dennis Wilson - were joined by their cousin, Mike Love, and schoolmate, Alan Jardine (who was replaced by David Marks, before rejoining). The Pendletones changed their name to The Beach Boys and celebrated their first hit song called "Surfin'" on the local airwaves in their home state of California. The tune was co-written by Mike Love.
Surfin' Safari their first album with Capitol Records reached #32 on the Billboard Album's chart the following year. "Surfin' Safari" became their first Top 20 hit.
In 1963, "Surfin'U.S.A." became the Beach Boys' first top 5 hit. The Surfin' U.S.A. album became their first Gold-certified album hitting #2 on Billboard's charts.
The Beach Boys released two more albums that same year (Surfer Girl,Little Deuce Coupe) and again reached Gold- certified status.
After President Kennedy was assassinated on November 22nd, Brian Wilson and Mike Love wrote "The Warmth of the Sun" as a musical reaction to the tragedy on the following day.
The Beach Boys began touring outside the United States in January of 1964. The Beatles
first shows in America were on February 9th at The Ed Sullivan Theater
and first live appearance at the Washington Coliseum in D.C. on February
11th of 1964.
Also in 1964, "I Get Around" became The Beach Boys first #1 hit song. The Beach Boys Concert (live) became their first #1 album.
Bruce Johnston Joined The Beach Boys in 1965 replacing Glen Campbell who had been a touring member of the group while filling in for Brian Wilson.
On May 16th of 1966, The Beach Boys masterpiece- Pet Sounds was released, spawning the Top 40 hits "Wouldn't It Be Nice" and "God Only Knows." The album is still considered one of the most influential records in popular music history.
Also in 1966, one of the most expensive productions for that era, "Good Vibrations" penned by Mike Love was completed. The single became their third #1 hit and first Platinum-certified million selling single.
After going to England, The Beach Boys were declared as the only true rivals to The Beatles.
Mike Love’s spiritual pursuit for inner peace led to his lifelong
practice of Transcendental Meditation™. In February of 1968, Mike Love
accompanied The Beatles, Donovan, Mia Farrow and Prudence Farrow, on a historical pilgrimage to Rishikesh, India to attend an advanced Transcendental Meditation session at the ashram of Maharishi Yogi.
Throughout the 70's, The Beach Boys solidified themselves as
America's fun and favorite band, giving us unprecedented releases like
the double album compilation Endless Summer.
Mike Love became the undisputed frontman, lead singer and MC for The Beach Boys.
Throughout the 80's and 90's, The Beach Boys headlined (4) Independence Day shows on the Washington Monument grounds.
On July 4th, 1985 they played to an afternoon crowd of an estimated one
million in Philadelphia and that evening they performed for over
750,000 people on the Mall in Washington D.C. The Beach Boys also played
at the Live Aid Concert, Farm Aid concerts, the Statue of Liberty's
100th Anniversary Salute and the Super Bowl.
“Kokomo” was
released in 1988. The catchy summertime classic was penned by John
Phillips (Mamas & the Papas), Scott McKenzie, Mike Love and Terry
Melcher. The song became a #1 hit in the U.S., Japan and Australia. It
was the only #1 hit without Brian Wilson’s contribution to the group.
The Beach Boys have sold over 100 million records worldwide and have
received more than 33 RIAA Platinum and Gold record awards. The Beach
Boys have performed more concerts than any major rock band in history.
The band was honored at the 2001 Grammy Awards, receiving The Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy.
The Very Best Of The Beach Boys: Sounds of Summer Capitol/EMI's
30-track collection of the band's biggest hits, has achieved massive
triple-platinum success with sales of more than two million copies in
the United States since its 2003 release. Most recently The Beach Boys released their 29th studio album entitled That’s Why God Made the Radio in 2012. It was the band’s first album featuring original material since theSummer in Paradise release in 1992. The album reached #3 on Billboard’s Hot 200 chart.
The Smile Sessions Deluxe
Box Set (released in 2011) won a Grammy Award for Best Historical
Album. The award was announced at the 55th Annual Grammy Awards on
February 10th 2013.
The Beach Boys have also recently released their double disc CD, The Beach Boys Live -The 50th Anniversary Tour. An incredible compilation of Beach Boys classic hits performed live during their 50th Anniversary tour in 2012.
Also watch for the release of Made in California,
a 6-CD career retrospective Box Set premiering 60- previously
unreleased tracks and featuring more than 7 1/2 hours of music from 1961
to present day. Capitol Records target date for the release is August
27th (Available for pre-order now at amazon.com).
