I really enjoy this remixed album. It's always been such a beautiful album anyway. What I most about this is that this album is being celebrated again. It's a chance for it to be highlighted as an exceptional career achievement and maybe introduce new people to this record.
Great review and I agree with a lot of your points. I love this album and have been happy with the original. I'm reaching the point where I no longer feel like I need to get the new remixes that the Beatles and solo camps have been issuing. In general, they tend to be a mixed bag and I find that I rarely listen to the various takes/demo discs.
It’s so funny, because I was discussing ‘Don’t Let Me Wait Too Long’ with someone recently, and I suggested that it should have been a follow-up single to ‘Give Me Love’. I think it would have been a smash! Great video!😊
I love the whole package, the remix and the outtakes and alternate versions. For me George has always had that vulnerable quality to his voice, which made his singing quite unique and it brought something very special to those three part harmonies on the Beatles records. The remix does sound more clear to me, and I'm enjoying this album again as I did when I first got to hear it some three or four years after it's original release (I became a Beatles fan back in '76). I do agree with you about an acoustic album from George, that would've been amazing and I believe a massive hit. Of the outtakes I especially love Give me love (give me peace on earth) This take has such a vulnerable quality to it, and it's the one track I keep going back to. Overall I am pleased with what has been done with this album, and it's a set that I will enjoy playing for many a year.
I guess I will have to visit you and listen to the OG version on your system. 😊Thanks for your take. At least we agree on the alt version of Be Here Now which is stunningly beautiful. One final note: I love the vulnerability of George's vocals that emerge from the remix. I think it adds to the intimacy of the recording. Thanks for the plug!
I bought the Deluxe Box especially for the extras, studio outtakes, exclusive 7” record and book. I have my original lp which I’ve always liked….Thanks for the review…✌🏼
Agreed on the original ATMP! The Spector "wall of sound" effect is a large part of what makes the album so unique. And as I've commented on other sites before, the fact that George's voice sometimes seem drowned out by the music actually symbolises how he was trying to be heard in the Beatles. Enjoyed your review of LITMW, thank you.
I would love to see a super deluxe edition of Dark Horse . I love that record . Haris On Tour and So Sad , two great tunes . I would love the out-takes and demo's. Love the cover shots and the sepia coloured photos . ❤😂 Peace and love to all .
Great review, Mazzy; thanks. I'm sticking with my U.K. original as well. One of my favorite GH LPs. The out take LP is fantastic: basically, the reason I bought the set.
How many of those people who disagree with you about the original versus the remix heard the original when it came out? :-) See Mazzy; it’s us who were around then, heard it then in the music milieu of the time. I got the uk original on release date; I’m not buying the remix…I used to be a completist just like you but have moved away from that….I’m happy with what I heard and the times in which I heard it. i started off with classical in the early sixties before becoming a hippie and in my old age I’ve gone back to classical :-) Still love the 4 of them, treasure being in a room with George playing back in the 60’s and I admire your continued commitment enormously…so thanks for the vid Love and peace as always Tony
Thanks for the comment. Yeah, getting into an album when originally released, sticks with you. I’m not totally against remixes, and if people like them , so be it. I just wished they’d always keep The original in print and mark the remix on the actual cover , so you can tell them apart
I like the remix more. Every track has a little more room to breathe and it has been done with love and respect to the original mix because the feeling and atmosphere of the original record is very much still intact. At least to my ears. The ‘Be Here Now’ remix, in particular, is absolutely stunning and beautifully balanced compared to the original mix, which was always nice but now with this mix it has become the greatest of George’s spiritual tracks.
Good to know about the mix. I actually received my original copy not long after it came out from an American exchange student who gave it to me when he went back to Texas.
Hi For me, is this new mix a good step forward I never liked the "muddy" sound of the original album. This new mix has more clarity and brightness, and that is what I like more in this new mix So you see, we both like this album, and we both have a different opinion or a different view or listen. That's what I like when talking about music and sound. And that's good because talking about music unites each and every one of us. Take care.
Very strange that the critics hated this album for years, along with most of McCartney's output. It's nice that they're getting it now, albeit 50 years later. Love your stuff, Mazzy
Well said about original vs remix. I always stick with originals. Its about time people saw the light and stop getting stung. I like sum out takes and unreleased songs. Why can't they be on the original or boxset of rare stuff.
The original is fine but I think I like this new remix better. I can hear everything more clearly. I'm not detecting a huge difference in George's vocals but it seems like there's more space for the instruments after removing some of that mud. I'll be keeping my original LP though.
Your absolutely correct Mazzy Mind Games John lennon is for superior to old versions weak sounding! That was improved 100% And Living in the material world i believe the 2014 Apple years box set is a better sounding album i noticed that too that is strange i thought this 2024 technology would back it a better sound not sure it did but your right the outakes demos versions are better than some of the original takes but overall I'm pleased with the new remix also all The Beatles remixed box sets do sound better but the 30th anniversary White album might sound better than the 2018 remix box set so are remixes worth the extra $$$ money i believe so because the packaging is alot better! The Beatles '64 Capitol mono box set albums looks great and i hear the sound quality is outstanding compared to 1964 Capital sound just improved 100% That box is out tomorrow November 22nd that box set looks awesome just in time Before Disney plus Beatles '64 documentary That is the big news for me That big bad boy box set 6 album set! Let's not forget Beatle Ringo and his Country album his 2 songs He dropped so far is excellent in my opinion! Great video Mazzy honest opinion!
I felt the same way about the All Things set, that the outtakes were the best part. The remix didn't give me the stripped down feeling I was looking for but the outtakes did.
Just purchased ALL THINGS MUST __ Living in the material world is the next Harrison album I've planned to get __this album in my humble opinion is the next best Harrison album to get in the ( Harrison Catalog)
The All Things Must Pass remix was awful. All the magic pixie dust was removed from the recording. After that abomination I have a new appreciation for the talents of Phil Spector. The Living in the Material World remix I don’t have any complaints with. Nice review Mazzy Thank you !
