My Thoughts on SMiLE
From The Smile Shop
My Thoughts on SMiLE, by Fatty
I feel compelled to write this because of the way SMiLE moves me. But first let me say a bit about myself because I am probably not your typical SMiLE fan and a bit of an enigma at that. You might say that I'm a redneck as I love Nascar, fishing, hunting, drinking cheap beer etc and I'm from Louisiana. On the other hand, I'm a musician and I enjoy most types of music especially jazz so go figure.
Anyway, I purchased BWPS on a whim the week it came out after hearing all of the hype leading up to it on the internet. After a few listens in the car I thought it was good but somewhat strange music and put it away. I read the rave reviews from Rolling Stone and other "reptuable" sources so listened again a few months later. it started to grow on me.
Then something happened. I found myself waking up with this beautiful amazing music going through my head - Wind Chimes, Surf's Up, Wonderful etc. The melodies of these songs were constantly in my head and I realized what remarkable music it was/is.
Then the obsession began. I found this place, read all the essays and session notes, downloaded lots of boots and never went more than a few days without a listen of some sort. I ordered the Priore book from England and quickly read it from cover to cover. My obsession and appreciation grew.
The thing that embarrases me somewhat is that I am occasionally moved by this music to such a degree that I'm moved to tears. Remember I'm the redneck Nascar guy too whose friends listen to Shania, Tim McGraw, hip hop and whoever the 3 minute flavor of the day is.
In April I was fortunate enough to see something I will forever appreciate. I was present at the New Orleans Jazz Fest. I saw the indoor interview with Brian from 15 feet away and later saw the concert from about 20-30 feet. It was again extremely emotionally moving to see some of the SMiLE tunes live before my eyes (good thing I had shades on).
I now have the DVD and it is just amazing. I have to say that no other piece of music has ever effected me this way. I thank God for Brian Wilson and for SMiLE.