Mike Love is responsible for many of the lyrics, concepts and hooks on the majority of classic Beach Boys hits including … “Good Vibrations,” “Kokomo,”“Fun, Fun, Fun,” “I Get Around,”“Surfin’ Safari,”“Help Me Rhonda,”“Do It Again,” and “California Girls,” including co-authoring more than a dozen Top 10 singles within a five year period.
The Beach Boys are undeniably a National Treasure.
Love was recently recognized for his decades of dedication to an
investment in education and national service by being awarded City
Year’s “Seven Generations Award.”
He’s also been a longtime supporter of environmental causes. He created
the “Love Foundation” which supports national environmental and
educational initiatives. Love is a member of the Board of Directors of
the Incline Academy in Incline Village, Nevada and responsible for
raising over one million dollars to benefit the school.
Mike Love is happily married with eight children and spends time between his homes in Southern California and Lake Tahoe.
Here’s my recent interview with The Beach Boys legendary singer, songwriter, and humanitarian … MIKE LOVE. Ray Shasho: Hey Mike, thanks for being on the call, are you in California today? Mike Love: “Actually I’m in Incline Village, Nevada
at Lake Tahoe. I have a house in the High Sierra’s looking over
beautiful Lake Tahoe which is twenty- six miles long or something like
that … maybe it was twenty- six miles across the sea, Santa Catalina is
a-waitin’ for me (Lyric by The Four Preps). Anyway its gorgeous here, a
beautiful day and couldn’t be nicer.” Ray Shasho: The Beach Boys had a couple gigs recently in California and the band actually played a few days ago in Saratoga? Mike Love: “Exactly, Saratoga was a phenomenal
concert. First of all it’s a beautiful setting; second of all it was
sold-out, third of all the audience response was spectacular. It was so
fantastic, there was mom and dad’s up front dancing with their children.
There was a little girl about six or seven years old just bopping
around on every song, sixteen and seventeen year old girls, and then
senior citizens, just all ages having a blast. The night before and
Saturday night we did a show at the San Diego County Fair in Del Mar, at
the fairgrounds, and there was about twelve thousand people there.
Before that we were out in the desert at a casino out near Palm Springs
and that was sold-out, then Thursday night we were in Chumash at an
Indian Casino up in Santa Barbara, California and that was sold-out in
advance. So we’ve had a really great run lately and were looking forward
to coming to Florida. We always do like Florida …it’s like the third
best state in the country. We like California and Hawaii and then
Florida (All laughing).” Ray Shasho: This will be The Beach Boys first appearance at the Seminole Hard Rock in Tampa? Mike Love: “It is. We’ve played the Hard Rock over
in Hollywood. We’ve also played at the Hard Rock in Orlando but it was
more of a private thing. I love playing the Hard Rock’s; they’ve got a
great stage, great lighting, great sound, and not so humongous, its more
intimate, so we love playing theaters and clubs where the audience has a
really good chance to see and hear the group and where the acoustics
are good. I like it when we can hear what we’re doing. Originally when
we started out we did our shows on sound systems that were engineered to
announce wrestling matches (Laughing). Between 1961 through 63 it was
really basic, but then all of a sudden rock and roll became big
business, companies sprouted up and created really nice sound systems. I
think between The Beach Boys, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and
innumerable acts after that … rock music became a huge economic force.” Ray Shasho: In today’s age, the business of music has become way stronger than the art of music? Mike Love: “We came from the 60’s era, when we
started and made so many hits. The song value from the 60’s was so darn
good, you’ve got The Beatles, The Beach Boys, all of Motown and plenty
of other people too … amazing records, amazing songs. Sometimes there
are different phases that music goes though and the public appreciates
depending on their age and all that. We’re very fortunate to be able to
do a body of work that has lasted 50 years now and multiple of
generations love The Beach Boys and we love doing those songs in places
big and small, far and wide.” Ray Shasho: Happy belated 50th anniversary by the way. Mike Love: “It’s the 50th anniversary of “Surfin’ U.S.A.” how about that? Ray Shasho: Mike, I’m originally from the Washington D.C.
