With 1972 release, group explored new ground while staying true to roots
After the Beach Boys released “Pet Sounds” in 1966, subsequent efforts took on a different approach, abandoning the patented surf-rock sound that defined the early part of their career. The group still explored life in California, the production and arrangements remained immaculate, but the style shifted and the lyrics no longer were simple.
Brian Wilson, who increasingly suffered from mental illness brought on by a variety of factors, still contributed to the Beach Boys during their so-called Brother Period, but his work was sparse, as Carl Wilson. Dennis Wilson and Mike Love each exerted their creative influences to reshape the group’s sound. One such album released during this era was 1972’s “Carl and the Passions – ‘So Tough.’”
Although the album is officially credited to the Beach Boys, Carl and the Passions was the name of the band when the Wilson brothers first started out in high school. And while this LP may not be widely known, it honestly is one of the band’s better works. It features contributions from Daryl Dragon, the genius producer and piano virtuoso who comprised half of the husband-and-wife duo Captain & Tennille, and it influenced the likes of Elton John and Tom Petty. It also was the first Beach Boys album to feature Blondie Chaplin and Ricky Fetaar as contributors and full-time members.
The musical arrangements by Brian, Dennis, Carl and Dragon are genius, as usual, but the sound is raw and earthier than the band’s die-hard fans may be accustomed to. But Love, Brian, Dennis and Fetaar’s vocals are passionate, and – in spite of the various competing personalities – the album works from the outset.
The eight-song record is brief and to the point, but Love’s “He Came Down” shows his spiritual side, as the track pays homage to Jesus. Fetaar’s “Hold on Dear Brother” is brilliantly arranged, and the backing vocals are similar to the trademark harmonies from the band’s early days.
There’s simply not a bad track here, in fact, as the LP is a little bit rock and blues, a little bit gospel and a little prog. Dennis and Dragon collaborated on “Marcella,” a song which could’ve been released in rock’s early days, but it remains fresh today. The duo also composed “Make it Good,” which could’ve landed on “Pet Sounds” and still fit in nicely. The pair also co-wrote “Cuddle Up,” a tender ballad and the album finale.
On “Carl and the Passions – ‘So Tough,’” the Beach Boys go back to rock ‘n’ roll’s roots, but they also experiment with new sounds. The excellent execution of the combination makes the LP a near work of perfection.
