The Pros of The Beach Boys' Summer in Paradise (1992): {It's Not That Bad!}

What is your least favorite album of all time?

Many Beach Boys fans would answer that question with the much-hated 1992 release "Summer in Paradise," a collection of classic warm-weather covers, older song reboots, and "Kokomo" cash-ins.

But is it really that bad? Not really! In fact, "Summer in Paradise" has a few strengths that will hopefully help some doubtful fans to reevaluate it.

1. The cool artwork adapted from the works of Robert Lyn Nelson
2. An attempt to be cutting edge with new instrumentation and recording technology
3. A cohesive and planned selection of songs (this is actually one of the few Beach Boys albums that does this really well)
4. It's good simple fun (I compare it to junk food)

There are some foibles that I can't argue with (questionable production, a lack of Brian Wilson, some misguided choices on covers) but overall, this album is a fun casual listen for any summer.

If you don't like it or have sought to avoid it, do give it a first second chance. Taken for what it is, with an open mind and a cool head/warm heart, I think you can find some sun, surf, and summer fun inside!

Sorry for some of those awful edits LOL