area, so every Fourth of July, I still hold fond memories of those
traditional Beach Boys concerts on the National Mall grounds. Mike Love: “We think about that too every July Fourth … why aren’t we doing D.C. again?” Ray Shasho: I also attended Baltimore Bullets basketball
games at the Civic Center back in the early 70’s and remember watching
your brother Stan Love playing power forward. Mike Love: “That’s true and with the Lakers for a
little while, he’s buddies with Pat Riley. As a matter of fact Pat Riley
along with my nephew Kevin Love (Minnesota Timberwolves) came to our
show in Spain last year on our 50th tour. It was so nice; he invited us
to a game whenever we were down in Miami. He hung out with my brother
Stan back in the day when they were playing together.” Ray Shasho: You’ve got the NBA in your blood, you must be good at playing ball? Mike Love: “Those guys are the basketball players; I
was a long distance runner in school. I was preparing to do long
distance with The Beach Boys (Laughing).” Ray Shasho: Mike, who were some of the acts that got you interested in music and wanting to start your own band? Mike Love: “Number one is Chuck Berry, number two, a
number of doo-wop groups, but I also liked The Kingston Trio, as a
matter of fact our song “Sloop John B” was originally recorded by The
Kingston Trio. A lot of guitars were bought to emulate The Kingston
Trio. I bought one too and so did Al Jardine one of the other group
members. But I really loved R&B, the blues, rock and roll … Jerry
Lee Lewis, Fats Domino, Little Richard and all those really raw
energetic rock and roll tunes. Of course Elvis has some great stuff too.
The Everly Brothers were a big influence on us because their blend was
so great. Brian and I used to sing the Everly Brothers style all the
time.” Ray Shasho: The Beach Boys had a mutual admiration relationship with The Beatles, did you know Elvis Presley? Mike Love: “Yea, we met Elvis a couple of times.
Once we did a recording session out in Hollywood and he was in the next
studio over. We were talking with him about touring because he was
getting ready to go back out of retirement and go on tour. Then another
time we caught up to him at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas. Yea, he was a
really nice man, couldn’t be nicer, a guy’s guy you know? He was Elvis
all the way.” Ray Shasho: I recently had an interesting metaphysical
conversation with Dave Davies of The Kinks. You’ve studied
Transcendental Meditation for years; do you still continue to meditate
regularly? Mike Love: “I did it this morning and will do it
again this evening. What Maharishi teaches in Transcendental Meditation
is to be on twice a day, in the morning and in the evening before meals.
What it does is you’re able to drop your metabolism at a level of rest
twice as deep as sleep. Profoundly relaxing and restful and gives you
more clarity and energy and helps you rebound and not overreact to
stressful situations. So it’s really valuable. Especially the energy
part, like if you’re feeling a little tired you sit and meditate for
awhile, it doesn’t replace sleep but it does help repair the fatigue
that comes from lack of sleep and or from stressful situations. It’s
really been a huge benefit to me over the years; let’s see I learned in
the summer of 1967 from Maharishi in Paris and so did several of the
group members.” Ray Shasho: What is the fourth dimension of consciousness? Mike Love: “With TM you have the waking state of
consciousness which everybody is familiar with, the dreaming state of
consciousness which most people are also familiar with, deep sleep and
unless you’re an insomniac you’re going to experience that too. With TM
there’s a fourth major state of consciousness, you can call it
Transcendental consciousness if you like. You’re alert but at a deeper
level mentally and physically when you reach that level through the
procedure that you’re taught. Yea, it’s a different level of
consciousness, I would say.” Ray Shasho: Mike, are all the lawsuits done? Mike Love: “Yea, that’s way in the past. It had to
be done because I was cheated on songs that I had co-written with Brian
and it just needed to be rectified.” Ray Shasho: Did you receive all the writing credits you were seeking? Mike Love: “Yea, for the most part.” Ray Shasho: You wrote all the lyrics to “Good Vibrations”? Mike Love: “Yea exactly, I wrote all the lyrics and the chorus line. (Mike Love started singing) … “I’m pickin’ up good vibrations; she’s giving me the excitations… Yea, so I came up with that and … Round round get around I get around
… I wrote the majority of the words there and a lot of songs. Brian and
I had a great songwriting partnership and on this last 50th anniversary
album it was great to work with all the guys together, it’s called That’s Why God Made the Radio.
