Surf's Up

I notice that WIKI lists the last track on Side 1 as Student Demonstration Time. My very old Australian vinyl pressing of Surf’sUp, on the Stateside label, lists that track as Riot in Cell Block Number Nine. It’s the same Leiber & Stoller classic, first sung in 1954 by the great Richard Berry (lead singer with The Robins), who two years later would write & record Louie Louie. What The Beachboys did was change the setting from prison to a series of tertiary campuses (Berkeley, Kent State). It works okay. Apart from that, the tracks are all originals, with Mike Love being the only member not responsible for a composition. Bruce Johnston’s sole effort was the one song most covered - Disney Girls(1957) was recorded a year later by (Mama)Cass Elliot, with help from Johnston & Carl Wilson & then in 1975 by Art Garfunkel (again with Johnston). It’s a little MOR for The Beachboys, but it’s way ahead of the composition that Johnston will always be remembered for - I Write The Songs - a huge hit for Barry Manilow. But the album’s highlights are both on Side 2, which opens with Carl Wilson’s Feel Flows, always a great, musically weird track, which had a second life after it was featured in the film Almost Famous. Cameron Crowe claimed it was his favourite Beachboys tune. And the album ends with Brian Wilson’s Surf’s Up, the second song he ever wrote with Van Dyke Parks, voted by Mojo staff members in 2011 as the band’s greatest song. It’s not a great album but it features two clasics.

Very soothing album. Beach boys have always been my favorite 60s band. The album really holds up. These guys have just mastered the art of making pop songs.

WE ARE SO BACKKK album art goes. crazy beach boys emocore. Damn I didn't know beach boys had range like this. They take on some darker themes but still keep the signature upbeat beach boys sound. An interesting juxtaposition that works for the most part.

The Beach Boys have always had a fire sound with all the vocal harmonies and with a subject matter that’s more than just “let’s surf and have a fun summer” this album hits incredibly harder than some of their others. It’s their most somber album by a long shot, and they do a great job of switching it up while keeping enough of their trademark sound. This thing is filled with great tracks. Only skip on here for me is “student demonstration time” which was a diversion from their sound as well as tried too hard to be socially conscious; obviously they were going for that for most that album but I think this one just got overly specific and fell flat. Take a load off your feet is kinda dumb and light hearted for this album but I don’t mind the song on its own. Other than that everything plays for me. Some great songs on here to sit and think or just melt into your couch. Gonna give this a 4 but could see myself regretting not giving a 5. Best: Feel flows, til I die, surfs up, Disney girls, don’t go near the water MMM: FEEL FLOWWWS 🚶🏽‍♂️FEEL GOOOOOES🧎🏽‍♂️

I like a lot of this album but it also doesn't blow me away. I'm a big fan of the Beach Boys 60s work, with Pet Sounds being an obvious masterpiece. I wouldn't skip any of the songs on here and it's pretty enjoyable throughout but there also didn't feel like many standout tracks to me. I'd probably give this one a 3.5 if I could but will round up because it's pretty chill and there are some cool interesting tracks on it. Standout Tracks: Long Promised Road, Take a Load Off Your Feet, Feel Flows, 'Til I Die, Surf's Up

Pretty good not gonna ngl. It's like the poppy jolly music in the lyrics but more experimental instrumentals. Makes for a nice cocktail of sound

Was NOT expecting the beach boys album to sound this way. really enjoyed it. Couldn’t decide what to make of it bc i went in expecting California Girls type music. But ez 4

A strong Beach Boys album

Very good all around. Rating: 4.2

The Beach Boys' most somber album, and it's fantastic. Truely exquisite songwriting on display, as expected by this point. This album marks the second in the band's tenure with Reprise Records, a sort of second wind intended for the boys after financial troubles had hit them, requiring the selling off of their back catalogue. This would also mark Brian Wilson's return to songwriting and producing after a stint in a psychiatric hospital in the late 60's. Surf's Up was a success for the band, garnering favorable reviews and putting them back in the limelight. It helped that the songs were great. I know people love to praise Pet Sounds, but Surf's Up is where it's really at. More mature songwriting, more well-executed ideas, particularly in the run of the album's last three songs (all written by Brian Wilson).

Some superb songs here nestled in amongst some really odd stuff. Before Pearl Jam's Vitalogy album, there was the Beach Boys' Surf's Up. 3.5 rounded up to 4.

The Beach Boys' dark later days wear well. "Feel Flows" is a 10.

On paper, an album by The Beach Boys without the involvement of its central, tragic character, Brian Wilson— and right off the heels of the collapse of their ambitious Smille— seems like it must be doomed to fail. That’s certainly the way you might tell the story, if you didn’t know better. Brian’s barely present on this album, contributing a few, brilliant songs other than his half-completed Surf’s Up— and, reportedly, he was all but completely missing for the production. And yet this album does a marvelous job of capturing not only the spirit of The Beach Boys as they were evolving, but also the songwriting voices of the other members, encouraging them to go further, stretch the concepts, try new things. This obviously doesn’t work well on “Student Demonstration Time”— no explanation needed— but I’ve always felt that “Feel Flows” and “Don’t Go Near The Water” are right up there with some of the weirder, stranger, more introspective Beach Boys songs from Pet Sounds etc. And “Surf’s Up” is probably up there for the best 4 minutes that the 60s ever produced, and the way the song was concluded, understood on this album, is an amazing rendition of it. No, it’s not Smile, but then again, nothing ever was. 4/5

The first two tracks of the album were really fun and gave me high hopes for the rest, but although I enjoyed the rest it wasn’t as great as I had hoped. Best tracks: Don’t Go Near The Water, Long Promised Road, Student Demonstration Time, Feel Flows Worst track: Take A Load Off Your Feet

I was more familiar with the 1960s albums from the Beach Boys' but this was a very pleasant surprise. Their signature "doo woop" style of singing isn't there on this album though their beautiful vocal harmonies are. Musically it has some more complex structures and lyrically they sing more about politics and social issues than before. I'll need a few relistens but it's definitely a strong 4 at my first listen.

Their last fine record. It's incredibly consistent in mood and production, taking on a slow, relaxing, melancholic, and lush sound. Sometimes a bit wacky like "Take a Load Off Your Feet" which reminds me of the childrens' musical style from Sunflower. There are a few exceptions, like the rampant bluesy "Student Demonstration Time" that sounds like something familiar (Yer Blues from White Album?), or the mythical folk of "Lookin at Tomorrow". But every track is memorable and innovative, especially with their traditional chamber vocals, full wall of sound, and unique instrumentation (features a million synths, a banjo, tambourine, flutes, and much more). Excellent choice in opening and closing tracks. It's short enough for each song to make an impact. This is one album I frequently return to. Favorites: Disney Girls, Feel Flows, Till I Die, Surf's Up

Light 9. Student Demonstration Time seriously ways this down and disrupts the flow of the record being slapped right in the center. seems to me this album should be more of a psychedelic and atmospheric experience of a project rather than an eclectic collection of songs, so it feels out out place. plus the song is ass

I love The Beach Boys, but I've never heard of this album, or any of the songs on it. With a name like Surf's Up, I had certain expectations, but those expectations were quickly dashed. It was really different to hear The Beach Boys sing about social and political issues, but I feel like it worked really well. As with a lot of Beach Boys work, the harmonies here were great, and the production work of layering so many elements together to create beautiful sounds. While I think that this was a really good album, I don't think it's the band's best work. While the political and social commentary worked, and it was musically great, it just kind of lacked a total cohesiveness in my opinion. The best way I can describe it is that it just didn't feel quite as full as something like Pet Sounds. I wish I could rate it 3.5 stars, but I always find myself rounding up.