One album that continuously gets overlooked is 1976’s “Thirty Three & One Third”, easily his most melodic album next to ATMP. What do you want to bet we’ll never see a deluxe of that one?
On Spotify: Podcast:"Becoming The Beatles - Die Hamburger Jahre" NDR Kultur Hamburg, Germany. In German but authentic, many interviews...Klaus Voormann, Astrid Kirchherr...Pete Best(!) Julia ... John Lennon's sister.
Mazzy, most all of the solo original Beatles albums from The United Kingdom in the 1970’s can not be beat, all cut from the freshly just mixed analog master tapes. Those master tapes have lost some of that magic over the years. I have a 1st press UK ‘All Things Must Pass’ & all I can say is WOW! Thanks Frank
I agreed. The outtakes are great, more rocking. I wish you could buy these outtakes etc. seperatly. John Lennon / Plastic Ono band box, I was only inrested the one with Ringo and same thing with the raw mixed of Imagine. And then theres a money issue, boxes are expensive.
Only played the blu ray in Atmos but did feel the vocals are too upfront agree it takes you out of the music a little. I still like it. It’s a favourite album of mine too. The box and book are very high quality but I’m disappointed with the card gatefold that holds the single & discs. The front shows the glue spots that holds the two pieces of card together- it’s very cheap and the price wasn’t. Also thought they could have included the no. Laughter take of “ sunshine life for me”. Finally the two vinyl discs could have been put in the original gatefold album cover. We get two poly sleeves with two album cover artwork empty inter sleeves which are too small to put the poly sleeves in.
I should respond by saying that I was spelling it the American way, but instead I'll blame it on autocorrect and me not paying attention. Fixed! Enjoy your programing. Thank you Sir!
Thanks for your frank review of this set. Unfortunately, I heard that the song Deep Blue was not included. One of my all time faves by George. I'll probably pass on the deluxe box and simply pick up the double CD version.
I agree with some of your points about the remixed version of Living in the Material World We all have different systems and different experiences listening to the music It sounded like you were apologizing for your opinions no need to apologize for your opinions!!!
My CD copy finally arrived today. Very happy with it! Most tracks seem to be acoustic guitar-driven, and it's great to hear the Nicky Hopkins piano up front. The drums are funny - different on each track - from Ringo and Jim Keltner on each side to a muffled snare on Give Me Love and a louder snare on other tracks. My only complaint is Please stop putting big posters folded up in tiny CD boxes. People that buy these box sets are not hanging posters of George Harrison up on the wall...
Except for three or four songs this album is rather boring and definitely not worth close to $300 Cdn for 2 vinyl albums, 2 dvds , a blu-ray and a book. I bought the Beatles Mono vinyl box for less than that.
Good critique. Georges vocals/voice really sounded different to me, at times almost like another singer. IDK ... extreme EQ changes, compression or even speeded up (which I can't think of any technical reason to speed it up....except going to and from sample rates i.e. 44K to 48K can speed up or slow down the track(s). But I can't imagine they weren't aware of that. Anyway, to my ears any digital editing and production introduces weirdness which I can hear - even though many say technically it shouldn't change the sound.
Interesting take on the remix. Sadly, my copy does not arrive until Thursday so I cannot offer an opinion yet. Remixes are very subjective. I do think that some of the stereo Beatles' remixes have a purpose in view of the somewhat quirky placements on the early releases. I think Mind Games was worthy too. I'm glad to have both versions of All Things Must Pass. There are pros and cons to those mixes and it is good to have a choice of listening experiences. I suspect that may be the case here. I think that the vocal showcasing is understandable from the family perspective. Sometimes artists are conscious of their own performances and possibly tend to downplay them a little. I guess I will now be listening to the new remix with your comments in mind but that is fine. It is always nice to hear an honest review and I think that is what you have provided. You may however end up with listening parties in your music room. I suspect we may all end up wanting to be there to appreciate your audio experience. Cheers for the overview.
@@davehealey2397 yeah totally subjective different ears , rigs , rooms, tastes. It’s all good and is about the music first. But these are fun exercises occasionally for me
The information in the album states that this was recorded at Apple Studios. In addition to Jim Keltner, the info also states that both Jim Gordon and Ringo Starr also played drums.
Mazzy, I agree with you on this one, I have always thought that the original pressing sounded very good. Even the original cd version sounded very good. I didn’t like All things must Pass remix except for the bonus material, it seems to be the same thing going on again with this new remix. I’ll buy the cd version for extra bonus tracks. The Lennon’s and McCartney do a much better job with these new remixes and reissues. ✌️
Fantastic (and timely) review. I just received my copy and haven't played it yet, but your comments on George's voice being 'lifted up' against everything else in the mix pretty much captures the main thing that turned me off about the remix of ATMP (I also felt strongly that Spector got it right on the original version of ATMP - one of my top ten or so records of...ever). I have the 'Beware of ABKCO' boot and a boot box of ATMP sessions and also like all the early takes and outtakes, but George's voice was set back in Spector's mix for a reason: it's weak. I suspect that I'll treasure the new 'Living...' deluxe set mainly for its physical beauty and for the extra material, but more often than not return to my Japanese pressing of the original LP for the main show.
Agree that the ATMP remix is a downgrade on the original but I think this one is much better. Also agree that the outtakes and the 7” single are the highlights in this set. In fact the outtakes are the best I’ve heard on any of these kind of releases - the slide on the Sue Me Sue You Blues outtake is superb 👌🏻
Wish I could just buy the outtakes and the single...or get a rip of them somehow. I love my OG album. Addendum: Good morning, Mazzy! I went home last night and pulled out my OG Material World. I have a fairly good system, small room, NAD Turntable, Kef Speakers, Rotel Amp...anyway...listened to the whole record on my TT. George's vocals are IN the mix, but they are clear. You can hear his pronunciation. The mix is full but its not CLEAR. It's the production sound of the time. I mean, this is the version I've listened to since it first came out. So, I'm used to it. THEN...I went to Apple Music and pulled up the new remix. I understand completely what you are saying. Right of the bat from the first notes of Give me Love...George's vocals are pulled away from the music and the music is pushed back. I had to turn it up. Thing is though, not every track is like that. What I do like about the new mix is that the instruments are more separated. On Be Here Now, of course I had to turn it up more, but when I did it really enveloped me and you could hear more of it. Just my opinion. If I do buy a copy on vinyl, which I probably will because vinyl is my go-to, I am wondering if it will sound different from even the streaming.
