Brian’s version is still great and it actually works better as a live performance than it does as a studio album in a lot of ways. But yeah, I pretty much only listen to the 2011 version of smile now too. the additions to the 04 version are all good but in a lot of cases you can tell they were written much later, (sorry brian, “Holidays” should have stayed an outtake). “in Blue Hawaii” I think works really well thats the highlight of the 04 version. but most of the other songs I’m perfectly happy with what was cobbled together for the 2011 versions. Of course no version is perfect. The three suites structure is great for the live performance but doesnt make as much sense as a 1-LP record. Surfs Up would be the ideal closing track.

Nowadays I’m probably just as likely to pop on a fan-mix of the album as any of the official versions. The cut-and-paste nature of the way brian was working at the time makes the record perfect for slicing up and remixing. and it’s fun to hear fresh takes on it even if they can be a bit ridiculous.

The Wondermints being Brian’s band was the best use of their talents. They were a run of the mill power pop act with a knack for sounding beach boys-y but their songs were nothing special. Speaking of beach-boys-a-likes, have I recommended the Lemon Twigs before? Now those guys really do have the gift for songwriting that rivals their inspirations. I love what they’ve been putting out lately.