When you started out your publication, Endless Summer Quarterly, did you do it by yourself at first?
David Beard: Endless Summer Quarterly [ESQ] actually began in 1987 under the direction of editors emeritus Phil Mast and Rick Edgil, who both live out in the San Diego, CA area. Editor emeritus Lee Dempsey was a writer for the publication when I initially met him in 1991 at a record convention. He told me about ESQ, so I subscribed for one year and then opted out of receiving it, because I felt it didn't really offer much insight into the history of The Beach Boys.
Back then, mostly because of computer capabilities, it was a photo-copied product. Rick & Phil — from my understanding — got burnt out on producing the mag in 1993 and approached Lee about carrying the torch. Lee asked me if I'd like to contribute, because he felt he couldn't do it on his own. I immediately said yes. The first edition we produced was the Fall 1993 edition focusing on the 1993 box set, which we were still devouring. My very first interview (for that issue) was with Dean Torrence. I remember being extremely nervous…and Dean was as cool as the day is long. Eliott Kendall set that up.
Fortunately for us, a couple of months later we saw The Beach Boys begin their rare 1993 acoustic tour in Charlotte, NC. That night I saw perhaps the most memorable show of my life. Carl Wilson singing "Wonderful"… The group performing "Vegetables" and "Take A Load Off Your Feet," etc. It was all great, and I was particularly impressed with the emergence of Matt Jardine. Matt was nailing every note, and he knocked "Hushabye" out of the park. The show inspired me. I felt, if The Beach Boys could do that show, then I could give my time and energy to them. It was at that time that Lee and I decided ESQ needed a facelift. It should focus on the historical relevance of the music and the impact that it had on our society. That impact is immeasurable, which is why — 50 years later — we're still talking about them.
When Carl passed away in February of 1998 I became even more adamant about providing a service to the fans to fill the emotional gap that the loss left behind. I hope I did that. It was not an easy task, because the group all went their separate ways…then the court battles ensued. Regardless, I forged ahead believing that the music was far more important than any individual member having a falling out with one another. Lee was less enthusiastic and resigned from his role of editor in 1999, but sill maintains a connection with ESQ as the business manager.
It wasn't until 2012's reunion show in Irvine, CA on Sunday, June 3 (with California Saga opening the show, and Dean Torrence going on stage for the encore) that I was reassured that ESQ does provide a service to the fans that no message board could possibly provide…ever. While it is true that I don't "truly" know them intimately, I can say I know all of the families, camps, etc., and I love them all. They know it…It isn't false. I'm actually that thankful for the music. Many fans spend unnecessary energy with unending jabs at the group or Mike Love, etc. The message boards are constantly full of "glasses empty" comments. To me, if you genuinely love the music, that's what the conversation should be about. That seems like a no brainer. It is because of my "no hidden agenda" approach to publishing ESQ that I get really quality interviews with all the guys… Answers that you won't get anywhere else. That is true. They are all very comfortable with me, and vise versa. When we interview, it often feels like two buddies hanging out chatting about the past. I'm grateful for that. I think that trust is what made it possible for me to produce the complimentary ESQ CD "Boys Of Summer" in 2010. It is the ONLY compilation of its kind. Anywhere.
With this summer's issue being the 100th, what issue do you believe is the best for new readers to backorder?
David: There are several.
