CLOUD 9

CLOUD 9 : After a 5 years hiatus from his recording career, George Harrison make a spectacular comeback with this gem of an album. Truly, his best since "All Things Must Pass." This album reestablished George Harrison as a critically acclaimed and commercially significant recording artist right up there with John Lennon and Paul McCartney. For once, George sounds happy and cheerful. Throughout his albums, he struck me as the one who was most unhappy with himself and the world around him but here he sure sounds on top of the world. I must admit, that throughout the album years, this was the album that woke me up to the music of George Harrison again. From "Extra Texture" to his last album "Gone Troppo." I was just playing selective songs which usually was only the hit songs and thus have me ignoring the rest of the album some of which were unjustifiably ignored. This album however gives me no chance to raise the record needle once it was in place. Yeah, it was that good. There was not a single bad track here.

Cloud 9 ( Harrison ) : Not necessary a nice start for the album. He should have use an uptempo number like he always do. Still this is no push over.. Somewhat reminds one of  The Beatles.

That What It Takes ( Harrison / Lynne / Wright ) : A great pop song in traditional of 'Blow Away.' It have a killer chorus. Can't go wrong as a single.

Fish On The Sand ( Harrison ) : An uptempo winner with Jeff Lynne's signature production. This was the direction George was leading The Traveling Wilburys and boy are we gonna be in for some great music.

Just For Today ( Harrison ) : The sort of slow number that George gave so much of in his previous albums but somehow this one sounded so right here.

This Is Love ( Harrison / Lynn ) : Another great pop song from George. If I have heard it from the radio first, thought th
e vocal is unmistakenly George, I would never guess it came from George. It sounded so happy and joyful.

When We Were Fab ( Harrison / Lynne ) : This was actually The Beatles under the guise of George Harrison. This track could fit nicely  in "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart Club Band". Great nostalgia track.

Devil's Radio ( Harrison ) : A fast one that impressed. This one could give both John Lennon and Paul McCartney a good run for their money.

Someplace Else ( Harrison ) : A slow but nice one. Honestly, if George have kept this album up with a few more songs, we may well have another "All Things Must Pass" on our hand.

Wreck Of The Hesperus ( Harrison ) : Nearing the end of the album and George is still going strong. Another uptempo gem. Shows there is still some serious rock in this aging rocker.

Breath Away From Heaven ( Harrison ) : There is a sense of oriental feel on this track. Being oriental myself, can I not like it.

Got My Mind Set On You ( Clark ) The last track on this album was also the last No.1 for George and any other ex Beatles. A fast number that you can't help taping your feet or shaking your hips to.

Additional Tracks :

Shanghai Surprise ( Harrison ) : George in his first ever duet with a female vocalist, Vicki Brown in this song from the movie of the same name starring the one and only Madonna. Not a bad track.

Zig Zag ( Harrison ) : This too was from the movie "Shanghai Surprise" and was first released as the B side of 'When We Were Fab.'  This sounds more like an instrumental than a vocal song with George repeating the title again and again.

DOP : 15th December 2005.

GONE TROPPO

GONE TROPPO :  This was George Harrison's ninth studio album before he went off on a five years hiatus  ( sounds familiar ) and did nothing musically except for the occasional soundtracks. He did nothing to promote the album resulting in it being his worst selling album of all. I wasn't too keen on any George Harrison albums either during this time. I bought this album dutifully with genuine liking for one song and have it lying on the shelf since. On relistening to this CD, I found that as usual, the devil is really not as bad as he was painted. There are hidden gems here to be found here which I've only just discovered. Out of 10 songs, there are only 2 that borders on slightly boring. The rest is quite fine by any standard. I loved the album cover too

Wake Up My Love ( Harrison ) : It's a given that all George Harrison's album will start with an uptempo songs and this is just one of that. Doesn't do anything with me. Just listen and forget.

That's The Way It Goes ( Harrison ) : I must confess that this alsolutely geogeous song have escaped my attention. It was only during his tribute concert on "The Concert For George" when I heard Joe Brown singing it that it blew me away instantly. I immediately reconnect with this song and now it's one of my definite favourite.

I Really Love You ( Swearinen ) Truth to told, this was the only song that I use to care about on this album. I just play this song and ignored all the rest which was a real injustice. I'm not really how much input have George put in this vocal but it's sure is a nice de wop number.

Greece ( Harrison ) : I was always interested in any instrumental piece that any ex Beatle puts out and, believe it or not, I wasn't even aware that there was an instrumental track here. Does gives you an idea how much I thought of this album at one time. Anyway, this is a pleasant track.

