SMiLE
by Brian Wilson
  • Record Label: Nonesuch
  • Release Date: Sep 28, 2004
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 522 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 398 out of 522
  2. Mixed: 39 out of 522
  3. Negative: 85 out of 522

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  1. matta
    May 27, 2005
    9
    Not as classic as "Pet Sounds" but still amazing, especially considering this was really all written back in the 60's. Too bad that it wasn't released back then, becuase if it had been, it probably would have the same status as Pet Sounds does today. IN any case, it is a great album, but something has definetely been lost by the four decade delay of the release.
  2. JoeD
    May 24, 2005
    10
    All I can say is wow. This is so much different than anything else I have heard yet it is still amazing. Congrats to Brian Wilson for finally realizing his masterpiece!
  3. CarlosB
    May 18, 2005
    10
    ROCK AND ROLL produced only TWO GENIUS until today : one white, BRIAN WILSON, and one black , JIMI HENDRIX. Listen to this album and you will have a demonstration of what I said.
  4. TomF
    May 13, 2005
    10
    SMiLE is just undoubtedly the greatest music ever written. While the new tracks are missing a little of the heart of the 1967 tracks, they are close enough. The production on this album has yet to be tested by another musician.
  5. SamK
    May 12, 2005
    10
    I first bought this album in Feb '05 and believe it or not, I'm still listening to it almost every day, and it's the middle of May now! You'll either hate it or love it, but if you're open minded at all you'll see that this music is truly unique and YES it's WAAAAY more musically complex than anything the Beatles ever did. However, there aren't I first bought this album in Feb '05 and believe it or not, I'm still listening to it almost every day, and it's the middle of May now! You'll either hate it or love it, but if you're open minded at all you'll see that this music is truly unique and YES it's WAAAAY more musically complex than anything the Beatles ever did. However, there aren't catchy little songs about meter maids, or gettin' better all the time, so had it been released in 1967, I don't think it would have been that popular. This album demands several listens to get all the levels and nuances. It's really amazing that 40 years later, this album doesn't sound dated at all, and holds its own against anything musicians are doing today. Way to go Brian!… Expand
  6. VincentX
    May 11, 2005
    7
    An amusing anachronism brought to us with style. Though It all sounds a little too "thought-out" to me. I picture Brian Wilson in laboratory instead of a studio. I just can't listen to it in one go. For that it is all too much a musical disneyland. So, listen to this one for about 15 minutes and then switch to Hobo Sunrise by the Hunches as quick as possible.
  7. JustinK
    Apr 29, 2005
    10
    If you don't like this, you don't like music!
  8. ScottH
    Apr 26, 2005
    10
    The long awaited masterpiece proves that Brian Wilson is indeed a musical genius, comparable to nobody, INCLUDING The Beatles. In fact, Wilson is the only composer who matched the Beatles note for note, song for song in creative experiments and astonishing studio works. "Smile" and its predecessor, "Pet Sounds", must be in the same hallowed territory as "Revolver", and either easily The long awaited masterpiece proves that Brian Wilson is indeed a musical genius, comparable to nobody, INCLUDING The Beatles. In fact, Wilson is the only composer who matched the Beatles note for note, song for song in creative experiments and astonishing studio works. "Smile" and its predecessor, "Pet Sounds", must be in the same hallowed territory as "Revolver", and either easily outdoes "Sgt. Pepper." Only "Abbey Road" was a contender. Comparisons aside, it's a stunning CD that may only be surpassed if Wilson one day decides to release the original album with the Beach Boys, which would be truly a miracle.… Expand
  9. stevep
    Apr 12, 2005
    10
    A true Classic ! ! !
  10. Dave
    Apr 12, 2005
    2
    I kepy checking the date of these reviews, in case it was April 1st. Then I thought it might like the Hasselhof reviews on Amazon, just a whole lot of effusive hilarious praise for a total turkey. Right now, I am bewildered because this album is so .. banal, uninteresting, lame, mediocre. Utter shite. Brian Wilson's voice is aweful and the soprano chorus thing in the back is I kepy checking the date of these reviews, in case it was April 1st. Then I thought it might like the Hasselhof reviews on Amazon, just a whole lot of effusive hilarious praise for a total turkey. Right now, I am bewildered because this album is so .. banal, uninteresting, lame, mediocre. Utter shite. Brian Wilson's voice is aweful and the soprano chorus thing in the back is irritating. Can I trust any other reviews on this site now??… Expand
  11. MaciejW
    Apr 8, 2005
    9
    Plain and simple, it made me happy, it made me nod my head in appreciation and it made me smile. In essence, sometimes that is all music needs to do. Brilliant.
  12. GraemeH
    Mar 28, 2005
    5
    Did they put the wrong CD in the case when I bought this? I bought based upon these reviews but was disappointed. It's OK but not great.