It's good, but a bit different for Beach Boys. There's less of an emphasis on vocals for most of the album. It takes a little bit of getting used to. It almost feels like it shouldn't be by The Beach Boys. But, despite that, I still liked it. I honestly wished that more of the album was vocally led, as that's something that I enjoy about the Beach Boy's earlier music, but I'm okay with the end product. My favourite song was Surf's Up.

Good morning Monday

So different from the more well known tracks. I really enjoyed this

Classic sound -- interesting lyrics. Overall easy listening. The Beach Boys rule tbh.

Very difficult than what I was expecting. More Beatles than California Girls.

What a quirky little album. There are a couple of throwaway songs on here, but overall, I found this album to be charming and when it really hit for me on songs like Long Promised Road, Disney Girls, and Til I Die, I loved it. Definitely holds up to anything else from this era.

This was a really pleasant surprise, didn’t expect this from the Beach Boys.

Love me some Beach Boys, but wow, this was a weird one. Not even sure what to make of it.

This is wild. I never would have known this was The Beach Boys. These are complicated songs with serious subject matter that still rock and hit. Crazy. If you are a set in the stone The Beach Boys have to be poppy listener, you’ll hate this. If you can approach it from a new angle, this is pretty interesting to listen to.

Veldig mye bedre enn jeg fryktet. Mye av beach boys har aldri truffet meg, men her har de utviklet lydbildet sitt tip noe større og tøffere

17th studio album?! This was so different from all of the Beach Boys I had heard before, but so great. 4/5

Loving this dark album cover. This is like their bad boy era…I like the Beach Boys okay!!!

HL: title track, “A Day in the Life of a Tree”, “Student Demonstration Time”, "Long Promised Road" Can recall listening to "Til I Die" before, but this is the first time I've heard the other tracks. Pretty happy with this one. Has some of the baroque & experimental flourishes as heard in "Pet Sounds", delivered in a patchwork of (starkly) arranged pop songs, zooming between the jazzy "Disney Girls" & the glam stomp in "Student Demo" (tracks right beside each other). Unexpected synth in many of the tracks, too, not a bad or good thing- "Surf's Up" sounds like a straight prog album in certain moments. February 10, 2023

Really good album. Even the student demonstration song grew on me on 2nd listen through. Really liked Long Promised Road, Take a Load Off Your Feet, and especially Looking at Tomorrow. So many other good songs. The student riot song and tree songs are the only 2 that I could take or leave. 8.5/10

Huh, an album that discusses the greatness of trees, water, and feet. Surfs down!

Underrated 70s era BB

The album had a unique focus on the environment and nature, though some of the vocals felt weaker than other beach boys music I’ve heard. Not their strongest collection, but a cool listen nonetheless. If it had been their earlier album Pet Sounds I would have given 5 stars.

It's not as good as Pet Sounds, but still very interesting and with equally great style and atmosphere. Lyrics on this album are completely different as well, very pro-ecological, trying to show us some issues going on with the oceans on our planet. Instrumental-wise the record is really good, every song is actually worth listening, although it doesn't have any standout tracks. Another positive surprise on the list!

Classic

I've never previously heard anything from this album. It was definitely a departure from their early work, song about surfing and cars. Student demonstration time was the surprise song on the album. I don't remember them being overtly political in previous songs. This album was pretty good overall.

Wow, never heard or listened to this one. Great album. Pretty diverse songs, with some pretty good contrast within. Solid 4! TBz 1. Surf’s Up 2. Lookin’ At Tomorrow 3. Long Promised Road 4. Take A Load Off Your Feet

Whoa! This one surprised me. Not familiar with these guys past Pet Sounds, which is a fantastic album. This one I had not particularly heard of so I was really pleasantly surprised that this was so damn good. The happiest punk rock record ever.

Very strange indeed, but intermittently sublime, because it's the Beach Boys. "Disney Girls" and "Long Promised Road" and "Feels Flows" are all great and one can scarcely think of a better song about podiatry than "Take a Load Off." "Student Demonstration Time" sounds like a reaching after relevance in competition with angrier protest bands. Interesting the shift to grittier guitar sounds and instrumentation shifts, generally.

Wouldn't have known it was The Beach Boys.

A pleasant album, obviously not the normal fair they are known for more soft and introspective, they still were experimenting after Pet Sounds it seems and its a great album to just chill out to. Favourite tracks Long Promised Road and Feel Flows (Absolute top track).

This is such nostalgia for me! Just by seeing the cover I can instantly transport back to the 90's and see my dad listening these records. And what records they made! While Surf's Up isn't quite their greatest, it's still a very solid release. It did have it's troubles but ultimately there's some of their greatest songs on it. Key tracks: Don't Go Near The Water, Long Promised Road, Disney Girls, Student Demonstration Time, Feel Flows, A Day In The Life Of A Tree, 'Til I Die, Surf's Up 8 out of 10

Honestly I'm not the hugest fan of post-smile beach boys. There's a lot of great songs here and the cover art is gorgeous but it just feels off. Surfs up and disney girls are two of the bands best.

Ohhh I loved it, a few corny songs, but it had me in the second half.

Pet Sounds is a 5 for me, but I have always been apprehensive on other Beach Boys albums. This one started off pretty lackluster with some cornball tracks, but it did shine its soul(Brian Wilson) on the second half and started going hard on "Feel Flows" onward. I listened to this back-half thrice cuz it bopped. If it was just the last 5 songs it would be getting a 5, but alas I cannot ignore the stank of the first half.

J'aime beaucoup les beach boys et c,est un très bon album, Cependant, il n'est pas au complet sur Spotify ce qui fait qu'on peut pas en profiter pleinement, 4

Quite good, even if it’s not the Beach Boys’ best work. But I like the somber feeling this album evokes and its equally playful and haunting look at nostalgia. Glad to own it. B

Albums like this are exactly why I'm doing this project. How have I not heard this before? Excellent

An excellent album 4+/5

Based on the title I was expecting something very different. Very little surfing here. Some great tunes and was certainly not expecting this from The Beach Boys.

This is different for The Beach Boys, but it is good. The title track is one of my favorite by this group. Overall, a solid album.

