Back catalogue: Rock

Review: Early Takes Volume 1 presents an intimate glimpse into George Harrison's creative process, offering early versions and demos of some of his most beloved tracks. Originally released as a companion piece to Martin Scorsese's documentary Living in the Material World, this collection features ten songs, most of which are stripped-down renditions from All Things Must Pass, Living in the Material World, and Thirty Three & 1/3. The minimalist arrangements reveal the raw charm of Harrison's songwriting, allowing his voice and guitar work to shine unadorned. Highlights include acoustic versions of 'My Sweet Lord' and 'All Things Must Pass', which offer a refreshing contrast to Phil Spector's famously lush production. Tracks like 'Run of the Mill' and 'Behind That Locked Door' take on a more personal tone, while Harrison's cover of the Everly Brothers' 'Let It Be Me' adds a new dimension to the classic. Early Takes Volume 1 is a delightful collection that showcases Harrison's deep talent and leaves fans eager for more. Now, reissued on 180 gram vinyl.

Review: First released in 2009, Let It Roll: Songs By George Harrison delivers a punchy career retrospective focuses not on his biggest hits (though naturally many are present), but rather what are considered his greatest songs. Naturally his three most celebrated Beatles-era songs are present - 'Something', 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' and 'Here Comes The Sun' - albeit in the form of atmospheric live recording, but the bulk of the material comes from his prolific, post 1970 solo career. It is, then, a fine snapshot of a brilliant songwriter, with highlights including the sublime 'All Things Must Pass', the nostalgic 'All Those Years Ago', the string laden 'Isn't It a Pity', and the instrumental 'Marwa Blues'.