  13. Marillion
    Mar 22, 2005
    10
    Smile is quite simply the greatest triumph in the history of pop music! Bautiful! Thank you Brian! Welcome in Montreux this summer 05! A long time swiss fan!
  14. AgatheM
    Mar 19, 2005
    5
    It's OK, but what's the big deal?
  15. ryan
    Mar 7, 2005
    10
    I think most americans forgot how good pop music can be Ashlee Simpson should feel ashamed after listening to this CD
  16. MichaelV
    Mar 7, 2005
    4
    Comparisons to Beatles Sgt. Pepper. Critics are dreaming. My copy of this is for sale. Very disappointing.
  17. JürgenR
    Mar 4, 2005
    10
    The best album of all time!!!
  18. AllanH
    Feb 16, 2005
    10
    Everything you hoped and dreamed it would be and more. For it not only to live up to it's legendary reputations after all these year, but exceed it is a simply remarkable acheivement.
  19. SharonD
    Feb 13, 2005
    10
    Excellent. One of the greatest albums ever made. A true masterpiece.
  20. Bluebird.
    Feb 11, 2005
    10
    Truly awesome music/sounds! Puts a SMiLE on my face and in my soul each time I hear it. Brian Wilson's best!!! Rock, Rock, Roll.......
  21. EdwardB
    Jan 27, 2005
    10
    Puts to rest any reservations that Mike Love's an idiot. The Beach Boys became irrelevant as a result of this betrayal. Justice and Brian Wilson triumphs at long last. A great visonary work of immense importance.
  22. FernandoM
    Jan 27, 2005
    10
    This album is amazing, makes me give a smile every time that I put om my cd player. Strongly recomended
  23. PaulJ
    Jan 26, 2005
    10
    Wonderful, at last an L.P (!) to listen too
  24. GeorgeK
    Jan 21, 2005
    10
    The most unique record that I have ever listened to
  25. RyanB
    Jan 21, 2005
    10
    Incredible, soak it in.
  26. MurielB.
    Jan 20, 2005
    10
    Look ! Listen ! Vibrate ! Smile !
  27. PeterB
    Jan 19, 2005
    10
    Astounding!
  28. ArielN
    Jan 18, 2005
    10
    Smile Brian, You Did It Again.
  29. BrianY
    Jan 18, 2005
    10
    A triumph of the human spirit and a beautiful piece of utterly fun, pop, perfection. The best album in years.
  30. PaulA
    Jan 16, 2005
    10
    Perfection
  31. GeorgeD
    Jan 15, 2005
    10
    Sensational from start to finish.
  32. JindrichH
    Jan 15, 2005
    10
    Beautiful....
  33. SteveH
    Jan 14, 2005
    10
    Brilliant! Worth the wait
  34. KentG
    Jan 14, 2005
    10
    "Wunderful" to see that Brian is finally ok with his "Hero's and Villians". Beautiful music & Beautiful lyrics on an album flows better that Abby Road. The fact that Brian is 62 add's to the album making it sound like wisdom imparted and reflective. It's poetic justic that Brian would finish this grat album as a single being that he was the only Beach Boy who believed in "Wunderful" to see that Brian is finally ok with his "Hero's and Villians". Beautiful music & Beautiful lyrics on an album flows better that Abby Road. The fact that Brian is 62 add's to the album making it sound like wisdom imparted and reflective. It's poetic justic that Brian would finish this grat album as a single being that he was the only Beach Boy who believed in it. Thanks also go to the Wundermints who turned in an outstanding performance.… Expand
  35. JohnnyW
    Jan 13, 2005
    10
    Its a great album. Although its different then the other BB albums, its got great lyrics and beautiful instrumentation. I love to sing along to the songs such as Cabinessence and Heroes and Villians, and singing makes me, well, SMILE!
  36. GaryR
    Jan 13, 2005
    10
    Awe-struck! More appreciated in 2004/5 than it would've been in 1967. Actually makes the music of 67 and yes even Peppe, sound dated. Smile was made for these times!
