When people say The Beach Boys are iconic, they are usually referring to the band’s association with sunshine, cars and girls. The group, however, is woven into the very fabric of this country in so many more ways. Clean-cut on the surface, they are ultimately dysfunctional, haunted by failings and personal demons and are deeply competitive. Yet in the end, as with almost all of us, the happier times and feelings rise to the surface, while the troubles fade into the distance. This year marks the band’s 50th anniversary, and to celebrate the surviving members are touring together for the first time in nearly two decades. For the summer of 2012, founding members Brian Wilson, Mike Love and Al Jardine, along with later members David Marks and Bruce Johnston, will be on the same stage. Last year, The Beach Boys consisting of Love, Johnston and guest musicians came to Aurora, Ind., for a show at the Grand Victoria Casino. The 71-year-old Love repeatedly made self-deprecating remarks about his age and lack of mobility, but still delivered. While we shouldn’t expect to see them flying about stage like their slightly younger peers The Rolling Stones, we can expect a summer evening of classic American pop music. 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 12. Riverbend Music Center. $25-$95. 513-232-6220, riverbend.org.