Very good, thoroughly enjoyed it

Hold up if you "don't like the Beach Boys" (i.e. me)...: I'd never heard anything off of this and when I saw "Beach Boys" it was predictable disappointment. I never caught on to any of their music; the admittedly impressive vocal harmonies and perfectly crafted major melodies had always missed me as being less dramatic or frankly interesting than music I usually gravitate towards. But the dark and mysterious cover actually does give some insight to what's inside; aside from the opening obvious vocal calling card... this doesn't sound anything at all like "The Beach Boys™" - mostly gone are the thick 3 and 4 part harmonies in favour of far more variety and creative progressions. And even if you're of the sort where lyrics tend to be secondary to the music, it's impossible to miss the obvious soft concept running through this one: environmental and societal concerns abound on virtually every song give each of these more weight than any typical surf song they'd built a career on. And musically it's a complete changeup - e.g. listen to "Disney Girls (1957)" which is far more complex and difficult than it seems, which shows how impressive it is. "A Day In the Life of a Tree" is just weird and lush and gorgeous. No giant or quick big melodic chorus or hooks within, I had to immediately play the entire (short) album again to really digest this - mark of a creative album. The highlight overall is "Feel Flows" - the best song on this [and I do know this from the film "Almost Famous"] album and definitely the best Beach Boys song I've ever heard - so good, mysterious/sad/happy all at once - some great studio effects on the piano and vocals that add to the mood. The only real miss for me is "Student Demonstration Time" - a dullish bluesy number that seems out of place even here on what to me is a (beautifully)n out of place album - it's lyrically simple and a bit dull overall. But overall this album's melodies and craft seem to carry forward echoes of highly melodic bands 10-20 years later like Jellyfish and XTC. I definitely didn't think I'd enjoy this but there you go - it's not flawless but I'm glad to have been given the chance to be surprised and discover it. A keeper. 7/10 4 stars

strong 4, light 5

pretty good! especially liked tracks 4 and 5

I love the artwork more than the album itself. Songs and lyrics were interesting but not wholly memorable. Very solid album not as good as Pet Sounds.

Good one!

It was good. I suspect I’ll listen to several tracks again and in time I may appreciate this more. I do think the sound they have on this album is awesome and not what I expected. Already threw Disney Girls on the playlist and Surfs Up might be in the rotation soon.

The album it's interesting 'cause it has a lot of styles, it's an album that combines so many styles that is hard to find a good classification of this album. Generally some songs are great and have a meaning lyrically and historically speaking, however it seems that this album is not the greatest work by the beach boys.

Other than "Long Promised Road", which I could not enjoy for some reason, I really liked this album, more so than I expected. I love a record that's not afraid to talk about more important things, and the lush harmonies I've adored were still present.

Wasn't sure how to rate. Somewhere between a 3 and a 4. Really like: - The album art. It threw me and made the prospect of listening to the Beach Boys more appealing. - Disney Girls, A Day In The Life Of A Tree, 'Til I Die, Surf's Up Really do not like: - Take A Load Off Your Feet - Student Demonstration Time

Pas les Beach Boys qu'on connait! Très expérimental et Brit! J'ai bien aimé, mais pas ce à quoi je m'attendais!

Différent de ce que je connaissais d'eux, ce nonobstant très plaisant. Pochette hideuse.

not what i was expecting from the beach boys, but it was a very diverse selection and i enjoyed the vibes. would love to revisit this album while stoney pony

I've only listened to this one other time and it was probably because of "Feel Flows." What an incredibly beautiful song that I was completely unaware of until I had seen "Almost Famous." Apparently it was the first song that Carl wrote, just gorgeous. Other than that the only other song I knew from here was the title track which I knew from "Smile." I thought that this album would suffer from the diminished presence of Brian and his couple of contributions are great, I mean he's Brian Wilson an undisputed musical genius, but the contributions by the other guys here are good too "Student Demonstration Time" and "Don't Go Near The Water" stand out for me.

The Beach Boys are so much more than just Pet Sounds. This one and Sunflower might be less recognized as classics, but I think they both have some of the best music they've ever recorded.

Very good album with great vibes. One of the best from the ingenuous Beach Boys.

Not my favorite of the band, but it surely deserve some attention. A lot of attention on the details, very creative and awesome production as always.

Magnificent album by the Beach Boys focused on the arrangements of instruments and voices. Lots of experimental details, but which don't become "too much" like on Pet Sounds, for example. There are darker songs than usual. It's also more focused on moods than catchy melodies. Amongst my favorite albums from this band. Love it.

Much wider range than I thought they had

A later Beach Boys gem

Now Surf's Up is twice on my albums playlist!

Had a little less pep than I expect when I think of The Beach Boys

Darker than I’d have ever guessed, chamber-jazzizsh. The explicit political song reminded me of Zappa (not in a good way). Still an intriguing album I’m sure I’ll come back to.

Very good songs

I really liked this album. I’ve never heard the BBs do a blues song. Kinda fun.

I can't even hate on Student Demonstration Time, Disney Girls is lush and the rest: sublime.

A surprising Beach Boys album I'd never heard before. Not quite a perfect record, sometimes a bit worthy & smelling of greenwash, but actually very good.

Not very memorable album, but an easy listen.

I love this album and was pleasantly surprised to see it was included in this list. The Beach Boys took a darker and more psychedelic turn with a lot of the songs on this album while still doing what they do best - massive vocal harmonies. Carl Wilson (R.I.P.) in particular had some of his best work on this album (Long Promised Road and Feel Flows). I'm giving it 4 only because the consistency could be better and it's only 33 minutes long. Student Demonstration Time is pretty cringe, and there are maybe two other songs that aren't very strong. The rest of the album is excellent and some of the best work The Beach Boys ever did. Favorite song: tie between Feel Flows and Surf's Up

Solid all around. A welcome departure from their early stuff.

Second listen really made me appreciate this one more. Overall weird popprog stuff but in the end i enjoyed it more than initially thought

Liked it more after a few listens. Nice break from the beachy beach boys. appreciated all the different feelings/genres. I hate to admit that I don't know much about the Beach Boys, this definitely has me interested in listening to more of their catalog.

i liked this so much more then i was expecting

I thought this was cool. I wasn't really aware of the Beach Boys post-Smile, pre-Kokamo career. This was better than I thought it would be given the reduced influence of Brian Wilson. I didn't really feel like there were any standout moments, but the album was pleasant overall 4/5

Mjög falleg og kósí plata.

Première écoute à vie de cet album. Je suis vraiment agréablement surpris. C'est probablement l'album à écouter pour ceux qui n'aiment pas les Beach Boys. Je trouve que la rivalité avec les Beatles a fait du bien au groupe. Ils ont osé prendre plus de risques. Musicalement et en terme de mélodies vocales, c'est intéressant et on reconnait les fondements du groupe malgré un changement de direction par rapport aux débuts. J'aime comment chacun est mis en évidence sur les différentes chansons. Je trouve que c'est une belle évolution. La pièce Take A Load Off Your Feet me fait énormément penser au style de Hubert Lenoir, le petit côté pop, la façon que les voix sont arrangées et la façon de chanter. J'adore la pochette. Définitivement un album que je vais réécouter. Pièces préférées: Student Demonstration Time, 'Til I Die, Don't Go Near The Water, Long Promised Road, Take A Load Off Your Feet.

Way better and more poetic than I expected

Rating: 7/10 Best songs: Long promised road

Probably more like a 3.75 with a couple of really good, innovative songs. Overall some hits and some misses.

very good, much better than I expected with mature sound.

Very different album from the Beach Boys, lots of haunting songs with a focus on political themes. Really enjoyed the album, Surf's Up itself is an amazing tune and enjoyed almost all of the songs with maybe one or two exceptions.

Does not sound like “the beach boys” but that’s what makes it great. A really unique collection of songs which shows off all of their individual talents and strengths as a groups.

I'd never listened to this before. Is it Pet Sounds? no. Is it class? yes!

Favorite songs: Feel Flows, 'Til I Die, Surf's Up

Didn’t know this existed and I’m glad I do now

Bel construção pop com psicodelia.