  37. JohnS
    Jan 10, 2005
    10
    As a big Beatle fan, I've always been a bit protectionist as far as this album being "better" than Pepper is concerned. I'd heard the released stuff and some of it was indeed impressive. Heroes & Villians, Good Vibrations, Our Prayer, Cabinessence, Wonderful and Surf's Up in particular truly awesome. Now nearly 40 years later and with all these tracks finally slotted As a big Beatle fan, I've always been a bit protectionist as far as this album being "better" than Pepper is concerned. I'd heard the released stuff and some of it was indeed impressive. Heroes & Villians, Good Vibrations, Our Prayer, Cabinessence, Wonderful and Surf's Up in particular truly awesome. Now nearly 40 years later and with all these tracks finally slotted together for the first time on the one album, I'm bound to say its quite simply, sensational. Breathtalingly beautiful in parts. Much as though I hate to admit it, back in 1967 this would probably have dwarfed Pepper. As a piece of art it's infinately more progressive. As piece of music it's certainly better. Maybe not the catchy tunes sure, but this is another level altogether. With pop/rock music having advanced SO much since 1967, its really difficult to appreciate how innovative this would have been back then. The fact that it still stands up in 2004 says everything that needs to be said. Back then it would have blown everyone away although quite possibly wouldn't have sold well- leastways in the States. And you could see why the rest of the Beach Boys were a bit scared of it, deviating as far as it did from their previous winning formula. But with so much music having been released since this was written, its incredible to think that I really could say its still probably the best rock/pop album I've ever heard. I would have loved to have heard the Beach Boy voices on it , even though the vocals here are stunning. As a family they had such a unique blend when they all sang together, which is not replicated here, nor sadly ever will be now. .… Expand
  38. bobbyc
    Jan 7, 2005
    10
    may be the most brilliant "pop" or "rock" album of all time. but those catagories don't even begin to describe its incredible synthesis of traditional american song styles, symphonic bliss & bold, successful avant-garde experimentation. it just has never been done before in this way. it even surpasses its own mythical legend. an astounding achievement, not just for a man who may be the most brilliant "pop" or "rock" album of all time. but those catagories don't even begin to describe its incredible synthesis of traditional american song styles, symphonic bliss & bold, successful avant-garde experimentation. it just has never been done before in this way. it even surpasses its own mythical legend. an astounding achievement, not just for a man who struggles daily from mental illness, but an astounding achievement from anybody at all. he didn't even have to do this. he could have just let the legend live on as the most famous unreleased album of all time & rested on those laurals alone.… Expand
  39. MartyM
    Jan 7, 2005
    10
    Brilliant. Smile is finally released and I was not disappointed at all. The hype was definitely deserved.
  40. DaveD
    Jan 7, 2005
    10
    Best album since Brainwashed. That's along time.
  41. JohnD
    Jan 7, 2005
    0
    Just awful.
  42. JR
    Jan 6, 2005
    10
    The album is a real trip...itll put you in mind states you cant get out of other music... like 'Cabin-essence", it really makes you think your in a home out on the range... and i think its safe to say the last track of the second (cycle of life) movement.."Surf's Up", whether you hear the new version or the old (on brians original demo),, it still will leave you in awe if you The album is a real trip...itll put you in mind states you cant get out of other music... like 'Cabin-essence", it really makes you think your in a home out on the range... and i think its safe to say the last track of the second (cycle of life) movement.."Surf's Up", whether you hear the new version or the old (on brians original demo),, it still will leave you in awe if you sit and listen to the lyrics... Thanks to Mr. Wilson for the finished work. -Jr… Expand
  43. GaryN
    Jan 5, 2005
    10
    Outstanding CD. Complex music that grabs you from the first listen. Unique, expanding the meaning of rock music. Vocals are complicated but catchy so they don't leave your head. Heard it several times and it gets better with every listen.
  44. DougP
    Jan 4, 2005
    10
    Nobody's perfect; but this is as close as it gets.
  45. joej
    Jan 4, 2005
    10
    Brilliant!
  46. TomP
    Jan 3, 2005
    10
    Unique and brilliant. I feel honored to have been able to see Smile performed live, and I bought two copies of the CD - one for home and one for my office.
  47. JeffF
    Jan 2, 2005
    10
    Imagine if this had been released in 1967 as originally scheduled. This would have been one of the groundbreaking albums of all time. As it is , it is still amazing. this guy is or was a musical genius with a very capital "G". its too bad his own family caused his descent into a 20 year drug addled and mentally ill stupor. This man deserves all the kudos given. an american treasure.
  48. jims
    Jan 2, 2005
    10
    Pop symphony, have never heard anything like it
  49. JohnF
    Dec 31, 2004
    9
    The finest collection of gumball jamz this side of the Baltic Ocean, hands down.
  50. jonh
    Dec 31, 2004
    10
    if possible, I'd take this music to those who have never heard it-a musical missionary if you will-to not hear this glorious soundscape can be nothing but a lost connection with sheer musical perfection-
  51. kevins
    Dec 30, 2004
    10
    Unf**kinbelieveable. 37 years later this masterpiece is recreated by a ubertalented group of Brian Wilson minions. Absolutely fantastic. Miss it and lose out on the best album that you'll likely hear this side of 2000. Dig it or die.
  52. StephenB
    Dec 28, 2004
    10
    Quite simply, the greatest Pop/Rock album of all time. Nothing else even comes close!
  53. LuCindiM
    Dec 26, 2004
    10
    The world is finally ready for Brian Wilson-the complex Brian. He gave us his joy, his sadness, his dreams, his hopes, his fears, his dismay and we are all lucky to finally be able to thank Brian..thank you for your (audio/visual) "Smile".