Gone Troppo ( Harrison ) : The title track is not too bad after all. I may actually like it enough to even place it inside my hand phone.

Mystical One ( Harrison ) : Saved for "Extra Texture," any George Harrison's albums would not be complete  without at lease one song with religious undertones. As religious song goes, this is quite listenable.

Unknown Delight ( Harrison ) : Rather boring this but still, not as bad as some of his other boring songs. Probably saved by the beautiful guitar solo.I could still live through this.

Baby, Don't Run Away ( Harrison ) : Another uninteresting song that seems to be George's thing at t
his time but I don't know whether it's his death or I've grown more tolerable but somehow his boring songs doesn't sounds as bad as when I first heard them. There was a time when I just can't stand hearing his voice on those songs, hence my overlooking his better songs.

Dream Away ( Harrison ) : Now we're talking music again. I detect strains of 'My Sweet Lord' backing here but  nevertheless, this is a nice track and it was lifted to be the next single. Unfortunately it didn't do well. It was remember more as part of the soundtrack of the hit movie "Time Bandits" 'cos it was played in the closing credits.

Circles ( Harrison ) : You sure can't say I am biased with Paul McCartney when I am listening to this. Boring. Sure is heartbreaking to hear a guy who once comes up with gems like 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps', 'Something' and 'Here Comes The Sun' reduced to this.

Additional Track :

Mystic One [ Demo ] ( Harrison ) : A slower version demo of this religious sounding song. George is doing it again. Trying to get me to sleep when I am reassessing his past recordings. Ops, my apology it wasn't his fault. He didn't put this here. It's his recording company to blame. The finished product is much better.

DOP : 15th November 2005.

SOMEWHERE IN ENGLAND

SOMEWHERE IN ENGLAND : After producing the excellent self titled "George Harrison," album in 1979, George again falter on this rather mediocre album. There were quite a bit of problems surrounding the making of the album. Least of which, four of the songs were rejected by his recording company, Warner Bros. Ironically, three of the songs that were rejected were included as the most popular George Harrison songs in a 2006 survey. Further tragic was the news that his former band mate, John Lennon was murdered. That led George to rewrite a tune that he have and in return he was rewarded with his mo'Give Me Love.' which was quite a long time ago. Still, other than the above mentioned track and another good track, this was an album that is quite hard to go through. I got this cheap from a Beatles pal of mine.
st successful single since

Blood From A Clone ( Harrison ) : As was customary from each of his album, an uptempo track starts off the album. Not terribly arresting but still doesn't warrant pressing the skip button.

Unconsciousness Rules ( Harrison ) : Sounds better than the first time I heard it. The intro, ironically kind of reminds me of The Chiffons' "He's So Fine,' the song that gave him a lot of problems.

Life Itself ( Harrison ) : The great one here. The kind of religious songs that George is so fond of doing and when he does gets it right, it is simply awe inspiring. Ironically, it was only in latter years that I've discovered this gem, for I've been ignoring his albums even after I've bought them.

John Lennon

All Those Years Ago ( Harrison ) : This big single here started life as a track for Ringo Starr but after John Lennon's senseless 1980 murder, George took it upon himself to rewrite the lyric and make it his heartfelt tribute to his fallen ex colleague. As icing on the cake, Paul & Linda McCartney and Denny Laine were rounded up in the recording which made this the closest thing to a Beatles recording since Ringo Starr's 1973's "Ringo" which featured John, George and Ringo on 'I'm The Greatest.'  An uptempo and jovial tribute that John would have been proud of.

Baltimore Oriole ( Carmichael ) : An average song at best. Wonder why he covered it. George could have written a better song.. The song was over even before I realised it.

Teardrops ( Harrison ) : The next single and understandably it didn't score like the first one. It wasn't really a bad track. Just not the stuff that single are made of. Bad choice for a single.

That Which I Have Lost ( Harrison ) : A nice and quiet track that seems rather lost here. A nice surprise on a mediocre album.

The alternate cover

Writing's On The Wall ( Harrison ) : Boring this. When I was younger, so much younger than today, I just do not have the patience to sit through these kind of yawn inducing songs. Now that I am much older, I can give it another spin but it is still boring.

Hong Kong Blues ( Carmichael ) : When I was younger, it always gives me a kick to see anything Chinese mentioned in a white man song but somehow this doesn't have me jumping up and down the first time I heard. Other than the title and the gong during the intro, there's nothing Chinese about this tune. Hearing it again now after so many years, it's more acceptable.

Save The World ( Harrison ) : Another boring track that made me glad that we've come to the end of the album. Yawn.

DOP : 8th December 2000.