The cover art is arresting. Don Quixote meets Poseidon meets that Native American who cried because of all the litter. Oil painting brush strokes and a name plate like you'd find on a painting in a museum. The grim subject of the painting and the somber colors really contrast with both the name of the band and the name of the album. The first track, Don't Go Near The Water, is genuinely sad and despairing. Although I guess ultimately optimistic that maybe it isn't too late for our poor planet if we all wake up and do something. Shame that we didn't, isn't it? The rest of the album goes on in that same cautionary vein, personal, societal, environmental. Honestly the themes sound like the same bunch of hippies who thought up Earth Day. It is still the Beach Boys, so even though the album is mostly a downer it is still gorgeous to listen to. None of the tracks are especially catchy in and of themselves. But the songs flow together making quite a pretty package. Am I glad I heard this before I died? Yes. Am I likely to listen to it again? Probably. A Day in the Life of a Tree could be called Bran Stark's Lament.

3.5

Pop-rock progresivo. Alguna canción recordaba a los Beatles. Un 4.

I enjoy The Beach Boys but don't think I've ever listened to this one. I dug it a lot though. The cover art is fantastic and quite different for them. The psych pop elements are really great.

It's terribly unfair I know, but this is both a brilliant album, and the start of the decline. Any other band and it'd likely be their very best, but while this is interesting as hell - what if the Beach Boys were really quite sad - it falls short of their imperial phase. Surf's Up is still essential listening... Just not life changing...

Really enjoyable.

A more mature and melancholy Beach Boys. It’s maybe not completely fair, but I can’t help comparing this to Holland - which they released 2 years later. Similar vibes but nothing on this one stands out as particularly fun or memorable.

Zombies clone

The title of the album (and the cover) say it all: Surf's Up. This is not the Beach Boys making (un)complicated happy surf songs anymore. This is far more complex and less happy. Beautifully arranged progressive pop songs.

It's like someone put The Beach Boys in a blender, then baked it. Love the texture.

what a lovely little slice of pop - no utter bangers mayhaps, but no complaints.

Some good stuff on there

A new discovery for me and one that I really enjoyed. You can hear the growth that reached it's zenith with Pet Sounds, but this one has a similar feel and dare I say may be a little more accessible. 4 stars

Hey wait a minute, this isn't the soundtrack to the hit 2007 computer animated film? My disappointment is immeasurable and my day is ruined. Oh wow, I was not ready for how bluesy "Student Demonstration Time" is! The guitar and vocals on that track have some got-damn attitude. I had no idea The Beach Boys had that in them. Also holy shit, the lyrics to that song are socially conscious as fuck and are still relevant today. Wow yeah this album is way different than what I've previously heard from this group. I was expecting some "round round get around I get around" type of beat, not this deep, existential sonic experience - I'm all for it!

Fantastic

I visualize this journey as a day at the beach, or maybe at the woody mountains (the original title of this album was "Landlocked" but they resurrected the discarded track from 1966, "Surf's Up", and made it a decent closing track for the album). In the early morning, the cool and welcoming vibes was captured by "Don't Go Near the Water". I love the casual and slightly trippy energy of it. The rest of the morning, the first half of the album, is pretty bland. Just a bunch of forgettable Beatles-esque tracks. At noon, a riot erupted. "Student Demonstration Time" is a bit of a rocker with a dark theme. But even that is forgettable and not that great. The fun began when the sun sets. The beautiful sound of "Feel Flows" painted the crimson-going-indigo colors of such calm time of the day. The ocean went from blue to black. And the winds became more solid and cool. It's nighttime, and while everyone is beginning to sleep, the nature is just waking up. I love this "nighttime" part, the second-half of the album. It's trippy and oftentimes emotional. The sound conjures images of walking alone in the beach at night. Almost haunting, but cool and relaxing. It's like being spiritually close to nature. It was night. And nature was wide awake. . . . And the lyrics? Perhaps extending the metaphor and narrating this as the reason for spending a day at some beach? To ponder about some social issues, especially environmental ones. Perhaps their true motive is just to re-ignite the band's public image, and that might be the reason it felt messy. But the few stellar tracks are worth experiencing. I might not come back to experience the whole album, but I would listen to those tracks again. Perhaps at a vacation in the woods. Man, this album made me want to experience and smell those woods and leaves and soil again.

I did not expect to hear Mike Love sing an ode to feet but here we are. This still holds up against other BB works but I don't think I'd choose it over Smile, Pet Sounds, or their early work.

Some gems on here

Great

Djeluje čak depresivnije/mračnije od onoga što su prije radili, i dobro je, također je i cover odličan. Sviđa mi se album. Nije mi u potpunosti odličan, ali je dobar! Prvi dio albuma iliti prva strana je jača od druge. Imo. Najdraža mi je Feel Flows, taman na tom prijelazu na drugu stranu albuma.

Disc de ressaca d'una década. Mateixos vibes en aquest sentit que 'Bridge Over Troubled Water', però radicalment diferent en quant a plantejament, filosofia i motivacions. Les harmonies vocals tracten de recuperar l'esperança dels 60, però es veuen maniatades per unes melodies i temàtiques opressives, pessimistes, apesarades. Tot plegat, però, tot i ser molt lluny de la immediatesa de les seves primeres obres, transpua una qualitat i pes artístic de primer nivell

Politieke rock

I enjoyed this more then I thought i would, since it is not a beach boys album I had heard before.

I guess I didn't really know what happened to The Beach Boys between 1966 and 1988. There was a lot more than I imagined, and this was a really amazing experience for me. Really interesting, varied stuff! Different voices, different styles...always a hint of earlier Beach Boys there. I loved "Disney Girls (1957)" and "Feel Flows" and "'Til I Die" and "Surf's Up," maybe all for different reasons. The songs "Don't Go Near the Water" and "Student Demonstration Time" and "A Day in the Life of a Tree" are fascinating looks at 1971 through an adapting Beach Boys lens. I really enjoyed this "discovery," and feel that several of these songs will stay with me for some time.

I do love me some Beach Boys and was happy to see one of there albums pop up on the list. I was not familiar with this one. I was definitely different that the sound that I am familiar with. The music and vocals seemed to lack a richness. I don't know if that was more the production or the compositions. Overall, it was good.

Really interested and tight. The Beach Boys is an excellent group.

different from what i’d expected from the beach boys. kinda gave eels vibes and i enjoyed it

This was completely unexpected. The album feels much darker than their upbeat more popular songs, but it showcases their voices and talents just as well. Really enjoyed it.

A good one but not for the playlist

A new discovery for me and one that I really enjoyed. You can hear the growth that reached it's zenith with Pet Sounds, buty this one has a similar feel and dare I say may be a little more accessible. 4 stars

A bit darker than the beach boys I’m used… enjoyed this though. No one can say they don’t know their way around a good tune!

Pretty fun album. Would never have recognized it as a Beach Boys album if I hadn't known!

I enjoyed this. Even though I have heard my fair share of Beach Boys songs, I didn't know any of the ones on this album. I also feel these songs are quite different from their usual vibe. Enjoyable, though!

I had never heard this side of The Beach Boys and wow, I am impressed!

Ya vi que no les gustaron tanto los beach boys así que me voy a moderar.