I don't know, I may still prefer Madonna's Material Girl to George's song Living in a Material World. Actually, I still enjoy my original album Living in a Material World from time to time.
P.S. I think the movie you're remembering -- the one you feel you might be living in with regard to this reissue -- is Sam Fuller's thrillingly lurid "Shock Corridor" (1953).
Ok....Remixes , I am not a fan of ...why? ... It is like someone repainting a Bosch or a Van Gogh , just to "modernize" it. ( although we do anxiously await new recordings of "classical " pieces with baited breath") Mazzy, I do agree that the outakes are gems and the single with The Band is fantastic (funny how The Band sounds amazing with everyone they play with). The only thing I would like is a flat transfer of the original like some bands include , this is a good reference point. Just in case someone's original is damaged. I do own a couple of remasters...so I will have some listening to do when I receive mine. Good review Mazzy.
As a rule I prefer the original mixes anyway. You can't improve on perfection. I don't buy the solo remixes at all and only buy the Beatles remixes for the outtakes and the book. Glad you enjoyed the 45. That's the only thing I find interesting about this. Rock on!
I can't thank you enough for saying usually the original mixes are superior especially the Beatles LPs. Those original Beatles albums don't need any tweaking and are perfect. Enough with the tweaking. And yes the ATMP original record WITH the wall of sound was great. It was unique
@@mazzysmusic I think it would be good if they had a package without the vinyl, price it at $69-$99, and sell 50,000. And probably most of the cost goes into the initial cost, with each additional copy not costing that much. With only 5,000 copies for the whole world, fewer than one person in a million will have one.
@@martintaylor769 Yes, unfortunately. I think they should make 5,000 copies, or whatever, and if there is demand, make more. It takes a lot of money and effort to make that first copy. The 5,001th copy doesn't cost much to make.
Nice considered review - unfortunately the idea of a remix over a remaster is the new thing- and like everything- some are needed and some are not - to help sell the release- the outtakes sound worthwhile
@@fidelios_frequencyFrom iMusic in Denmark. I am from Germany. I ordered couple of month ago already. They wrote in their email that they maybe do a repress of the Deluxe Boxset.
Is it possible that the remix is designed with folks (like me) who have more average sound systems in mind? I believe that it sounds amazing on your system, but fewer and fewer of us have those high quality stereos than were around in the 70s and 80s.
The remix is not geared for any particular level of stereo rig. If you know the original, you will hear it differently on this version. It just depends which one you like. You can also like both too. Or none of them.
I think the only remix album I really liked so far is Revolver, and I don’t even like that as much as the original. I hated Mind Games the most so far of the solo ones.
Mazzy, I love your reviews especially the passion that you display on top of the quality in your review! But it makes me nervous the way you're holding that George Harrison record, I think you're gonna drop it or get big ole fingerprints on it; what's up with that?
I agree with you about most remixes in general. But, is that because we're so attached to the originals? I didn't care for "The Beatles (White Album)" remix. And every time I went back to the original or remastered mixes, I thought, "Yeah, that's the proper sound again". The only Beatles related remixes I thought were as good or better than the originals, are The Beatles "Sgt. Pepper" remix, which I like better than any other mix. And John Lennon's "Imagine", which while I didn't think was better, I had absolutely no issues with it. All of the rest, there was this feeling that something wasn't right. I think it's because of the very talented people who worked on those original albums and their mixes and mastering. Some will say, these new remixes are mastered to appeal to the younger crowd, but I don't "buy" that. "Sgt. Pepper" definitely had the same "fuller" remixed treatment, but I really like that remix. I agree, these new remixes should be considered as alternatives, not replacements for the original album mixes. But, if you look in most record stores today, they seem to be phasing out the original Beatles LP's, for the newer remixes. And that's not right.
I agree that artists and label should keep the originals in print. And remixes should be labeled they are remixes in the actual covers. Not simply on hype stickers.
The vocals are mixed too loud for my tastes. It’s a common issue with new remixes that every syllable of the vocals must be clearly heard. What that does it lessen the cohesive impact of the song. It sounds like karaoke now.
There are some wonderful songs on LITMW but like you, I hear that George's vocals are mixed too much in the forefront exposing some missed notes and frailty on this remix. Instrumentally, some of the interplay between the musicians are mixed down or muted also.
The original sounds flat and muffled. Never like its Sound. The remix is a great improve. A lot more details in the instruments from these fantastic players. Georges voice sounds better more in front. Especially his very special unique singing style. I fell in love again with this record again.
Mazzy. Great vid. I personally won't buy these 're-mixes' for the one reason (strongly stated by you this time) that the 're-mixes' are just that - not true to the original. My original Canda pressing is just fine thank you.....and the one all the sound and the imprint in my brain accepts. I am not a completist (form of FOMO). Sometimes the reissue vinyl and CD community members require some form of exorcism - just saying!!
Nothing to do with age. These remixes are mostly just cash grabs. The lp was released the way George wanted it. He choose the existing mix himself. Who are these people that think they have a right to change it? I totally stopped buying these sets. Im only interested in the outtakes and they never sell them separately. So ill just listen to those wherever and buy nothing.
I remember the first time i heard this album (i heard “Dark Horse” before this) that his voice was going in that rough sounding direction but still very stable. But leading into “Dark Horse”, you can tell something happened to his voice. I think he began rehearsing during the LItMW sessions then ever more afterwards. After that he gave his voice a good rest and ready to record “Extra Texture”…
This wasn’t that great of an album. Too preachy. The sign of things to come from the quiet Beatle. Have the past reissue. It’s all I will need when I play it again in ten years.