GEORGE HARRISON

GEORGE HARRISON : After " 33 And 1/3" which was rather a bitter album right after he have lost his fight with the court regarding the similarities of his composition 'My Sweet Lord' to The Chiffons' 'He's So Fine,' this album have George at peace with himself. With the whole sad episode behind him, George produced this stellar almost acoustic album. Arguably his best since a long while. As mentioned, my interest in George have waned sharply since then and that, in turn leads me to "Flaming Pie" was to Paul McCartney. See, Paul, George did it first. I'm gonna play this CD out loud and announce to the world that I love this album.
ignored most of the songs here. As I was writing this, I was listening to
this album again and it was like I was listening to a new album. I was amazed at how good it was and what an injustice I did to George. But then I was only 20, what do I know. There really are no bad tracks here. Mostly acoustic, George sounded at ease here and this was to him as to what

Love Comes To Everyone ( Harrison ) : A good track to start off an excellent album. I quite like this. George sounded laid back and sang without a care in the world.

Not Guilty ( Harrison ) : This was a bonus for us die hard Beatles fans 'cos this was a left over from his days as a Beatle during their times in India. This track started life in 1968 as a full blown guitar track but here it is given an acoustic backing.

Here Comes Te Moon ( Harrison ) : Conceived as a sort of sequence to his famous 'Here Comes The Sun.' Unfortunately it doesn't hold a candle to the classic. Actually what can ? Still on its on, it is pleasant enough tune.

Soft Hearted Hana ( Harrison ) : I have totally forgotten this song. I honestly don't know why for this is a seriously good and upbeat track. Guarantee to leave a smile on your face.

Blow Away ( Harrison ) : One of my favourite George Harrison's single. This one grabs you instantly and never let go and stays on in your mind for days.

Faster ( Harrison ) : George's love of car racing and Jackie Stewart inspired this uptempo track. Not a bad track by far and the chorus is catchy as hell but somehow it didn't do as well as a single as 'Blow Away.' I use to skip this too during the album days but now I actually find it one of the highlights here.

Dark Sweet Lady ( Harrison ) :  An ode to his lady love and the recent Mrs.Harrison, Olivia Trinidad. Not really a standout track but when you visualise a husband singing this to his wife, it somehow sounded so right. Another one I've neglected criminally.

Your Love Is Forever ( Harrison ) : Yet another standout track which I've guiltily ignored. What was I thinking. The instrumentation is flawless and memorable.

Soft Touch ( Harrison ) : Quite a nice track here. We've come to the second last track here and I've yet to hear a bad song and somehow I don't think I will.

If You Believe ( Harrison / Wright ) : A fast tempo gem. A good way to end an excellent album that may make u just want to repeat the whole experience again.

Additional Track :

Here Comes The Moon [ Demo ] ( Harrison ) : Just the guitar and George on this average track. Not much different from the studio track 'cos it was not that heavy a track to start with.

DOP : 13th October 2005.

THIRTY THREE AND 1/3

THIRTY THREE AND 1/3 : By the time, this comes out, my interest in George Harrison has wane considerably. I find his songs weary and lacking and I just can't find myself listening to his albums in its entirety, the only time being the time I first got the album. As a Beatle, he still fascinates me but as a pop star, I find I am not as tolerable to him as I do  Paul McCartney. But that's just me. This album was regarded by many as a return to form after his last two not too well received albums. Thirty three and 1/3 is an indication of his age and the speed at which the record is played.

Woman Don't You Cry For Me ( Harrison ) : A nice opener for this album. George's famous slide guitar is much in evidence here but it didn't do much for me though. Not memorable.

Dear One ( Harrison ) : Now this is a cool one. One of those religious songs from George that works. George's constant focusing on his Indian and religious influence can be quite unsettling to some but this track has an engaging instrumentation and the churchy organ along with along with George's dabbling in synthesisers made this one of the highlights here.

Beautiful Girl ( Harrison ) : Another of my favourite. Here George shows he is more than capable of writing 'Silly Love Songs' as good as Paul McCartney but with not nearly as much sentimentality as him. A great track.

This Song ( Harrison ) : George shows his displeasure at his losing the case of his song 'My Sweet Lord' on this satire take of this hilarious song. George has always struck me as the serious one and the video of him goofing around in the court room is quite a revelation to me. Regarded by critics as a fine song, somehow the melody is lose on me. I use to skip this.

See Yourself ( Harrison ) : A philosophical, while the unsympathetic might say preachy song about Paul McCartney's admission on his use on heroin in the 60's. Cos of the rather decent tune, this is quite tolerable. 