Wow! Hatte ich überhaupt nicht auf dem Zettel, dieses psychedelisiert müde, angenehm gebrochene und dann ganz erwachsen wieder zusammengesetzt endlich aus Brians riesigem Schatten getretene Spätwerk der frühen Beach Boys. Trifft heute einen ganz weichen Soft Spot bei mir, muss mich bisschen zügeln, nicht die (vielleicht doch diskutable? Ich weiß es schlicht nicht und bleibe vorsichtig!) Höchstnote zu vergeben für diese großartig aufgebaute Reihe von Hits, die spätestens ab Student Demonstration Time so richtig ins Bewusstsein tritt, nur um jenes dann mit Feel Flows direkt wieder aufs angenehmste zu vernebeln. Leute/Leut: vielleicht hab ich seit jetzt gerade eine neue Lieblingsplatte von den Beach Boys. Ziemlich gut möglich sogar. 4,5 - und vielleicht werden es noch mehr!

Much better than I was expecting considering the album didn't have any of their well known songs.

Agree with comments that this can seem a bit disjointed in places but for me thats its charm. The first 4 songs are all great but could be from 4 different bands, not something you always say about TBB. Long Promised Road an absolute classic.

An extremely unique, interesting entry by the Beach Boys. I haven't heard them sound this morose before, it's actually a really sweet sound.

Geniaal

Donkerdere muziek dan wat ik ken van The Beach Boys, al deed de hoes dat ook al vermoeden. Het is af en toe wel een traag album, maar de 40 jaar oude teksten zijn nog altijd brandend actueel

4.5

-Pretty solid album overall, but the second half was kind of boring -"Student Demonstration Time" was by far the best song

not bad at all

good

No hay mucha playa, pero está chulísimo! Me ha sorprendido bastante, no se parece en nada a otras cosas que he escuchado de ellos

Some good psychedelic pop. "Student Demonstration Time" was really good.

Was not expecting these type of darker songs from The Beach Boys. Very enjoyable.

8. The riot and jaws tracks were the best. Weirdly sounds a bit dated tho

Brian Wilson at his quirkiest.

A great, somber, thoughtful, well-produced beautiful album...with fucking “Student Demonstration Time” right in the middle of it 🙄

Decent (3/5)

I was not expecting this from the Beach Boys at all. It's complex, deals with themes of global pollution and protest, and dips into genres I would have never thought they would go for. I like this a lot. Favorite song: Long Promised Road

A chill classic. Look after your feet.

Surprised that this was the Beach Boys! Liked it!

Great album. Great songwriting and harmonies. One that I own.

Nice ironic mix of counterculture and the poppier motifs at the time. Short and sweet listen.

I was sceptical of 70s beach boys but this is excellent.

Thoroughly enjoyed it. My bias for chill music is showing but I liked this way better than their more upbeat stuff. High 8.

On the whole very enjoyable although I thought the quality between songs was varied.

Intriguing. Listen again

Cool and fun different sounds than I expected, Great cruising music.

I had never wondered what The Beach Boys did between Pet Sounds and Kokomo and yet here is this album. It’s a bit heavy-handed and strange but I like Disney Girls and it’s short. 7

8/10 bonito uwu. PD. Su portada metalera me dio miedo

Only having heard their hits I didnt know that they did a bit more folkish stuff as well.

Wow, nothing at all like I expected when I saw that the album of the day was a Beach Boys album. Melancholy and socially critical. These songs "slap", as the kids say. Gone are the days of goofy surfing lyrics and "Rah rah rah be true to your school". I like the double meaning of the album title.

Not the normal Beach Boys songs I was used to, I enjoyed this one.

I was pleasantly surprised by this album. It was more subdued than I expected from The Beach Boys, and had interesting melodies and lyrics.

Bängeri Skön classical rock. Jännä att jag inte har hört de här låtarna då många av dem är bättre än deras andra kända biisin

A deliberately weird Beach Boys album - yeah, I liked it! Fave track - well, "Surf's Up" sounded most classically Beach Boys, but I think I'm gonna go with "Student Demonstration Time" as being the most unexpected!

This album really surprised me. Maybe better than Pet Sounds. It's got a variety of sounds and themes, but they somehow all flow. Not repetitive. Quick and to the point. Definitely heavier than Pet Sounds and early Beach Boys.

No me esperaba algo tan diferente. Es único y bastante experimental a mi parecer pero me agradó mucho Realmente pensé que solo se habían dedicado a hacer música sobre olas, arena, sol y malteadas

7.5

Beach boys fare

Expected all the over played Beach Boy stuff. Got something that I would listen to again if I were in the mood. Very pleasant.

good album, is it a concept album tho?

I was surprised how much I loved this album!

surprised me, interesting listen all the way through. Have never heard this side of the beach boys but i like it a lot.

very different fr9m their earlier works

Classic

01/10/2020 Sat in room listening in the morning, WiFi in the block was down. Excellent album and showed me a side of The Beach Boys I was unaware of. Grew up listening to them in the car but had no idea they had such a strong 'non-commercial' side to them. Almost a 5.

A tale of two sides. They stuck the experiments that didn't work on Side 1 and the ones that did on Side 2. It's almost as if you can hear them maturing as the album goes on. I doubt that was the intent, but it's my headcanon. Best track: Feel Flows

Relaxing listen. Feel Flows is definitely the stand out track here

1971. Key Songs: Don't Go Near The Water, 'Til I Die, Lookin' At Tomorrow

Closer to a 3.7

A good album, I liked Student Demonstration Time and 'Til I Die the most.

A bit disappointed really, but it’s still peak Beach Boys era, so it’s cool.

Who took the beach out of these boys?

This is very just ok, whatever to me.

Not what I would have expected from the Beach Boys. A lot of this sounds like all the brothers wanting to find a different 70s sound. Very eclectic mix of songs. I thought there was some really cool sounds throughout, but some of the songs felt very underwritten. But nothing compares to when they hit those deep, slightly dissonant harmonies. Surfs up is very cool. I’ll give it a 3.5/5.

I liked it, definitely felt moodier and more melancholy than their other work, but doesn’t compare to pet sounds for me

Was worried it was going to be another daft Beach Boys surf album but was a nice change. Nowt fantastic but nice enough, still has all the Beach Boys hallmarks. Disney Girls was nice.

That was a trip. Cant imagine ill revisit anytime soon but was certainly not what i expected

Fucking hell didnt know theyd done 15/16 albums before this one. Think thats what you call prolific 'Long Promised Road' and 'Disney Girls' really well written songs No need for ' Take A Load Off Your Feet ' is there Or the one from the perspective of rhe tree Changing to a more experimental 70s era at this point by the sounds of it Its decent. But Wheres the friggin Surfing songs maaaan?! ... Duuuuuude?!

Called surfs up and hardly any surf songs try again

Fun. Never delved into these but I think the time has come.

A return to form of the Californian band. It is not as brilliant as Pet Sounds by any chance but it offers a darker and more psychedelic glimpse at Brian Wilson's songwriting. The feel it has, with a lesser production makes it feel like a foil to their Magnus Opus. 8/10 [KEEP]

Rating: 3/5 Playlist track: Don't Go Near The Water Date listened: 02/07/26 (during thesis!!) Listen when: Sunny chill afternoon I loveeee the end of Don't Go Near The Water! So beautiful

You know what, this was fun. Not a typical Beach Boys album but it's actually better for it, because some of these tracks are shockers, but it adds to the... enjoyment, I guess?