  54. evans
    Dec 23, 2004
    4
    Most of these songs were first released on 'Smiley Smile' via Brother Records in '67 or '68. They sounded fresher, more unique, 37 years ago. Having closely followed Brain Wilson's music for more than 40 years, the current emphasis on his genius is misdirected toward this album. His true greatness can better be heard in several underplayed songs that the group Most of these songs were first released on 'Smiley Smile' via Brother Records in '67 or '68. They sounded fresher, more unique, 37 years ago. Having closely followed Brain Wilson's music for more than 40 years, the current emphasis on his genius is misdirected toward this album. His true greatness can better be heard in several underplayed songs that the group recorded through the mid '70's. Compositions such as "I Can Hear Music", "Time to Get Alone", "Add Some Music", and Sail on Sailor" to name a few, provide much clearer insight into Wilson's greatness, and the unique musicianship of the group. … Expand
  55. StevenL
    Dec 22, 2004
    10
    best cd ever.
  56. AndrewM
    Dec 20, 2004
    9
    I'm no fan of BB's. I always felt and still feel their music was shallow, empty, myopic, & representative of a scene I had no attachment to." ie. surfing". Sorry to fans of BB's, I don't mean to be catagorizing their sound, it just was so indicitive of a lifestyle most can't really relate to. Smile however, is. I'm Greek Australian, and these lyrics and the I'm no fan of BB's. I always felt and still feel their music was shallow, empty, myopic, & representative of a scene I had no attachment to." ie. surfing". Sorry to fans of BB's, I don't mean to be catagorizing their sound, it just was so indicitive of a lifestyle most can't really relate to. Smile however, is. I'm Greek Australian, and these lyrics and the sound made me feel American, & to the point, more identify with the small vitals of America lifestyle ,its innocence & its tarnished essence. Enough, with looking under the friggin surface & seeing life's dark stuff !!! Its can be so forced & fake. This album is pure & its honest & has a real everyday Americana feel about it. I love it for that. Cudos to Brian Wilson for never ever giving up on the dream!!! That is the most important message of all!! Never give up!!! So all you losers criticising its long wait please "look deeper than yourselfs". This guy has fought mental illness for 30 long years. He is an inspiration to me & to anyone who is stuggling to be true to their vision.… Expand
  57. David
    Dec 16, 2004
    2
    No No No No!
  58. ShaneW
    Dec 16, 2004
    10
    I never heard anything like it before. Brilliant.
  59. ealonorrigby
    Dec 14, 2004
    10
    mack G poves he is a musical neanderthal, he/she most probably finds chopin,bach, mozart boring.....peasant
  60. BenjaminBunny
    Dec 13, 2004
    5
    I just discovered the Beach Boys last year, so I'm no authority, but "Pet Sounds" has become one of my favorite records--an album that I think many would agree has transcended time and still sounds appealingly fresh and accessible. This, on the other hand, sounds about as fresh as a Laurence Welk rerun. On a certain level I can see its "genius"--all the complex vocal lines, I just discovered the Beach Boys last year, so I'm no authority, but "Pet Sounds" has become one of my favorite records--an album that I think many would agree has transcended time and still sounds appealingly fresh and accessible. This, on the other hand, sounds about as fresh as a Laurence Welk rerun. On a certain level I can see its "genius"--all the complex vocal lines, that's why it's a so-called masterpiece right? Because the songs really aren't that great, and frankly, the endless shoo-be-doo-wop woo vocals are just plain cheesy, despite their "brilliant" complexity. Whenever I put this on, I just find myself wanting to listen to The High Llamas' "Hawaii" instead. Sean O'Hagan captured the essence of "Smile" way more listenably than poor aging Brian Wilson has. Even if this had been released 37 years ago, people would still prefer "Pet Sounds," easy. Ugh.… Expand
  61. robertv
    Dec 13, 2004
    4
    I listened to this album about three days ago, and I have no great urge to listen to it again. I wonder how we would rate this album if it DID come out in '67 or '68. It's hard to believe this performance of the songs would be considered better than 'Pet Sounds' or 'Sgt. Pepper'. I notice none of these glowing user reviews has said that 'Good I listened to this album about three days ago, and I have no great urge to listen to it again. I wonder how we would rate this album if it DID come out in '67 or '68. It's hard to believe this performance of the songs would be considered better than 'Pet Sounds' or 'Sgt. Pepper'. I notice none of these glowing user reviews has said that 'Good Vibrations' is better than the original. Maybe I'd rate this a '10' with enough drugs... Beach Boys freaks have already bought this, but the casual listener would be served better by putting this low on your priority list. I far more enjoyed the Brian Wilson & Van Dyke Parks album from the 90's, "Orange Crate Art". *There* is a cohesive, nostalgic view of a bygome American era. … Expand
  62. DavidF
    Dec 6, 2004
    10
    Absolute Classic. Smile sounds so fresh, even though it was conceived all those years ago. Anyone who has heard and enjoyed the Unsupassed masters Vol. 17 Smile Sessions 3 cd set, will be thrilled that Brian has managed to weave all the threads of Smile into a cohesive whole.