WINTER 2011 - Collectible SMiLE cover & edition
ESQ's all SMiLE edition features new SMiLE q&a's with Brian Wilson & Mike Love; artist Frank Holmes taking us on a tour of the different meanings behind the artwork for his three renderings for the song "Cabin Essence" (Holmes also created a collectible cover for this special edition); Peter Reum offers an examination of Brian's exploration in life during the SMiLE era.; Andrew G. Doe writes about the humor of SMiLE; Bill Tobelman studies the potential meanings behind the SMiLE music; more
WINTER 2010 - Endless Summer Quarterly, Featuring: THE BEACH BOYS - SUNFLOWER
The Winter 2010/2011 edition of Endless Summer Quarterly [ESQ] features:
A 48-page celebration of The Beach Boys finest group album with new articles by David M. Beard, Peter Reum, Andrew G. Doe and Fred Vail; previously unreleased images; more
SUMMER 2010 - Endless Summer Quarterly, featuring:
The new CD compilaton and "The Beach Boys TV & Film Appearances PT.2" - (Read the press release)
An ESQ Offering From The Boys Of Summer CD (NOT FOR SALE) ESQBBCD2010
Tracklisting:
• Brian Wilson: The Spirit of Rock & Roll
• Mike Love: Cool Head, Warm Heart
• Beckley-Lamm-Wilson (featuring Carl Wilson): Run Don't Walk
• David Marks: Big Wave
• Jan & Dean: Ocean Park Angel
• Al Jardine (w/Brian Wilson): Honkin' Down The Highway
• Al Jardine (w/Brian Wilson & David Marks): Drivin'
• Dean Torrence: Sunny Afternoon
• Carl Wilson and Brian Wilson: Soul Searchin'
• David Marks (w/Al Jardine): I Sail Away
• Dennis Wilson: Mexico
• Mike Love: Love Like In Fairytales
• David Marks: The Circle Continues
• Beckley-Lamm-Wilson (featuring Carl Wilson): Like A Brother
SMiLE 2004/SMiLE 1967/Grammy© 2005 Three pack limited time offer: SPECIAL OFFER
The Fall 2004 edition featuring exclusive interviews with: Brian Wilson, Van Dyke Parks (PT. 1), David Leaf, Mark Linett, and Mark London. The exclusive, limited-edition collector’s CD of “On a Holiday” and the instrumental version of “Roll Plymouth Rock.”
The SMiLE 1967 edition features exclusive Frank Holmes artwork, Van Dyke Parks (PT. 2) and a historic study of the SMiLE subject matter.
The Spring 2005 edition celebrates Brian Wilson’s Grammy® win for “Mrs. O’Leary’s Cow” in the “Best Rock Instrumental” category. Exclusive interviews with Brian Wilson and David Leaf; images exclusive to ESQ from the Grammys; much more! The exclusive, limited-edition collector’s CD of “Mrs. O’Leary’s Cow.”
The Fall 2004 edition featuring exclusive interviews with: Brian Wilson, Van Dyke Parks (PT. 1), David Leaf, Mark Linett, and Mark London. The exclusive, limited-edition collector’s CD of “On a Holiday” and the instrumental version of “Roll Plymouth Rock.”
The SMiLE 1967 edition features exclusive Frank Holmes artwork, Van Dyke Parks (PT. 2) and a historic study of the SMiLE subject matter.
The Spring 2005 edition celebrates Brian Wilson’s Grammy® win for “Mrs. O’Leary’s Cow” in the “Best Rock Instrumental” category. Exclusive interviews with Brian Wilson and David Leaf; images exclusive to ESQ from the Grammys; much more! The exclusive, limited-edition collector’s CD of “Mrs. O’Leary’s Cow.”
SUMMER 2008 - Endless Summer Quarterly Special Edition, Dennis Wilson tribute CD:
The Summer 2008 edition of Endless Summer Quarterly [ESQ] is the exclusive companion piece to the 'PACIFIC OCEAN BLUE: LEGACY EDITION' featuring unabridged interviews with Jim Guercio, John Hanlon, Gregg Jakobson, Dean O. Torrence, Billy Hinsche, Bobby Figueroa and Carli Munoz in their entirety (used in the liner note essay for the release co-written by Jon Stebbins and David Beard). Additional interviews and testimonials from Trisha Campo, Wayne Tweed, Ricci Martin, Daryl Dragon, Fred Vail, Stephen Kalinich and David Marks are included. The special issue includes an introduction from author Jon Stebbins and closing by Ed Roach.
The Summer 2008 edition of Endless Summer Quarterly [ESQ] is the exclusive companion piece to the 'PACIFIC OCEAN BLUE: LEGACY EDITION' featuring unabridged interviews with Jim Guercio, John Hanlon, Gregg Jakobson, Dean O. Torrence, Billy Hinsche, Bobby Figueroa and Carli Munoz in their entirety (used in the liner note essay for the release co-written by Jon Stebbins and David Beard). Additional interviews and testimonials from Trisha Campo, Wayne Tweed, Ricci Martin, Daryl Dragon, Fred Vail, Stephen Kalinich and David Marks are included. The special issue includes an introduction from author Jon Stebbins and closing by Ed Roach.
Winter 2006 - Carl Wilson Special Edition & Tribute CD: "Under God":
The Winter 2006 edition of Endless Summer Quarterly [ESQ] celebrates the late Carl Wilson’s 60th birthday with the collectible ESQ tribute CD titled “Under God.” The title is inspired by Carl's son Justyn Wilson, who penned the track with his father in mind. Featured artists on the CD include: Brian Wilson, David Marks, Matthew Jardine, Robert Lamm, Gerry Beckley, Desi Arnaz, Jr. & Billy Hinsche, Alan Boyd, and the late Carl Wilson. 
