SMiLE
by Brian Wilson
  • Record Label: Nonesuch
  • Release Date: Sep 28, 2004
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 522 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 398 out of 522
  2. Mixed: 39 out of 522
  3. Negative: 85 out of 522

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  1. ScottY
    Jul 9, 2005
    1
    I don't get the high ratings this one receives. The music just seems like a slightly updated version of the stuff the Beach Boys were doing in the 1960s. What's so great about this album these days?
  2. ElMo
    Aug 1, 2005
    0
    This Supposed Masterpiece, is the worst music i have ever listened to, that's why it was never released and should have stayed that way. If Brian wilson had stayed with Mike Love and produced the album, the result would have been a lot different, and maybe i would have like it, but no! I think this album was only bought because Brian Wilson's name was on it. And a hell of a lot This Supposed Masterpiece, is the worst music i have ever listened to, that's why it was never released and should have stayed that way. If Brian wilson had stayed with Mike Love and produced the album, the result would have been a lot different, and maybe i would have like it, but no! I think this album was only bought because Brian Wilson's name was on it. And a hell of a lot of people are being polite.… Expand
  3. WilliamT
    Sep 23, 2005
    1
    first they told me Revenge Of The Sith had redeemed George Lucas. Heck many critics said it was even better than Star Wars. Then I hear Smile scores 97 on the metatcritic score so I goes out and buy it. "It's impossible for words to describe what is necesassary, for those who do not know what... horror...means"
  4. TristramC
    Sep 6, 2005
    9
    This disc is just a tease. As 'wonderful' as it is, it is impossible to enjoy it without wondering how it would have sounded in the late 60s with the same energy and exhuberance Brian and the boys had when they released Pet Sounds. And that is another thing. Even though Mike Love hated it, I want to hear the other Beach Boys on this recording instead of the Starlight Mints (or This disc is just a tease. As 'wonderful' as it is, it is impossible to enjoy it without wondering how it would have sounded in the late 60s with the same energy and exhuberance Brian and the boys had when they released Pet Sounds. And that is another thing. Even though Mike Love hated it, I want to hear the other Beach Boys on this recording instead of the Starlight Mints (or whoever Brians backing band is; I forget to be honest) That said, nothing came close to it regarding Album of the Year. 2004 had its stories; the Arcade Fire and Devendra Banhart being among the best, but not even they could compete with the release of he most anticipated record in pop history and even as a relative success, it blew everything else away.… Expand
  5. AH
    Nov 20, 2006
    2
    Credit must be given to the level of creativity and variety on this album. In saying that however, variety without purpose and cohesion can be a bad thing and this album, after about Track 11, becomes really tiresome. Track 12 Vega-tables is just a montage of goofy sounds and nonsense.
  6. DanS
    Jan 12, 2006
    0
    Holy shit this album sucks. Its the #1 album on metacritic of all time? Ive lost all faith in critics and user ratings for life, with the exception of the few of you who trashed this piece, youve all lost your minds, much like Wilson. If you bought this album i feel sorry for you.
  7. ChrisB
    Oct 30, 2006
    10
    The most artistic album of all time. This proves that Brian does not need those coat-tail riding, freeloading Beach Boys. Here is a group of dedicated musicians doing justice to some of the most original American music since Copeland. God Save Brian Wilson!
  8. DrewM
    Mar 18, 2006
    0
    Oh my God. This album is absolutely fucking horrible. Anybody who rated it high needs a good smack. Really. Get a life, people.
