LIVE IN JAPAN

LIVE IN JAPAN :  This was only the second official live album from George Harrison after his mammoth 1971's "Concert for Bangladesh." Unbeknown to all, this was also to be George's last solo release during his life time. For this live set we have to thanks Eric Clapton who was instrumental in persuading George to come on tour with him in Japan. After his unsavoury reception to his Dark Horse Tour in 1974, George was understandably mindful of another tour. Finally he relented which was our gain. Maybe I've have too much of Paul McCartney's live albums but I find this a thoroughly enjoyable set and it was a great success in Japan too.

DISC 1 :

Want To Tell You ( Harrison ) : The quiet one is emulating Paul McCartney with nary an introduction nor a word when he started on this track from "Revolver." The original title was 'I Want To Tell You,' Don't know why they left out the 'I.' There was a prolong instrumental middle piece. A nice quiet start to what was a greatly anticipated concert.

Old Brown Shoes ( Harrison ) : George sounded confidence on this Beatles B side. Certainly he sounded better here than on some of his studio albums.

Taxman ( Harrison ) : A somewhat quite tame version than on the original but nevertheless it's nice to see this awesome track sung live from the composer. This was sung in almost note for note by Tom Petty on the "Concert For George."

Give Me Love [ Give Me Peace On Earth ] ( Harrison ) : A fine version of his next big hit after 'My Sweet Lord.' You really can feel the love in George.

If I Needed Someone ( Harrison ) : This was a usual staple on The Beatles live act in the 60's but the vast different now is that you can actually hear George sings.

Something ( Harrison ) : A slight teasing on the guitar and then George let loose on this classic. Not as good as the version on "Concert for Bangladesh" but then we don't have too many version of George singing this live so I can live with this version. The lead guitar is awesome though.

What Is Life ( Harrison ) : I've been so used to hearing the studio version of this song that it's quite unsettling to listen to this live but as George shows here, he still got what it takes to be a rock star. I actually like this version more as the original is too loud on the ear..

Dark Horse ( Harrison ) : When this was first recorded, George have a problem with his throat so it doesn't sound so good but here, given another chance, it sounded so much better as it was intended to be.

Piggies ( Harrison ) : George sounds slightly funny here like he's goofing around but the musical backing sounds just like on the original with the harpsichord and all.

Got My Mind Set On You ( Clarke ) : Probably the the only time here you'll get to hear George singing this live. Fittingly the last song by any ex Beatles to hit no.1. Towards the end, George did manage an "Arigato.'

Disc 2 :

Cloud 9 ( Harrison ) : Amid thunderous applause though nowhere near the 60's, George continued the show with this 1987 album title track of the same name. It sound incredibly like the studio version.

Here Comes The Sun ( Harrison ) : This Beatles classic needs no introduction. George sings it in his mellow laid back style.

My Sweet Lord ( Harrison ) : His biggest hit by far. Always a joy to listen to song thought the urgency of the song is not interpreted so much in the live version. A nice but rather tame version.

All Those Years Ago ( Harrison ) : George's tribute to his fallen comrade, John Lennon was given a great performance here. Only missing elements were Paul & Linda McCartney and Ringo Starr.

Cheer Down ( Harrison ) : Nice one from "Lethal Weapons 2." one of those great George Harrison's son
gs that he doesn't bother to put on albums until it came out as bonus tracks.

David's Radio ( Harrison ) : Still in fine form, George let rip with this fine rocking track. One of the fast track that impresses on "Cloud.9" 

Isn't It A Pity ( Harrison ) : Never really like this track from "All Things Must Pass," Too long for my liking but somehow this live version make it more bearable.

While My Guitar Gently Weeps ( Harrison ) : Another Beatles classic, this is one of those songs that George can't get away without performing. George sings great here and the guitar solo courtesy of Eric Clapton was awesome..

Roll Over Beethoven ( Berry ) : This Chuck Berry composed but sang by George on The Beatles second album "With The Beatles" was given a rockier feel than on the original. It leaves the audience wanting more.

DOP : 9th January 2005.