Former Beach Boy Brian Wilson, once the most famous hermit in pop music, made a strong return at the beginning of this century. The album Smile, which he completed after almost four decades with the help of a young enthusiastic band, could count on an ecstatic reception. But the two albums with new material, Gettin 'In Over My Head and What I Really Want For Christmas, were little more than nice
… style exercises. That Lucky Old Sun, written with band member Scott Bennett, at least radiates some healthy ambition. It is a concept album, similar to Smile, hung from the title track, one of Wilson's favorite songs from his childhood. While that song still refers to the difficulties of life, the rest of the album exudes a levity that borders on the superficial. Everything is also provided with the slippery sound that is so typical for productions from Los Angeles. At best, Wilson delivers a catchy love song (Good Kind Of Love), or dusts off an old demo (Can't Wait Too Long). Lovers of Wilson's more spiritual work from the past, unfortunately, will hardly get their money's worth. (MS)more
