For Newcastle music fans, last week’s performance by founding Beach Boys member Al Jardine and the Pet Sounds Band at the Civic Theatre was far more than a nostalgia trip. It was a meticulously crafted celebration of the music of Brian Wilson, performed by the musicians who helped bring his legendary live shows to life. The final concert of the Australian tour also gave Newcastle the distinction of being the only non-capital city on the itinerary.
That attention to detail was evident from the moment the 11-piece ensemble took the stage. Musical director Darian Sahanaja led a band featuring several long-time Brian Wilson collaborators, including Paul Von Mertens, Mike D’Amico and Bob Lizik, all familiar faces to Newcastle audiences after appearing alongside Wilson during his memorable 2004 Civic Theatre performance. Joining them were Matthew Jardine, Randell Kirsch, Debbie Shair, Emeen Zarookian, Jim Laspesa and Australian keyboardist Lewis Coleman, with nine vocalists recreating the intricate harmonies that defined the Beach Boys’ sound.
Opening with California Girls, the band quickly transported the audience back to the golden era of surf rock with classics including Catch a Wave, Surfer Girl and Little Deuce Coupe. Across a generous 36-song set, familiar favourites such as Darlin’, I Can Hear Music and Heroes and Villains sat comfortably alongside a rare full performance of the Beach Boys’ often-overlooked 1977 album The Beach Boys Love You. Jardine explained it was the first time the album had been performed in its entirety on tour, making it a genuine highlight for devoted fans.
The evening reached another level with an extended celebration of the landmark Pet Sounds album. Nine songs from the record showcased the remarkable musicianship of the touring band, from the lush harmonies of You Still Believe in Me to Matthew Jardine’s moving lead vocals on God Only Knows and Caroline, No. The instrumental title track demonstrated the depth of the ensemble’s musical ability before the unmistakable sounds of Good Vibrations brought one of pop music’s most ambitious compositions to life.
After almost two uninterrupted hours, the band returned for an encore featuring Help Me, Rhonda, Surfin’ U.S.A. and Fun, Fun, Fun, sending the Newcastle audience home on a wave of timeless hits. While the crowd may not have filled every seat, those in attendance witnessed a performance that combined technical precision with genuine warmth and affection for Brian Wilson’s extraordinary catalogue.
There had been suggestions that the tour arrived too soon after Brian Wilson’s passing, or that it might simply feel like a tribute act. Instead, the concert served as a fitting continuation of Wilson’s musical legacy by the very musicians who performed alongside him for years. At nearly 84 years of age, Al Jardine’s voice remains in impressive form, and backed by the acclaimed Pet Sounds Band, he delivered an evening that celebrated one of popular music’s greatest songbooks with authenticity, care and undeniable class.