Well this was weirder than I expected. I guess it was the 70s.

chill de cojones

An interesting blend of different styles. I enjoyed the funkier tracks like “Take A Load Off Your Feet” and “Feel Flows” but a few songs felt like poor imitations of the Beatles…it’s hard to take their hard rock sound seriously. Minus one star for the James Earle Fraser artwork.

Interesting layovers and blend of songs.

Some nice crunchy 70’s guitars, but overall pretty disjointed, too much Mike and not enough Brian?

It was okay. Not sure I've ever actually sat through a whole beach boys album, was expecting 30 minutes of good vibrations and I'm happy it wasn't that.

Enjoyable, even though it loses steam in the second half. Now I know what era Oranger got their main influence from!

Advertised in ‘71 as “it’s safe to listen to the Beach Boys again”. If safe means mediocre. With new management and brother Carl in charge, the band begins to walk back from the experimental Pet Sounds into a safer “environmentally conscious and socially aware” territory. The only saving grace for this album is the three Brian penned songs on side two. My favorite “ A Day In The Life Of A Tree”

I hadn’t heard this Beach Boys album before. Not my favorite, I didn’t love a lot of it, but I did kind of dig the more serious somber side of them. 3/5

A departure from what I always thought of as the Beach Boys sound as heard in Pet Sounds, this album is just ok. Some good songs, but if I want to listen to 70s folk protest music, this wouldn't be my first stop.

This was not what I was expecting when I saw Beach Boys. One of the songs was about feet? It was interesting, but I probably won't be listening again.

Hadn’t heard this album. So different.

Not sure if I’ve heard any of these before

Music as it should be. Good Harmonies and lyrics. A good album overall.

I’m aware of The Beach Boys and their hits, but am not so sure if I’m a fan… Without any of those notable/fun singles on this album my first impression was that the recording was kind of rough and not typical from what I’ve heard or expected from them. It wasn’t until Student Demonstration Time that I took much note or felt like it was a serious album. Upon closer reflection of the album, songs, and lyrics I recognize this was intentional and can appreciate it for what it is.

Average not their best

It's them isnt it

This was fine? "Student Demonstration Time" "Lookin' At Tomorrow (A Welfare Song)" and "A Day In the Life of a Tree" were decent, but the rest didn't grab me much. Not sure if this was the best intro to the Beach Boys

Not looking forward to… What a weird album. Obviously Beatles influenced. Socially conscious in a… so very forthright manner. And then it slips back to… awesomeness with the final two tracks: till I die and Surf’s up. Idk. It’s actually a mess. 3 Boolean: True?

You see the title and think, great! An album of sun-kissed Beach Boys classics! But none of these songs made it on to their greatest hits album. Instead, it’s the Beach Boys entering the 1970s with a social conscience. Some good things here - ‘Disney Girls (1957)’ is sweet and poignant - but some - ‘Student Demonstration Time’ - leave you cringing.

I'd like this more if I were high I had fun listening, even though the audio quality was strangely atrocious at times, but a few hours later nothing has stuck with me

Not a fan, but it was fine

A genuinely interesting album - it’s hard to predict where it’ll go next. It’s good too, which is a bonus! Favourite track: ‘Til I Die

While the songs themselves didn't really gel with me, production-wise, it seems to be full of funny little noises and studio wizardry that just about piqued my interest. I wondered at various points in Grandaddy might be fans of this record. A curious album that I probably need to spend a little more time with to really make sense of it.

I don't think I knew a single one of the songs on this album and yet it has that signature Beach Boys sound. I wanted to listen to the whole thing, so that's a start, although there are a few meandering moments that left me scratching my head a little. It seems a little bit too knowing somehow in places. I think I need to listen again and for the most part I am happy to do that.

A short album is a treat. It’s even more of a treat when you can ignore the first half or so and jump straight to the last three tracks. The titular Surf’s Up may be a bit little meandering (Good Vibrations in comparison holds its disparate parts together though the power of that snare, God Only Knows never seems fractured) but there is a unifying sweetness across it, A Day in the Life of a Tree, and 'Til I Die. It is a beautiful, bewildering experience. However, they all feel like sketches of lovely melodies that didn't then and certainly won't know find their final home with a proper lyric, a proper form, and proper arrangement and performance. Still, that little run throws everything else into relief. The idea that the Beach Boys is a band rather than a support system for Brian Wilson is a stretch. None of those other Wilson boys would be making contributions to records if Brian hadn't made it their business. Nobody's doing their best work on their seventeenth album, except maybe the guys who are actually working for once. But it's not even the best work on the record. 2.5 There is loveliness everywhere on Surf’s Up: Don’t Go Near the Water, Carl’s two contributions, and Brian’s Day in the Life of a Tree and ‘Til I Die. All lovely, all great. The title song is a special piece of work but belongs to a different time and a different Beach Boys. Van Dyke Parks’ lyrics, full of fearless poetic high-mindedness and rather rubbish, do not chime at all with the simple charms of much of the other material on the album and seem of a different, less generous mode of pretension even than the lyrics of Feel Flows. This Surf’s Up by my reckoning anyway, is only the third best recorded version of the song that exists - the composite version on the Smile Sessions is supreme and the Brian Wilson solo piano version from 1967 makes this one feel like a bloodless tribute act. The double-tracking of the main vocal feels sloppy and tired. There is also Student Demonstration Time here. It would be a merely embarrassing piece of cod blues were it not for the absolutely repulsive sentiments of the lyrics. It is such a shockingly callous scoff that it casts a shadow over the whole album. What is the true character and value of the idealism expressed elsewhere here - musical as well as lyrical - when this group of supposed adults not only recorded Student Demonstration Time but let it out the door? Shame on everyone involved. Disney Girls (1957) would also be worth a wince, except that it does put me merrily in mind of a song performed regularly by a local singer years ago at the Hewitt which bade farewell to love with the line ‘You’ll meet some steady wanker, who’ll go to Mass with you.’ There is something of the whole notion of the Beach Boys in ‘steady wanker’, I think. Not that they would be taking the Best Girls to Mass on a Saturday night, of course. Because they’re basically Protestants, I reckon. 2.5/5

What a strange album. Unconvincingly late to the psychedelic party but there are some good songs hiding in there somewhere.

Social commentary feels a but forced and blunted.

The beach boys are always fun and this was definitely enjoyable though not mind blowing

Opening song- not what I expected from the Beach Boys! 2nd song - ok, this sounds more like what I expected from the Beach Boys lol Disney Girls is putting me to sleep. Also, strongly reminiscent of the Beatles Student Demonstration Time- I like this one! Very bluesy. Interesting use of a theramin Aside from Student Demonstration Time, not many standouts for me. Didn't mind having on in the background

It's okay.

Not as fun as Pet Sounds but it's ok

When the album ended Spotify queued up Pet Sounds and I just thought how much better the back half of the album was until I realized what had happened. This is a pretty good album but is definitely a step down in comparison. There's a good variety of songs, some classic rock and soft melodic tunes.

A decent album, nothing stood out head and shoulders above the rest, but it was an enjoyable listen. No takeaways from me and probably wouldn't listen again, but definitely not bad.

YT link sounded artifical almost covered

I'll come back to this after I fully listen to Pet Sounds. Rating a 3 for now as a place holder.

3.5 stars

I have never heard an anti-protest song before.

