SMiLE live: Blissed, blessed

The Oakland Tribune's review of Brian Wilson performing SMiLE live seemed to miss the point: This was an incredible event filled with brave and beautiful music, and a spirtuality rarely seen outside of church performances.

The Nov. 4 event was appropriately held at Davies Symphony Hall, apparently sold out, drawing together a mix of young and old. While a bit heavy on the old Beach Boys hits, there were fabulous obscure gems, such as Marcella, Sail on Sailor, Add Some Music to Your Day, and even a new song, Gettin' in Over My Head.

But the centerpiece, SMiLE in its entirety, was in another league. Whether you focused on the obvious delight Brian showed in seeing this piece performed yet again (this concert concluded a U.S. tour), or on the fascinating mix of odd instruments used (theramin, megaphone, power drill, many others), or the amazing vocals, it was a unique experience, not to be repeated.

I also had the good fortune of meeting several other aficionados via the message board at BrianWilson.com, which made the concert the starting point for several friendships.