YOU CAN CALL ME AL

Inevitably, the obituaries that followed in the wake of his death in June focused on the work of lead Beach Boy, Brian Wilson.

- 

Now that the dust has settled, however, we can cast around a bit further, at the contributions made by brothers Dennis and Carl, cousin Mike Love, Bruce Johnston, and founder member Al Jardine. Here, Felix Rowe catches up with the occasional lead singer, rhythm guitarist, and writer of California Saga, All This Is That, Lady Lynda, and other fabulous BBs deep cuts and explores what it was like to step out from Brian's giant shadow

Brian Wilson's genius is a matter of record. Younger brother, Dennis, also has his fierce proponents. Close scrutiny of The Beach Boys' records, especially the late 60s and 70s ones, reveal the wealth of talent elsewhere in the group: Carl Wilson, Bruce Johnstone, Al Jardine, even the dread Mike Love, have all contributed brilliant music to America's Greatest Band.

The truth is, while The Beach Boys are an all-American institution, most popular accounts read like The Life Of Brian, his brothers and bandmates typically reduced to mere bit players whose collective presence largely serves to carry the Brian Wilson myth forward.

But there's an alternative narrative that's equally beguiling. Imagine discovering a new favourite band – a little known, albeit hugely innovative, underground sensation, boasting a phenomenal catalogue. Then consider the revelation that it was actually just your old favourite band all along, hiding in plain sight.

Beyond the well-worn grooves and jukebox staples, there's an embarrassment of riches. While The Beach Boys' commercial fortunes were waning, creatively they were mining gold. If Brian's mid-60s output represents the big summer blockbusters, then his bandmates' 70s output is like the art-house indie flicks – panned, or worse, ignored upon release, though later lauded for their inventiveness by a select few.