The Mamas & the Papas’ debut album, If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears, is being reissued on vinyl in all of its porcelain greatness, with the original cover photo, which was censored at the time for showing a toilet. The 12-song 1966 LP, a pop-rock favorite, showcases the impeccable harmonies of Cass Elliot, Denny Doherty, John Phillips and Michelle Phillips. The reissue arrives January 29, 2021, via Geffen/UMe.
If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears reached #1 on the Billboard album chart within months of release and spent more than 100 weeks there. The Lou Adler-produced gem opens with the #1 single “Monday, Monday” and includes “California Dreamin’,” which reached #4.
The Mamas & the Papas signed in 1965 and disbanded shortly after their performance at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival, where “Monday, Monday” was first performed live. In between, the foursome embarked on what has become a storied career during their brief time together. Contributing to their status as pop culture icons were memorable performances on The Ed Sullivan Show, including the John Phillips penned “Monday, Monday,” their interpretation of Lennon & McCartney’s “I Call Your Name” and “California Dreamin’,” co-written by John and Michelle Phillips.
From the reissue announcement: The album features a mix of originals and covers that captivated fans and critics alike. First released on February 28, 1966, If You Can Believe Your Eyes And Ears opens with the chart-topping ode to the first day of the work week, followed by the upbeat, bass-heavy rocker “Straight Shooter.” On “Got A Feelin’,” co-written by Denny Doherty and John Phillips, a ticking clock underscores the melancholy vibe that someone is cheating; the aptly titled “Go Where You Wanna Go” (given the LP’s controversial cover), “Somebody Groovy” and “Hey Girl” round out the original compositions with the musical and lyrical flair that defined their style.
The Mamas & the Papas also brought their easy-listening harmonies to Leiber & Stoller’s “Spanish Harlem” and Bobby Freeman’s “Do You Wanna Dance,” while gently rocking to the Turtles’ “You Baby.” Cass Elliot’s rollicking cover of Billy Page’s “The ‘In’ Crowd” closes the album.
Related: The top radio hits of 1966
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