  63. ealonrrigby
    Dec 5, 2004
    10
    excellnt
  64. CaptainStubing
    Dec 2, 2004
    10
    I attended two SMiLE live performances in early 2004. I did not know anything about the way Brian Wilson and Van Dyke Parks had decided to finalize the concept, and was literally blown away by the beauty of it all. Of course I was conversant with most existing unofficial material, but that didn't even remotely prepare me for the finished product. Now that the studio CD version is in I attended two SMiLE live performances in early 2004. I did not know anything about the way Brian Wilson and Van Dyke Parks had decided to finalize the concept, and was literally blown away by the beauty of it all. Of course I was conversant with most existing unofficial material, but that didn't even remotely prepare me for the finished product. Now that the studio CD version is in our hands, I can say that it belongs up there with a few other really unmissable albums in my collection. I also saw the excellent TV documentary 'Beautiful Dreamer - BW and the making of SMiLE' by David Leaf. I can strongly recommend this film to everyone. I will conclude with stating that I find the first review in this section, by Mack G., so pompous and beside the point that is only good for having a hearty laugh. Mack knows difficult words! He likes to name-drop! He even knows medical syndromes! But, the thing is...he knows zilch about art, which he so abundantly proves here.… Expand
  65. midnightdread
    Dec 2, 2004
    10
    SMiLE delivers while most of the rest get stamped 'address unknown'. Makes Beatles apprentices. Makes negative reviewers on this forum over-compensating sour-full reactionaries and cranky contrarians; reminiscent of those who replaced sixties' epiphanies with recycled rock cliches, derivative and forever boring. Except for Bob Marley & reggae, we've been going SMiLE delivers while most of the rest get stamped 'address unknown'. Makes Beatles apprentices. Makes negative reviewers on this forum over-compensating sour-full reactionaries and cranky contrarians; reminiscent of those who replaced sixties' epiphanies with recycled rock cliches, derivative and forever boring. Except for Bob Marley & reggae, we've been going 'Nowhere Man' fast. PET SOUNDS better? SMiLE is THE album 'where new things might be found', as Brian sang in "I Just Wasn't Made For These Times". Listen up tin-ears and tin-horns. Saddle up to the renaissance (circa late 1966 thru early 1968) that many in this age were lucky enough to live through. Many of us never wanted to "Get Back" or "Do It Again" or "Let It Bleed". Rather than pull back from the precipice Brian Wilson soars. Forward ever. 'Give the past the slip'. Get out of the doldrums & noise of modern life where everyone prostrates themselves at the Altar of Job Security. See (LOOK!) & Hear (LISTEN!) where we were Headed (VIBRATE!) until devolutionary heads & blue meanies prevailed. Here's my review written in the (SMiLE!) spirit: 'Van & Brian's Lull Will Seem Brief, An Inn Significant Interlude, A Deep Breadth, So The Finishing Touches, Delayed Rightly So, A Children's Song, A Teenage Symphony, Completed With Maturity, Farther Of The Man, Glorious Beyond Belief.' … Expand
  66. davidj
    Dec 2, 2004
    10
    The 37 year wait and finally......its here,probably the greatest album in the world.....EVER....Brian Wilson The Messiah brings a Masterpiece to his loving flock.
  67. DannoJ
    Dec 1, 2004
    10
    Ha HA - that guy prefered Surfin Safari to Cabinessence. well that says it all doesn't it. SMiLE is the best album of the year - listen for yourself and hear