Was Madonna actually predicting the appearance of this package when she sang that we were living in a material world and she was a material girl? I have my original pressing of George's version. One big question: Today, pitch-correction software has become the industry standard and all vocals are routinely processed with it. Does that go for re-issues of older releases, too? I wonder if that's what you're hearing when you describe George's vocal sounding like it's been flown in from somewhere else. Is that just considered "normal" now? Although I liked "Material World" when it came out, I can't say I've listened to it more than a few times since about 1974. I think I'm fine with my well-preserved, Harrison-produced 1973 Apple LP. But given that this was an Apple release, are you saying there were different mixes and masterings for US and UK releases of "Material World," as there were for Beatles albums? Or is the British vinyl just of higher quality?
I still have the original…I listened to the remixes on Spotify. I see no purpose at all in remixing any of these tracks except to resell them, none. The record was great as it was as it was mixed…it isn’t even interesting to me to hear any of these remixes, the vocal does sound drier and it as you say LOSES ITS BALLS, the analog just had more presence or depth. That is my opinion completely. Some of those Beatle remixes were interesting to hear , some of them I like but some are HORRIBLE…for instance I AM THE WALRUS is totally f ‘ed up in that last remix. Anyway, I will not be buying this collection . I don’t even hear much interesting in the disc 2 out takes, they jusy mostly sound like solo demos of songs, nice but again the original recording is fantastic.
You're not crazy. There is nothing wrong with the original. This is remixing for the sake of remixing. What with this and the last Lennon offering, I've given up on these remixes.
Harrison's weak voice and girly falsettos are nerve-wrecking. It would only get worse, but we're dished out more than enough of that rubbish in this record. C'mon, will you try to convince me you don't cringe when George whinges "And that is oh-ooh-all I'm waiting for, your love and nuthin' more" by the end of "That Is All"? Lennon was getting progressively and annoyingly feminised by this time too, thanks to Yoko Anal's sinister influence; witness, on the bland "Mind Games" botch from around the same time as this dud, the irritating kitty-kat sissy voice in "One Day at a Time". By the time Chapman ("Someone, the devil's best friend, somebody who offended all") did his awful deed, Lennon was almost wearing skirts. His voice on "Woman" sounds as if he's singing about himself! Both Harrison & Lennon lost their voices in their solo years. Paradoxically, George sounds the least bad on "Dark Hoarse", when his throat was sore as hell. Lennon, IMO, sounds best on "Scared" in "Walls & Bridges", arguably the best solo Beatle album. Reply
Trump's favorite song from this album is Give Me Love. A fitting tune for his quest for peace on Earth, as opposed to Biden giving the "okay" for Ukraine to use US long-range missiles in Russia.
I quit vinyl when CDs came out. If I want warmth, I sip some warm tea. I was distressed that the Super Deluxe had vinyl in it. I guess if I was one to buy vinyl, I'd want the CDs for the digital copies. But if I buy CDs, I have no use for vinyl. Yet I can't get the books or the Blu-ray or the Sunshine Life songs without buying the vinyl. I always thought this album sounded great. The sound or mix was not the problem I had with the album.
This album rode the coattails of its predecessor. At best, it’s average, and that is only on the strength of the lead single, which is first rate. George just didn’t have the material to work with. Melodies are weak, vocals strained, and lyrics worse.
They all sound great. Forget personal taste. There are a million different hifi systems with a million different sounds. You either like the songs or you don’t. Please stop judging music by whoever engineered it. Let’s appreciate who wrote, sung and played it for goodness sake. If only the rich can enjoy the perfect sound we are doomed. And the Beatles wouldn’t have sold a dozen records.
@@hanspecans I was referring to the engineering. The song remains the same (think I’ve heard that before). Often the same producer is credited after a record has been remastered. It may sound different, but to suggest one sounds better is the “narrow” point of view. Just enjoy the songs
I've always despised this album. One of the worst albums of the past half century and it proves what a nitwit George was. What will they come up with next, the Two Virgins Box? The complete RingoRecords catalog. The Red Rose Speedway Remixes. Let's all boycott boxsets. Support New Music.
I really enjoy this remixed album. It's always been such a beautiful album anyway. What I most about this is that this album is being celebrated again. It's a chance for it to be highlighted as an exceptional career achievement and maybe introduce new people to this record.
The more I listen to these new remixes, the more I appreciate the original mix. Lovely video & explanation as always! Cheers from BCN
Great review and I agree with a lot of your points. I love this album and have been happy with the original. I'm reaching the point where I no longer feel like I need to get the new remixes that the Beatles and solo camps have been issuing. In general, they tend to be a mixed bag and I find that I rarely listen to the various takes/demo discs.
That's So Super Cute What a pretty outer box. Awesome! I bought The Barnes and Noble Orange Pressing.
It’s so funny, because I was discussing ‘Don’t Let Me Wait Too Long’ with someone recently, and I suggested that it should have been a follow-up single to ‘Give Me Love’. I think it would have been a smash!
Great video!😊
I love the whole package, the remix and the outtakes and alternate versions. For me George has always had that vulnerable quality to his voice, which made his singing quite unique and it brought something very special to those three part harmonies on the Beatles records. The remix does sound more clear to me, and I'm enjoying this album again as I did when I first got to hear it some three or four years after it's original release (I became a Beatles fan back in '76). I do agree with you about an acoustic album from George, that would've been amazing and I believe a massive hit. Of the outtakes I especially love Give me love (give me peace on earth) This take has such a vulnerable quality to it, and it's the one track I keep going back to. Overall I am pleased with what has been done with this album, and it's a set that I will enjoy playing for many a year.
Great review.What do we do without you man.Thank you.
🤓🤠
I guess I will have to visit you and listen to the OG version on your system. 😊Thanks for your take. At least we agree on the alt version of Be Here Now which is stunningly beautiful. One final note: I love the vulnerability of George's vocals that emerge from the remix. I think it adds to the intimacy of the recording. Thanks for the plug!
