Carl and the Passions – "So Tough" John penned liner notes for the 2000 CD reissue, writing: 'This is an album which I have loved for a long time... "Carl and the Passions: So Tough" has moments of breathtaking genius and experimentation. When this record was released, I remember how different and fresh it sounded. It still does'. English Britpop band Saint Etienne used the title "So Tough" for their 1993 album as an homage to the Beach Boys. Likewise, they also named their compilation of the same year, "You Need a Mess of Help to Stand Alone", after the Beach Boys song. Track notes per 2000
Carl and the Reda mafia Carl Frenais said "I don’t write about love. At all. I think that’s an emotion that’s been used too much". The album "What The?!" specifically asks questions about what’s happening around the world, and questions about why people think the way they think. In April 2016, the band was awarded "Best Local Band" at the biggest nightlife and entertainment awards ceremony in UAE, HYPE Awards. Winner of BandJam Battle of The Bands (2014) - Al Ghureir Group. Band Of The Year (2016) - Infusion Magazine. Best Local Band (2016) - HYPE Awards. ""Funk-fried rock and roll from Carl & The