  9. SeamusS
    Mar 30, 2006
    10
    Okay Okay, So everyone here likes to disagree for the sake of being different eh? That's what I'm getting. First of all Drew M Get a life your self. It's an album of love, relativly harmless. Though it may have gone over your head, I'll just pitty you and forget about it instead of finding out what you like and rating it with a 0 after never listening to it. The album Okay Okay, So everyone here likes to disagree for the sake of being different eh? That's what I'm getting. First of all Drew M Get a life your self. It's an album of love, relativly harmless. Though it may have gone over your head, I'll just pitty you and forget about it instead of finding out what you like and rating it with a 0 after never listening to it. The album is a masterpiece in and out of the context of it's creation. It was a labor of love that needs to be looked at. From the first notes, the harmonies and complex sonic beauty that is Brian Wilson filles the air around you. At the same time, it captures themes of innocnece which, when reflected upon by many, can seem childish and even stupid. Those who reflect it as that are often bitter for it going over their heads or them taking it too seriously. I cant ramble any more because it'll just be more hot air. It's a fucking masterpiece I really have no time for those who are so bitter… Expand
  10. [Anonymous]
    Mar 6, 2006
    1
    pretty poor stuff if we're honest with ourselves
  11. cliftonb
    Apr 3, 2006
    10
    To all of you that rated the album low here is a suggestion. Take a msic class so you may possibly begin to wrap your brain around the beautiful and complex work on this album. Why do the critics like it? Because its damn good!I honestly feel bad for those of you who don't get it. You can say what do the critics know but the awnser is this a whole lot more than us especially those of To all of you that rated the album low here is a suggestion. Take a msic class so you may possibly begin to wrap your brain around the beautiful and complex work on this album. Why do the critics like it? Because its damn good!I honestly feel bad for those of you who don't get it. You can say what do the critics know but the awnser is this a whole lot more than us especially those of you whom have never studied music. if they dont convince you remember that Leonard Bernstien one of the greatest american composers singles out material from this album to show the world that the future of music was not completely lost.… Expand
  12. NathanG
    May 6, 2006
    1
    The Emporer Has No Clothes
  13. MeatMuffin
    Jun 10, 2006
    10
    The people who are giving this album a 10 seem to be generally smarter than the ones who are giving it lower scores. Just read the reviews below this one.
  14. EricY
    Jun 17, 2006
    0
    why critics always against the good musics, this is the E era, young peoples are the main consumer of the music industry!!
  15. JasonF
    Jan 10, 2007
    1
    Complicated? Yes. Good? Helllll no. One of the worst albums I've ever heard. I really wanted to like it too.
  16. lonnieM
    Oct 10, 2007
    10
    Smile..... A masterpiece in many ways.... to many ways to put into words.... Listen to the album alone, without distraction, and any negative thoughts of the record will disappear..... I'm just glad I had the experience of Brian Wilson and Van Dyke Parks seeing this vision through. The record is and always will be ahead of it's time.
  17. KitS
    Jan 5, 2007
    10
    I am an old Beach Boys fan, born in 1952. My wife and I saw Brian Wilson and his band perform this at Warner Theatre, Washington, DC, Oct. of 2004. It was the best concert that either of us had ever attended. Despite the fact that we are two shy white nerds, we were dancing to the Beach Boys tunes they did after Smile was performed. We bought the album Smile and the DVD, listened to it I am an old Beach Boys fan, born in 1952. My wife and I saw Brian Wilson and his band perform this at Warner Theatre, Washington, DC, Oct. of 2004. It was the best concert that either of us had ever attended. Despite the fact that we are two shy white nerds, we were dancing to the Beach Boys tunes they did after Smile was performed. We bought the album Smile and the DVD, listened to it many times. We are silly, nerdy people and both vegetarians. We LOVE the Vega-tables tune. As for power tools and barn yard animal noises, we found this funny and whimsical, comic relief. The composition, the arrangements, the performances, it is all top rate. We find it very positive, spiritual, uplifting, a bright light of inspiration. Smile is lots better than the pop, "house music" and rap garbage that pretentiously poses as "music" these days. Brian Wilson is a master and he and his work deserve some serious respect.… Expand
  18. BrendanD
    Feb 19, 2007
    6
    Before I begin my review, I want to make something very clear: I worship at the temple of Brian Wilson. "Today!" is my favorite Beach Boys record, but, with the exception of "MIU Album," I love everything the Boys did from the early '60s through 1979's "L.A." I also enjoy the Wilson-Paley Sessions, and I even have a very special guilty pleasure song for the sample-heavy Wilson Before I begin my review, I want to make something very clear: I worship at the temple of Brian Wilson. "Today!" is my favorite Beach Boys record, but, with the exception of "MIU Album," I love everything the Boys did from the early '60s through 1979's "L.A." I also enjoy the Wilson-Paley Sessions, and I even have a very special guilty pleasure song for the sample-heavy Wilson rap spectacular/debacle (depending on one's point of view), "Smart Girls." When Wilson first announced he'd be performing "Smile" live, I was ecstatic; when I finally heard a copy of the live shows, I was even more enthralled. Pieces I'd been assembling for years fit together almost, though not quite, how I'd envisioned. "Holidays" sounded magnificent, "Vega-Tables" hilarious, and "Child is Father of the Man" more haunting than I ever would have dreamed. I couldn't wait