The unfortunate part was I wasn’t able to get together and write with
Brian. It was not to be, even though we had talked earlier about getting
together and writing some songs. It just didn’t work out, which is a
drag and too bad. I do remember fondly doing all those songs. Maybe out
of the fifty top Beach Boys songs, I was probably the co-writer and
singing lead on forty of them.” Ray Shasho: That’s amazing …and you’ve always had the onstage presence of being the leader of The Beach Boys. Mike Love: “I’m the one person who has been there
since the beginning and is still there singing the leads on the majority
of the songs. There are other great singers, Brian used to sing the
high falsetto thing, he doesn’t do it anymore unfortunately. Carl was an
amazing singer; “God Only Knows” was just phenomenal. I marveled at
that every night when he sang it. Al Jardine has a great set of pipes
and a really good singer. Bruce Johnston wrote “I write the songs”
(Barry Manilow Billboard #1Hit) and won a Grammy but he also did “Disney
Girls (1957)” on our show which was on our Surf’s Up album in
1971. That’s a beautiful song; he’s got a great voice and is a great
songwriter. So we’re lucky to have all that talent in one group in all
that body of music. Capitol Records, which is part of the Universal
Music Group, is coming out with a compilation of six CD’s and there’s
going to be a new record release on it, which I wrote, that never came
out before called “Goin’ to the Beach,” and it may be a single, so we’re
going to see if we can get the single out while the weather is nice.” Ray Shasho: I loved all The Beach Boys music, but “Kokomo”
(1988) is a tune that always remains as one of my favorites. It was an
interesting joint writing effort that also includes you. Mike Love: “John Phillips of The Mamas and Papas did the melody of the verse but he didn’t have a chorus. So I came up with the chorus … (Mike Love singing) …Aruba, Jamaica ooo I wanna take you. John Phillips wrote most of the words in the first verse and I wrote the second verse. Terry Melcher wrote ooo I want to take you down to Kokomo, we’ll get there fast and then we’ll take it slow …so it was a true collaboration. It went to number one and became the largest selling single that we ever had.” Ray Shasho: That was truly amazing after all those years. Mike Love: “Twenty-two years after “Good Vibrations” went to number one. And
it is amazing …it’s a miracle (Laughing). And it’s a miracle that The
Beach Boys music is still alive and appreciated and loved by so many
millions of people all over the world. A few months ago we did Hong Kong
in a stadium after a Rugby sevens game and there was 40,000 people
there, we did Cincinnati after a Red’s game, Red’s versus Cub’s, and
there was 42,000 people there, so we’ve done some big places and have
done some not so big places, and selling out almost everywhere. We’re
looking forward to coming to Tampa.” Ray Shasho: I chatted with Mark Lindsay about Terry Melcher. Mike Love: “Terry produced Paul Revere & the
Raiders. We were good partners and friends and I really liked him.
That’s one of the sad things about life to leave that way, same thing
with Dennis and same thing with Carl, a tragedy that’s affected us as a
group. But the music goes on and as long as it’s done well, people enjoy
it and has provided a lot of pleasure and joy to millions of people … I
think that’s the real legacy of The Beach Boys.” Ray Shasho: The Beach Boys have remarkably stayed together
one way or another. And even when all the band members weren’t touring
together, you’ve managed to keep the lines of communication open. I’ve
interviewed many band members that just flat out hate each other and
will probably never talk to one another again. Mike Love: “This band started out as family, me and
my three first cousins, Brian, Dennis and Carl Wilson. There’s always
people who want to do their own thing, their own way … Brian has his own
band, Al has his and I have mine and we came together last year for a
specified number of dates, we did it and had a pretty darn good time
doing it. Now we’re back doing things … Brian’s in the studio and
working on a new album, a solo album, apparently with some guests and so
on. Then Bruce and I, John Cowsill is our drummer, and my son Christian
Love sings Carl’s parts on “Kokomo” and “Good Vibrations” so we’re out
again doing our thing and enjoying it tremendously.” Ray Shasho: Mike, I personally want to thank you and The
Beach Boys for donating monies for so many humanitarian efforts. I
understand you personally donated a large sum to Katrina victims. Mike Love: “Yes and we also did some for Hurricane
Sandy … whenever you can use your celebrity to help raise money for
necessary causes, non profit or environmental groups or whatever it may
be, I think it’s a great use of your persona and time , it’s a real
positive thing.” Ray Shasho:You received the City Year’s “Seven Generations Award” recently? Mike Love: “Yes, these are young people who
volunteer to work in troubled schools with kids who otherwise would
probably drop out. They work for a year and don’t make a lot of money
but get a little bit of support from an organization that helps place
them in these places. It’s really a good thing and there are some great
