Brian Wilson Celebrates the 50th Anniversary of ‘Pet Sounds’ at Hollywood Bowl

Amanda Nolan

Fifty years ago, The Beach Boys came out with their masterpiece album, “Pet Sounds.” Brian Wilson, the co-founder of the group, will commemorate the anniversary by playing the entire album live on tour and is set to appear at The Hollywood Bowl on July 10. Joining him are fellow band members Al Jardine and Blondie Chaplin. The Pet Sounds 50th Anniversary World Tour is taking up at least 70 dates and coincides with the release of a special edition of “Pet Sounds” (available on June 10). The multi-disc set will include mono and stereo versions, live recordings and will be loaded with session extras.

Before “Pet Sounds” was originally released in 1966, The Beach Boys were already riding a wave of success with their youthful surf music. After Wilson suffered a panic attack on a flight in 1964, he took a break from touring with the group. However, he didn’t stop composing songs. Wilson experimented with different arrangements and instruments and collaborated with The Wrecking Crew session musicians. Wilson’s creativity flourished as he utilized unconventional sounds like sleigh bells, Coca-Cola cans and vibraphones ; Even Wilson’s dogs made an appearance on the album. The rest of the Boys returned and laid down their heavenly harmonies.

The results were magical. The dreamy “Wouldn’t it Be Nice,” the ethereal “God Only Knows” and the wistful “Sloop John B” continue to be popular fan favorites. “Pet Sounds” is seen as groundbreaking work for its innovation and pioneered the idea of the concept album. It is widely regarded as one of the best albums ever produced. Interest has hardly waned as The Beach Boys’ appeal has carried through generations of fans and musicians, and Brian Wilson’s extraordinary life was recently depicted in the 2014 film “Love & Mercy” (starring Paul Dano and John Cusack).

As if the night couldn’t get any more grand, indie singer-songwriter M. Ward will be opening the show. He will be promoting his latest solo album “More Rain.” Sounds like the perfect way to spend a summer evening in California.

Brian Wilson will be playing The Hollywood Bowl on July 10. Tickets can be found here.