for Wilson to release the album version, but my hope was that it'd be the concert, much like he had for "Pet Sounds Live." The album, as it stands today, isn't what it should be, and it certainly isn't what it was. In 1967, "Smile" would have been as revolutionary, and perhaps moreso, than the "Good Vibrations" single. But there's a lot missing. First and foremost, the production is awful. That's not to say that it's bad production on Wilson's, or anyone else's, part; rather, it's the wrong kind of production for this type of music. Computer editing works incredibly well for the bands Wilson and his Boys influenced -- acts like the Flaming Lips, the Super Furry Animals, and the Polyphonic Spree --, but left to Wilson, it simply comes off as hackneyed. This is most likely due to rock music's having advanced almost forty years between the original recording and the eventual release of "Smile." However, there's a bigger issue here: musicianship. No, Wilson's voice isn't what it was, but the backing band he's been using on tour is more than capable of picking up the slack on the road. That's fine for tours, but in the studio, these folks aren't capable of the magic of the six Beach Boys and the Wrecking Crew, which recorded most of the Boys' backing tracks in the '60s. There are little changes that don't work as well. The tinny harpsichord from the '60s sessions are replaced by a much more digital-sounding one, and the result makes the sound of "Heroes and Villains" go from a crazy acid trip to a mellow pharmaceutical high, "Wind Chimes" from hauntingly serene to childishly incompetent. No one is able to capture the "You're under arrest" line from "H&V" quite like Denny Wilson did. And most violatingly, the reversion to Tony Asher's lyrics for "Good Vibrations" is an unbelievably bad choice. Although I champion re-upping the "Hum-be-dum" chorus tag, which is among the most beautiful ideas Wilson's ever had, and though I hate admitting it because I dislike the man so very much, Mike Love's lyrics really were better. Finally, whereas "Smile Live" was literally that -- alive --, "Smile: The Album" sounds flat and dead and mundanely average. Wilson is capable of great things, especially with concerts; but this album is a true-blue disappointment. If you really want to get a look at what "Smile" is all about, find a bootleg of the session tapes, and then watch the "Smile Live" DVD; but skipping this tepid recording won't ruin your life or musical experience at all.… Expand
  19. daveb
    Jul 21, 2007
    6
    Just listen to Good Vibrations here and then the original, and you should know damn well why this isn't a 10/10 album. The warmth is gone, replaced by an old man and studio singers. Ruminations on the failing of the male ego? Shut the fuck up. It's a nostalgic CD about a dead culture, and teenagers trying to pretend they're all grown up. That is all. It doesn't compare Just listen to Good Vibrations here and then the original, and you should know damn well why this isn't a 10/10 album. The warmth is gone, replaced by an old man and studio singers. Ruminations on the failing of the male ego? Shut the fuck up. It's a nostalgic CD about a dead culture, and teenagers trying to pretend they're all grown up. That is all. It doesn't compare to Pet Sounds at all.… Expand
  20. KjellB
    Nov 13, 2008
    10
    At first I was like Brian... what is this? I listened to the album once in 2004, then in 2006, I found it buried in my collection. It wasn't until about the fourth listen when it hit me! This album is one of the best albums of all time. In this day and age of "cookie cutter" music peoples ears have become def to great music and I could of been one of those people. Brian Wilson's At first I was like Brian... what is this? I listened to the album once in 2004, then in 2006, I found it buried in my collection. It wasn't until about the fourth listen when it hit me! This album is one of the best albums of all time. In this day and age of "cookie cutter" music peoples ears have become def to great music and I could of been one of those people. Brian Wilson's Smile breaths life into a dying music industry, and i can only imagine what music would sound like if it had been released back in the day. Most people, especially my age (28) wont get it and thats just sad!… Expand
  21. dh
    Feb 20, 2008
    10
    Perfect. Only comparable to the Lonely Hearts Club Band.
  22. nickm.
    Feb 8, 2008
    8
    This isn't the highest rated album on metacritic. The highest rated is London Calling by The Clash, which scored a 100. My score is just the avg, this isn't my actual score.
  23. MartinP
    Apr 25, 2008
    7
    I haven't listened to this album but i find the fact that some people are rating it 10 to counter the people who rate it 0 which are countering the general reviewers.
  24. SameerV.
    May 7, 2008
    10
    This is one of the greatest albums. I think it's up there with pepper. Sure, it probably would sound better if all the beach boys were on it and this was 66', but it's still great. It takes a couple of listens. Keep in mind, most of this was written in 66'. If it came out then, I think people would have appreciated it more.
  25. ClifC.
    Jun 22, 2008
    1
    Is this a joke?! It's not because he's from The Beach Boys band and that he produces music that were good for 60's and 70's that this album deserves 97 of 100 in average of all music critics. It's a shame! This album has nothing to do in the 2000's (I really love 60's and 70's music too, but keep in mind that this album is old-fashioned and with no Is this a joke?! It's not because he's from The Beach Boys band and that he produces music that were good for 60's and 70's that this album deserves 97 of 100 in average of all music critics. It's a shame! This album has nothing to do in the 2000's (I really love 60's and 70's music too, but keep in mind that this album is old-fashioned and with no interest! It's an "already heard". No originality, N-O-T-H-I-N-G!).… Expand
  26. AndyD.
    Jun 8, 2008
    10
    Truly stunning music. Love it!
