“Pet Sounds” (Beach Boys) – Every Song Ranked

It’s well known that the Beach Boys – and “Pet Sounds” in particular – spurred the Beatles on in their rivalry, pushing their ambitions until eventually they made “Sgt. Peppers”. It’s fascinating to know that such a landmark album can be traced back to another fantastic 60’s record.

There are a lot of songs here that are among my favourites from the Beach Boys, but they’re not all zingers … how would I rank them all?

Before we begin, you can check out some of my related blog posts below:

Meh

13 – Pet Sounds

I can’t think of many other occasions where an album’s title track is also its worst.

It’s an instrumental track that was supposed to be used in a Bond film, and as such it doesn’t fit the album at all.

OK

12 – Here Today

A filler track near the end that doesn’t do anything we haven’t heard before.

11 – Don’t Talk (Put Your Head On My Shoulder)

Lovely sentiment, but I don’t find the music that interesting.

Good

10 – That’s Not Me

“That’s Not Me” has a nice bounciness.

9 – I Know There’s An Answer

Solid production and vocals all round.

8 – I’m Waiting For The Day

“I’m Waiting For The Day” gets off to a dramatic start with some pounding drums, and that energy is high throughout.

7 – Let’s Go Away For Awhile

Unlike other instrumental tracks on Pet Sounds, “Let’s Go Away For Awhile” nails what it sets out to accomplish.

The production is as gorgeous as always, and there’s a sort of wistful melancholy that I really like.

6 – I Just Wasn’t Made For These Times

One of my favourite aspects of Brian Wilson as a songwriter was his ability to wear his heart on his sleeve.

“I Just Wasn’t Made For These Times” is a heart-breaking insight into a troubled man.

5 – You Still Believe In Me

The second song on the album isn’t as punchy as the first, but “You Still Believe In Me” excels in sincerity.

The lyrics and production are strong … but you knew that already.

Great

4 – Sloop John B

On the surface, “Sloop John B” is the least serious and arguably least important song on Pet Sounds.

I really like its whimsical nature, however, and the lyrical story is both funny and melodically catchy.

3 – Caroline, No

I knew of a few fantastic Beach Boys songs on Pet Sounds, but nobody told me about its incredible final track.

“Caroline, No” is as beautiful as it is heart-breaking, and it would have been in my “Amazing” tier if not for the random animal noises at the end.

All-Time Great

2 – Wouldn’t It Be Nice

Pet Sounds has a couple of all-timers on its tracklist, the first of which being the opening track “Wouldn’t It Be Nice”.

The main riff has been used on countless adverts for its mass appeal, but where the song truly shines is in its production and the insanely clever songwriting that switches up keys and tempos with ease.

1 – God Only Knows

It would be no exaggeration to call “God Only Knows” one of the most beautiful songs I’ve ever heard.

The lyrics never fail to tug on my heart-strings, and the final minute with overlapping vocal melodies is absolutely stunning.

Aaaaand that’s my list! You can check out some of my latest blog posts below: