In this latest release That’s Why God Made The Radio, pioneering surf rockers The Beach Boys appear slightly drowsier than classics like “Good Vibrations”, “Help Me Rhonda”, or even “Surfin’ USA”.

It is, however, not quite as much of an aberration as say, Metallica’s Load, which despite its varied discourse has developed an acceptance amongst die-hard fans. Here the Beach Boys are not exactly channeling the aforementioned classics, but rather drawing inspiration from down beat, yet similarly valid material such as the sentimental “Kokomo”.

The whole album brings that aesthetic to the fore and is suited to quality time spent with Mary Jane as opposed to a rum soaked dance fest. But don’t worry the summer isn’t over yet.

True to their style, the songs are well suited to driving, but perhaps it’s an album to play on the trip home from the beach. That’s simply the vibrations this album gives off. There’s no enticement to action, but rather, the sounds invite the listener to survey past achievements, contemplate loses and victories, and reflect on the essence of existence.

The music seems to imply this contemplation should be undertaken in a beach hut with a western sunsets rosy fingers sliding into oblivion. Similarly conducive to this introspection are Mojitos and a bowl of corn chips to dry the palate.

Whichever way you look at it, this is a nice note to end on. When I say end, I mean; do we expect to see another album by the Beach Boys? If yes, I’m sure it will be as credible as this, but if not, they can remain comforted that their last effort was as worthy as any other.

Review Score 9/10