The guest room is usually available ✌🏼
I bought the Deluxe Box especially for the extras, studio outtakes, exclusive 7” record and book. I have my original lp which I’ve always liked….Thanks for the review…✌🏼
Agreed on the original ATMP! The Spector "wall of sound" effect is a large part of what makes the album so unique. And as I've commented on other sites before, the fact that George's voice sometimes seem drowned out by the music actually symbolises how he was trying to be heard in the Beatles. Enjoyed your review of LITMW, thank you.
I would love to see a super deluxe edition of Dark Horse . I love that record . Haris On Tour and So Sad , two great tunes .
I would love the out-takes and demo's. Love the cover shots and the sepia coloured photos .
❤😂
Peace and love to all .
You probably will see one eventually
My take exactly. Thought my headphones had gone fubar. Then I played the second disc. And that is simply phenomenal. This I will play over and over
í`m gonna pass this Super Deluxe version of Living In The Material World. Thanks for the information Norman Maslov.
Hey Mazzy. Thanks for the great breakdown. Think I’ll stick with my OG. Cheers
Great review, Mazzy; thanks. I'm sticking with my U.K. original as well. One of my favorite GH LPs. The out take LP is fantastic: basically, the reason I bought the set.
How many of those people who disagree with you about the original versus the remix heard the original when it came out? :-)
See Mazzy; it’s us who were around then, heard it then in the music milieu of the time. I got the uk original on release date; I’m not buying the remix…I used to be a completist just like you but have moved away from that….I’m happy with what I heard and the times in which I heard it. i started off with classical in the early sixties before becoming a hippie and in my old age I’ve gone back to classical :-)
Still love the 4 of them, treasure being in a room with George playing back in the 60’s and I admire your continued commitment enormously…so thanks for the vid
Love and peace as always
Tony
Thanks for the comment. Yeah, getting into an album when originally released, sticks with you. I’m not totally against remixes, and if people like them , so be it. I just wished they’d always keep
The original in print and mark the remix on the actual cover , so you can tell them apart
I like the remix more. Every track has a little more room to breathe and it has been done with love and respect to the original mix because the feeling and atmosphere of the original record is very much still intact. At least to my ears.
The ‘Be Here Now’ remix, in particular, is absolutely stunning and beautifully balanced compared to the original mix, which was always nice but now with this mix it has become the greatest of George’s spiritual tracks.
Good to know about the mix. I actually received my original copy not long after it came out from an American exchange student who gave it to me when he went back to Texas.
This remix kicks ass! I love it
I owned a previous reissue and this new mix is great
Hi
For me, is this new mix a good step forward
I never liked the "muddy" sound of the original album.
This new mix has more clarity and brightness, and that is what I like more in this new mix
So you see, we both like this album, and we both have a different opinion or a different view or listen. That's what I like when talking about music and sound.
And that's good because talking about music unites each and every one of us.
Take care.
Very strange that the critics hated this album for years, along with most of McCartney's output. It's nice that they're getting it now, albeit 50 years later. Love your stuff, Mazzy
@@nicholaswood2523 but since was 52 years ago, all is good 🤓🤠
Dunno about that as All Things Must Past and the pre Band on The Run are good, the rest are disposable, but that's just me.
Well said about original vs remix. I always stick with originals. Its about time people saw the light and stop getting stung. I like sum out takes and unreleased songs. Why can't they be on the original or boxset of rare stuff.
The original is fine but I think I like this new remix better. I can hear everything more clearly. I'm not detecting a huge difference in George's vocals but it seems like there's more space for the instruments after removing some of that mud. I'll be keeping my original LP though.
Your absolutely correct Mazzy Mind Games John lennon is for superior to old versions weak sounding! That was improved 100% And Living in the material world i believe the 2014 Apple years box set is a better sounding album i noticed that too that is strange i thought this 2024 technology would back it a better sound not sure it did but your right the outakes demos versions are better than some of the original takes but overall I'm pleased with the new remix also all The Beatles remixed box sets do sound better but the 30th anniversary White album might sound better than the 2018 remix box set so are remixes worth the extra $$$ money i believe so because the packaging is alot better! The Beatles '64 Capitol mono box set albums looks great and i hear the sound quality is outstanding compared to 1964 Capital sound just improved 100% That box is out tomorrow November 22nd that box set looks awesome just in time Before Disney plus Beatles '64 documentary That is the big news for me That big bad boy box set 6 album set! Let's not forget Beatle Ringo and his Country album his 2 songs He dropped so far is excellent in my opinion! Great video Mazzy honest opinion!
I felt the same way about the All Things set, that the outtakes were the best part. The remix didn't give me the stripped down feeling I was looking for but the outtakes did.
Just purchased ALL THINGS MUST __ Living in the material world is the next Harrison album I've planned to get __this album in my humble opinion is the next best Harrison album to get in the ( Harrison Catalog)
The All Things Must Pass remix was awful. All the magic pixie dust was removed from the recording. After that abomination I have a new appreciation for the talents of Phil Spector.
The Living in the Material World remix I don’t have any complaints with.
Nice review Mazzy
Thank you !
One album that continuously gets overlooked is 1976’s “Thirty Three & One Third”, easily his most melodic album next to ATMP. What do you want to bet we’ll never see a deluxe of that one?
Personally I'm holding out for the Super Duper Deluxe Edition...😜
I agree 100% with your observations.
The 2LP slipcase edition, I'm convinced, is the best value for money.
Very nice 👌 review, playhouse picked up the barnes and noble orange 🍊 vinyl of liamw.
On Spotify: Podcast:"Becoming The Beatles - Die Hamburger Jahre" NDR Kultur Hamburg, Germany.
In German but authentic, many interviews...Klaus Voormann, Astrid Kirchherr...Pete Best(!) Julia ... John Lennon's sister.
Mazzy, most all of the solo original Beatles albums from The United Kingdom in the 1970’s can not be beat, all cut from the freshly just mixed analog master tapes. Those master tapes have lost some of that magic over the years. I have a 1st press UK ‘All Things Must Pass’ & all I can say is WOW! Thanks Frank
I agreed. The outtakes are great, more rocking. I wish you could buy these outtakes etc. seperatly. John Lennon / Plastic Ono band box, I was only inrested the one with Ringo and same thing with the raw mixed of Imagine. And then theres a money issue, boxes are expensive.