  27. ButchAutomatic
    Aug 11, 2008
    2
    Ouch! Brian, like Paul McCartney, should relaize when it is time to sit back and enjoy their spoils. Guys - you did well - it's time to stop before you implode and totally ruin what could be fond memories for us. LEARN A NEW HOBBY!
  28. kaylix
    Aug 9, 2008
    2
    What is going on here? This wasn't as great as the reviewers claim. I could barely listen to the whole album. Based on the reviews I kept hoping there was something better in the next track. I gave up and deleted it from my music library.
  29. Steve
    Sep 23, 2008
    10
    SMiLE is an album that some will simply never get. The layer of harmonies, the change in tempo, the strange unconventional instruments, it's bound to get 0s from people quick to judge. However, it will be an album that will stand the test of time and technically it already has. This is simply a re-recording of what Brian was working on in 1966-67 and it's still being praised. SMiLE is an album that some will simply never get. The layer of harmonies, the change in tempo, the strange unconventional instruments, it's bound to get 0s from people quick to judge. However, it will be an album that will stand the test of time and technically it already has. This is simply a re-recording of what Brian was working on in 1966-67 and it's still being praised. This album is simply amazing and most certainly deserves a 10.… Expand
  30. ConradC.
    Dec 16, 2009
    10
    Worth every minute of the wait!
  31. peter
    Jan 6, 2009
    10
    Beautiful and haunting. I cant imagine how anyone could walk away from this unchanged.
  32. KimM
    May 2, 2009
    9
    Simply superb.
  33. ToddS
    May 9, 2009
    10
    Absolute perfection!
  34. SethG.
    Jul 13, 2009
    10
    I've listened to this album so much. At least once a week, sometimes much more. It's so good!
  35. TiagoA.
    Sep 18, 2009
    10
    A great album, this have soul and it's brilliant.
  36. AdamS
    Sep 8, 2009
    7
    Sounds like a good album, but 97! I think this score may have been boosted by critics nostalgia trips.
  37. Dri
    Jan 15, 2010
    10
    Classic album of a genius.
  38. RobertB.
    Jan 8, 2010
    10
    I love this album. He makes it all seem so easy. Don't think I have ever listened to a pop record that is this far ahead of the game.
  39. AnthonyL
    Mar 26, 2010
    10
    Best album ever.
  40. StephenM
    Oct 1, 2004
    10
    Worth the wait.
  41. ChrisH
    Nov 1, 2004
    10
    Remember 2004 when that SMILE album came out and those who weren't old enough in the 60s said oh that beach boy album concept thing with two old hits on it - Heroes and Villains and Good Vibrations. Bla Bla. Well we can all lose touch. It doesn't matter Brian Wilson did it. It's an album about the ups and downs of the American dream. The music is brilliant. It's Remember 2004 when that SMILE album came out and those who weren't old enough in the 60s said oh that beach boy album concept thing with two old hits on it - Heroes and Villains and Good Vibrations. Bla Bla. Well we can all lose touch. It doesn't matter Brian Wilson did it. It's an album about the ups and downs of the American dream. The music is brilliant. It's relevant to the times. It inspires. Very simple in SMILE there is hope. … Expand
  42. BrianV
    Nov 13, 2004
    10
    Absolutely, genius. Brian Wilson and his masterwork. Thank you for giving us this Brian.
  43. JonathanS
    Oct 1, 2004
    10
    Unbelievable... gets better w/ each listening!
  44. steveb
    Nov 18, 2004
    10
    This is one of those rare pieces of music that keeps life worth living. For all of the people who rated thus poorly, I feel very badly for you, open your mind and ears and listen. There are few musical treasures that can match this. This is as good as Pet Sounds, Rubber Soul, Abbey Road, Highway 61 Revisted, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road or Imperial Bedroom. This is a classic. Forget the new This is one of those rare pieces of music that keeps life worth living. For all of the people who rated thus poorly, I feel very badly for you, open your mind and ears and listen. There are few musical treasures that can match this. This is as good as Pet Sounds, Rubber Soul, Abbey Road, Highway 61 Revisted, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road or Imperial Bedroom. This is a classic. Forget the new Papa Roach or whatever the heck you will be mis-spending your money on. This will grow with you, not be an embarrasing phase of your development.… Expand
  45. LynnC.
    Nov 20, 2004
    10
    It's amazing. It's so musically sophisticated. There's really nothing like it out there still. It feels more like musical progression has gone backwards since 1967, when this would have come out originally. If it would have, I bet Beach Boys would be thought of very different than they are today. It's so joyous yet odd. Love it. Can't quit listening.
