Thanks to the ministrations of a certain rockin' reverend I have now heard the London performance of "SMiLE" and I am blown away. I have expressed my skepticism about this unfinished album before,but now I have to say that it is every bit the masterpiece many had hoped for,but despaired of ever hearing. It is an elegant,cohesive work that can only be classified as American classical. The parts I had heard and written off as drug music suddenly make sense and soar within the organic whole of this piece. "Heroes and Villans" sounds completely fresh.This truly is a marvel of American musical acheivement that will prove to be timeless,IMHO. I can't wait to hear it live!

What I'm really excited about is hearing the studio release later this month...

this month? geez you must be thrilled

In the U.S., Tuesday September 28, to be exact...yes, I'm jazzed.

so is this a beach boys release or a brian wilson release?

It's Brian Wilson, with his current touring band which features all 3 members of the Wondermints, along with several other exceptional musicians, as well as the Stockholm horns and strings who are touring with Brian as well.

The official title of the release is Brian Wilson Presents SMiLE. A lot of people have heard tracks either on internet radio stations or from lo-fi files available at www.smilethealbum.com (a Nonesuch records official site promoting the album). Of those who have heard this music and are knowlegible of the original sessions (whether officially released or on bootlegs), the consensus is that this album is a total triumph that fully lives up to its legend.

Got my tickets today for the October performance in Atlanta. I think Rev and Alg are going; anyone else?

Cool!!! Alg and myself are planning to get together beforehand. The plans are not finalized for that yet, but it would be great to get to meet you there as well, GE.

Sounds like fun. Let me know when the plan comes together tighter so I know when and where.

Op-Ed in the NY Times today, I don't really know what the writer is trying to say,but I thought you might be interested in reading it.

http://www.nytimes.com/2004/09/18/opinion/18sat3.html