Surf's Up (song) - 2004 Version

2004 Version

On Brian Wilson's 2004 recording of Smile, the musical arrangement is very similar to the 1971 release. The vocal arrangement is slightly altered for the highest parts. This melody runs a full octave plus a minor third, sweeping up a minor sixth (five whole steps) at one point, and peaking at the second F above Middle C. As Brian Wilson was then 62, with a naturally reduced vocal range, the part was rearranged for harmonies, with additional voices blending in smoothly, allowing Wilson to sing a lower part. In the concert performances, this approach was used many other times during the Smile material, with his younger backup singers doubling many of his parts in unison (similar to the recording technique of doubletracking), blending in and taking over for the high parts that were more difficult for Wilson to reach on stage than in the studio.

Personnel

• Brian Wilson – lead vocals, and keyboards
• Scott Bennett – vocals, keyboards, xylophone
• Nelson Bragg – vocals, percussion
• Jeffery Foskett – vocals, percussion
• Probyn Gregory – trumpet, French horn
• Jim Hines – drums
• Bob Lizik – bass
• Paul Mertons – flute, harmonica
• Taylor Mills – vocals
• Darian Sahanaja – vocals, keyboards
• Nick Walusko – vocals, guitar
• Stockholm Strings 'N' Horns