Triumph or Tragedy? The Beatles New Red & Blue Vinyl & CDs Reviewed
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- Опубликовано: 11 окт 2024
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In this major review of the Beatles' new remixed red & blue albums, we cover all aspects of this exciting release. Including: the sources used for the reimxes, packaging, vinyl quality, sound quality of both the vinyl and CDs and the remixes themsleves. All you ever wanted to know and more about this album is right here!
Link to the full version of Giles Martin's interview on ABC Radio in Australia: www.abc.net.au...
Other videos mentioned in this presentation which you might enjoy:
How The Beatles Recorded The Please Please Me Album - • How The Beatles Record...
She Loves You - The Incredible Story of The Beatles Greatest 45: • The FULL Story of She ...
The True Story of The Original Red & Blue Albums: • The Full Story of The ...
Browse a selection of great sounding vintage Beatles and 60s vinyl on our website: www.parlograma...
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Thank you!
When Andrew says "You've crossed the line," it's like Charles Bronson showing up at your door...
Hands down the absolute best, most educated and informative Beatles channel on youtube if not on the whole world wide web ✌🏼
Wow! Thank you 😊
Amen. Completely professional.
Should have his own satalite TV channel.
I don't agree. He's uninformed about basics. For example, his comments about "From Me To You." The original had all vocals on the right side and all instruments on the left side. The new mix is a VAST improvement.
@@EPA18so, the new mix of "From Me To You" isn't an improvement over the original stereo mix?
Amazing how you can make 30 minutes seem like 30 seconds. I would like to have seen "Free As A Bird" and "Real Love" represented. I must admit I like collecting different mixes. Whether I like them or not becomes immaterial, in this day and age you can easily play your favourite one. Bye the way, I love the cinema projector changeover circles. I've noticed them for ages. Has anyone else?
Right! Can't believe they didn't remix or enhance Free as a Bird or Real Love with this new software.. What a missed opportunity! :/
Glad you enjoyed it, Steve!
There is most likely going to be an anthology remaster
@@R3TR0R4V3 Peter Jackson talks about it in the latest Things We Said Today podcast. It has to do with getting John's original master tape, not a copy.
@@craigcavaliere6744It's BS. I was able to do it myself off a RUclips demo and the vocals sound as clean and Now and Then
For me, Giles Martin’s remixes have always been hit and miss. Some sound brilliant while others just leave me wondering what he was thinking. It’s this inconsistency that leads me back to listening to the original mixes once again. Btw, to my ears, Peter Corbin’s remix of the Yellow Submarine Songtrack is still the gold standard for what these remixes could have sounded like.
Agreed. And to think the folks responsible didn’t have access to the new de-mix tech!
Don’t forget that he would always get Paul and Ringo’s final approval.
@@chrissullivan40 Point well taken. HOWEVER, the end result is for all of us to run out and (as Andrew often mentions) " spend our hard-earned cash" on "The next new thing". IMHO, different mixes are ok. But, adding or removing what was originally there is not. Personally, I love to listen to the "whispers", "coughs", "count-ins", "banter" etc. It's what gives the songs their "character". I don't want to listen to some "sterilized" version
I agree that the Yellow Submarine Songtrack (released 1999) are the best remixing job of Beatles songs. But I thought this was done by George Martin himself. Who is Peter Corbin? All I could find on Peter Corbin is that he's a visual artist, not a sound guy. I do wish that the remixes could be done Yellow Submarine Songtrack style, and I'm not a fan of most of the Giles Martin remixes, as I find them harsh and unmusical.
Should hsve let Steven Wilson take charge from the get-go, but, hey, nepotists gonna nepotise.....
20:07 When I do my mixtape of 62-66, I’m putting “Rain” on it.
The biggest disappointment to me with these was that Free as a Bird and Real Love weren’t included because after hearing Now and Then I definitely want remixes of the other 2!
My opinion is they are playing that card in the near future with the Anthology reissue. We will probably get those 2 songs remixed plus potentially expanded editions. I think so because it is surprising the video anthology is not available online and maybe the reason is they are planning to remaster all that footage in HD which is a massive work considering how many different videos sources are included in those 8+ hours
Lennon’s 70s demos aren’t really Beatles songs are they!
@JTKaeloo my sentiment exactly! Now I can't stand to hear John's blurry vocal on those songs, and I believe he deserves to be better heard in the mix.
One of the most memorable moments in this video was... 25:00 "This isn't Taylor Swift for crying out loud. This is the Beates!" Actually, this entire video is quite well done and informative. Thank You!
Oof, seeing that CD waveforms was truly disheartening, particularly as at some point in late 2010s it almost seemed like “loudness war” was over… Evidently, not even close! Thanks for sharing
"This isn't Taylor Swift. This is the Beatles." Shots fired!
TY for agreeing about Walrus.
I predict that fans in the future will treasure original mixes of every song, and they will release them again in that form.
I already cherish the original mixes, especially after listening to Giles Martin’s remixes, which are hit and miss at best.
Thanks for your comments. It's discouraged me from buying the CD versions.
How "You Really Got A Hold On Me" made it on the expanded Red comp is baffling. Maybe one of these should've made the cut instead -- "I Should Have Known Better," "If I Fell," "I'll Follow The Sun," "Things We Said Today" or "Do You Want Tto Know A Secret?"
RNR Music - Mr Postman
Really got a hold... is the ONLY song sung in duet by John and George, Paul singing "only" backing vocals. It's a tribute to the two dead Beatles.
