Jokermen Podcast: Episode on Carl Wilson (1981) Release Date: July 7, 2025
Introduction to Carl Wilson’s Solo Endeavor
In this episode, host Joel Kerman and co-host Evan delve into Carl Wilson’s self-titled solo album released in 1981. The discussion explores the context of Carl’s departure from The Beach Boys, the album’s production, its musical content, and its reception.
Album Cover and Carl’s Image
Joel begins by describing the physical appearance of the album, noting Carl’s stylish presentation:
"He looks like he could be in Fleetwood Mac. I mean, the whole thing has a kind of Fleetwood Mac flair." (07:35)
Evan adds to the visual assessment:
"He has a very collected attitude and demeanor." (10:13)
Carl Wilson’s Departure from The Beach Boys
The hosts provide background on the turbulent period within The Beach Boys leading up to Carl’s solo project:
"Dennis had returned. Remember, Dennis had been kicked out, but his brother Carl had decided to pursue a solo career..." (09:16)
They discuss the strain within the band and Carl’s conditions for rejoining:
"Carl was gone. Apparently, The Beach Boys live shows without Carl from this era are some of, like, the worst live music performances that you could ever imagine." (11:25)
Production and Creative Direction of the Album
Joel critiques the album’s production, suggesting Carl may have been detached from the creative process:
"You get the impression that it's Carl's kind of safe team of industry people... there's just really zero sense for who the guy is or what his interests are based on these songs." (29:05)
Evan reflects on the broader cultural influences affecting Carl’s creativity:
"Maybe it's a time of diminishing possibilities or potentials or a sense of encroaching cynicism." (17:08)
Musical Content and Song Analysis
The discussion transitions to a detailed analysis of the album's tracks. Joel describes the album as lacking personality and depth:
"It's like trying to bite a rubber ball. I just cannot get my teeth into it." (14:06)
Evan uses vivid metaphors to express his inability to engage with the music:
"It's like waking up from a dream thinking that you've just been eating food and then just realizing that you've just been chewing on your pillow." (14:13)
They highlight specific tracks, noting minimal standout moments:
"The right lane is reminding me of like, there's like a game my friend and I play where we try to come up with car names that are really underwhelming." (37:52)
Comparisons with Contemporary Artists and Solo Projects
Joel compares Carl’s work to that of his contemporaries, emphasizing the lack of innovation:
"This period in time ... is like such a low point for almost everyone else. But Van [Morrison] is out there reeling off songs..." (21:56)
They contrast Carl’s album with Van Morrison’s thriving career, underscoring Carl’s stagnation:
"Carl is a type of person who's more connected to a broader ide set of ideals... I don't know what Carl Wilson has..." (20:14)
Reception and Critical Assessment
The hosts unanimously rate the album poorly, reflecting their disappointment:
"I give it two stars. As well, for the same reasons." (06:02)
Joel elaborates on the futility of finding redeeming qualities:
"It's bad in a very different way than looking back. What love is. It's giving nothing, as they say." (49:56)
Evan concurs, emphasizing the album's lack of substance:
"I think we can't talk about it like this without giving it zero stars." (50:17)
Final Thoughts and Legacy
Despite their harsh critique, Joel and Evan express a sense of melancholy over Carl’s solo efforts, wishing Carl well:
"We love you. He's looking down at us from heaven." (51:16)
They conclude by reflecting on Carl’s sincere yet uninspired contribution to music:
"With his placid and forgiving and magnanimous stare. I think that he is. He understands. And I think he wishes us well even though we've done this." (51:28)
Notable Quotes
- "I need to play with the kinetic sand to get through this." – Evan (13:27)
- "What are you gonna do about me?" – Joel & Evan discussing the song (34:00)
- "Do not vibe. Do not listen." – Joel (27:09)
Conclusion
The episode presents a critical examination of Carl Wilson’s 1981 solo album, highlighting its shortcomings in creativity, production, and emotional depth. Joel and Evan express their disappointment while acknowledging Carl’s sincerity and the complexities of his solo venture away from The Beach Boys.
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