============================================== ============================================== ============================================== ============================================== -----------------THE BEACH BOYS--------------- ---------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------- -------------------SURF'S UP------------------ ---------------------------------------------- ---------------------(1971)------------------- ============================================== ============================================== -----------------CALIFICACIÓN----------------- --------------------★★★⯨☆-------------------- --------------------(3,35)------------------- ============================================== ============================================== ============================================== ============================================== 1. Don't Go Near The Water (★★★★☆) 2. Long Promised Road (★★⯨☆☆) 3. Take A Load Off Your Feet (★★★⯨☆) 4. Disney Girls (★★⯨☆☆) 5. Student Demonstration Time (★★★⯨☆) 6. Feel Flows (★★★☆☆) 7. Lookin' At Tomorrow (★★★★⯨) 8. A Day In The Life Of A Tree (★★★⯨☆) 9. 'Til I Die (★★⯨☆☆) 10. Surf's Up (★★★★☆) ============================================== ============================================== ============================================== PUNTAJE TOTAL 4+2,5+3,5+2,5+3,5+3+4,5+3,5+2,5+4 = 33,5 ============================================== ============================================== PUNTAJE PROMEDIO 33,5 / 10 = 3,35 ============================================== ============================================== ============================================== ============================================== CALIFICACIÓN FINAL ★★★⯨☆ (3,35) ============================================== ============================================== ============================================== ============================================== ==============================================

The Beach Boys get political and more than just going to the Beach (water)

Some brave choices made on this album and the result is a mixed bag.

Surf's Up is probably my favorite of all The Beach Boys albums here. When i first looked at this album's cover art and saw how dark it looked, i thought that this album was gonna sound very dark and depressing and while the lyrical subject matter is a bit dark, it doesn't seem to stray too far from the path that The Beach Boys Today and Pet Sounds follow. The songs here have that very psychedelic sound which was the other main one alongside the one that the Beatles did. I thought that the songs on offer were pretty good even if that last song felt like it was having a bit of an identity crisis. Could it just be the fact that it's the most fresh in my mind, i don't know but i can say its my favorite Beach Boys album that i have heard. Best Song: A Day In The Life Of A Tree Worst Song: Surf's Up Side note: Oh, and since this is my last Beach Boys album, you know what that means: 1. Surf's Up 2. Pet Sounds 3. The Beach Boys Today

This feels a little menacing. I really like the beach boys but their music is so chill and layered it starts to feel a little sinister. Like there's something lurking under the surface. The song titles and lyrics and album art aren't really helping either. Oh it's eco friendly oh that's chill actually. Great job Mr. Boys. This is interesting I feel like this is a deviation from past beach boys. Very different. This album is actually very menacing. What was wrong with the boys?? 17th album??? What the fuck?? Did they have lives bro?? Genuinely what are these guys on about. A day in the life of a tree?? Really?? Pretty deep if I had to guess. Favourite: Student Demonstration Time Least favourite: Feel Flows

I kinda wish this was more party music. That's what I had in my head at least. I was happy for this to be on the list and to get to check it out, but it didn't wow me.

Boring! Never liked the Beach Boys as surf-rock and this, what ever this is, isn't any better. I see lots of reviews claiming this album is brilliant. I just don't see it. Starting to miss Throbbing Gristle.

I wasn't feeling this one as much for the most part, but by god, those last two songs? They sounded like pure magic. It's a satisfying end to my journey with The Beach Boys on this list.

7/10. Another good Beach Boys album, with some really beautiful moments. The harmonies are still great, and when it works, it really works. A solid listen, with a few moments that definitely stand out.

Better than other beach boys I’ve listened too but not life changing. I like the Disney girl one :)

Normal

mellow. vibes. harmony.

A concept album with its heart in the right place- tight production and length but not as many ‘ear worms’ as other BB albums. Enjoyable but in my opinion forgettable.

Country inspired Yank style music. Not sure why Billy is in this and I'm not keen on finding out why he bothered

Number: 117 Date: 04/30/2026 Artist: The Beach Boys Album: Surf's Up Year: 1971 Genre: Baroque Pop Familiarity: Moderate (3) Rating: 3 Before: ======= I do like some of The Beach Boy's Work. I'm not familiar with this album at all though. During: ======= Woah, the first song, "Don't Go Near The Water" is hilarious. The second one "Long Promised Road" is quite different form their earlier work, almost like it's a different band. I think this album might take a few listens to fully appreciate it. 3 Don't Go Near The Water 3 Long Promised Road 3 Take A Load Off Your Feet 2 Disney Girls (1957) 2 Student Demonstration Time 3 Feel Flows 2 Lookin' At Tomorrow (A Welfare Song) 3 A Day In The Life Of A Tree 2 'Til I Die 3 Surf's Up ----------------------------------------------------- 2.63 WEIGHTED AVERAGE (accounts for song lengths) After : ======= It's an interesting album and I have to admire some of the chances they took. On some songs, I could not figure out if they were serious or if I was listening to a parody. I almost felt like I was listening to a very toned down version of Ween at times. My take is that most of the album is a parody or they had completely lost their way and were grasping at straws so to speak. 3 my personal rating 2 suitability for this list 3 impact ----------------------------------------------- 2.7 composite rating

There's a lesson in sequencing laid plain here if we're open to it. The album is structured like a compliment sandwich — two great opening tracks and two great closing tracks, with the middle portion being the more difficult to hear, swallow and digest...or in the case of the record simply the cheesier and "less obviously great" moments. There's a mid-record bump with Feel Flows which would be the first track on Side 2 of the vinyl, effectively creating a second sandwich or nested structure as well. This jockeying back and forth looking for highs and lows in the material and intentionally placing them is a common technique, even as it has shifted over time with different eras of delivery format or container for music: records/tapes, CDs, and streaming. Even as it mutates, I think some albums more obviously follow this intention and Surf's Up is one of them. It also demonstrates how rare it can be to get a full album of bangers — all peak — from start to finish. The Beach Boys, whose career was in distress, were no longer the band to deliver that kind of experience but this record, as many do, still rewards the listener even in the landlocked valleys.

I started liking it by the last half of the album, but I think I'll need another listen before I know how I feel about it.

Seems fine...creative for sure. Not my cup of tea but still a good one.

This was okay, I wasn’t crazy about it! I really love The Beach Boys earlier stuff, and I see they were trying to switch up their sound, but I think there is a reason this one isn’t remembered as well. Still a solid listen! Top Songs: Long Promised Road, Surf’s Up

the coast girls

Pure beach boys. Less synthetics more fibre.

Some good songs and some not so good. The environmental theme is well-intentioned but clunky. It feels like the band was running out of steam.

Mixed

i liked disney girls the best

Mélancolie, surfs et soleil mais avec nostalgie de fin

Honestly, this doesn’t belong on this list. It’s as uneven a Beach Boys record as there is with one song sung by their then manager who is not a Beach Boy. Brian was only peripherally involved and it shows as the vocals are particularly thin on his tracks and on the other tracks, it is almost like it’s the Beach Boys cosplaying the Beach Boys. It’s no surprise that the songs are uneven as there are also no Carl Wilson tracks on this record. The political type lyrics also don’t help and I think made them less relevant in this era. The last 2 tracks are decent- Til I Die and Surfs Up. The overall tone of the record is darker than usual. I recognize that some critics loved this record. I get it. I’m a critic and my honest opinion is that this troubled record doesn’t belong on this list. 3/5

An interesting if underwhelming late album from the Boys, liked a few, but mostly just got through

I had to listen to this a second time to appreciate it because it just wasn't hitting on the first set of speakers I was using. I get it a lot more on the second listen. This album was surprising to me though. I'm used to the Beach Boys having a much stronger surf-rock vibe, and this is apparently later in their career so after they had already strongly branded themselves. But this feels so much more generic somehow. You probably could've convinced me this was a Beatles record. That said, it's still sonically pretty interesting. There are some experimental effects sprinkled throughout and there are some neat lyrical themes. Ultimately just kinda so-so, but some standout moments for sure. Day in the Life of a Tree is weird but I dig it.