12:50 You nailed my biggest issue with how the Beatles are presented today. Early in the pandemic, I was able to scoop up one of the last of the CD mono box set and it's completely superseded all other ways I listen to their music (my CD setup is a bit nicer than my vinyl setup in my current space). As an under 30 fan who always grew up with the 80s stereo CDs, hearing their complete catalog in mono is like hearing it for the first time. What disappointed me most about a mix like "I Am the Walrus," is they didn't take the opportunity to re-inject some of the menace and tension the far-superior mono mix presents. I am pretty happy with the new track listings, though. Some quibbles, and if I was on a hardcore vinyl kick I wouldn't want these with the disjointed track layout, but throwing all of these tracks into a playlist with the 2009 masters definitely enhances the red and blue experience.
I love the mono mixes, myself. The stereo versions weren't all that good, rather rushed. But these new stereo 'creations' sound rather wonderful, fresh and vibrant, so full of excitement and life; a triumph in my opinion. This might be because I have a top-notch hifi system and very revealing and musical headphones as well. I don't think the Beatles have ever sounded better. The overwhelmingly positive reaction from the public seems to back this up. The songs sound great, and the singing and performances. I found myself smiling repeatedly and saying 'wow' because there are so many places where the performances sound wonderful and rejuvenated, for now.
I love the fact that Giles Martin was born a few weeks AFTER Abbey Road was released.
Why?
The Red album was my gateway in the early 80s. I’d saved a load of coppers and silver coins and used the money to purchase it. I would have been 10 years old. What a thrill it was.
Overall I’m happy with the remixes, & glad to have them on coloured vinyl. Chronological order would have been so much better, like the CDs. I would have liked Now and Then and the two 90s singles as an extra EP, rather than the one song on the blue album. They don’t belong on it imo.
Superb stuff, Andrew 👍
Cheers Matt! 👍
I have made a similar comment :)
You're so right about the CDs, those wave files are MUCH to hot, inexcusable for that to be publicly released!. Of course in the modern musical world louder is better...except it's NOT.
What sucks is the 24-bit high res downloads are also compressed to death just like the CD's
Man, your videos are always incredibly interesting to watch and to listen to.
This stuff makes social media worthwhile.
Thank you!
I have to agree that separating the guitars, especially on the early tracks, is a revelation. John's rhythm and George's tasteful licks really come through on some of the tracks, for example, I Saw Her Standing There. George was so underrated as a guitarist, maybe because he couldn't improvise stunning guitar solos on the fly like Clapton. But Beatle music wouldn't be Beatle music without his instrumental contribution.
Thanks again Andrew for another awesome and insightful review.
I would love to see the Star Club tapes remixed with the new technology. The Beatles "punk" period deserves some light to be shined on it.
Actually they were dressed in the suits for this performance, not the leather jackets. They had signed a contract to play Hamburg in December 1962 and Mr. Epstein made them honor it even though they were on the cusp of fame. They were metamorphosizing.
@@yayafan the sound is brash, tough and loud. I don't care what they were wearing.
Except if you remember, its a release that they the group themselves tried to prevent, by going to court, back in 1977
@@Deemun666 now I've just read that Peter Jackson purchased the tapes this past year. I wonder what his intentions are...hmmm.🤔
you and me, both ! no other new Beatle release should come out until this happens !
The remixes are novelty for me personally, I still will reach for the original mono and stereo versions. But I can’t hold too much against these re-releases (a part from the packaging), as it reignited my passion for record collecting, especially for The Beatles. I kind of hit a lull and when all of the announcements for red and blue (and now and then), came out, it relit the flame and now I’m in the midst of upgrading copies of albums I already have, and buying ones I didn’t have previous. So I’m thankful for that, and will be getting these releases, but just for the sake of completing the collection. Fab vid as always Andrew, but where’s the damn Rubber Soul set?
Perfect timing. I have just finished listening to my 1973 Red and Blue vinyl and ordered the new mixes which are due to arrive today. I'm really looking forward to hearing them and seeing if Giles brought something new to the table. Thanks for the video, Andrew!
Hope you enjoy them!
Thanks Andrew, I was going to buy the CD versions, but i'm glad I waited for this video as I think i'll stick to the originals instead.
Exemplary and fascinating, as is the Parlogram norm. Thank you Andrew.
Working in an independent UK record shop I can vouch for the interest in these albums, for those both in and beyond the existing fan base.
I’ve had a great fortnight: not a day, maybe even an hour,has passed without a customer inquiry or conversation about Now and Then, and the Red and Blue sets.
For my part, the Rubber Soul tracks are the absolute sonic highlight, and most of the Red set. I’ve just about recovered from the initial shock of hearing I Am The Walrus (sounds like an Aphex Twin mix from his 26 Mixes For Cash LP), and I quite like it’s brazen differences.
Other than a shared worry that these new mixes replace the originals, I’m all for these sets.
Fortuitously, we’ve had a From Liverpool box in store to sell. I was playing it one morning last week on the shop deck, and it sold within an hour of being listed for sale.
It’s still my own favourite compilation, too. I play it more than my UKBC-13, in fact.
Thanks again for all your marvellous work.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I’m glad you said ‘they crossed the line’ with the ‘I Am The Walrus’ remix because that’s exactly what I said. I think about it as the analogy of restoring a masterpiece painting like Van Gogh’s ‘Sunflowers’. It’s fine to enhance the colours make everything more vibrant, but imagine if the restorer added another sunflower or removed one completely. Absolutely crossing of a line on what was my favourite outro on any song ever. I’m now worried that new remix will become the standard on streaming devices & radio play etc.
