California, the dynamic music group led by the versatile Les Fradkin and Loretta Pieper Fradkin, delivers a sun-soaked rendition of Van Morrison’s classic Brown Eyed Girl in their 2025 single. Featuring Les Fradkin’s signature guitar prowess and vocal contributions from Tony Pernice and Richie Tuske, this cover infuses the 1967 hit with a fresh yet nostalgic surf-pop energy. Originally recorded in 1982 and reimagined for today’s listeners, this track is a vibrant nod to the past that resonates with Indie Band Guru’s love for artists who blend retro vibes with modern flair.
A Wave of Retro Bliss
From the first jangly guitar chords, California’s Brown Eyed Girl transports you to a beachside bonfire, capturing the carefree spirit of Van Morrison’s original while adding a distinct California twist. Les Fradkin, a multi-instrumentalist known for his work with The Left Banke and his solo surf rock explorations, anchors the track with crisp, reverb-drenched guitar lines that evoke the golden era of 1960s pop. The arrangement stays faithful to the song’s iconic structure—complete with its infectious “sha la la” refrain—but infuses it with a polished, beachy vibe that feels like a love letter to the west coast.
The vocals, shared between Fradkin and Pernice, carry a warm, nostalgic charm that mirrors Morrison’s soulful delivery while adding a modern indie sheen. Loretta Pieper Fradkin’s backing vocals, alongside Tuske’s contributions, weave tight harmonies that amplify the track’s summery feel, reminiscent of The Beach Boys’ lush vocal blends. The production is clean and vibrant, balancing the retro organic flavors of the original with a contemporary edge, making it feel both timeless and fresh. The song’s nostalgic lyrics about young love and carefree days are delivered with an earnestness that invites you to sing along.
Collaborative Magic and Craftsmanship
The strength of this rendition lies in its collaborative spirit. Les Fradkin’s guitar work is a highlight, channeling the upbeat energy of Morrison’s classic with subtle flourishes that nod to his surf rock roots. Tony Pernice and Richie Tuske, both veterans of California’s Summer Fun Medley of Beach Boys hits, bring a seasoned authenticity to the vocals and instrumentation, creating a seamless blend that feels like a live jam session caught in the studio. The rhythm section—tight and punchy—keeps the track bouncing along, while Fradkin’s production expertise ensures every element, from the twangy guitars to the layered harmonies, shines without overwhelming the song’s simplicity.
What sets this cover apart is its ability to honor the original’s calypso-inspired charm while injecting a distinctly West Coast vibe. The track’s arrangement, with its bright guitars and driving beat, captures the essence of Morrison’s 1967 hit—originally a No. 10 Billboard chart-topper—but reimagines it for a new generation of indie rock fans.
Why It Resonates
California’s Brown Eyed Girl is more than a cover—it’s a celebration of the song’s enduring joy, filtered through the lens of a band that knows how to make retro cool again. The track’s release in 2025, following the success of California’s Good Vibrations cover, cements the group’s knack for reviving 1960s classics with heart and authenticity. Les Fradkin’s influence as a surf rock veteran shines through, giving the song a vibrant, beach-ready energy that’s hard to resist.
The song’s universal appeal—its tale of youthful romance and carefree moments—feels as relevant today as it did in 1967. California’s version leans into this, delivering a performance that’s both reverent and reinvigorated, making it a perfect soundtrack for summer drives or late-night singalongs. It’s a reminder that great music transcends time, and California’s take is proof that a classic can still feel fresh with the right hands at the helm.
Brown Eyed Girl by California featuring Les Fradkin is a delightful slice of surf-pop nostalgia that captures the spirit of the original while adding a modern indie twist. For fans of Van Morrison, The Beach Boys, or anyone craving a dose of retro-infused joy, this track is a must.
Find more nostalgia from Les Fradkin on his WEBSITE.