Norman, it was recorded at Apple Studios
It started at Apple but completed at FPSHOT
Only played the blu ray in Atmos but did feel the vocals are too upfront agree it takes you out of the music a little.
I still like it.
It’s a favourite album of mine too.
The box and book are very high quality but I’m disappointed with the card gatefold that holds the single & discs. The front shows the glue spots that holds the two pieces of card together- it’s very cheap and the price wasn’t.
Also thought they could have included the no. Laughter take of “ sunshine life for me”.
Finally the two vinyl discs could have been put in the original gatefold album cover. We get two poly sleeves with two album cover artwork empty inter sleeves which are too small to put the poly sleeves in.
Great review, Mazzy! Thanks too for the sharing the link to our unboxing. Please correct the spelling though ;)
I should respond by saying that I was spelling it the American way, but instead I'll blame it on autocorrect and me not paying attention. Fixed! Enjoy your programing. Thank you Sir!
@@mazzysmusic Thank you, Sir! I enjoy yours too.
Thanks for your frank review of this set. Unfortunately, I heard that the song Deep Blue was not included. One of my all time faves by George. I'll probably pass on the deluxe box and simply pick up the double CD version.
I agree with some of your points about the remixed version of Living in the Material World We all have different systems and different experiences listening to the music It sounded like you were apologizing for your opinions no need to apologize for your opinions!!!
My CD copy finally arrived today. Very happy with it! Most tracks seem to be acoustic guitar-driven, and it's great to hear the Nicky Hopkins piano up front. The drums are funny - different on each track - from Ringo and Jim Keltner on each side to a muffled snare on Give Me Love and a louder snare on other tracks. My only complaint is Please stop putting big posters folded up in tiny CD boxes. People that buy these box sets are not hanging posters of George Harrison up on the wall...
Except for three or four songs this album is rather boring and definitely not worth close to $300 Cdn for 2 vinyl albums, 2 dvds , a blu-ray and a book. I bought the Beatles Mono vinyl box for less than that.
Mate you definitely don’t have taste
Now now people no need to argue. perfect people has open minds, and I'm perfect.
Good critique. Georges vocals/voice really sounded different to me, at times almost like another singer. IDK ... extreme EQ changes, compression or even speeded up (which I can't think of any technical reason to speed it up....except going to and from sample rates i.e. 44K to 48K can speed up or slow down the track(s). But I can't imagine they weren't aware of that. Anyway, to my ears any digital editing and production introduces weirdness which I can hear - even though many say technically it shouldn't change the sound.
Interesting take on the remix. Sadly, my copy does not arrive until Thursday so I cannot offer an opinion yet. Remixes are very subjective. I do think that some of the stereo Beatles' remixes have a purpose in view of the somewhat quirky placements on the early releases. I think Mind Games was worthy too. I'm glad to have both versions of All Things Must Pass. There are pros and cons to those mixes and it is good to have a choice of listening experiences. I suspect that may be the case here. I think that the vocal showcasing is understandable from the family perspective. Sometimes artists are conscious of their own performances and possibly tend to downplay them a little. I guess I will now be listening to the new remix with your comments in mind but that is fine. It is always nice to hear an honest review and I think that is what you have provided. You may however end up with listening parties in your music room. I suspect we may all end up wanting to be there to appreciate your audio experience. Cheers for the overview.
@@davehealey2397 yeah totally subjective different ears , rigs , rooms, tastes. It’s all good and is about the music first. But these are fun exercises occasionally for me
Looking forward to my set arriving. Looks like a nice package overall.
Be here now took me to Oasis. The Bentley in the pool was amusing. True George if he wants us to get past the Fabs and be here, he is still there.
The information in the album states that this was recorded at Apple Studios. In addition to Jim Keltner, the info also states that both Jim Gordon and Ringo Starr also played drums.
Started at Apple continued and finished up at FPHOT
Mazzy, I agree with you on this one, I have always thought that the original pressing sounded very good. Even the original cd version sounded very good. I didn’t like All things must Pass remix except for the bonus material, it seems to be the same thing going on again with this new remix. I’ll buy the cd version for extra bonus tracks. The Lennon’s and McCartney do a much better job with these new remixes and reissues. ✌️
Fantastic (and timely) review. I just received my copy and haven't played it yet, but your comments on George's voice being 'lifted up' against everything else in the mix pretty much captures the main thing that turned me off about the remix of ATMP (I also felt strongly that Spector got it right on the original version of ATMP - one of my top ten or so records of...ever). I have the 'Beware of ABKCO' boot and a boot box of ATMP sessions and also like all the early takes and outtakes, but George's voice was set back in Spector's mix for a reason: it's weak. I suspect that I'll treasure the new 'Living...' deluxe set mainly for its physical beauty and for the extra material, but more often than not return to my Japanese pressing of the original LP for the main show.
Always the original is best!
In this case yes, but not always. 🤠
Agree that the ATMP remix is a downgrade on the original but I think this one is much better. Also agree that the outtakes and the 7” single are the highlights in this set. In fact the outtakes are the best I’ve heard on any of these kind of releases - the slide on the Sue Me Sue You Blues outtake is superb 👌🏻
Thanks for your take on this. I will probably skip this version all together and stream the out takes and Sunshine Life for Me.
Wish I could just buy the outtakes and the single...or get a rip of them somehow. I love my OG album.
Addendum: Good morning, Mazzy! I went home last night and pulled out my OG Material World. I have a fairly good system, small room, NAD Turntable, Kef Speakers, Rotel Amp...anyway...listened to the whole record on my TT. George's vocals are IN the mix, but they are clear. You can hear his pronunciation. The mix is full but its not CLEAR. It's the production sound of the time. I mean, this is the version I've listened to since it first came out. So, I'm used to it.