It's What You Value ( Harrison ) : A funky number that is not the usual stuff that George is known for and it is also the longest track here. The intro is fine but all in all it leads to nothing special for me.

True Love ( Porter ) : George don't usually do covers but when he does it, he do it in style as this old Cole Porter standard shows. In my younger days and due to my own narrow mindedness, I use to skip this track. I only rediscovered the beauty of this track in latter years. Maybe this is where Rod Stewart got his idea from.

Pure Smokey ( Harrison ) : A rather heartfelt tribute to Smokey Robinson. Thoughtful of George to pay him a tribute now than when he is dead.

Crackerbox Palace ( Harrison ) : The second Top 40 hit came with this track which shows that George can be a master pop craftsman if he chooses to be. It also showcase the sense of humour that George displace in early interviews with the press when he was a Beatle. A nice piece but by this time I was too out of touch with George to be able to fully enjoy this.

Learning How To Love You ( Harrison ) : This is a throw away for me thought some critics have regarded it as one of his better song. Well that's just me.

DOP : 7th October 1997.

THE BEST OF GEORGE HARRISON

THE BEST OF GEORGE HARRISON : This 1976 compilation album from EMI was a slap on the face of George Harrison. The contents of the album offered half of George's Beatles songs and the other half songs under his own name. The Beatles songs were well represented and released in many other greatest hits CD and his solo songs were not fully represented here at all. Even Ringo Starr have a greatest hits album of all his solo hits. As such, this album is meant only for casual fans and not for hardcore fans. The saving grace however is that this album remained the only official album that have the single 'Bangla Desh' and it was only for this reason that I bought this album. Thankfully I got it from a fleas market at a relatively cheap price. I would never pay the price of a whole CD for only one song.

Something ( Harrison ) : Refers to The Beatles' "Abbey Road" album.

If I Needed Someone ( Harrison ) : Refers to The Beatles' "Rubber Soul" album.

Here Comes The Sun ( Harrison ) : Refers to The Beatles' " Abbey Road" album.

Taxman ( Harrison ) : Refers to The Beatles " Revolver" album.

Think For Yourself ( Harrison ) : Refers to The Beatles' "Rubber Soul' album.

For You Blues ( Harrison ) : Refers to The Beatles' "Let It Be" album.

While  My Guitar Gently Weeps ( Harrison ) : Refers to The Beatles' "The Beatles" album.

My Sweet Lord ( Harrison ) : Refers to "All Things Must Pass."

Give Me Love [ Give Me Peace On Earth ] ( Harrison ) : Refers to "Dark Horse" album.

You ( Harrison ) : Refers to "Extra Texture."

Bangla Desh ( Harrison ) : This was the only reason I bought this CD. An average song for a mammoth concert. George's heart was in the right place but unfortunately the melody falls somewhere short.

Dark Horse ( Harrison ) : Refers to "Dark Horse."

What Is Life ( Harrison ) : Refers to "All Things Must Pass."

DOP : 23d December 2012.

EXTRA TEXTURE ( READ ALL ABOUT IT )

 

EXTRA TEXTURE ( READ ALL ABOUT IT ) : George bounces back so screamed the newspaper advertisement for this 1975 effort after his disastrous " Dark Horse" and his equally disastrous tour due to a throat infection. All these have somewhat affected George and his confidence was shaken and hence came this quite depression album, albeit a fine one musically. This was also the first time he have abandoned all references to his religion and focus on the subject of love, loneliness and depression. Most critics dismissed this album as lacking in quality but I beg to differ, The mood of the album overall is indeed depression but the melody is top notch. This was also the last George Harrison album that I listen to in its entirety. His subsequent albums have me lost and I was listening to selective songs only.

You ( Harrison ) :  The album got off to a rolling start with this riff driven single that is not unlike his earlier 'What Is Life.' This is easily the most commercial and uptempo track from here and it is easy to see why it was chosen as the single.

The Answer's At The End ( Harrison ) :  The lyrics from this track sounds slightly philosophical but it does have a good chorus. I like the lyric too which is positive and probably you should take note too if you have people you care about.

This Guitar [ Can't Keep From Crying ] ( Harrison ) : This a sort of sequence to his'While My Guitar Gently Weeps,' but it is nowhere like the melody is nowhere like the former. One of my favorite. I just loves the guitar playing here.
more celebrated

Ooh Baby [ You Know That I Love You ] ( Harrison ) : Truly George can ripped your heart out with his sad songs coming one after another. George vocal sails beautifully along the verse melody. This song was dedicated to his idol Smokey Robinson.

