Binging My Blues Away
My plans for a quiet day at home, writing, once again took a dump. It’s not all bad, though. I did continue my CD acquisition binge with three new additions:
- Various Artists - Concert for George
- The Beatles - Live at the BBC
- Paul McCartney - Band On The Run (25th Anniversary Edition)
Notice a theme there? I’ve now seriously upgraded my Beatles solo record collection in the past week (I picked up two more from Harrison and a slew of John Lennon).
I’ve listened to Band On The Run. I’m not crazy about it. It’s typical McCartney: empty tunefulness. It’s nice. I don’t dislike it, but it was lacking in vitality. I’ll listen to it again and try to hear beyond that. The verdict is still out on Band.
I’ve got a lot of McCartney’s most recent solo records, but Band was my first foray into “classic” past. I’d like to check out a few others, but I’ve heard rumor the back catalog is getting another remastering. If that’s the case, I don’t think I’m going to like these records so much that I want to buy them twice in a year. I might break down and get a couple more anyway. Most people have suggested Ram and McCartney. I also have to admit it; I love “My Brave Face” and I kind of want Flowers in the Dirt.
I’m listening now to Concert for George. It’s good. I like it. I like George’s versions of these songs better, but it sounds like it was a nice night for a special artist. It’s also a great reminder of how many great songs Harrison did contribute.
The Beatles BBC set was picked up mostly as a “completist” impulse. I’ve heard this set before and there are some good moments on it, but it’s for the hardcore only. I’ll listen to it from time to time, but I doubt it will be part of the essential listening rotation.
I’m still behind on my writing and my head is still reeling a bit from the day and the past week, but I’m working hard to find my footing. This has been a good start.
Filed under: George Harrison, Paul McCartney, The Beatles
