Search - Beach Boys :: Made in U.S.a.

1/2 -- Quite a comprehensive Beach Boys collection, and the

Johnny Boy | Hockessin, DE | 08/19/2010

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The Beach Boys, were, for a time, one of the few bands that could even *come close* to rivaling The Beatles' success. They were huge in England and America, and while their popularity waned a bit in the 1970s, they were still as big as ever in Europe. They had a major comeback in the 1980s, playing at Live Aid in 1985 and even had a #1 hit in 1989, 'Kokomo.' This group has truly lived through it all.



'Made in the USA' is a collection of tracks recorded from 1961-1986, 25 years. Obviously, 'Kokomo' is not included (that was released in 1989 on the 'Cocktail' movie soundtrack -- but that's another review altogether), but every other essential Beach Boys song is. This compilation is loaded with classic tunes, and the average listener is likely to recognize about 75% of what's on here.



This album featured songs from 1962's 'Surfin' Safari' all the way through 1985's 'The Beach Boys' (the self-titled album). Times and technology changed radically during those 23 years, but then again, so did The Beach Boys. 'Getcha Back,' the major hit single from the '85 album is included here, as are two new-for-1986 songs, 'Rock N' Roll to the Rescue' and a cover of the Mamas & The Papas' classic hit 'California Dreamin',' featuring none other than the legendary Roger McGuinn (of The Byrds) on his trademark Rickenbocker guitar.



And, of course, you get almost all of the hits. 'Surfer Girl,' 'Surfin' Safari,' 'Wouldn't it Be Nice,' 'Good Vibrations' and their 1976 first-comeback hit, their cover of Chuck Berry's 'Rock & Roll Music,' as well as countless other hits and classic album tracks.



To be honest, I prefer 'Made in the USA' over 'Sounds of Summer.' Sure, 'Sounds of Summer' has more music (30 songs), but most of the material on that album was taken from this compilation (and besides, how could 'Sounds of Summer' omit 'Caroline No'?!?). Thus, this album is a far better pick. And, it's cheaper than 'Sounds of Summer.' You can get a cheap used copy here for well under $5. That's a pretty good deal!



It's a shame Capitol didn't re-release this album. It's a great choice for the new Beach Boys fan, or for the casual fan who doesn't want to dive deep into their enormous catalogue. Go for this one. You get a lot of bang for your buck here.



Recommended."