  46. DavidR
    Oct 12, 2004
    10
    First listen, I liked it but thought it was a bit odd. Then pieces began to surface in my memory. After a few more listens, I convinced it's one of the most original, wonderful, pieces I've ever heard. I love it.
  47. FatciderjohnTheBassbeast
    Nov 26, 2004
    10
    This arrived the day before my first born son-Lucas. Frankly, I've not stopped playing it. Complete Wilson Genius. Incredible, I really did think Brian had lost it until this. I knew it would be good after seeing it live in the summer. I just knew it! Brian I love you. A thousand thankyoooooos.
  48. DevinB
    Oct 13, 2004
    10
    Brilliant and heartbreaking, the work of a true virtuoso. Besides being immensely catchy and infectious in its moods, the three-suite style of circular song-structure makes this Brian's strongest album, surpassing the genius even of Pet Sounds. Sure, the highlights on Pet Sounds are insurmountable and make for unfair comparison. Smile, however, in its ambitious scope and flawless Brilliant and heartbreaking, the work of a true virtuoso. Besides being immensely catchy and infectious in its moods, the three-suite style of circular song-structure makes this Brian's strongest album, surpassing the genius even of Pet Sounds. Sure, the highlights on Pet Sounds are insurmountable and make for unfair comparison. Smile, however, in its ambitious scope and flawless execution demands canonization as well.… Expand
  49. chipdIII
    Oct 13, 2004
    2
    Why did it take 37 years before it came out Brian? "Because it's mostly utter cock and it took me to completely lose my mind before I gave in to my money loving bastard label. ha ha ha wibble." This should have a really remained a myth.
  50. JoeM
    Oct 14, 2004
    10
    I am biased and a huge Brian Wilson fan and I admit that, but SMiLE, 38 years late is still a triumph. Believe it or not, it is even better and more powerful performed live. I love this music!
  51. RyanM.
    Oct 2, 2004
    8
    It's good. But, seemingly, people seem to think after keeping a good record on the shelf for 37 years it becomes great. This may be true for wine, but not for "Smile". Though this is a solid album, and better than most crap that's out today, it's not great...then, or now.
  52. FrankA
    Oct 2, 2004
    10
    SMiLE's time is NOW!
  53. David
    Dec 16, 2004
    2
    No No No No!
  54. RichH
    Oct 22, 2004
    10
    Greater than the sum of it's parts this record satisfies. There are moments when the music felt so right that tears welled up and I got a lump in my throat. Only the very best can do this to me.
  55. evans
    Dec 23, 2004
    4
    Most of these songs were first released on 'Smiley Smile' via Brother Records in '67 or '68. They sounded fresher, more unique, 37 years ago. Having closely followed Brain Wilson's music for more than 40 years, the current emphasis on his genius is misdirected toward this album. His true greatness can better be heard in several underplayed songs that the group Most of these songs were first released on 'Smiley Smile' via Brother Records in '67 or '68. They sounded fresher, more unique, 37 years ago. Having closely followed Brain Wilson's music for more than 40 years, the current emphasis on his genius is misdirected toward this album. His true greatness can better be heard in several underplayed songs that the group recorded through the mid '70's. Compositions such as "I Can Hear Music", "Time to Get Alone", "Add Some Music", and Sail on Sailor" to name a few, provide much clearer insight into Wilson's greatness, and the unique musicianship of the group. … Expand
  56. davidj
    Dec 2, 2004
    10
    The 37 year wait and finally......its here,probably the greatest album in the world.....EVER....Brian Wilson The Messiah brings a Masterpiece to his loving flock.
  57. CaptainStubing
    Dec 2, 2004
    10
    I attended two SMiLE live performances in early 2004. I did not know anything about the way Brian Wilson and Van Dyke Parks had decided to finalize the concept, and was literally blown away by the beauty of it all. Of course I was conversant with most existing unofficial material, but that didn't even remotely prepare me for the finished product. Now that the studio CD version is in I attended two SMiLE live performances in early 2004. I did not know anything about the way Brian Wilson and Van Dyke Parks had decided to finalize the concept, and was literally blown away by the beauty of it all. Of course I was conversant with most existing unofficial material, but that didn't even remotely prepare me for the finished product. Now that the studio CD version is in our hands, I can say that it belongs up there with a few other really unmissable albums in my collection. I also saw the excellent TV documentary 'Beautiful Dreamer - BW and the making of SMiLE' by David Leaf. I can strongly recommend this film to everyone. I will conclude with stating that I find the first review in this section, by Mack G., so pompous and beside the point that is only good for having a hearty laugh. Mack knows difficult words! He likes to name-drop! He even knows medical syndromes! But, the thing is...he knows zilch about art, which he so abundantly proves here.… Expand
  58. kevins
    Dec 30, 2004
    10
    Unf**kinbelieveable. 37 years later this masterpiece is recreated by a ubertalented group of Brian Wilson minions. Absolutely fantastic. Miss it and lose out on the best album that you'll likely hear this side of 2000. Dig it or die.
  59. ealonrrigby
    Dec 5, 2004
    10
    excellnt
  60. DavidF
    Dec 6, 2004
    10
    Absolute Classic. Smile sounds so fresh, even though it was conceived all those years ago. Anyone who has heard and enjoyed the Unsupassed masters Vol. 17 Smile Sessions 3 cd set, will be thrilled that Brian has managed to weave all the threads of Smile into a cohesive whole.
  61. Bruce
    Oct 27, 2004
    2
    You can take a pile of horse manure, mould it into the shape of the Statue of David and people will call it art, simply because that's what they are supposed to say. Of course in reality, it's really just a pile of shit. I'm sure Brian Wilson is "smiling" all the way to the bank !
  62. MarkA
    Oct 29, 2004
    10
    Simply put ... Stunning! I've listened to it several times a day for three weeks and I still love hearing it. My opinion is that it is better than Pet Sounds, better than Sgt Pepper.
  63. m.toups
    Oct 3, 2004
    10
    Mama mia that's a spicy meatball!
  64. DavidL
    Oct 4, 2004
    10
    Smiles and a few tears for what this great artist has accomplished in his lifetime and the joy in music that he has brought all of us who never quit listening.
  65. RyanK
    Oct 5, 2004
    9
    This album is a blast of 1960's psychadelia that is sure to inspire many strange trips... It's beautiful and innocent... why don't people make music like this anymore?
  66. Kris
    Oct 7, 2004
    10
    best album of the year no doubt, you´ll have alot of fun if you get this one
  67. markf
    Oct 7, 2004
    9
    "Good Vibrations" was one of the first 45s I ever bought, and I still probably think that song is the best Beach Boys song, at least the old single. This album's version isn't quite as good, but the entire album, while not exactly flawless, is a beautiful flow of music with many repeating motifs from "Heroes and Villians", "Surf's Up" and "Good Vibrations" sprawled across "Good Vibrations" was one of the first 45s I ever bought, and I still probably think that song is the best Beach Boys song, at least the old single. This album's version isn't quite as good, but the entire album, while not exactly flawless, is a beautiful flow of music with many repeating motifs from "Heroes and Villians", "Surf's Up" and "Good Vibrations" sprawled across the three suites. Sometimes, the simplest parts are the best; for example, the Aaron Coplandish cello (with drums) melting into the haunting voice singing "You Are My Sunshine" brings shivers, and then the sax dissolves into a whirling string section (actually reminds me of the Beatles circa '67.) The opening "Prayer" is more beautiful than anything on Bjork's most-recent, although I think it's a good companion piece to her "Vokuro." Overall, this is a tremendous, awe-inspiring piece of art, which also enjoys being funny and silly. But I am sad that the Beach Boys aren't actually a part of it. (Carl and Dennis R.I.P.)… Expand
  68. ebokw
    Sep 28, 2004
    10
    if this came out in when planned it would be considered one of the 10 best albums ever made.
  69. KentS
    Sep 29, 2004
    10
    It's great to hear the full thing after tasting only bits for ages. It's really fun,thanks Brian
  70. ThomasZ
    Sep 29, 2004
    10
    Finally!
  71. PaulL
    Sep 29, 2004
    10
    The music is a product of the glorious '60s and is true to it's era. At that time nothing like it had ever been written. That said, many artists have been swiping ideas from this music ever since. Still I was totally unprepared for how fresh and majestic it all sounds. God bless Brian Wilson for having the courage to finish this, and God bless the Wondermints for having the The music is a product of the glorious '60s and is true to it's era. At that time nothing like it had ever been written. That said, many artists have been swiping ideas from this music ever since. Still I was totally unprepared for how fresh and majestic it all sounds. God bless Brian Wilson for having the courage to finish this, and God bless the Wondermints for having the talent to make it happen in such a glorious fashion!… Expand
  72. kevinf
    Sep 30, 2004
    10
    Shocking Creative Accomplishment! Brian and Van-Dyke's electric ambition from back in the day is back to blow you away! Pure bliss from THE Genius!