Love your Van Gough analogy. Perfectly said.
Walrus is hugely disappointing to my ears.
Wonderful and informative as always Andrew. Giles’ remixes are indeed hit and miss. Just two quick examples : overall, I find his remix of Sgt. Pepper very good overall. On the other hand, and this is the term I’ve used since his remix of this album came out, he “butchered” Abbey Road. Heading into the coda of ‘Come Together’ John does a moaning “Aghhh …” sound which is perfect for the feel and mood. But it’s inaudible on the remix. He also relegated the prominence of the guitars during the coda of ‘I want you (She’s so Heavy)’ which, in my opinion is a major sin. The guitars repetitive chords are the highlight of this song and they create the mesmerizing atmosphere attributed to this song. To this day, after listening to it twice, it sits on my shelf and will remain there. The 1983 Japanese CD and the 1987 EMI version are my go to albums. Here’s hoping the Red & Blue albums will have more likes than dislikes. 👍 🇨🇦
I think the issue with the remix of Abbey Road was that it really didn't need a remix of any kind, being the best-sounding Beatles album anyway. However, the "aaahhh" at 3.58 you're talking about in Come Together has been replaced, effectively, by an elongated "oooh, aaahh" at 3.52-3.54. If a remix sounds the exact same as the original mix, what was the point of a remix?
Well said; besides the examples you sighted, for me it’s the defanging of Helter Skelter, She Said She Said and Revolution (dont get me started on I Am the Walrus). Very hit and miss, and that’s why the original mixes will always be my preference.
I am the same as you Andrew. First Beatles albums I bought was the Red and Blue back in 79, changed my life.
I grew up on my mom’s 1993 cds and then got the 2010 cds love the comp
i pray the original versions aren't replaced with the modern mixed versions as you were saying Andrew. thankyou for this video by the way.
In my opinion, the worst mistake on the blue album was noticeable missing guitar pieces on Old Brown Shoe. I was wondering if they ever noticed that in the final mix.
I find that Giles Martin has the habit of taking double tracked parts and spreading them across the channels. The flaw in that approach is perfectly exemplified in this song. Sometimes parts were doubled to sound stronger or perhaps to cover for missed notes in the original take. Whether this was a case of bad editing or not on Giles' part is up for debate, but the song suffers from it. And its a shamd because I wanted a really good stereo mix of this song
@@prettyshinyspaghetti8332 absolutely - the wide panning of the guitar tracks makes them sound thin and weak, and it really does a disservice to George's playing.
I could only listen to a few seconds, I thought George's vocals were all wrong in the mix, like was mentioned in this video, almost as if he was in a different room, that ruins it. The AI separation is good but it does make some vocals sound weird.
I thought I was missing something 😮
EXACTLY!! My point exactly when I heard Dear Prudence, and Giles spread double tracked electric guitar had dropouts in various places on each side! The original stacked double tracking gave a phasey effect and covered a multitude of sins! How can he not know this? @@prettyshinyspaghetti8332
I’ve been waiting patiently for your response video, and you certainly haven’t disappointed. Thanks for the well balanced look at these new mixes. I’m convinced that no matter what would have been done, it would be impossible to please everyone.
I’m personally happy with all of these new re-mixes, knowing that I already own the originals. And I even found the end of Walrus to be a creative, and daring twist.
I certainly don’t believe it’s right for these to replace the originals, but I do like the listening experience hearing these songs in a different light.
The fact that so many people are reacting so passionately (both positive and negative) about these versions makes me really happy. Clearly The Beatles still have a huge and devoted following here in the twenty first century.
Thanks again Andrew, great job as always. And the introduction you used was priceless.
Glad you enjoyed it, Dan!
Years ago, I had the most wonderful opportunity to have conversations with Geoff Emerick multiple times. The conversations eventually turned to discussing the Beatles and the various mixes made during and after the band’s break up. Geoff was adamant about the subject, almost irritated by the thought as he felt (in his words) that anything other than the mono versions were “pure rubbish.” He explained the mono versions captured the true energy of The Beatles, unlike the American (quasi) stereo versions. And I agree with him. In my opinion, anything created or related to the music of The Beatles without all four members, including George Martin, in the same room should be categorized, punctuated literally as “UnOfficial Versions.” The seemingly endless remix butchering is simply Apple Corp’s hunger to siphon every last penny from past and future Beatles fans. You are spot on in your concern that it’s questionable how “Original Mixes” could be marginalized or even lost decades or generations from now. What Giles Martin is creating is an alternative universe and should be labeled as such, or in my opinion, condemned as such. Again you’re spot on regarding the balance of certain instruments within the Giles remixes. He’s turned greatness into mediocrity by eliminating what we loved the most about The Beatles. Their magic! No one, including the son of the brilliant Sir George, should disturb nor distinguish the brilliance created in the collective moments shared together as members of the band during the creation process. If all 4 members of the band left the control room proud with their performances, compositions completed mixes, and agreed upon by all four, why isn’t that enough for us? Should we change a brushstroke, add or delete a single color from Van Gogh’s Starry Night just because we now have the technology to do so? No. In my mind, heart and ears, The Beatles were perfection. Isn’t perfect close enough?
I absolutely, positively, couldn't agree with you more!! The ONLY reason to use the technology (IMHO), would be like Mr. Jackson used it to separate and clarify what was already there.