World Of Stone ( Harrison ) : This one I usually skip when I was playing the record. Now I am quite tolerable of it. Guess death seems to have a way of changing the way you see or hears things.

A Bit More Of You ( Harrison ) : Just what the title said, a bit more of 'You.'.

Can't Stop Thinking Of You ( Harrison ) : One of my favourite on the album. Starts out quietly but it sure grows on you.

Tired Of Midnight Blue ( Harrison ) : Trust George to throw us this little upbeat ditty after so many fine but depressing tracks. This is one infectious track with fine piano provided by Leon Russell.

Grey Cloudy Lies ( Harrison ) : Yet another of his depression song. If the melody have not been top notched, I would have been left in tears. This one would fits right in with the almighty "All Things Must Pass."

His Name Is Legs [ Ladies And Gentlemen ] ( Harrison ) : This wacky and upbeat jam would not be out of place on the jam section of "All Things Must Pass," but thankfully, it was kept to a minimum which made this quite tolerable and offer a change of pace.

DOP : 30th November 1998.

DARK HORSE

 

DARK HORSE : This 4th solo release by George Harrison could have been big had it not been due to circumstances that George was ill equipped to overcome. After a  trio of fine albums, this was greatly anticipated by his fans and the public nostalgia for his old band was at an all time high. However, as fate would have it, George contracted laryngitis which was an infection that causes inflammation of the larynx which in turn affects the cavity in the throat holding the vocal cords. He went on his first solo tour against better advices and judgement which was also the first time any Beatles have tour in the US since 1966. Because of his insistence in promoting Ravi Shankar so heavily in his concerts, coupled with his hoarse vocal, the tour gathered bad reviewers from influential people and caused a major set back for him..The album itself showed George in his not so fine vocal but however all is not lost here. I have a soft spot for this album because it was released during the Chinese New Year when everyone of our family members were home for the celebration. Listening to it conjured visions of my mother preparing her mouth watering menus for us all and my brother sleeping on the sofa while this album was being played. Yeah, a not so perfect album that somehow evolved a time that was quite close to perfection.

Hari's On Tour [ Express ] ( Harrison ) : George, unlike Paul McCartney didn't do much instrumentals other than this instrumental soundtrack that he did for the movie "Wonderwall," This was a good starter for this album or any other albums for that matter.

Simple Shady ( Harrison ) : A fine song to follow the instrumental. During this time, it was always a thrill for me to hear the ex Beatles singing with reference to themselves or the characters that they've created in their songs. And George's inclusion of 'Sexy Sadie' as part of the lyric did the trick for me.

So Sad ( Harrison ) : I used to skip this track and the following 2 that followed when I first got the record. However time, or maybe the death of George have made me more tolerance of this track. I listen to it now.

Bye, Bye Love ( Bryant / Bryant ) : This was an old Everly Brothers standard venomous rewritten novelty song in respond of his wife, Pattie Boyce leaving him for his good friend Eric Clapton. Like Paul McCartney before him who once did the old Mickey & Sylvia's hit 'Love Is Strange,' the melody was almost unrecognisable. If they have put it under any other name, nobody would have been the wiser but I guess he must have been apprehensive after the problem he had with 'My Sweet Lord.'

Maya Love ( Harrison ) : This one I totally detested. It was horrible and I just can't bear listening to it. However, as always as times passed.....

Ding Dong, Ding Dong ( Harrison ) : A nice cheerful track to open up side two on the record. This was the second single from here and was intended as a perennial favourite for Christmas. One of my favourite on the album.

Dark Horse ( Harrison ) : George sounds somewhat restrained on this fine acoustic track. Still the charm cannot be denied.

Far East Man ( Harrison / Wood ) : Another good track which he co wrote with ex Faces Ronnie Wood. Ronnie did a version of this song on his "I Have My Own Album To Do,'"
which I found not much different from this version.

It Is 'He' [ Jai Sri Krishna ] ( Harrison ) : I know not many people like this chant like song but there are charms aplenty to be found here if you love George like me. I find it interesting and unlike anything I've heard before. The bridge is hauntingly nice.

DOP : 11th April 1998.

LIVING IN THE MATERIAL WORLD

LIVING IN THE MATERIAL WORLD : Frankly, who could top two successive triple albums that also managed to grab the convented Grammy for Album of The Year two year in a row. Nobody could and George couldn't either but he did came pretty close with this toned down offering as opposed to the grandeur and Phil Spector's Wall of Sound treatment of his last studio album. Thought lacking much of the killer tracks that dominate much of "All Things Must Past," the songs here are much softer and shows the direction that he was to followed in his later works. Where his last album were made up of rejected Beatles songs, this album were all newly composed songs which shows that George was clearly in a class of his own. I got the original CD as part of my collection but sold it off later to an ever faithful pal of mine in order to get this reissued with two bonus songs.

