The Beach Boys' 1966 masterpiece 'Pet Sounds' was created by Brian Wilson as a direct response to The Beatles' album 'Rubber Soul.' Wilson was so impressed by the cohesion of 'Rubber Soul' that he wanted to create 'the greatest rock album ever made.' He used unconventional instruments like bicycle bells, dog whistles, and water bottles to create a symphonic pop sound. In turn, when The Beatles heard 'Pet Sounds,' they were so blown away that they felt they had to top it, which led to the creation of 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.' Paul McCartney has often stated that 'God Only Knows' from 'Pet Sounds' is his favorite song of all time. This creative 'arms race' between Wilson and The Beatles pushed pop music into the realm of high art.