As I've said before, I am a sucker for harmonies. When done well, it can bring tears to your eyes. Think Simon & Garfunkel or Crosby, Stills & Nash on a good night. For my money, there aren't many groups who can come close to the four part harmonies created by our taste of the day.
As chief songwriter and arranger, John Phillips has never received the credit he deserves for either job. Sure, everyone knows the hits and we have all taken turns singing lead and backup vocals, either when alone or having fun with a few friends. But if you take the time to really listen, the harmonies are complex and brilliant.
The trials and tribulations of the group have been well documented. In-fighting, infidelity, drugs and alcohol all played a part in the eventual break-up of the group. But their brief time in the musical spotlight was filled with 11 Top 40 hits, a Grammy award and millions of records sold.
Take a little time to just delight in some fun songs and great vocals. Yes, you know most of the songs, but this time just really listen to the intricate beauty of the harmonies.
"I Saw Her Again" ...harmonic perfection. two men, two women...total sync
"Dedicated to the One I Love" ...beautiful blend, starting slow moving into great power harmony
"Straight Shooter" ...live from the 60's. 1967 Monterey Pop Festival
"Monday, Monday" ..again from Monterey. see just how they do those harmonies. intro runs 1:30
and the list would not be complete without...
"California Dreamin" ...we've all sung it, now just listen to the vocals
Guaranteed, these songs will be in your head all day.
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Love...love them!! Yet another thing we have in common...I can't get enough of harmonies. And when done like these guys and gals, well...simply awesome.
ReplyDeleteOnce again...great choice for today's blog! ;)