Give Me Love ( Harrison ) : The big hit from this album. This single replaced 'My Love,' the big ballad hit from Paul McCartney & Wings at No.1 when the single loses momentum. the early 70's was a great year for Beatles fans like me and it's always a kick for me to see each Beatles racing up the chart one after another.

Sue Me, Sue You Blues ( Harrison ) : George singing about the draggy court affairs on The Beatles business dealing. Not a favourite and David Bowie did a version of this song.

The Light That Has Lighten The World ( Harrison ) : Doesn't hit you in the face on first listening but constant listening will do just that.

Don't Let Me Wait Too Long ( Harrison ) : There are three great tracks here and this was the first one and it should have been released as a single. Lyrically simple but a heartfelt love song with a melody that will stays with you long after the song have ended.

Who Can See It ( Harrison ) :  Another slow burner that will  grow on you eventually.

Living In The Material World ( Harrison ) : Being the titled track, expectation naturally was high but this track was my least favourite here. Rather loud and you'll find more Beatles reference here. His take on 'Richie' was good 'cos it played on them getting richer and also getting Ringo Starr on board.

The Lord Loves The One [ The Loves The Lord ] ( Harrison ) : One of the loud one that impresses. I've always love this track. Slightly preachy but still a good tune and good fun.

Be Here Now ( Harrison ) : The second great track here. Made in the vein as his Beatles song, 'Long, Long, Long' from the white album, the lead acoustic guitar is so absorbing. Incredibly, I find this track slow and boring on first hearing but now it's essential listening here.

Try Some, Buy Some ( Harrison ) : This sounds like a drug reference song and does bear slight similarities with 'Who Can See It.'

The Day The World Gets Round ( Harrison ) : Another nice track as George sings in the same note as it's harmony. A social commentary track that shows  how George felt at that time.

That Is All ( Harrison ) : The last appropriately titled last track and the final great track from a great album. A great ballad as George sings of his great belief in love. I remember hearing Andy Williams singing a version of this but it was nowhere near as good as this.

BONUS TRACKS :

Deep Blue ( Harrison ) : Surprisingly good, this B side to his 'Bangladesh' single. B-sides for most artists were not supposed to be good but The Beatles were always the exception and George seems to be continuing this trend. Can't believe that George throw this song away.

Miss O'Dell ( Harrison ) : Yet another fine B side. This time from the flip side of 'Give Me Love.' I can't believe I've been missing this great song until now. A light hearted song seemingly about one of their employee, Chris O'Dell, The singing is light hearted and George is heard breaking into laughter towards the end of the song.

DOP : 27th January 2012

THE CONCERT FOR BANGLADESH

THE CONCERT FOR BANGLADESH : George Harrison's next project after his critically acclaimed 3 record mammoth set was yet another 3 record set and like its predecessor, it again scored the Album Of he Year Award. So much for being the quiet Beatle. I saw this movie when it first appeared at the local cinema and I was mesmerised as was anything Beatles at that time. I was a pesky 12 years old then and a 3 record set was way beyond my lunch money. I only managed to get this CD 40 odds years later and long it may have been, the passing years have not dimmed the images that I first have from the movies. It haven't left my memories at all. I remember watching in wonderment at Leon Russell's awesome interpretation of the medley 'Jumpin' Jack Flash' and 'Young Blood' which have been stored in my memories and it only emerged when I played this CD. George was majestic in his white suite and look every inch the rock star as John Lennon. This CD, due to copyright reason was not available in Malaysia so I have to get in in Singapore. I've already have the DVD so i was rather slow in getting this CD but got it I eventually did.

DISC 1

Introduction By George Harrison & Ravi Shankar : George and Ravi Shankar's 's introduction of the Indian musicians and their entourage.

Bangla Dhun ( Shankar ) :  I use to hate this part of the concert. I was just not ready to embrace Indian music but only endure it because of George Harrison but somehow the years must have soften me. Now I am able to enjoy it to a certain extend. It was a low profile kind of instrumental and not a full blown one 'cos this was after all the first major exposure of Indian music to the West. They may not be able to accept it if it's too extreme. I remember this one takes up the whole of side one.

Wah - Wah ( Harrison ) : Not one of my favourite from "All Things Must Pass" but it was a good
choice and very welcome after the long Indian music. Probably woke the audiences up and me too. Sounds better here than on the studio recording too.