3.5 - solid album

Not. A fan of these guys by any stretch but I do like “Disney Girls (1957)

There are some absolute bangers here, with some great rock ‘n’ roll grooves that really pack a punch. Student Demonstration Time is the best example of this for me, a track that gets the foot tapping and the head nodding. The latter half of the album lacks the same impact for me though and it tails off with some filler material & lower pace tracks

It was fine - it’s The Beach Boys but pretty different. Totally fine 3/5

Liked Long Promised Road and Disney Girls, rest were ok too. Liked concept/lyrics of A Day In The Life Of A Tree. Almost a 4.

70’s Rock ⭐️Student Demonstration Time

I'm not used to the Beach Boys except the classics, so I cannot tell that for sure, but it definitely feels a bit less cheery than expected. I still love the layered music style, songs don't feel like they're songs, they're more like sound universes. Cover : I love the visual, it's so different from the rest of their covers, and suggest fatalism/doom topics (though the actual music isn't).

The album art is incredible.

What an eye-opener. Ever since I got a live Beach Boys album as a gift in elementary school I considered myself a fan. I still consider Sloop John B a delight. I listened to a whole multi-episode podcast about Brian Wilson and Pet Sounds and Charles Manson! Come on! Then this project happened and I saw Surf's Up arrive and realized I knew nothing. I started the record with some trepidation based on others' reviews, but I actually liked this a lot. Yes, many of the lyrics are, as the kids would say, cringe--it felt almost physically painful to hear them try to be topical and relevant. But this was a solid 3-star album for me. I enjoyed it and will listen to it again.

Bin kein großer Beach Boy Fan - Nicht wirklich schlecht, aber die Alben plätchern meist so vor sich hin

Well this is different. You can still recognize it as the Beach Boys, but it's quite different. Considering how little Brian Wilson was involved, I'm impressed. I won't be playing it on heavy rotation, but I'm glad I heard it. Respect to the Beach Boys for trying something different. They did a good job.

Definitely a bit of a departure from the sound that The Beach Boys are known for. I feel like they made this album for them, not their biggest fans. Musically, it's still very good. It's got those familiar Beah Boys harmonies we know and love, but it's not the kind of record that immediately comes to mind when I think of The Beach Boys.

I still do not get the mega popularity of The Beach Boys, however this was a solid album. Long Promised Road and Feel Flows were highlights.

The cover art almost fooled me, but these are indeed still the Beach Boys. Stronger first listen than Pet Sounds, but I don't think this one has the same legs to go into my rotation. Standouts: Long Promised Road • Disney Girls (1957)

The only Beach Boys album I recognize is Wild Honey. With that said, do I hate this album? Definitely not. Do I hate The Beach Boys as a concept? You bet! If I nailed Taylor Swift to the wall for this I have to be fair to her by calling out Carl Wilson too. Did you guys suddenly find a social conscience or was it a total coincidence that after your last album ate dirt once your old image became boring that you decided to write some protest music in your usual clumsy and mawkish way? Don't go near the water Don't go near the water Toothpaste and soap will make our oceans a bubble bath So let's avoid an ecological aftermath If this was one of the many one off 60s hands inexplicably on this list everyone would be savaging the lyrics. But even then I can't call this a bad album. It's very listenable. The production is sharp. I don't hate this album. I hate the concept of The Beach Boys.

dont go near the water - woa funky wobbly instrument. beginnin w UUU cool high note. long promised road - nice chords n melody, i like how its calm n then less calm disney girls - very nice very uh.. in swedish id describe it as "skön" student demonstration time - ooo rocknroll hell yea feel flows - not rly a fan of the reversy effect in this style of music. its getting cooler. dont like it as much as the others tho til i die - very nice, again "skön" last song very cool.

Love the Beach Boys but not this album

Lately I have been thinking a lot about how bad things are and how they're not getting better and how I keep waiting and nothing changes and things just keep getting worse. Some may find comfort in the fact that they were making albums about all the same problems we've got today 50 some odd years ago but not me. Fucking hell. I hate everything. Musically it's fine but I don't want to hear this right now. I'm tired of thinking about mortality and the environment and about racial tension and on and on.

Enjoyed, not my favorite Beach Boys record but they are always good

Some decent tracks but not really my jam

While not as good as what Smiley Smiley could have been this is still a great representation of The Beach Boys' best era. Sad, resentful and pensive psychedelic music with their signature harmonies.

...17th album?? I dont think I can name even one. Anyways, with most records on this list, this was okay but nothing to write home about.

I love how experimental the beach boys are. Their albums don’t always hit as a collective, but there’s no denying the variety of sounds they influenced and created. This album being no exception. Surfs up is a lot messier than their other mega hit Pet Sounds, but honestly I find the beauty in albums like this. Tons of raw ideas just thrown together regardless of how cohesive/ lack there of they may be. Love the title track, but damn, student demonstration time is an absolute heater. The one jump scare of the album due to how hard it rocks. Did Brian Wilson record this shit through a megaphone into the mic? Either way what a stand out track. I enjoyed this a lot more than anticipated.

it was great!

Entre toujours la même chose et cacophonie. Mais il y a de beaux morceaux. Disney girl et lookin at tomorrow. Belle envolée flutale feel flows qui ne m’a pas fait décoller.

Not bad. It feels a bit safe though.

At least it got some more variance than the last album I listened to, and a little bit more energy, though not really more. The songs are kind of similar, but not that it could be perceived as a coherent entirity. 3/5

Not The Beach Boys at their greatest.

Ta bien, me siguen gustando mas otras canciones de ellos pero me.gusta que aqui suenan diferente a los demas

bien

Сара - није слушала, цео дан се спремала за Полу Марко 3

Absolutely, completely, unbelievably, shockingly, outrageously, mind-bendingly, crazily average

Listened in the car on the way to work. I mean it's okay. Not the kind of sound I like about TBB and has a couple stinkers like Student Demonstrations. Waiting for the better albums.

Michael von Zaki reference spotted!

01) Don't Go Near the Water - 7,0 02) Long Promised Road - 7,5 03) Take a Load Off Your Feet - 7,0 04) Disney Girls (1957) - 6,5 05) Student Demonstration Time - 7,0 06) Feel Flows - 7,0 07) Lookin' at Tomorrow (A Welfare Song) - 6,0 08) A Day in the Life of a Tree - 6,0 09) 'Til I Die - 7,0 10) Surf's Up - 6,5 TOTAL: 6,75 (68/100) Current ranking: 554/875

Does not sound like the Beach Boys I know, I guess I really am only familiar with Pet Sounds and the stuff that came after it, for something called Surf's Up there was not much Surf Rock. However I did kind of like it, it was funky and sounded like all other types of bands, a little Beatles and some others. Cool to see their evolution really.