  68. MackG.
    Nov 26, 2004
    1
    In the befuddled audio universe of Smile, there?s not a lot of fun fun fun to be had. The parking lot is empty, the beach is deserted, and despite what Brian Wilson tells you, the surf is definitely not up. Listening to Smile, the most famous unreleased album of all time, it?s clear that the tide is out, which would explain why the songs smell a bit like dead fish. For the uninitiated, a In the befuddled audio universe of Smile, there?s not a lot of fun fun fun to be had. The parking lot is empty, the beach is deserted, and despite what Brian Wilson tells you, the surf is definitely not up. Listening to Smile, the most famous unreleased album of all time, it?s clear that the tide is out, which would explain why the songs smell a bit like dead fish. For the uninitiated, a little history. In 1966, Brian Wilson, creative core of the Beach Boys, decided that he was going to record the greatest rock record of all time, outdoing not only the Boys? previous album and psychedelic pop cornerstone Pet Sounds, but The Beatles themselves. Brian Wilson was on a mission from god. But after 85 recording sessions and almost as many nervous breakdowns, Smile turned to Frown, and Wilson called it quits. The record was never officially released, although bootlegs have appeared over the years, and numerous songs have seeped out on other Beach Boys albums. Now, after years of referring to the incomplete creation as if it deserved the dread-filling, unspoken reverence of Lord Voldemort, Wilson?s gone off and rerecorded the whole shebang. Released last September, Smile received the kind of hyperbolic critical praise usually reserved for Sgt. Pepper and tinny British hip hop. After a few months of listening, I can conclusively say that Smile, in the words of Beavis and Butthead, sucks. Think of it this way. The Beach Boys song ?Shut Down? chronicled the street-racing antics of two high school hoodlums. Yes, they might have been burning rubber on some nameless Orange County street, but at least they were going somewhere. The biggest issue with Smile is that it goes nowhere. It sputters and coughs and makes a lot of noise, but it?s just spinning its wheels. Wilson?s songwriting is mostly to blame. There?s a pervading classical influence in the form of songs consisting of loosely glued-together snippets that Wilson called ?feels.? Rock and roll this ain?t. These ?feels? signal a basic misunderstanding of classical structure, but hey, it?s Brian Wilson ? who?s going to argue with him? This self-consciously ?innovative? compositional technique would work if all of the bits and pieces added up to a cohesive whole. But they don?t. What we get are transitions to transitions to transitions, without much variety in musical texture, until closing track ?Good Vibrations,? which is by far the most traditional number on here. The cut and paste songwriting works exactly twice on Smile, and both times it?s on songs that have already been officially released. ?Heroes and Villains? is well-crafted and works in the way that ?Bohemian Rhapsody? worked. ?Surf?s Up,? meanwhile, sounds as if it?s supposed to be some kind of grand musical statement, what with misty-eyed sighs of ?bygone, bygone? and lots of chime-sounding things. Apparently this musical statement involves inanimate objects playing chess, but that can be pardoned as the music works fairly well. In reality, it?s not too far off from ?Rose?s Turn? from Gypsy. Like I said, this isn?t rock and roll. I might be able to excuse Wilson?s frequent musical plummets down the staircase and listen to Smile as a failed experiment, but help me Rhonda, the lyrics, written by Van Dyke Parks, are unforgivable. To call them incoherent would be an insult to sufferers of Tourette?s syndrome. I?m not kidding around. The chorus of ?Surf?s Up? is ?Columnated ruins domino.? I rest my case. And I haven?t even mentioned the embarrassing rewrite of ?Good Vibrations.? I?m not saying that an artist shouldn?t be allowed to evolve. Quite the contrary. ?Pet Sounds? was 180 degrees removed from the classic Beach Boys sound, and it?s one of the best artifacts of the 60s, although it hasn?t aged especially well. What I?m saying is that an artist shouldn?t be allowed to release a musical roll of toilet paper (albeit, in this case, very fancy, possibly silken toilet paper) and get the best reviews of the year. That would do more to kill art, and more importantly, rock and roll, than Smile alone ever could. Had the record been released in the 60s, it would have been remembered as Pet Sounds? overly hyped, kitschy sister-album on which Wilson, in an attempt to create ?a teenage symphony to god,? took his self-indulgence to idiotic extremes. If that doesn?t convince you, then hear this. Which do you like better, Smile?s ?Cabin Essence? or the old time ?Surfin? Safari?? I guess you?ll always have your Smile people and your ?Fun Fun Fun? people, but let?s face it ? over-serious, over-orchestrated vanity-pop will never have the same musical impact or the same teenage truths of a song as gloriously moronic as ?Little Deuce Coupe.? That, and the people who think Smile is a modern rock cornerstone are probably the kind of folks who say that The Beatles started out as a boy band and that Jim Morrison was a great poet. In Brian Wilson?s own words, buddy, I just shut you down. … Expand
  69. FatciderjohnTheBassbeast
    Nov 26, 2004
    10
    This arrived the day before my first born son-Lucas. Frankly, I've not stopped playing it. Complete Wilson Genius. Incredible, I really did think Brian had lost it until this. I knew it would be good after seeing it live in the summer. I just knew it! Brian I love you. A thousand thankyoooooos.
  70. JakeM
    Nov 21, 2004
    1
    These songs are stupid and I cannot comprehend this albums critical acclaim. This guys brain is obviously fried. His songs aren't about anything at all and they all sound the same. The choruses are terrible. I HATE it. Come back Beach Boys!! How could this even be compared to Pet Sounds!!!!!!!!
  71. LynnC.
    Nov 20, 2004
    10
    It's amazing. It's so musically sophisticated. There's really nothing like it out there still. It feels more like musical progression has gone backwards since 1967, when this would have come out originally. If it would have, I bet Beach Boys would be thought of very different than they are today. It's so joyous yet odd. Love it. Can't quit listening.