stories in that. Because I started something years ago when George Bush,
President number forty-one was in office, he started with the Points of
Light Foundation and we were the first people to respond to the Points
of Light challenge. Then we created something called ‘StarServe’ which
is ‘Students Taking Action and Responsibility to Service.’ So because of
that history and some of the other things we mentioned … support for
nonprofit groups or environmental groups, Bruce and I are advisory board
members for the SurfRider Foundation. So I was honored by this group
with that award in Washington D.C. just a little while ago and that was
nice. I wear that jacket with pride.” Ray Shasho:Mike, here’s a question that I
ask everyone that I interview, If you had a “Field of Dreams” wish, like
the movie, to play or collaborate with anyone from the past or present,
who would that be? Mike Love: “You know… there’s too many people (all
laughing). I’d love to do something with Smokey Robinson, I think he’s
brilliant! I did a little something with Paul McCartney. Meaning, I
suggested the bridge on “Back in the U.S.S.R.” when he came to the table
in India playing that song on his acoustic guitar. I think everybody in
rock and roll would like to do something with Paul McCartney so I’m not
alone. But I think Smokey Robinson was great, I was buddies with Marvin
Gaye and it was tragic what happened to him. But I think Smokey
Robinson and Paul McCartney would be great to work with.” Ray Shasho: “Back in the U.S.S.R” is definitely a Beach Boys tune. Mike Love: “It is, when I was in India with The Beatles, they got thinking in those terms… McCartney did anyway.” Ray Shasho:Mike, thank you so much for
being on the call today but more importantly for all the incredible
Beach Boys songs over the years and into the future. We’ll see you at
the Seminole Hard Rock in Tampa on July 18th. Mike Love: “Thanks Ray!”
The Beach Boys will be performing at Tampa’s Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on July 18th at 8:30 p.m.,
as part of the Hard Rock Heatwave summer event promotion. Tickets for
the 21and over concert are $69 and available through Ticketmaster
outlets, the Hard Rock Store inside the casino at 5223 Orient Rd, or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Visit the Seminole Hard Rock Tampa official website at www.seminolehardrocktampa.com.
Contact classic rock music journalist Ray Shasho at rockraymond.shasho@gmail.com Purchase Ray’s very special memoir called ‘Check the Gs’ -The True Story of an Eclectic American Family and Their Wacky Family Business … You’ll LIVE IT! Also available for download on NOOK or KINDLE edition for JUST .99 CENTS at amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com- Please support Ray so he can continue to bring you quality classic rock music reporting. ~~Pacific Book Review says Ray Shasho is a product
of the second half of the 20th century, made in the USA from parts
around the world, and within him is every trend in music, television,
politics and culture contributing to his philosophical and comically
analytical reflections collected in his fine book of memories. I found Check the Gs to
be pure entertainment, fantastic fun and a catalyst to igniting so many
memories of my own life, as I too am within a few years of Ray. So to
all, I say if you have a bit of grey hair (or no hair), buy this book!
It’s a great gift for your “over-the-hill” friends, or for their kids,
if they are the history buffs of younger generations trying to figure
out why we are the way we are.
Grandine il Vento the first studio album in thirteen years by progressive rock virtuosos Renaissance was released June 1st worldwide on amazon.com (available in Japan through Marquee Records).
While those intricate recording sessions have since become a memory, a
life altering event will forever reside in the heart, soul and mind of
everyone who knew Michael Dunford.
Annie Haslam’s dear friend and musical partner for 41 years and the
brilliant guitarist and songwriter for Renaissance passed away on
November 20th 2012 from a massive instantaneous Cerebral Hemorrhage. The
album became Michael Dunford’s swansong
Legendary songstress and songwriter for Renaissance Annie Haslam had this to say about the release of Grandine il Vento …
“I am so proud of this album and I know Michael is
looking down and floating around watching all this happening. Thank you
dear friends and in particular the Kickstarter pledgers who helped make
this recording possible. There have been many sad life changing events
that have affected us all, and I thank you all for being so patient. I
care about all of you very much, and am so happy that we (Michael, Rave,
Dave, Jason and Frank) were able to record this very special album …
Love and Appreciation to all of you in our Renaissance family.”
The band recently concluded a tour performing their two-part concert featuring their masterpiece albums Turn of the Cards and Scheherazade and Other Stories. Guitarist Ryche Chlanda was
recruited to perpetuate the legacy of Renaissance. At the beginning of
the tour, Haslam was diagnosed with a serious vertebral compression
fraction (spine injury) and was forced to wear a Jewett Back Brace for
several months. Many of the concert dates had to be rescheduled.