Thanks for your remarks about these new compilations. I have always considered myself very fortunate to have lived through the entire Beatles career. Having owned all the Capital albums my purchase of these 2 sets was only for the 8 track tape to listen to in my car. While I am a fan of Giles earlier reissues so far, I'm inclined to pass on these. My thought is Giles will surely eventually redo all of the earlier LP's and I would hope, Past Masters. This will eventually render these very expensive new compilations unnecessary. At least to me. It also begs the question, how many times must we repurchase all of these? Was looking more forward to Rubber Soul and hope it is next on Giles list. Patience is the key word here. Thank you again and Cheers.
Don't forget that these are meant for bringing in new fans. For us older fans, they are just curiosities as to how they sound. We will always prefer the albums.
I have the Original 1967 to 1970 on album....it is so cool to hold this album in my hand....also Meet The Beatles in mono on a 1960s pressing.....my All time favorite is The White Album!!!!😊
Andrew, yes please to your offer for a follow up video. I really enjoy your videos and even though I’ve been a Beatles fan for over 50 years, I learn something new every time.
I’m fascinated with your archival footage showing records being manufactured and then people buying them…I never thought I’d see that! It’s always interesting to see little relics of the past, and how much - or sometimes how little - things can change.
I agree with most of your assessments, as well. I really like what Giles did with the songs on the second half of the red album. One has to wonder why they used the botched vocals for Please Please Me, then took away the King Lear section from “I am the Walrus”? I found that disappointing.
I've done A/B comparisons of the new mixes with all the previous mixes, and yes, some of the new mixes absolutely shine ("Yesterday" is glorious). But I can't bring myself to spend $220 + tax (in Canadian dollars) for the vinyl releases considering that I already own 4 of the 6 LPs with mixes that I'm happy with. Most of the new mixes shine (even the songs that don't seem to belong in the collection) but they don't shine that much.
I'd rather purchase the orphaned LPs from each collection as a NEW collection (pick another colour in the series). Back in the day, the Beatles didn't put their singles on albums because they didn't want to force their fans to buy the same thing twice. Can someone tell Paul and Ringo that I miss those days?
Hi, Andrew. A bit off topic, but I really enjoy the "retro" graphics you use in your videos. They sort of take me back to a time and place from a long time ago!
Same! 🙂
Glad you like them, William!
Andrew, your opinion always respected and appreciated. The one thing not mentioned that I came away with after a though go 'round with these sets: I actually prefer Back In The U.S.S.R and Dear Prudence without the crossfade. The remixes are always going to be polarizing. Personally, I appreciate a new way to hear this music.
The Revolution mix was the one I was reakkt looking after... And it turned out to be a piece of Ice Cream once again.
I was expecting to be blown away as the LOVE remix did (just without the added elements at the start and end), but nope, it still was the half-assed 1973 mix with the left and right channels brought a bit to the center. No guitar separation, just both of them panned to the right with bass and drums to the left. What a bummer...
Really*
Bad typing lol
The informative and entertaining quality of this and the rest of your videos is simply astounding.
Your content is arguably some of the best produced on RUclips - you would be a fantastic documentary film maker without a doubt.
Love the vids and look forward to future content!
A well done episode sir!
I think, with a person my age, and as a collector for over 51 years (sheesh) I’ve been privy to so many mixes, versions and so on that when Capitol, EMI or Apple finally would release something I was always kind of blasé about the audio especially on greatest hits packages;though I was looking forward to this one for sure.
Having said that I wasn’t disappointed because of the added tracks. Like you, “Rain” was sorely missed.
To me, the highlight was “Can’t Buy Me Love”. Ringo’s drums were solid. I never felt that before. I always heard a push/pull feel in previous releases. Being a drummer I love to hear any percussion that was buried before on other tracks as well.
As far as “Now and Then” I totally agree. Why was the track “hammered” like that? I think because so much more (regarding frequencies) can be put on a cd, I feel there’s an abuse of power concerning audio sometimes.
As I always say…no 2 ears are alike.
Great episode Andrew.
Thanks a lot, Brian. Glad you enjoyed it!
As Desmond Dekker & the Aces always say... "No two ears are alike" 😉
It such a pleasure listning to you, and looking at you.
Go Andrew!! Thank you very much for this content and creating a space where us Beatle nerds can discuss our passion ❤
My pleasure!
Thanks to your excellent video, I purchased the half speed mastered 3 LP red LPs set on Amazon. Can't wait to listen. Thanks for your entertaining and informative videos! -Tom
Thanks for watching, Tom!
Loved the 'Fluff' Freeman bit at the end. I think you should address your audience as 'Pop-pickers'.
Thank you, Justin. Glad you enjoy them!
Thank you Andrew for another cool video! All the best from Finland!
Thanks Jucciz! Glad you enjoyed it!
Love your videos Andrew..really interesting and informative. You are my go to person for opinions and advice when I want to know anything about a Beatles release.
Thank you, Mark. I appreciate that!
Hi Andrew, as usual, I was so looking forward to your review of these new releases...you always deliver above and beyond expectations! We all thank you for taking the time to prepare such high quality, informative and highly articulate presentations!!
Thank you, Tony. Glad you enjoyed it!
One of the things I like about watching your videos is your apparent commitment to objectivity and not whimsy. You have such a great ability to articulate what I experience listening to this material... celebrating its successes and being reasonable about any shortcomings.
Thank you. Much appreciated!
There are two albums other than Beatles albums that I simply play through completely from end to end.
They're Dark Side of the Moon and Wish You Were Here.
I have about 8 vinyl copies of the album, from the 1970's, Quadraphonic, to 1980"s copies. One of my Quad SQ copies was given to me by Pilly Samson's uncle, Bob Kiely who lives near the old Arsenal Stadium in Highbury. He gave me this copy for repairing his PC of which David Gilmour's kids who kept corrupting his PC, whenever David and family stopped off at his house whenever he or his family were going to the Arsenal.
He gave me this copy and said "Take care of this, because this was one of his copies!".
This was given to me when vinyl was virtually dead and buried. I have since loaned this copy to one of my good friends on a permanent basis!
When I reached "I Am The Walrus" I was under shock and started to put everything of these releases in question.
Glad you showed the incredible difference in sound of CD and Vinyl.
Could not believe that the majority of listeners is happy and excited about the Red and Blue. Maybe the Vinyl would change my mind.
I only heard the CD Versions.
I´ll stick to my 1973 Vinyl set. One of my "First Love"s.
Sounds so "naturally beautiful".
I think that´s my point. I like the natural beauty. These new releases are like Plastic Surgery. And the Walrus looks terrible with its new B***.
Nice Lips, Twist and Shout, but, sorry.
Great review, Andrew. I've never been a fan of this compilation, but now I'm tempted to get the vinyls.
The Red and Blue albums were many people's gateway into the music of the Beatles, but that was a bit before my time (I was born in 1976). Believe it or not, my gateway into the music of the Beatles was through the Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band movie starring the Bee Gees and Peter Frampton, along with the soundtrack album, which I listened to endlessly as a 5 year old. I didn't even know that these weren't the only versions of the songs, and wasn't aware of the Beatles (or much of anything else at that age).
My first memory of hearing the Beatles' versions of some of the songs was that I didn't like them, and wanted to hear the "originals", haha.
The best and truest review I’ve seen so far on Red & Blue. You’re the best! Thanks so much.
How about that Mish-Mosh at the end of Walrus? Ughhhhh!!!
Giles has been wonderful and we want him to continue what he’s doing, but Please Please PLEASE don’t change the original tracks in any way, as far as content goes.
We all love and appreciate Giles’ work on these, but changing history isn’t ok.
Great review! Cheers!
Andrew is one of the preeminent Beatles scholars of our day. A Beatologist? Quality videos with quality information.
Thank you! Much appreciated!
Not having the reverb at the beginning of Nowhere Man is almost criminal. For me, the Yellow Submarine Songtrack version is still the best. It also makes me wonder how much interest would there now be in a Rubber Soul remix? Seeing that the best songs from that album already have good stereo remixes. I'll still probably buy it anyway.
Thanks for the in depth review. This just confirms what I was thinking in the first place. Going to stick with my 70's copies.
Same here. I scanned through the new red and blue on streaming and was not impressed except with the quieter tunes. The more rocking ones are so drum and bass heavy as to be annoying. I'm not going to spring for these on cd nor vinyl.
As a lifelong Beatles fan , 1963 onwards , I really enjoyed this review ! My Mum Dad bought me Please Please Me album , I was 11 years old , perfect age to start my Beatles love affaire !
hey Andrew, thank you for this deep dive! i really appreciate it when you mention where we can hear your favorite mixes of these tracks, but listening to many of these older releases can be difficult. i was wondering if you would consider releasing a video going over what you believe are the best versions of these songs that are available on streaming services. great video!
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it!
Only educated overview I’ve seen. And you do it in 30 minutes, not hours long droning and multiple videos that are beyond excessive. Great job
Thank you, Sir!
I agree with you 100% Andrew. I am so glad to FINALLY hear someone give a review of this two sets that I agree with. It's funny that for you at ten years old, the blue album was your first Beatles purchase, because for me the red alum way my first purchase at ten years old along with The Best Of George Harrison. I got my hands on the US versions of course which had the James Bond intro to Help the reverb covered I Feel Fine. I know they're not the best, but it's what I remembered and loved from those albums. Jiles does a decent job, but I really feel that Peter Gobbin is the man for these remix jobs. There is so much disappointment in these remixes along with some happy surprises as well. All in all, I will not replace the originals with these remixes. They are just not as good as the monos in my opinion.
Thank you for the detailed vinyl vs. cd analysis! Relieved that its not my ears deceiving me that the digital files are totally bricked.
I'm really enjoyed this video. I think it's scary how Beatles still surprise us!. It's true that the CD version sounds saturated.
I enjoyed how the tape splices in "She Loves You" disappeared so neatly.
I'm a drummer, so I was surprised and pleased to find that I could hear the drums better on some songs. It's as if I've encountered these song all over again!
In Japan, a set of color vinyls sells for 77 pounds or 86 euros, leading to competition and further price hikes. I didn't feel like buying it!
Saturated? Mine sound crisp, clear and amazing? I’m not sure what people mean by “saturated” or “brickwalked” because mine sound really good?
I love your breakdowns so much. Sad to see the new waveforms, honestly. I wish i could hear Atmos without Apple Music 😢
I found the Atmos remix of the blue album on Apple Music but not the red. Anyway, while I’m not an expert on music remixes , I can clearly hear the difference btwn that & non-Dolby Atmos !😮
Deezer has Atmos
The fact alone that we can talk about Beatles LPs in 2023 is great
Hi Andrew, an awesome video! I love I saw her standing there and Yesterday , all the Rubber Soul and Revolver tracks on the red album and Magical Mystery Tour on the Blue! I got cds of 2023 albums. I love the expanded versions in chronological order on the cd, shame about not including rain, i enjoy reading the booklet too! The vinyl red and blue albums I bought in 1990 and got me hooked on the Beatles music. Cheers keep up the excellent videos! 😊
My sentiments exactly ❤. Love it, Andrew. I wish there was a package of the 3 singles. Wouldn’t it be nice for an updated ep box? Or maybe an updated singles box set?
That would be cool!
The announcement of the new single and Red and Blue albums reignited my love for the Beatles who I’ve been a fan of since 1963. So much so that I’ve recently acquired mint copies of the CD singles and EP box sets from sellers on eBay. They sound absolutely fabulous, and I don’t think that they need any tweezing by Giles, just reissuing with a suitable booklet in each box.
Another fantastic video Andrew. Knocked it out of the park! Thank you so much for being unbiased and impartial. 🙏🏼☺️ Your videos are always so entertaining as well as fascinatingly educational to the Beatles bystander.
Having had a very good listen to the cd versions of the red & blue albums for the last week or so, I completely agree with the majority of your comments. It’s a mixed bag, with highs and lows.
However, your closing section focusing on the brickwalling on the cd’s was a complete shocker!
Outrageous! Thank you for opening our eyes (and ears)!!
Thanks Ady. Glad you enjoyed it!
Great review! I totally agree with you on Now and Then. It should have been placed on an improved/remixed Anthology set. I really want to hear a cleaned up/remixed version of Real Love and Free as a Bird. Hopefully those are coming.
Thanks! I hope so too!
Thanks Andrew - a great and honest review 👍.
I had already canceled my order of the vinyl box due to the non-chronological order on the Blue. Was thinking of buying the CDs - but with all that compression you show, I won’t. Thanks.
I do have the remixed boxes (and vinyl monobox) - and I’m sure we’ll get all the early albums w. the MAL de-/remix - and maybe the mistankes corrected.
I still think that this is such a missed opportunity - makes me sad 😢
I was waiting this so much! I agree that not all the tracks are the same, but was a totally surprise to me hearing all clear vocal harmonies, Ringo's bassdrum finally appear!. Not all the fans had the oportunitty to hear the original records, so as an aproach is better that I expected. I wanna hold your hand made me cry, to be honest. Great video and obviusly, great channel. Greetings from CHILE !!!!
Thank you, Gonzalo. Many greetings to you in Chile!!
Thank you Andrew for another great video! As you said, these collections hold a special place in the heart of many Beatles fans. I recall getting the Red Album on cassette for my 10th birthday! I completely wore it out on my cheapie Sanyo JVC boombox. A friend of mine from school had the Blue Album on vinyl and we ended up trading cassette copies. Oh we were little pirates! Such great memories!
I agree that She Loves You is a mess! Even listening to the Dolby Atmos mix was not satisfactory! Everything sounds so muddy. I hadn't noticed the "cough" in Norwegian Wood so I'm going back to listen to it on iTunes.
Excellent review! I haven't heard these new remixes yet and am still waiting on my colored LP boxset to arrive from Canada of all places.. They were sold out everywhere else at the time and thought I'd miss out, but I really should've had more patience, as it ended up getting restocked. Doh! 🤦🏻 Oh well, anyway, I'm looking forward to it nonetheless.
Sounds like I need to hunt down the atmos digital versions as well! 🍻
My son, Jack, and I (aged 11) are both Beatles nuts. We have been watching your videos for several months now. We look forward to your new videos and always appreciate the deep dives, production values, and tone! Thanks, a lot, Andrew - and keep up the great work :)
That's really great to hear. All the best to you both! 😀
I find myself largely in agreement with you, Andrew. I do like the new mixes on the whole, but the early albums in particular will always sound better in mono, I think!
Just played my She Loves You and Revolution singles and they really do sound great, as you say.
I agree with She Loves You, but I think they could do a great stereo mix of Revolution. I can hear bits I like in various mixes, but they haven't nailed it yet.
I bought both of these on CD 💿 shortly before these editions were announced. I think I'll stick with what I've got and catch the new edition on streaming.
Although I can’t and won’t forgive Giles and Sam’s mixing choices on She Said She Said last year, I have to say I generally love these 2023 remixes. I listen almost exclusively on headphones, through the ‘Music Player X’ app instead of iTunes/Apple Music. To my ears everything sounds great - mostly. A little uneasy about the opening chord of AHDN - too much of the piano. My highlights: From Me To You, Yesterday, I Feel Fine, Magical Mystery Tour, I Saw Her Standing There, Day Tripper, Drive My Car. To me they all have a new power. Also I Want To Hold Your Hand is now amazing. In these new mixes it’s mostly because of Ringo’s brilliant drumming shining, John’s usually buried rhythm guitar now up in the mixes and Paul’s heavier bass. I’m ok with She Loves You and I do not hate Walrus (prefer this to cutting off the end of the apparently much praised LOVE remix where girls screaming and announcers announcing is deemed better than the King Lear bit: “sit you down father, rest you”, etc.
I first listened to these albums on Apple Music and was blown away, but when I put the CD’s in my player, it seemed, “different”. I still love the new ones but will have to break out my 2014 CD’s and compare them. Awesome video. Best Beatles channel on RUclips. 😊
Thank you! 😊
I purchased both from HDTracks. I actually really like the stereo mix of Love Me Do. I was somewhat disappointed with the new mix of She Loves You. I was surprised with the prominent distortion. With the new machine learning de-mixing technology, wouldn't they have been able to isolate that and cut it out of the mix? There is a similar issue with Help but it's less noticeable. I think the new mixes for Day Tripper and Drive My Car push the harmony vocals more to the clearl forefront. And Norwegian Wood and Michelle sound like new recordings and further the 'soft' Rubber Soul feel. Paul's bass and Ringo's drumming really does come out to shine better in these new mixes.
I'm thinking of buying the HDtracks' version too. But, can you tell me if those masters have been brick-walled liked the CD masters? Thank you.
@@EltonoutoftheclosetOfficial They are pretty loud. Limiting was not used sparingly like with the '09 remasters. I normally would prefer uncompressed but considering what these new mixes achieve, I personally don't mind it here.
A fantastic video. As someone who does similar stuff as a hobby, I can really appreciate the time and effort you put into your videos. As a scouser and life-long Beatles fan, I can safely say, without hesitation that you are the most knowledgable fan of perhaps any musical form I have come across. Nice to see more of your own feelings and frustration come across in this video, keep it coming and take the gloves off next time. If you ever venture up-to Liverpool, there is a pint welcome for you in "The Grapes" and you can kip on my sofa anytime.. for a discounted price obviously.
Thanks very much! Much appreciated!
Many thanks for this video Andrew, I always enjoy hearing what you have to say on these issues and what your thoughts are. I have to say that I am enjoying both the Red and the Blue, and have been giving them quite a listen over the last week or so. Red is for me the clear winner over the two sets, primarily for the amount of remixes. For me the real jewels on this are the Rubber Soul tracks, spoilers for the Deluxe Box to come perhaps? It is nice to end this set with tomorrow never knows, which has pleased me, but I'm in the camp of why no Rain? It should've been on here, and they have missed a trick with only one track off Beatles For Sale. The Blue as you say is mainly comprised of the mixes we all already have via the various sets already released. But I do like what has been done with the tracks remixed for this album. Especially MMT and Walrus. I'm just enjoying listening to them, and if I wasn't happy with any of these mixes, well I can always go back and listen to the other mixes I have in my record collection. I am puzzled however at the omission of both Free As A Bird and Real Love on this set, as these were both hit singles when released. A good friend of mine, a fellow Beatles fan expressed disappointment that Movie Medley was also not included, but I have a feeling he was only joking. I have listened to these albums through my regular speakers, on my I-Tunes Library , on my I-Pod and on my Brennan system and for me they all sound great, and I guess I'll be listening to them for quite some time to come. I have to agree with you on squeezing two albums into one album sleeve, it seems to be the way right now, have bought new and reissued double albums of other artists and this now seems to be the norm, and they look awkward on the record shelf, and it seems to distort the actual sleeve. Again thanks so much for this video, you always bring a fascinating take on the technical side to these pressings and remixes which I enjoy learning about...
They were my first albums too ! Now i have the new Japan SHM versions of the Red and Blue and in the box version
Please let me not be the only Beatles fan who didn’t realise there were bongos on A Hard Day’s Night! I’ve gone back and listened to the ‘09 mix, and whilst they are audible, they’re incredibly buried.
I’ve always heard them especially in the last verse for some reason. I think they’re just a little too loud now but that’s probably because I’m too used to the more subtle level.
13:40 I see what you did there. Very clever, Andrew. Very clever.
The Blue and the Red Album were my very first records. I've got them from my elder sister when I was about 10 years old. She also gave me «Lobo - A Simple Man» and «Black Music» (an Arcade compilation) and some 45’s. I still have all these records in my collection. I listened to the Dolby Atmos versions via Apple Music. I'm quite happy with that and I am far from being a specialist in production details. As a new subscriber to this channel, I learned many interesting facts. Thank you! I'm going to pay a little bit more attention to the details and differences now. I will look out to get some mono records of my favourite band at the flea markets next year. I bought a black 45 of «Now and Then» and I'm listening to it daily. Thanks for your work and see you soon. Cheers Martin/Germany
Welcome aboard Martin and thanks for posting!
Just got done listening to both the Red and Blue albums on iTunes via Dolby Atmos, and while I was able to pick up the individual parts really well, you are absolutely correct that its missing that extra "Oomph" and it felt "Distant". Please Please Me was the one that really stood out as feeling a bit sterile on the red album, as in my previous normal listenings I could really picture the Beatles with that real excitement specifically on Please Please Me.
One of my favorite aspects of listening to The Beatles is that I feel like I am a part of their music, an active participant that you rarely get with other bands. When an album is remixed to this level I just feel like I'm listening and not participating, if that makes any sense.
I think this was a fun listen out of curiosity of where technology can take the Beatles, but future listenings will go back to my old dependable method, records and CD's.
What Giles and Sam did on the demixed tracks recreating the non existing reamped band in Studio 2 reminds me something like Gene Wilder and Marty Feldman creating Frankenstain Junior. Let it Be!
This was most likely done to cover up the artifacts left over from the de-mixing process. De-mixing is not perfect by any means.
Yes I agree with you the original red and blue releases were very special - Maybe the track selections were not the best they could have been on the original red album - and the new edition is certainly a better selection with the cover versions added - But yes Rain should have been added - but could mean an updated Past Masters is on the way ? I also have bought 4 different versions of the red and blue over the last 50 years - Will another one turn up in the futurec - Probably !! - Looking forward to the updated Rubber Soul maybe next year - But my dream is still to see a cleaned up Live at the Star Club and the Decca Auditions coming out as a Box set soon - I can dream anyway - thanks Andrew
Peter Jackson recently acquired the original tapes so you never know!