  72. steveb
    Nov 18, 2004
    10
    This is one of those rare pieces of music that keeps life worth living. For all of the people who rated thus poorly, I feel very badly for you, open your mind and ears and listen. There are few musical treasures that can match this. This is as good as Pet Sounds, Rubber Soul, Abbey Road, Highway 61 Revisted, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road or Imperial Bedroom. This is a classic. Forget the new This is one of those rare pieces of music that keeps life worth living. For all of the people who rated thus poorly, I feel very badly for you, open your mind and ears and listen. There are few musical treasures that can match this. This is as good as Pet Sounds, Rubber Soul, Abbey Road, Highway 61 Revisted, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road or Imperial Bedroom. This is a classic. Forget the new Papa Roach or whatever the heck you will be mis-spending your money on. This will grow with you, not be an embarrasing phase of your development.… Expand
  73. BrianV
    Nov 13, 2004
    10
    Absolutely, genius. Brian Wilson and his masterwork. Thank you for giving us this Brian.
  74. LionelR
    Nov 12, 2004
    7
    I was 15 years old in 1967 and this album is not unlike a magic carpet ride back in time. It is clever, it is amusing but most of all it is deeply disturbing. I have downrated it by 2 points because I sense that it is technically inferior to "what it shud've sounded like" parts of it lack the tight control which is after all the beachboys' trademark
  75. ByronJ
    Nov 7, 2004
    9
    This cd may be the best one i've ever purchased. It's quite rewarding if you look deep beneath the surface, as sometimes with Brian Wilson's music(and a few other artists) so much is going on you can't take it all in, in one go. It will take multiple listens for you to fully grasp the reality of the situation.
  76. MattM
    Nov 7, 2004
    3
    Pretty freakin' boring. The only really good songs are the ones we've heard before: "Good Vibrations" and "Heroes and Villains."
  77. ChrisH
    Nov 1, 2004
    10
    Remember 2004 when that SMILE album came out and those who weren't old enough in the 60s said oh that beach boy album concept thing with two old hits on it - Heroes and Villains and Good Vibrations. Bla Bla. Well we can all lose touch. It doesn't matter Brian Wilson did it. It's an album about the ups and downs of the American dream. The music is brilliant. It's Remember 2004 when that SMILE album came out and those who weren't old enough in the 60s said oh that beach boy album concept thing with two old hits on it - Heroes and Villains and Good Vibrations. Bla Bla. Well we can all lose touch. It doesn't matter Brian Wilson did it. It's an album about the ups and downs of the American dream. The music is brilliant. It's relevant to the times. It inspires. Very simple in SMILE there is hope. … Expand
  78. JimM
    Oct 30, 2004
    10
    Great music, great composer, GREAT band! Brian's band pulls off what the Beach Boys never could. I can't get enough of this CD!
  79. MarkA
    Oct 29, 2004
    10
    Simply put ... Stunning! I've listened to it several times a day for three weeks and I still love hearing it. My opinion is that it is better than Pet Sounds, better than Sgt Pepper.
  80. Bruce
    Oct 27, 2004
    2
    You can take a pile of horse manure, mould it into the shape of the Statue of David and people will call it art, simply because that's what they are supposed to say. Of course in reality, it's really just a pile of shit. I'm sure Brian Wilson is "smiling" all the way to the bank !
  81. tommyg
    Oct 27, 2004
    9
    Beautiful. Warm. A down-filled concept record that dosen't weigh you down. Harkens back to when times were a little bit better, less confused, but still looks forward with confidence and opitimism. Absolutely gorgeous. California chamber pop.
  82. NickK
    Oct 24, 2004
    10
    I didn't think it was a good idea that Brain was re-recording SMiLE from scratch. However, he proved me wrong-- this is a masterful psychedelic pop opera, and I enjoy it much more than the bits and scraps we've been listening to for the last decade through bootlegs and official Beach Boy releases.
  83. RichH
    Oct 22, 2004
    10
    Greater than the sum of it's parts this record satisfies. There are moments when the music felt so right that tears welled up and I got a lump in my throat. Only the very best can do this to me.
  84. GeraldK
    Oct 22, 2004
    10
    True, Pet Sounds has more great songs and none of the Smile songs reach the utter heavenly transcience of say God Only Knows, Caroline No or I Just Wasn't Made for These Times, but this is still clearly the best album of the year and Brian Wilson's greatest solo achievment. I still have a bit of a tendency to like the older version of these songs just a bit more, mainly because True, Pet Sounds has more great songs and none of the Smile songs reach the utter heavenly transcience of say God Only Knows, Caroline No or I Just Wasn't Made for These Times, but this is still clearly the best album of the year and Brian Wilson's greatest solo achievment. I still have a bit of a tendency to like the older version of these songs just a bit more, mainly because it is much clearer to the listener just how far ahead of its time the original was (let's be honest, pop music has caught up with Smile) but had the original album been released in 1967 I think it could have surpassed Sgt. Peppers in overall brilliance and song quality. The structure and composition of these tracks is complete and utter genius. No listener with even the slightest discernable ear can deny Brian is the greatest pop musician ever and his songs will live forever. BTW, it truly does get better the more times you listen to it, and how many albums can you say that abot anyway?… Expand
  85. bingobongo
    Oct 20, 2004
    7
    Good, but not-so-good. Sgt. Pepper is far better, and I understand why Brian Wilson, obsessed by Beatles, destroyed this album. He wanted realize something better, but he couldn't. Pet Sounds remains his best.
