#67. If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears | The Mamas & The Papas (1966)

OK, I couldn't possibly talk about The Mamas & The Papas without bringing up the controversy surrounding them. Did you know that when this album was originally released it was pulled from the shelves because the image of the toilet on the cover was declared indecent? Not to mention their incorrect use of apostrophes!

And now, 43 years later, Mackenzie Phillips reveals that she had an affair with her father, John Phillips (one of the Papas). Ick.

All controversy aside, this is actually a really good album. Anyone who has ever listened to the radio is probably familiar with "California Dreamin'" and "Monday Monday,"and "Go Where You Wanna Go" can't be far behind. But there are some other really compelling songs here as well, the rockin' "Straight Shooter," the torch song version of "I Call Your Name" and one of the most beautiful renditions of "Spanish Harlem" ever recorded.

Track Listing:
01. Monday, Monday
02. Straight Shooter
03. Got A Feelin'
04. I Call Your Name
05. Do You Wanna Dance
06. Go Where You Wanna Go
07. California Dreamin'
08. Spanish Harlem
09. Somebody Groovy
10. Hey Girl
11. You Baby
12. The In-Crowd