How did you get to have connections to the Beach Boys?
David: Initially through Lee…we were able to get backstage passes, etc. I did my due diligence to make the most of those situations, by getting to know them as people over the last 20 years. The truth is, they don't need anymore friends. When you're a celebrity of their caliber the last thing they need is someone ALWAYS wanting something from them. As a fan I have had multiple opportunities for autographs, pictures and signatures, etc. I do not take those opportunities for granted; I appreciate each and every one of them. My connection to them is the music, so if they make time to do an interview with me I do everything I can to make it worth their while by producing a quality publication about them. A lot of times I am able to get those interviews into Goldmine Magazine. I've been writing for Goldmine for about six years now.
Most embarrassing Beach Boys moment that you have been a part of, if you have been?
David: Oh yeah… But I cannot possibly write about it publicly. There is one that should never be repeated, another that's actually pretty funny and one that makes me laugh out loud every time I think of it…like right now (while typing this). I will go on record and say that they all have great senses of humor. I mean, they have to in order to survive one another after all these years. There are two nice memories from the group's show in Atlanta, GA on April 28th. I tripped over Brian (sitting down) and the group laughed at me. That was like being in a Lucy skit, and quite funny. After that same show I told Al how great it was to watch them perform "All This Is That." He asked me why. I explained that — for my money — it is as good as The Beatles' "Across The Universe," and that it was a beautiful reminder of the spiritual connection that I have with the music. He was visibly moved, and rushed off to tell Mike.
What is the biggest misconception about ESQ?
David: The one perception that amuses me the most is that I write positive reviews of releases because I am beholden to the group. I write reviews the way I do because it's what I actually believe. Take for example 1992's "Summer In Paradise" CD. As a Beach Boys album it doesn't do much for me, but as Mike Love solo project with the "Beach Boys" name utilizing Carl, Al and Bruce on vocals…and Terry Melcher as his main collaborator. It's kind of the same thing Brian did on "Pet Sounds" and "Smile"; use an outside collaborator and have The Beach Boys vocally emulate the music. That's the template. For "Summer In Paradise" Mike uses the same template. So, for me, "Summer In Paradise" is a very good Mike Love album release. When viewing it that way, it's pretty good. Do I think about how the guys will feel if I write something that isn't the popular opinion? Sure, but that doesn't keep me from writing what the feeling the music gives me. That is what reviews are for me, a reflection of the music…not a criticism. As for the overall content of ESQ… Well, I am doing my due diligence to properly honor the memories of Dennis and Carl Wilson. Just talking about these two is a whole other interview.
Who is absolutely your favorite subscriber to ESQ?
David: Anyone who is passionate about the group, is inspired by the content of the magazine and sends letters in for publication. On a more somber note, I miss Les Chan, Bob Hanes…and many others that have left us through the years. I will say that 48-pages per issue are well worth paying a little over $7.50 (in the US).
What is your relationship to the Bamboo Trading Company/Jan & Dean?
David: That's two different answers. I'm a Jan & Dean nut…I love their stuff! It may be because my first interview was with Dean (1993) that I have gotten to know him the best. We have a very similar sense of humor…as does Mike Love. My interview with Jan Berry in 1997 turned out very well. I got to spend a little bit of time around Jan…and he was cool. I could tell there was a great composer trapped in that body… I really wish I had known him back in the 1960's because of the stories that Dean has shared with me through the years in interviews. I think the thing I like most about Jan & Dean is just how cool they were in the 1960's. Jan was essentially Brian & Dennis Wilson rolled into one. He had Brian's compositional knowhow and Dennis' flare for getting into trouble. Dean? Well, how many people have been friends with both Mike Love and Dennis Wilson? He's always gotten along with everyone. That's kind of cool.
As for The Bamboo Trading Company… Well, it is essentially a group that I invented. I'm not exactly sure if the word "invent" is correct, but it's close. The group name was inspired by Dean's memorabilia shop, and the song "Kitty Hawk" was inspired by his graphic arts company of the same name. The project began in early 2011 when film director (and ESQ subscriber) Steve Latshaw approached me about supplying music for a film he was writing titled "Return Of The Killer Shrews;" a B movie spoof horror film. As a lyricist my work has been recorded by Jez Graham, Chris English and UK artist Peter Lacey…I dabble on the guitar, but I'm no musician. Because of ESQ I've gotten to know the Beach Boys as well as all of the incredibly multi-talented musicians who make them sound great (in the studio and on stage).