  86. JamesD
    Oct 15, 2004
    10
    best cd i ever owned
  87. ErikN
    Oct 15, 2004
    9
    It's getting better and better each time I listen to it.
  88. StillaKidAtheart
    Oct 15, 2004
    10
    Simply a Masterpiece! I first heard Sgt. Pepper's at the age of 14, and I have the same kind of feeling listening to Smile today...I can't stop listening to it...Thank you, Brian...You reached me.
  89. AaronS.
    Oct 15, 2004
    10
    Better late than never. This beautiful musical curiosity sounds like nothing else, totally unclassifiable. It sounds as out of place today as it would have back in 1967! Highly recommended to those with adventurous tastes.
  90. GaryE
    Oct 14, 2004
    10
    Now we can see how expendable the rest of the Beach Boys really were. Brian was obviously the brains of the outfit.
  91. MattP
    Oct 14, 2004
    10
    A brilliant masterpiece that lives up to all the hype. Best album of the year and the decade. Don't listen to the naysayers.
  92. JoeM
    Oct 14, 2004
    10
    I am biased and a huge Brian Wilson fan and I admit that, but SMiLE, 38 years late is still a triumph. Believe it or not, it is even better and more powerful performed live. I love this music!
  93. DevinB
    Oct 13, 2004
    10
    Brilliant and heartbreaking, the work of a true virtuoso. Besides being immensely catchy and infectious in its moods, the three-suite style of circular song-structure makes this Brian's strongest album, surpassing the genius even of Pet Sounds. Sure, the highlights on Pet Sounds are insurmountable and make for unfair comparison. Smile, however, in its ambitious scope and flawless Brilliant and heartbreaking, the work of a true virtuoso. Besides being immensely catchy and infectious in its moods, the three-suite style of circular song-structure makes this Brian's strongest album, surpassing the genius even of Pet Sounds. Sure, the highlights on Pet Sounds are insurmountable and make for unfair comparison. Smile, however, in its ambitious scope and flawless execution demands canonization as well.… Expand
  94. chipdIII
    Oct 13, 2004
    2
    Why did it take 37 years before it came out Brian? "Because it's mostly utter cock and it took me to completely lose my mind before I gave in to my money loving bastard label. ha ha ha wibble." This should have a really remained a myth.
  95. DavidR
    Oct 12, 2004
    10
    First listen, I liked it but thought it was a bit odd. Then pieces began to surface in my memory. After a few more listens, I convinced it's one of the most original, wonderful, pieces I've ever heard. I love it.
  96. DrakeT
    Oct 11, 2004
    10
    This CD is more and less than could be hoped for. Brian's angelic voice from the 66/67 Smile sessions is absent, but his voice still sounds great, despite the diminished range. This version puts the Smile pieces in order and makes sense of everything that's circulated before. It's extraordinarily creative music that should elicit a Smile.
  97. engelbertcockswallower
    Oct 10, 2004
    0
    gee this suxx!! get sum papa roach doodes!!
  98. JE
    Oct 9, 2004
    10
    i love it. it's a great album. i think everyone who is digging it is suffering from a little bit of nostalgia, but that's only natural..
  99. BigStuart
    Oct 9, 2004
    0
    It has *sheep sounds* in it! god sake! and his voice is incredibly annoying! this sucks so very very bad.
  100. JimD
    Oct 8, 2004
    10
    An amazing aural experience. Totally unlike anything else by the Beach Boys in many ways, but the harmonies take you back.
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best Album of 2004
3
#3 Most Discussed Album of 2004
15
#15 Most Shared Album of 2004

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
97

Universal acclaim - based on 29 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 29 out of 29
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 29
  3. Negative: 0 out of 29
  1. Tiny Mix Tapes
    100
    Smile is quite simply the greatest triumph in the history of pop music.
    Read full review
  2. Village Voice (Consumer Guide)
    100
    Smile's post-adolescent utopia isn't disfigured by Brian's thickened, soured 62-year-old voice. It's ennobled--the material limitations of its sunny artifice and pretentious tomfoolery acknowledged and joyfully engaged.
    Read full review
  3. Los Angeles Times
    100
    "Smile" emerges as a beautiful and cohesive work, at times deeply moving, at others oddly whimsical, at still others eerily disturbing but celebratory. [27 Sep 2004]
See all critic reviews »