THEN...I went to Apple Music and pulled up the new remix. I understand completely what you are saying. Right of the bat from the first notes of Give me Love...George's vocals are pulled away from the music and the music is pushed back. I had to turn it up. Thing is though, not every track is like that. What I do like about the new mix is that the instruments are more separated. On Be Here Now, of course I had to turn it up more, but when I did it really enveloped me and you could hear more of it. Just my opinion. If I do buy a copy on vinyl, which I probably will because vinyl is my go-to, I am wondering if it will sound different from even the streaming.
This album was recorded at Apple Studios. Not Friar Park.
@@jameskelly5685 it started at Apple then continued and finished at FPHOT
While I disagree with pretty much everything you said (in reference to the new mixes AND the outtakes) thanks all the same!
I don't know, I may still prefer Madonna's Material Girl to George's song Living in a Material World. Actually, I still enjoy my original album Living in a Material World from time to time.
P.S. I think the movie you're remembering -- the one you feel you might be living in with regard to this reissue -- is Sam Fuller's thrillingly lurid "Shock Corridor" (1953).
Yeah, and it's been copied many times in later films and TV shows.
Ok....Remixes , I am not a fan of ...why? ... It is like someone repainting a Bosch or a Van Gogh , just to "modernize" it. ( although we do anxiously await new recordings of "classical " pieces with baited breath")
Mazzy, I do agree that the outakes are gems and the single with The Band is fantastic (funny how The Band sounds amazing with everyone they play with).
The only thing I would like is a flat transfer of the original like some bands include , this is a good reference point. Just in case someone's original is damaged.
I do own a couple of remasters...so I will have some listening to do when I receive mine.
Good review Mazzy.
As a rule I prefer the original mixes anyway. You can't improve on perfection. I don't buy the solo remixes at all and only buy the Beatles remixes for the outtakes and the book. Glad you enjoyed the 45. That's the only thing I find interesting about this. Rock on!
I can't thank you enough for saying usually the original mixes are superior especially the Beatles LPs. Those original Beatles albums don't need any tweaking and are perfect. Enough with the tweaking. And yes the ATMP original record WITH the wall of sound was great. It was unique
Sources say that the deluxe box is limited to 5,000 copies. I don't understand why they did all of that work and limit it to only 5,000 copies.
Yes 5000. Because it’s exorbitant to produce and they don’t want dead stock sitting around
@@mazzysmusic I think it would be good if they had a package without the vinyl, price it at $69-$99, and sell 50,000. And probably most of the cost goes into the initial cost, with each additional copy not costing that much. With only 5,000 copies for the whole world, fewer than one person in a million will have one.
Thats where eBay comes in, and sellers are taking advantages with outrageous prices.
@@martintaylor769 Yes, unfortunately. I think they should make 5,000 copies, or whatever, and if there is demand, make more. It takes a lot of money and effort to make that first copy. The 5,001th copy doesn't cost much to make.
Nice considered review - unfortunately the idea of a remix over a remaster is the new thing- and like everything- some are needed and some are not - to help sell the release- the outtakes sound worthwhile
At least you got your Copy. I Just got an email that they sold more Deluxe Sets than they produced😢. So my preorder was cancelled.
Wow. Really ????
Where did you preorder from? The George Harrison webstore or another retailer?
@@fidelios_frequency The Harrison Store and it arrived Monday morning
@@fullschneider where did you preorder?
@@fidelios_frequencyFrom iMusic in Denmark. I am from Germany. I ordered couple of month ago already. They wrote in their email that they maybe do a repress of the Deluxe Boxset.
Is it possible that the remix is designed with folks (like me) who have more average sound systems in mind? I believe that it sounds amazing on your system, but fewer and fewer of us have those high quality stereos than were around in the 70s and 80s.
The remix is not geared for any particular level of stereo rig. If you know the original, you will hear it differently on this version. It just depends which one you like. You can also like both too. Or none of them.
I think the only remix album I really liked so far is Revolver, and I don’t even like that as much as the original. I hated Mind Games the most so far of the solo ones.
Mazzy, I love your reviews especially the passion that you display on top of the quality in your review! But it makes me nervous the way you're holding that George Harrison record, I think you're gonna drop it or get big ole fingerprints on it; what's up with that?
🤠🤷🏻♂️
Thanks for sparing me the disappointment. I think I had enough
when they pulled all the ambience from ATMP. Its all becoming
just a money grab.
I agree with you about most remixes in general. But, is that because we're so attached to the originals? I didn't care for "The Beatles (White Album)" remix. And every time I went back to the original or remastered mixes, I thought, "Yeah, that's the proper sound again". The only Beatles related remixes I thought were as good or better than the originals, are The Beatles "Sgt. Pepper" remix, which I like better than any other mix. And John Lennon's "Imagine", which while I didn't think was better, I had absolutely no issues with it. All of the rest, there was this feeling that something wasn't right. I think it's because of the very talented people who worked on those original albums and their mixes and mastering. Some will say, these new remixes are mastered to appeal to the younger crowd, but I don't "buy" that. "Sgt. Pepper" definitely had the same "fuller" remixed treatment, but I really like that remix. I agree, these new remixes should be considered as alternatives, not replacements for the original album mixes. But, if you look in most record stores today, they seem to be phasing out the original Beatles LP's, for the newer remixes. And that's not right.
I agree that artists and label should keep the originals in print. And remixes should be labeled they are remixes in the actual covers. Not simply on hype stickers.
The vocals are mixed too loud for my tastes. It’s a common issue with new remixes that every syllable of the vocals must be clearly heard. What that does it lessen the cohesive impact of the song. It sounds like karaoke now.
There are some wonderful songs on LITMW but like you, I hear that George's vocals are mixed too much in the forefront exposing some missed notes and frailty on this remix. Instrumentally, some of the interplay between the musicians are mixed down or muted also.
0 for 2. I wasn't a fan of the All Things Must Pass remix either. "If it ain't broke......."
The original sounds flat and muffled. Never like its Sound. The remix is a great improve. A lot more details in the instruments from these fantastic players. Georges voice sounds better more in front. Especially his very special unique singing style. I fell in love again with this record again.