My Sweet Lord ( Harrison ) : The first strain of this mega hit was enough to bring in the cheers from the audience. A fine version of this great song though more restrain than on the studio recording.

Awaiting On You All ( Harrison ) : Another stellar version of this track from "All Things Must Pass." This album was the first time I have heard any of George post Beatles songs and incredibly, he managed to do it exactly like it was in the studio.

That's The Way God Planned It ( Preston ) : This was probably the only song I remember from Billy Preston and it sure was a memorable track. Watching him on the video was even more awesome.

It Don't Come Easy ( Starkey ) : Ringo Starr's turn to shine on his most recent first post Beatles hit. Judging from the crowds' reaction, he is doing it right too.

Beware Of Darkness ( Harrison ) : Always love this track. Still send chills down my spine after all these years. Leon Russell joined him on a few verses 'cos he did a great version of this song on his own complete with Indian music backing. Beautiful.

Band Introduction : George introduction of his band and thanking them all.

While My Guitar Gently Weeps ( Harrison ) : This stellar song needs no introduction and George sure did a sure fire version with this.

DISC 2 :

Medley : Jumping Jack Flash ( Jagger / Richards ) / Young Blood ( Leiber / Stoller ) : This was the moment for me throughout the entire concert. Leon Russell was just awesome here and this was the first time I've heard of Leon Russell. His version of 'Young Blood'  here stayed in my mind for years. His rattling off just before 'Young Blood" could just be the prelude to all these rap music that came to be years later.

Here Comes The Sun ( Harrison ) : George reclaimed the show back from Leon Russell with this crowd pleaser that just cannot go wrong. Pete Ham from ill fated Badfinger played acoustic guitar alongside George.

A Hard Rain's A Gonna Fall ( Dylan ) : Bob Dylan was recovering from a recent accident and have to be coaxed out of semi retirement by George to participate in this concert and he nearly steal the show too, performing almost as many songs as George. Bob sounded much better than I've heard him in his studio recordings. This is Bob Dylan in top form vocally.

It Takes A Lot To Laugh,' It Takes A Train To Cry ( Dylan ) : Now why can't Bob sings like this all the time. This was the first time I've truly heard Bob Dylan and this was how I like him to be.

Blowin' In The Wind ( Dylan ) : The mother of all protest song. There are many versions of this song but no one sings this song like Bob Dylan I so declare and this version rocks.

Mr. Tambourine Man ( Dylan ) : The fourth song and he is still rocking. This was the song that made me fell in love with Bob Dylan and he did it again here.

Just Like A Woman ( Dylan ) : I heard this song here the first time and boy, I had it in my head ever since. I've heard the studio version since then of course but it was this version that did it for me.

Something ( Harrison ) : George have to reclaim his show yet again with this beautiful Beatles song.

Bangla Desh ( Harrison ) : A heartfelt composition just for this concert. Wasn't really the hit it was supposed to me or was that just me. Still the performance couldn't be faulted.

Additional Track 

Love Minus Zero / No Limit ( Dylan ) : A pleasant on this lesser known Bob Dylan gem that wasn't on the original album. I first heard this song done by a local artist and this was my first time ever hearing the master sang it and it was greeeeat..........

ALL THINGS MUST PASS

ALL THINGS MUST PAST. DELUXE EDITION : George Harrison first album proper after a mainly instrumental soundtrack album and an experimental one. And what an album it was. Originally released as a mammoth 3 records it have scored a few firsts. It was the first ever triple album in the history of rock and the first ex beatle album to go No.1 as was the single 'My Sweet Lord.' It was also George Harrison's declaration of independence and finally out of the shadow of  his understandably more celebrated ex colleagues John Lennon and Paul McCartney to finally be recognised as an artist in his own right. I didn't get to hear this album till years later 'cos I couldn't find the album here. The store just wouldn't risk stocking a 3 record set here doubting George Harrison's marketability. George somehow was not as big as John or Paul here. I finally got the album from Singapore through a cousin of mine. Thirty odd years later I got the CD version and then a few months later came this deluxe version, with a few extra tracks to boot. Thankful I was saved from my agony when I managed to sell off this CD to one of my Beatles' friends and got this deluxe version.

Disc 1

Disc 1

I'd Have You Anytime ( Harrison / Dylan ) : This collaborating effort with one of his best buddy was a rather slow start to an outstanding album. This track doesn't gives any clues to the wonders that was to come.

My Sweet Lord ( Harrison ) : The biggie of the album. Incredibly I didn't like this song on first hearing. It was too long for me. But before too long, it grew on me and when it was rooted in me, it stayed there and to this day remained one of my all time ex Beatle favourite songs. I never truly believe about George's supposed plagiarism of this song from The Chiffon's 'He's So Fine.' A songwriter of George's calibre doesn't need to plagiarised from anyone.

