ANTHOLOGY 3

This last volume in the Anthology series of Beatles collectors heaven, is actually quite good though I prefer Volume 2. I love the White album alternative versions and this is the best thing about the volume. It is a fantastic experience to hear earlier versions of Happiness Is A Warm Gun (2.15), Helter Skelter (4.38), Mean Mr. Mustard (1.58), Polythene Pam (1.26), Glass Onion (1.51), Piggies (2.01), Honey Pie (1.19), Don't Pass Me By (2.42) and Blackbird (2.19). The versions are similar but noticeably devoid of the clean production courteous of Apple Studios. It is great to hear Harrison on While My Guitar Gently Weeps (3.27), and McCartney raw and vulnerable on Hey Jude (4.21), Mother Nature's Son (3.17) and the wonderful Rocky Raccoon (4.13). Lennon is terrific even on earlier versions of Glass Onion (2.08) and I'm So Tired (2.14). This is a raunchy Beatles sound and is quite surprising. There are no overlays or studio tricks and the sound is much more endearing, as you can enjoy the band having fun doing what they do best.

CD 2 features the "Revolver", "Abbey Road" and "Let It Be" studio outtakes and alternatives, and of course after this "Let It Be ? Naked" came out, the far superior version. My interest lies primarily in the "Abbey Road" sessions and here are some real treasures. Alt takes of She Came In Through The Bathroom Window (3.37), Octopus's Garden (2.49), Maxwell's Silver Hammer (3.50), Something (3.19) and Come Together (3.40) are simply wonderful. The "Revolver" sessions are fine but the rarities are more interesting such as Teddy Boy (3.18), Medley Rip It Up; Shake, Rattle And Roll; Blue Suede Shoes (3.11), and All Things Must Pass (3.05). The version of The Long And Winding Road (3.41) is raw but worth a listen, as is Get Back (3.09), Old Brown Shoe and Because (2.24). The version here reminds me of the version on "Love". It ends with an altar ego of Let It Be (4.05), I Me Mine (1.48) and, appropriately, The End (2.51). Overall this volume is well worthwhile ad it is great to hear all 3 Anthologies in a row if you have 4 and a half hours to spare. The Anthologies are historically indispensable for Beatles maniacs and I am glad I have had the pleasure to hear these classics in various forms. It says a lot about the recording industry and how a song can change from conception to final creation. Beatles forever!