I wanted to work with one guy…Gary Griffin. Gary has played with The Beach Boys, Brian Wilson, Mike Love and The Endless Summer Band, Celebration, Jan & Dean, etc.… and he is legitimately one of the best in the business…at least Brian Wilson thinks so. In addition to appearing on multiple projects through the years Gary recorded on the 2011 remake of "Do It Again" with The Beach Boys, had Brian, Mike, Bruce and David record instruments and vocals from "That's Why God Made The Radio" at his studio in 2012, and recorded accordion for "Strange World." Last year Brian told me, "I love the vibe at Gary’s house. I have cut some of my very favorite records there. It’s very laid back and mellow. Gary is a really sweet guy and a joy to work with. I’m very relaxed there. … I love everything he plays. … He’s a very talented engineer, piano player, vibe player, accordionist… everything." How's that for an endorsement?
Back to the film…I was brought on as Artist Coordinator and commissioned to provide the music. Gary and I wrote two originals, "Shrewd Awakening" and "Tonga Hut." We also provided two other cuts, "Star Of The Beach" and "Don't Say It's Over." Thanks in large part to the friendships over the last 20 years, we were able to get Dean and his daughters Katie & Jillian involved. We also got Matt Jardine, Philip Bardowell, Alan Boyd and Chris English involved. Everyone had a great time! Then, we were done. Gary and I seemed to agree that the four songs turned out pretty good. "Return Of The Killer Shrews" was not a big budget film, so we knew were uncertain that the music would reach anyone.
I went back to the drawing board in early 2012 and worked diligently on putting together a full-on conceptual listening experience. It was at this time that I proposed recording an album under the name The Bamboo Trading Company. The concept that I was trying to put together — outside of any obvious homages — was a trip that took the listener from Kitty Hawk, NC to Surf City, CA… It seemed like and easy enough thing to communicate to the listener. Gary liked the idea enough, so we asked Philip, Matt and Chris back. A songwriting buddy of mine, Dan Yoe (Miami Dan) had written "Star Of The Beach" in addition to "I've Always Loved The Ocean" and "Jericho." Probyn Gregory (from Brian's band) produced & arranged the first two tracks and David Marks produced "Jericho." I then revisited "Drinkin' In The Sunshine;" a track that I had written with Peter Lacey for his 2011 "We Are The Sand" album. Gary had a few instrumentals sitting around that he felt fit the mold of the album. I also brought "Tweet (Don't Talk Anymore)" to the table. Jez Graham approached me about writing this with him back in 2009. The song is a conscious dialogue about our society losing its way in electronic devices. Chris had a lovely piece that evoked Beach Boys harmonies, so we broke his song into two pieces and made them the bookends of the album ("Airborne" and "Airborne Reentry").
All that really remained was the starting and ending point. We then wrote "Kitty Hawk" and "The Bamboo Trading Company (Theme)." Since we had Dean on a couple of tracks already (the film) we re-approached him, and he agreed to guest on a few more. He sings a great falsetto on "Drinkin' In The Sunshine" and lead on "Tweet." By every bit of luck, Randell Kirsch was available to join in on the fun, and he — like the others — brought his A-game. It was really cool to watch this musical brotherhood in action. (If you ever read Bob Greene's "When We Get To Surf City" then you know about these guys. If not, pick it up today.) My role for the project ended up being Executive Producer, Co-Producer, Creative/Art Direction & Package Design, Artist Coordinator, Songwriter…I wore a lot of hats, and I'm extremely proud of what we accomplished together. Gary, Matt, Philip, Randell, Chris and Miami Dan are each very pleased with the results too…As is Dean. That is all good, etc., but they are ones who made it great! I've already begun work on a second album…We'll see how it goes.
Plans on writing a book?
David: Yes. Probably the place where those stories that I cannot share here will make their appearance. It's been an amazing 20 years of working with like-minded people.
LINKS
The Bamboo Trading Company
Endless Summer Quarterly back editions
http://esquarterly.com/
Complete back issue list:
http://esquarterly.com/PDF/Subscribe to ESQ
http://esquarterly.com/order.
Beach Boys Examiner
http://www.examiner.com/beach-
Thank you David.
No comments:
Post a Comment