Actually, the key to Pet Sounds was the Tony Asher lyrics - far more mature than Brian Wilson's bubble gum crap.
Additionally "Sloop John B" was an old folk song.
Brian's music & production was excellent...BUT he needed a LARGE helping hand from Tony Asher and the Wrecking Crew - both are largely ignored in the praises of Pet Sounds.
You are so right! I never cared for Beach Boys music except for THIS album. It was different from all the rest. It was grown up, mature, insightful music. Thank you!
As you can see I’m ex-Sailor. “Sloop John B” bored me to tears. Other than some harmonies here and there, it was bubble-gum. Had no soul; no rock; lazy drums - just eck.
I remember the Wrecking Crew. Weren’t they a renowned studio session group? Could have it wrong.