Wah - Wah ( Harrison ) : This one is a rock and roll heavy. A bit too noisy for me so was not my favourite.

Isn't It A Pity ( Harrison ) : This was edited down as the B side of 'My Sweet Lord.' A self pitying song but at more than 7 minutes length, it was way too long. Almost 'Hey Jude' proportion. Tends to get boring as it goes on and on.

What Is Life ( Harrison ) : Now this is more like it. A solid riff driven rock and roll song that John and Paul would have been proud of. The guitar riff alone will stick to your head for days.

If Not For You ( Dylan ) : I absolutely loves this heavy version of this track. Olivia Newton-John may have the hit version but this was clearly the definite version here. I usually press the repeat button for this. Gems like this should be served twice of more.

The original cover

Behind That Locked Door ( Harrison ) : George showing he is more than just a flash in the pan with this beautiful country and western number. One of the highlights.

Let It Down ( Harrison ) : George gets heavy again. Not terribly memorable but it does gives us some varieties.

Run Of The Mill ( Harrison ) : A run of the mill track but really nice and listenable.

Additional Tracks :

I Live For You ( Harrison ) : This song was only ever available on bootlegs to those in the know but this is one great song. Don't know why it was put in storage in the first place. A fine country song. Our loss until now.

Beware Of Darkness ( Harrison ) : The stripped down version of this fine song. Nice to hear the clarity in his voice.

Let It Down ( Harrison ) : Never really like this track. The original was too loud for me. Still, I prefer this demo better than the original.

What Is Life ( Harrison ) : The same terrific track but minus the vocal leaving only the instrumental backing.

My Sweet Lord [ 2000 ] ( Harrison ) : Don't really like this remake. George's voice is not in the best of form. I take the the original anytime. I have this single too but I sold it when I got this set.

Disc 2

DISC 2

Beware Of Darkness ( Harrison ) : Love this. Definitely one of the highlights here. I first heard this from the "Concert For Bangladesh" movie and I fell in love with this song instantly. George played it live exactly like it was in the studio.

Apple Scruffs ( Harrison ) : George rewarded all those loyal and faithful fans waiting around the recording studio for sights of The Beatles with this sweet little ditty. A sweet acoustic number with harmonica and all. I can't believe anyone could not like this track.

Ballad Of Sir Frankie Crisp [ Let It Roll ] ( Harrison ) : I don't quite get this track. It sounded quite average to me but it was accorded legendary status when it became the title of George's 2009 Greatest Hits Collection.

Awaiting On You All ( Harrison ) : Another highlights. This one have George singing on his apparent love for religion and and the hypocrisy of man, and man, he sure did it in a rocking way.

All Things Must Pass ( Harrison ) : The one The Beatles passed over. Had they recorded it then, we would have had another Beatles classic. Plain l
ovely with that twangy country feel.

I Dig Love ( Harrison ) : This sounds experimental but it somehow fits in with the album.

Art Of Dying ( Harrison ) : This one have the large rock feel to it. The kind that you play loud with air guitar and all. The Beatles just think of everything, don't they.

Isn't It A Pity ( Harrison ) : This shorten version is a lot more bearable than the first version which ran close to 8 minutes. I tend to be more tolerable when the artist is no more with us as it was with John. I used to skip this track but now I listened to it till the end.

The booklet

Hear Me Lord ( Harrison ) : With this heartfelt plead to the Lord, we've come to the last song proper from the album. A nice track to close the album. The followings tracks are long endless jams that most don't listen to.

Original Jam :

It's Johnny's Birthday ( Martin / Coulter / Harrison ) : The only remotely recognisable song here. Sung to the tune of Cliff Richard's Erovision entry 'Congratulation,' I find this amusing and quite entertaining.

Plug Me In ( Harrison ) : I haven't really listen to this in a while but I have to confess I quite like this.

I Remember Jeep ( Harrison ) : Likewise with this. It's much better than John Lennon's live set in "Sometime In New York City." Maybe I too, like others have underestimated the quiet one. Still, clocking at close to 8 minutes, it's really is too long for my liking.

Thanks For The Pepperoni ( Harrison ) : This was the most rock and roll sounding jam from here. I can visualising the guys enjoying themselves here. A full blown endless jam nevertheless.

Out Of The Blue ( Harrison ) : The final track from the CD and frankly my ears are eshausted. Listenable they may be, still I wouldn't be playing them too soon.

DOP : 23rd September 2003.