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“SAIL ON SAILOR”  
July, 2002
Desper Recommends this version

Hey Fellow BB Fans !!!  Here’s a new version of “Sail On Sailor” that really rocks – and that’s from the guy who recorded the original version by the BB’s.  It’s by the band HEY STEVIE and the talents of Stevie Hager & Tom Jacob, both seasoned Beach Boy back-up and studio musicians. These talented cats take “Sail On Sailor” to the next level of production standards and on into the 21^st Century. Very danceable rhythm by drummer Ahaguna Sun, is out front through the whole song with strong down beats and good feel to the back beat – moves the song right along and keeps the feet tapping too!  The vocal arrangements follow the original of Brian’s and are well executed by the group with Tom Jacob at the lead.

But wait! Just when you think the song is ending a surprise comes. 

Some very sophisticated vocal changes replace the original fade and introduces a most natural harmonic progression into an added jazz vamp and welcome vocal harmonies that even Brian would approved of. I suspect this is the influence of friend Alan Jardine who is credited with singing background harmonies with the group HEY STEVIE.  After being lifted into a higher harmonic stratosphere we are treated to a splendid and tasty guitar riff by Paul Stafford – most complimentary to the original, yet it seems to fit like it was always there.

Recorded at Al Jardine’s Red Barn Studios, the sound shows forth excellent production values, as one would expect from San Francisco area producer Mr. Hager who has engineered many BB concerts and recordings by Al at Red Barn. That’s right. The same Stevie Hager was drummer for Al’s Family and Friends band. All around good sound and outstanding bass playing by Kenny Franlkin strongly contributes wonderful feel. One cannot listen without the body moving as the trading of bass and drum parts, which are pushed out in the mix, render this version much more of a dance number, as it should be.

Repeated listening will reveal subtle keyboard fills and glissandos by Stevie Hager and Tom Jacob that give a shine and polish to the rhythm and harmonies. I love the way the vocal harmonies are accented by some fantastic guitar licks as the song cooks along. You will want to repeat-play this one, as it is a sensible tribute to Brian’s original version taking it to expanded and compelling musical values. After listening to this song several dozen times I am left with the desire to hear it again. Can’t get enough.

This version of “Sail On Sailor” is one of many good, well-performed songs on the latest release from HEY STEVIE, the album “The World’s A Better Place.” At $13.00 just the “Sail On Sailor” song is worth the price to any self-respecting Beach Boy fan, but lots of good music also comes on this disc. You can order on-line at http://www.heystevie.com.  One of the best Beach Boy song re-makes I have heard to date!  You get my vote Stevie!

Good Listening,  ~Stephen W. Desper

Endless Summer Quarterly
Winter 2001
Reviewer - John English
 

The World's a Better Place reeks with experience, talent and great lyrics. Incorporating sounds and styles from the last four decades, they strike a great balance between musical blends, which makes this album an achievement unto itself. Following the short intro, the album's first song, "The Letter A" has an '80s techno pop (sort-of) sound that accompanies an array of fine lyrics. The song touches on shame, sin and not being afraid to be yourself no matter what the consequences. In fact, much of The World's a Better Place follows this story line of not being afraid to step out of yourself, stand up for what you believe in and live life to the fullest. One of my favorites on the album "No Tears for Trying," a high-energy tune, captures the essence of this album. The hard backbone drum beat, grungy guitar and flowing piano make for a great musical experience. At the same time the album can be smooth and mellow. On the tenth track "In Tonight's Sky" I find myself sitting back and just taking in the melodic piano and story line. Overall, this album was a pleasure to listen to. It has a little of everything. It is up, down and everywhere in between. If you find yourself liking '80s music or '80s radio stations, this is definitely a contemporary album that you will enjoy.