I had the rare pleasure of chatting with Annie Haslam during the making of Grandine il Vento in
the summer of 2012. Annie gave me a sneak preview by singing a few bars
of “Symphony of Light” over the telephone. After hearing the piece, I
told her I thought the song was powerful, poetic, beautiful, inspiring
and almost reduced me to tears.
After listening toGrandine il Vento,
I thoroughly enjoyed the all-encompassing musical arrangements and was
overwhelmed by the commanding classical orchestrations. Haslam’s
vocalizations were majestic and the duets were poetic … I gave Grandine il Vento (5) Stars.
The breathtaking album cover was painted by Haslam. Annie is an
accomplished artist and many of her works can be purchased on her website. The album features guest performances by John Wetton (King Crimson, Uriah Heep, Renaissance) and Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull). Grandine il Vento (Hail the Wind) … Here’s a synopsis of all the tracks on the album.
“Symphony of Light” the first track, is a tribute to the genius of Leonardo Da Vinci. Haslam described the song in our interview last summer …
“It starts off with Leonardo getting up in the morning and he’s an old
man, he goes to the window and pulls back the velvet curtains and the
light comes in. It’s all about the light coming and he connected with
the light.”
Haslam’s haunting but beautiful interpretation at the introduction and
ending of the song spotlights her extraordinary vocal range. The rhythms
of the song alone seem to describe its very essence, much like a
soundtrack to an epic motion picture.
“Waterfall” the second track, is a surreal musical
portrayal about the rainforests in Brazil. Haslam has been there many
times and says she loved it. “Waterfall” is a winsome and mellow
arrangement. “Grandine il Vento” the album’s title track, is described as a love song that transcends life itself. “Porcelain” the album’s fourth track is an engaging anecdoteabout an African village and the people who live there.
“Cry to the World”is the band’s ‘World Song’ in honor of Mother Earth and all who are part of her. Haslam states …
“I am so proud of our 'world song'. A song dedicated to the planet and
mankind. From the incredible catchy melody from Michael, to the
outstanding performances by Michael, Rave, Dave, Jason, Frank and the
incomparable Ian Anderson on Flute, it is a stunning taste of what is to
come.”
“Cry to the World” is definitely one of my favorite tracks … captivating and tenacious! “Air of Drama” the next track, is a love song about two people who come together again later in their lives in Paris, where they had first met.
“Blood Silver Like Moonlight” is a duet with John Wetton.
Annie says, “He has been a friend for many years and I always felt our
voices were similar in their timbre and range. I was told once by a
'spiritual' energy friend that John and I sang in the Angels choir
together. That is what this song is about, remembering the choir!”
The awe-inspiring duet with John Wetton is another favorite track … beautifully done! “The Mystic and The Muse” is the final track on the
album. Annie was inspired to write this by two of her paintings The
Mystic and The Muse. She admits … “Although it is a fantasy in a way, I
see Michael as The Muse and me as The Mystic.”
The Mystic and The Muse” is classic Renaissance. You are now entering
… Prog-Heaven! An incredible musical journey infused by intricate
mystique. I loved the entire album but this is definitely my favorite
track!
Renaissance is … Annie Haslam (lead vocals, songwriter and painter), David Keyes (bass guitar & vocals), Rave Tesar (keyboards), Jason Hart (keyboards & vocals), Frank Pagano (drums, percussion & vocals) and Ryche Chlanda (guitars & vocals).
Purchase Ray’s very special memoir called ‘Check the Gs’ -The True Story of an Eclectic American Family and Their Wacky Family Business … You’ll LIVE IT! Also available for download on NOOK or KINDLE edition for JUST .99 CENTS at amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com- Please support Ray so he can continue to bring you quality classic rock music reporting. ~~Pacific Book Review says Ray Shasho
is a product of the second half of the 20th century, made in the USA
from parts around the world, and within him is every trend in music,
television, politics and culture contributing to his philosophical and
comically analytical reflections collected in his fine book of memories.
I found Check the Gs to be pure entertainment, fantastic fun
and a catalyst to igniting so many memories of my own life, as I too am
within a few years of Ray. So to all, I say if you have a bit of grey
hair (or no hair), buy this book! It’s a great gift for your
“over-the-hill” friends, or for their kids, if they are the history
buffs of younger generations trying to figure out why we are the way we
are.
