The Beach Boys - Lost And Found 1961-1962 (1991)

Before securing a deal with Capitol, the Beach Boys made their first inroads into the music business with recordings for several tiny L.A. labels in 1961 and 1962. This CD presents no less than 16 takes from these sessions, along with sundry studio chatter. Only a few of these cuts were issued at the time: their debut single "Surfin'" and a single issued under the pseudonym Kenny and the Cadets. This compilation is definitely for the serious fan; the sound is very basic and thin in comparison to their famous recordings, and there are multiple takes of most of the songs that can make for trying listening. That said, it is also at times a fascinating glimpse into history, showing the Beach Boys polishing their already impressive harmonies on early versions of "Surfer Girl" and "Surfin' Safari." Much of the rest of the material is a bit maudlin in nature, owing more to doo wop and teen idol balladry than the driving surf music that would make the group superstars in 1963. This compilation of mostly previously unissued material features songs from their very first recording session in October of 1961 and includes exhaustive liner notes.

Tracklist
The Pendeltones" Performing For The First Time At Hite Morgan's Home Studio, September 15, 1961
01. Luau (1:44)
02. Surfin' (2:28)

First Beach Boys Recording Session, October 3, 1961
03. Studio Chatter (0:17)
04. Surfin' (2:24)
05. Studio Chatter (0:08)
06. Surfin' (2:17)
07. Studio Chatter (0:24)
08. Luau (first attempt) (1:47)
09. Luau (master take) (1:46)

Recording As "Kenny And The Cadets," March 8, 1962, Issued On Randy-422
10. Barbie (2:20)
11. What Is a Young Girl Made Of (2:16)

The Beach Boys: Candix Recording Session Of February 8, 1962
12. Surfin' Safari (2:07)
13. Studio Chatter (0:21)
14. Surfin' Safari (2:03)
15. Studio Chatter (1:02)
16. Surfer Girl (2:24)
17. Judy (take) (2:17)
18. Judy (take approved as master) (2:17)
19. Beach Boy Stomp (2:12)
20. Surfin' Safari (stereo overdubs) (2:06)
21. Lavender (demo) (2:32)