I'm happy with it. My old red and blue copies are really worn out. I do agree with you that I have a problem with cramming two discs in one sleeve. I also bought a 12" 45 of Now And Then, and I'm probably going to wear it out because I can't stop playing it.
You nailed it. While I don't mind the She Lives You, I prefer the mono especially 1962-1963 material. I am the walrus and Old Brown Shoe is just baffling. Great job Andrew.
Thank you, Michael!
I actually like walrus and old brown shoe remixes a lot
@@neoPeake and that is why opinions matters, because everyone is different. I like most of Walrus except when the play comes in. It did not need that other fee, unless the BBC said something.
The King Lear parts are still there, it’s clearly not any kind of rights issue but an artistic decision - whether you agree or not of course.
"They're here! The albums, nobody was asking for." Perfect opening. Now I need to watch the rest...
On edit. Well done as usual. Your comment on listening in Dolby Atmos on Apple Music was right on target. The Atmos versions of the Red and Blue, and Now And Then/Love Me Do are some of the finest examples of the format I've ever heard. I'd like to see you do a video on the various streaming services. Personally, I think the "Apple Digital Master" process, and their conversion to lossless, makes Apple Music the best one, hands down. Thanks for the fine work you do. (and yes, it should have been Anthology) Cheers!
My mom bought the Blue Album & she wasn’t really a big Beatles fan. ( she grew up in the 1940’s & was more into Sinatra, etc) & they introduced me to their wonderful music.👍
First cassette I ever bought as a Metro Detroit kid in the 70s was 62-66. I still have it, including Bono & Larry's autographs when I met them coming out of the Charles Hotel in Boston for soundcheck during the Joshua Tree tour.
Yet another superb review and retrospective of the esteemed calibre we expect from Parlogram. No stone left unturned; delivered with warmth, charm and wit. Superlative. Thank you.
Thank you very much, Samuel!
Thank you for sharing this. In many cases you took the words right out of my mouth, as far as praises or disappointments. My very first thought, when listening to Please, Please Me, was why on earth didn't they de-mix that great mono mix instead of using the faulty stereo mix? Love Me Do wasn't much of an improvement with very little imagination for stereo panning. I Saw Her Standing There is fantastic with every detail brought to the front. The idea of panning John and George's guitars left and right should have been a routine used for most of those earlier recordings. Magical Mystery Tour is fantastic, except for the intro where "roll up roll up for the Magical Mystery Tour step right this way" is much lower in the mix. Well, I don't want to mention every single song, but there certainly are a lot of great moments on there. Great upload!
The software they used was not capable of splitting George & John's guitars. On that first album there were 3 or 4 songs that had one of the guitars recorded on the vocal track. Hence all they had to do was extract the vocals - which their software is capable of. "I Saw Here Standing There" was one of these. They didn't use the mono of "Please Please Me", as all they would be able to separate would be vocals & drums. They took the easier option. A very good stereo mix has previously been made of "Love Me Do" with the drums separated from George's acoustic guitar. Once again, the limitations of the software they used. I am actually appalled at the job of some of these pre 1964 mixes.
I am really disappointed at I Am The Walrus, it's almost a massacre! But worst of all is not including Free As A Bird and Real Love. I hope they do something about the Anthology albums again.
I am happy the mono only tracks (Love Me Do, She Loves You) were given a stereo mix for the first time. I hope they do it soon on the others (PS I Love You, I'll Get You, and the yet full stereo of You KNow My Name)
I am excited to get the Now And Then single on vinyl, but I'll skip the red and blue 2023 editions until they become dirt cheap on the market.
Still Andrew, thanks so much for this video. I do agree in most of your points.
Walrus is horrible by Giles.
This is another really interesting and well-done video, which leaves me much better-informed about these two sets. You gave me a laugh when you commented on a "Magical Mystery Tour" box set, "...without the film!" Actually, I wouldn't mind having the film. Although it was poorly made, it does give us six Beatles music videos (I particularly like the ones of "Blue Jay Way" and "I Am the Walrus"). I will hold off on buying these sets (I bought the 12" vinyl of "Now and Then"), but I will be glad to purchase a Rubber Soul box set. Like you, I am looking forward to hearing the new technology being used on the early albums.
I still find the 1988 CD's to be my favorite mixes and were my first. Are we just old and stuck in our ways or do remixes really just mess up perfection?
I can see I am not alone. You are the commentator that I always wait to hear from.. You are spot on as always. I am not pleased with Giles Martin remixes. I wonder how Peter Jackson feels when he laid it all out for him only to mess up.. Hit and Miss on every remix project he has done.. It should all be Hits !!! I wish another producer who hears these remixes would step up and find out what is going on.. As for me, a rock producer from the 80's and 90's would do The Beatles music justice.. The folks who engineered the Red and Blue CD's should be Tarred & Feathered and taken out on a rail.. This is unacceptable... This should not be happening to our beloved Beatle music... Thankx for all that You do. You are our voice. If only Giles would listen.. How can he not hear what we hear ?..
Thanks for this Andrew. Unlike you, being that bit older, I have never owned these two compilations - I had everything that was on them so never saw the point. Similarly, I too always preferred the early stuff in mono, so I carefully preserved all my original singles, E.P.s and L.P.s. I also bought the blue box set of stereo albums back then, so now I know that spending out for these two would be a bit of a waste. I think I am happy with what I already have.