  73. NikeshG
    Sep 30, 2004
    10
    Truly Ace
  74. TabP
    Sep 30, 2004
    10
    I am still stunned. It is so much better than I expected. Absolute perfection.
  75. JohnnyW
    Jan 13, 2005
    10
    Its a great album. Although its different then the other BB albums, its got great lyrics and beautiful instrumentation. I love to sing along to the songs such as Cabinessence and Heroes and Villians, and singing makes me, well, SMILE!
  76. GeorgeD
    Jan 15, 2005
    10
    Sensational from start to finish.
  77. MikeO
    Nov 6, 2005
    6
    Surf's Up and Good Vibrations are superb, but we already knew that. The versions on Smile are inferior to the Beach Boys. Heroes & Villains is good, the rest is average to weak. What was all the fuss about? This is really the most over-hyped album of all time, yet it is still rates a 6/10 due to the 3 tracks mentioned above.
  78. JohnG
    Nov 7, 2005
    9
    As close to perfection as is humanly possible.
  79. Thiscdisgreat
    Oct 21, 2005
    10
    Have another listen folks, although this music is not for everyone, there is no denying the genius in the writing ,arranging and producing. We are lucky to have this at all.
  80. JeffF
    Jan 2, 2005
    10
    Imagine if this had been released in 1967 as originally scheduled. This would have been one of the groundbreaking albums of all time. As it is , it is still amazing. this guy is or was a musical genius with a very capital "G". its too bad his own family caused his descent into a 20 year drug addled and mentally ill stupor. This man deserves all the kudos given. an american treasure.
  81. PaulJ
    Jan 26, 2005
    10
    Wonderful, at last an L.P (!) to listen too
  82. mattf
    Oct 27, 2005
    3
    I just don't get it and I've listened to the album many times. Best album of 2004. No way!
  83. Keith
    Oct 28, 2005
    1
    Utter sonic drivel, bought this for a friend, feelin' a tad guilty....must think i hate em.
  84. TomP
    Jan 3, 2005
    10
    Unique and brilliant. I feel honored to have been able to see Smile performed live, and I bought two copies of the CD - one for home and one for my office.
  85. reyn
    Oct 3, 2005
    0
    Worst CD. Ever.
  86. DougP
    Jan 4, 2005
    10
    Nobody's perfect; but this is as close as it gets.
  87. Rev.Rikard
    Oct 5, 2005
    1
    I tried! I really did! This may be the most overrated album ever. No song touched or moved me; and it has become one of the few albums in my collections that is probably permanently shelved. Sorry Brian, but the years of sabbatical did little to make this work inspiring.
  88. ACritic
    Oct 6, 2005
    6
    I enjoyed the CD. Some of it. The songs were very unique and experimental, and had very different affects to them. "Our Prayer" was harmonic and bright, "You are my Sunshine" has a very dark sound to it. "Roll Plymouth Rock" was beautiful. Although, some of the tracks (Barnyard, Mrs. O'Leary's Cow), were a miss for me. A real mix I would recommend for anyone to listen to.
  89. Bluebird.
    Feb 11, 2005
    10
    Truly awesome music/sounds! Puts a SMiLE on my face and in my soul each time I hear it. Brian Wilson's best!!! Rock, Rock, Roll.......
  90. AgatheM
    Mar 19, 2005
    5
    It's OK, but what's the big deal?
  91. Marillion
    Mar 22, 2005
    10
    Smile is quite simply the greatest triumph in the history of pop music! Bautiful! Thank you Brian! Welcome in Montreux this summer 05! A long time swiss fan!
  92. ryan
    Mar 7, 2005
    10
    I think most americans forgot how good pop music can be Ashlee Simpson should feel ashamed after listening to this CD
  93. Dave
    Apr 12, 2005
    2
    I kepy checking the date of these reviews, in case it was April 1st. Then I thought it might like the Hasselhof reviews on Amazon, just a whole lot of effusive hilarious praise for a total turkey. Right now, I am bewildered because this album is so .. banal, uninteresting, lame, mediocre. Utter shite. Brian Wilson's voice is aweful and the soprano chorus thing in the back is I kepy checking the date of these reviews, in case it was April 1st. Then I thought it might like the Hasselhof reviews on Amazon, just a whole lot of effusive hilarious praise for a total turkey. Right now, I am bewildered because this album is so .. banal, uninteresting, lame, mediocre. Utter shite. Brian Wilson's voice is aweful and the soprano chorus thing in the back is irritating. Can I trust any other reviews on this site now??… Expand
  94. MaciejW
    Apr 8, 2005
    9
    Plain and simple, it made me happy, it made me nod my head in appreciation and it made me smile. In essence, sometimes that is all music needs to do. Brilliant.
