Beach Boys founding member Al Jardine and The Pet Sounds Band (featuring Brian Wilson’s acclaimed touring musicians) will be performing the big ones from the classic Beach Boys catalogue including “California Girls,” “Help Me Rhonda,” “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” and “Heroes And Villains”, plus eleven songs from the Love You album and never-before-performed-live rarities from 15 Big Ones and the M.I.U. Album.
The 11 piece Pet Sounds Band features music director Darian Sahanaja plus most of the band members that toured with Brian Wilson on the Pet Sounds 50th Anniversary Tour. The band also features Matt Jardine, who has performed with The Beach Boys and Brian Wilson for decades and has received rave reviews for his youthful Brian Wilson-like vocals on classics such as “Good Vibrations,” “God Only Knows,” “Don’t Worry Baby” and “Surf’s Up.” This heartfelt tribute to the genius of his friend, the legendary Brian Wilson, is truly a show not to be missed! Presented by David Roy Williams.
In his interview with Australian Musician’s Greg Phillips, Al Jardine reflects on his long association with Brian Wilson and previews his upcoming Australian tour, which celebrates the enduring legacy of The Beach Boys.
MORE ABOUT THE INTERVIEW
Jardine recalls fond memories of his last visit to Australia, particularly the vibrant atmosphere of the Byron Bay Bluesfest, and shares insights into the spontaneity and intensity of the original Pet Sounds sessions, describing how the band was thrust straight into learning Wilson’s new material despite jet lag. Looking ahead to the Australian tour in June, he explains the decision to include material from the once-polarising ‘Love You’ album, noting that diehard fans have since embraced its experimental, synth-driven sound. Positioning his current group as an “alternative Beach Boys,” Jardine aims to offer something distinct from more traditional hits-focused shows.
He also revisits his involvement with the M.I.U. Album, highlighting the personal significance of performing “She’s Got Rhythm,” now sung by his son Matthew. Throughout the conversation, Jardine emphasises that his primary goal on stage is to create a sense of joy and connection, likening the concerts to a “family reunion” built around music that continues to resonate across generations.
Discussing Wilson’s innovative production style, Jardine notes that his former bandmate was always driven by sound, eagerly embracing emerging technologies like early synthesizers. He also touches on the dual paths the Beach Boys took during the late ’60s and ’70s, balancing Wilson’s studio experimentation with the touring band’s need for accessible, road-ready material.
Elsewhere, Jardine shares anecdotes ranging from his preference for Fender Stratocasters to the loss of a guitar allegedly stolen by Charles Manson, and reflects on the collaborative brilliance of the The Wrecking Crew during the band’s classic recordings. He describes the challenge of assembling setlists from such a vast catalogue, though insists the strength of the material makes it hard to go wrong.
Jardine tells us the aim of the upcoming shows is simple: to give audiences a couple of hours of happiness, blending Pet Sounds, Love You, and classic hits into a celebratory live experience that honours Brian Wilson’s musical vision.
AL JARDINE AND THE PET SOUNDS BAND AUSTRALIAN DATES
SYDNEY – Sydney Opera House – Tuesday June 23
PERTH – Regal Theatre – Thursday June 25
ADELAIDE – Thebarton Theatre -Saturday June 27
MELBOURNE – Hamer Hall – Sunday June 28
BRISBANE – QPAC – Tuesday June 30
NEWCASTLE – Civic Theatre – Thursday July 2
Tickets on sale www.davidroywilliams.com