Widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time, The Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds redefined what an album could be upon its release on May 16, 1966, forever altering the course of popular music. Sixty years on, it remains as vital and influential as ever.
In honour of its 60th anniversary, Pet Sounds will be celebrated with a series of releases on May 15, including two distinct premium all-analog audiophile pressings. These include a 2LP Vinylphyle Edition featuring the original album in both mono and stereo, and a high-end Definitive Sound Series Audiophile Edition presented in mono using the One Step process. A collectible Zoetrope vinyl edition with textured front cover will also be available.
Providing deeper insight into the making of the album, The Pet Sounds Sessions Highlights compiles standout material from the 1997 Grammy-nominated 4CD box set, The Pet Sounds Sessions, which documented the legendary 1965–66 recording sessions. The new collection features 25 alternate takes, a cappellas, and tracking sessions, all making their vinyl debut. Available as a 2CD set and across multiple 2LP configurations—including standard black vinyl and limited-edition splatter/color variants—each format includes new liner notes by longtime Beach Boys historian Howie Edelson, along with a detailed sessionography. Currently unavailable for download and streaming, the full 90-track box set, The Pet Sounds Sessions, will be delivered to DSPs upon release.
Ahead of the release, The Beach Boys have released a three-track digital EP exploring their classic hit, “Sloop John B,” through a stunning a cappella version that isolates the vocal harmonies of Brian Wilson, Dennis Wilson, Carl Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine and Bruce Johnston, along with a fascinating alternative take featuring Carl in place of Brian on lead. The EP is capped off with the stereo mix.
Listen to “Sloop John B” EP: https://beachboys.lnk.to/SloopJohnBEPPR
Pre-order Pet Sounds 60th anniversary releases: https://beachboys.lnk.to/PetSounds60PR
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