  95. VincentX
    May 11, 2005
    7
    An amusing anachronism brought to us with style. Though It all sounds a little too "thought-out" to me. I picture Brian Wilson in laboratory instead of a studio. I just can't listen to it in one go. For that it is all too much a musical disneyland. So, listen to this one for about 15 minutes and then switch to Hobo Sunrise by the Hunches as quick as possible.
  96. SamK
    May 12, 2005
    10
    I first bought this album in Feb '05 and believe it or not, I'm still listening to it almost every day, and it's the middle of May now! You'll either hate it or love it, but if you're open minded at all you'll see that this music is truly unique and YES it's WAAAAY more musically complex than anything the Beatles ever did. However, there aren't I first bought this album in Feb '05 and believe it or not, I'm still listening to it almost every day, and it's the middle of May now! You'll either hate it or love it, but if you're open minded at all you'll see that this music is truly unique and YES it's WAAAAY more musically complex than anything the Beatles ever did. However, there aren't catchy little songs about meter maids, or gettin' better all the time, so had it been released in 1967, I don't think it would have been that popular. This album demands several listens to get all the levels and nuances. It's really amazing that 40 years later, this album doesn't sound dated at all, and holds its own against anything musicians are doing today. Way to go Brian!… Expand
  97. JoeD
    May 24, 2005
    10
    All I can say is wow. This is so much different than anything else I have heard yet it is still amazing. Congrats to Brian Wilson for finally realizing his masterpiece!
  98. Kev
    May 29, 2005
    10
    Best album ever recorded!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  99. anthonyr
    Jun 1, 2005
    10
    total masterpiece from the opening our pray to the ending good vibes ... proves all along that it would changed the music scene and will do so now ... sgt what i dont think so... well done Brian and VDP .. and his bandmates a must cd to own musical history ... dig Anthony
  100. GregB
    Jun 24, 2005
    10
    Smile is an American classic. And Brian Wilson is among the greatest songwriters/ composers/ recording artists in American history. Right up there with Leonard Bernstein, George Gershwin or Aaron Copeland. Right up there with Duke Ellington or Count Basie. Right up there with any of the greats in American rock. The fact that this album was released in 2004 truely crosses into the realm of Smile is an American classic. And Brian Wilson is among the greatest songwriters/ composers/ recording artists in American history. Right up there with Leonard Bernstein, George Gershwin or Aaron Copeland. Right up there with Duke Ellington or Count Basie. Right up there with any of the greats in American rock. The fact that this album was released in 2004 truely crosses into the realm of miracles. Huge kudos to Darian Sahanaja and the Wondermints. Their passion, dedication and patience made this album possible. And Kudos to Brian Wilson for having guts made of steel. In 1967, he took a 900-pound bullet by cancelling "Smile" to keep the Beach Boys together. And in 2004, he finally gave the world this wonderful gift by bulling his way through his darkest demons and fears. While we may never hear what Smile would have been if Brian had been able to finish it in 1966, who cares! Listen to "Wonderful" in 100-200 years and it will still sound fantastic.. Yeah there's some goofy stuff on the album. So what! Dare to be stupid!! Yeah, Good Vibrations has some changes. So what! They probably had to be done for legal reasons.. And if Brian Wilson's music just isn't your thing and/ or you don't see what this big deal is here, check out the Smile DVD. Watch the documentary first, then watch the performance. You will see a remarkable story of human beings' ability to triumph against adversity. And you will see absolute proof that beautiful music has profound powers.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best Album of 2004
3
#3 Most Discussed Album of 2004
15
#15 Most Shared Album of 2004

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
97

Universal acclaim - based on 29 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 29 out of 29
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 29
  3. Negative: 0 out of 29
  1. Tiny Mix Tapes
    100
    Smile is quite simply the greatest triumph in the history of pop music.
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  2. Village Voice (Consumer Guide)
    100
    Smile's post-adolescent utopia isn't disfigured by Brian's thickened, soured 62-year-old voice. It's ennobled--the material limitations of its sunny artifice and pretentious tomfoolery acknowledged and joyfully engaged.
    Read full review
  3. Los Angeles Times
    100
    "Smile" emerges as a beautiful and cohesive work, at times deeply moving, at others oddly whimsical, at still others eerily disturbing but celebratory. [27 Sep 2004]
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