The Beach Boys are one of the most important musical artists in American pop history, transforming from a fun-time summer band into a complex and mature musical outfit in the span of just a few years. If you’re trying to get into their discography, here are five essential songs to know.

"Don’t Worry, Baby"
Inspired by the recordings of Phil Spector, this 1964 tune captures the most powerful asset of The Beach Boys – their stunning voices – employed to the utmost. Backed with a “wall of sound,” they sum up the world of young love perfectly.

"California Girls"
Conceived by Brian Wilson during a 1965 LSD trip, this anthem to the natural beauty of the Los Angeles ladies is seminal Beach Boys – light and glistening, with impeccable vocal harmonies.

"Caroline, No"
The Pet Sounds album marked The Beach Boys’s transition into a more mature musical group, and still stands as their highwater mark. The entire album is classic, but this mournful ballad is one of the greatest pop songs of all time.

"Good Vibrations"
Recorded for the aborted Smile album, this is Brian Wilson’s symphonic pop at its finest. Anchored by an irresistible melody played on the theremin, an experimental electronic instrument, the song is catchy yet complex and became a worldwide smash.

"God Only Knows"
Sung by Carl Wilson, this gorgeous ballad took the pop world by storm when it was released, causing none other than Paul McCartney to declare it his favorite song of all time. Now that’s a serious endorsement.

Café Silvium is family owned and operated and you'll probably feel right at home in this Stamford restuarant. Café Silvium offers a menu of classic Italian fare, freshly prepared, in a cozy yet spacious atmosphere. The restaurant's open kitchen complements the simple decor to place the spotlight on the food. And the food really is the star: on the menu you'll find dishes made from vension, wild boar, rabbit, and goose along with more typical fare. Try the veal scaloppini, the fried artichokes, or the zucchini flowers, and don't forget to save room for dessert: some of Café Silvium's dessert highlights include the indulgent ricotta cheesecake and the creme caramel. Café Silvium is a popular spot — and only takes reservations for parties of 6 or more — so you might have to wait a bit to be seated. Many diners agree, however, that the experience is worth the wait.

Café Silvium
371 Shippan Avenue
Stamford, CT 06902
(203) 324-1651
http://www.yelp.com/biz/cafe-silvium-stamford

Classical music is undergoing an unexpected renaissance these days, with some absolutely incredible performers wowing audiences. Here are five of the most exceptional musicians working in classical music today.

Chinese concert pianist Lang Lang is one of the most dynamic and exciting players in the world. He was the first Chinese pianist to be hired by top orchestras including the Vienna Philharmonic and the Berlin Philharmonic.

Guitarist and performer Goran Bregovic has played all over the world. His music is equally influenced by European classicism and Balkan tradition, and he tours with his Weddings and Funerals Orchestra to a major concert halls.

Jennifer Koh is one of the most popular violinists in the world. The young musician graduated from Oberlin Conservatory and has played with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the New York Philharmonic and more.

Italian composer and pianist Ludovico Einaudi takes the essential forms of minimalism and puts a lyrical spin on them, producing some of the most accessible and elegant contemporary classical music.

Classical voices are coming from all over the world, and one of the most exciting voices is New Zealand soprano Kiri Te Kanawa, who has been performing for almost half a century.