🤷🏻♂️
Mazzy. Great vid. I personally won't buy these 're-mixes' for the one reason (strongly stated by you this time) that the 're-mixes' are just that - not true to the original. My original Canda pressing is just fine thank you.....and the one all the sound and the imprint in my brain accepts. I am not a completist (form of FOMO). Sometimes the reissue vinyl and CD community members require some form of exorcism - just saying!!
As a general rule, I prefer originals. (I’m 74, so…)
Nothing to do with age. These remixes are mostly just cash grabs. The lp was released the way George wanted it. He choose the existing mix himself.
Who are these people that think they have a right to change it?
I totally stopped buying these sets. Im only interested in the outtakes and they never sell them separately. So ill just listen to those wherever and buy nothing.
@@Stonecutter334actually they are “not only” cash grabs but they have a lot to do with copyright, royalties , and licensing and Apple contracts
Danielwilliams 1921 Totally with you…and I’m going on 77 :-)
I don’t think we can expect folk who weren’t ‘there’ then to understand though.
Exclusively for connoisseurs and aesthetes... and it's okay.
No thanks! No Madonna for me! 😂😂😂😂😂😮😮😮😮😅
So, what you’re saying is you hear a lot more of George’s vocal imperfections?
Yes
I remember the first time i heard this album (i heard “Dark Horse” before this) that his voice was going in that rough sounding direction but still very stable. But leading into “Dark Horse”, you can tell something happened to his voice. I think he began rehearsing during the LItMW sessions then ever more afterwards. After that he gave his voice a good rest and ready to record “Extra Texture”…
Disposable income…oh well
Sounds like it's not worth $176.
This wasn’t that great of an album. Too preachy. The sign of things to come from the quiet Beatle. Have the past reissue. It’s all I will need when I play it again in ten years.
Was Madonna actually predicting the appearance of this package when she sang that we were living in a material world and she was a material girl? I have my original pressing of George's version. One big question: Today, pitch-correction software has become the industry standard and all vocals are routinely processed with it. Does that go for re-issues of older releases, too? I wonder if that's what you're hearing when you describe George's vocal sounding like it's been flown in from somewhere else. Is that just considered "normal" now?
Although I liked "Material World" when it came out, I can't say I've listened to it more than a few times since about 1974. I think I'm fine with my well-preserved, Harrison-produced 1973 Apple LP. But given that this was an Apple release, are you saying there were different mixes and masterings for US and UK releases of "Material World," as there were for Beatles albums? Or is the British vinyl just of higher quality?
Hate to say it but on balance a slightly overrated record. Some great songs, some very very mediocre
I still have the original…I listened to the remixes on Spotify. I see no purpose at all in remixing any of these tracks except to resell them, none. The record was great as it was as it was mixed…it isn’t even interesting to me to hear any of these remixes, the vocal does sound drier and it as you say LOSES ITS BALLS, the analog just had more presence or depth. That is my opinion completely. Some of those Beatle remixes were interesting to hear , some of them I like but some are HORRIBLE…for instance I AM THE WALRUS is totally f ‘ed up in that last remix. Anyway, I will not be buying this collection . I don’t even hear much interesting in the disc 2 out takes, they jusy mostly sound like solo demos of songs, nice but again the original recording is fantastic.
You're not crazy. There is nothing wrong with the original. This is remixing for the sake of remixing. What with this and the last Lennon offering, I've given up on these remixes.
I do think Mind Games really needed a remix.
Harrison's weak voice and girly falsettos are nerve-wrecking. It would only get worse, but we're dished out more than enough of that rubbish in this record. C'mon, will you try to convince me you don't cringe when George whinges "And that is oh-ooh-all I'm waiting for, your love and nuthin' more" by the end of "That Is All"? Lennon was getting progressively and annoyingly feminised by this time too, thanks to Yoko Anal's sinister influence; witness, on the bland "Mind Games" botch from around the same time as this dud, the irritating kitty-kat sissy voice in "One Day at a Time". By the time Chapman ("Someone, the devil's best friend, somebody who offended all") did his awful deed, Lennon was almost wearing skirts. His voice on "Woman" sounds as if he's singing about himself! Both Harrison & Lennon lost their voices in their solo years. Paradoxically, George sounds the least bad on "Dark Hoarse", when his throat was sore as hell. Lennon, IMO, sounds best on "Scared" in "Walls & Bridges", arguably the best solo Beatle album.
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Trump's favorite song from this album is Give Me Love. A fitting tune for his quest for peace on Earth, as opposed to Biden giving the "okay" for Ukraine to use US long-range missiles in Russia.
I quit vinyl when CDs came out. If I want warmth, I sip some warm tea. I was distressed that the Super Deluxe had vinyl in it. I guess if I was one to buy vinyl, I'd want the CDs for the digital copies. But if I buy CDs, I have no use for vinyl. Yet I can't get the books or the Blu-ray or the Sunshine Life songs without buying the vinyl.
I always thought this album sounded great. The sound or mix was not the problem I had with the album.
This album rode the coattails of its predecessor. At best, it’s average, and that is only on the strength of the lead single, which is first rate. George just didn’t have the material to work with. Melodies are weak, vocals strained, and lyrics worse.
They all sound great. Forget personal taste. There are a million different hifi systems with a million different sounds. You either like the songs or you don’t. Please stop judging music by whoever engineered it. Let’s appreciate who wrote, sung and played it for goodness sake. If only the rich can enjoy the perfect sound we are doomed. And the Beatles wouldn’t have sold a dozen records.
@@hanspecans I was referring to the engineering. The song remains the same (think I’ve heard that before). Often the same producer is credited after a record has been remastered. It may sound different, but to suggest one sounds better is the “narrow” point of view. Just enjoy the songs
Really? I don't know how you guys can like that goddy BS. It's like Dylan's gospel period except worse.
Some of us like both 🤠
The original Spector album is a masterpiece.Nothing can touch it.
I've always despised this album. One of the worst albums of the past half century and it proves what a nitwit George was. What will they come up with next, the Two Virgins Box? The complete RingoRecords catalog. The Red Rose Speedway Remixes. Let's all boycott boxsets. Support New Music.
Well good for you, thanks for sharing that important information.
More old flannel, it's just an album.