By removing that sax at the end of One Day + the echo effect at the end of Aisumasen, Sean has unfortunately broken the unwritten rule no. 1 when doing a remix of an album: You are not supposed to remove anything. If you do so, you're just going to risk upsetting a lot of people - mainly the actual customers. Sean's or anyone else's opinion on that sax ending is simply irrelevant. He wasn't even born in 1973, and putting a sax on the tail end of that song was just the 1973-way of doing that sort of stuff! And it was John's choice to do it. Enough said.
@@Eluwilussit Oh, come on... Re-mixing an original album is all about enhancing the overall sound which is already there in an objective way, perhaps correcting a supposed error or two. It is not about removing instruments and personel who did them on the grounds of subjective opinions, no matter how "sensible" they might appear. If you do that, at least you have to make sure that the original album is enclosed. Especially in a lavish box-set like this.
@@bengto.hansen7791I wholeheartedly agree with your take. I don't agree with removing instruments, but if they included a flat transfer of the original mixes on blu ray and or CD, it wouldn't be as much of an issue.
I recently managed to find used copies of the Peter Cobbin remixes of Mind Games, Walls and Bridges and Rock ‘n’ Roll so they are still available if you search. I got my copies through Discogs.
Congratulations on being gifted the deluxe Mind Games edition Andrew. This is my favorite John Lennon album with the title track being one of all time favorites from John. I have never liked the sound of it going back to the original CD but I grew to fully appreciate it after hearing Peter Cobbin’s 2002 remixes and that has been my go to CD when listening to this album. I am so happy to see this album get the deluxe treatment. Thanks for your honest review. Take care!
At that price, the secrets will stay hidden from many of us. Sean has learned the wrong lessons from the Harrison estate. Under yoko’s supervision, we got 2 affordable box sets. Luckily those 2 are arguably his best work. I’m bummed that I’ll be priced ou of an upcoming Walls & Bridges super deluxe. My favorite Lennon album. I can only imagine how much collectible material will be added if they are thinking about mirroring the original promotional campaign (all the “Listen to…” stickers etc) I had a great Mind Games bootleg once, the highlight was a take of One Day At a Time without the strained falsetto lead vocal. I can’t wait to hear the super deluxe mixes(unfortunately at the price point, I’m forced to find an alternative way to access the material) Great episode.
So happy to see Mind Games get the love and attention it deserves (with major assist from Parlogram)! Like all classic music it grows stronger each year from it's own inner beauty and strength. Each of John's solo releases has a clear sense of identity and coherence, even if a few songs aren't as memorable. Solo, Paul and Ringo made music for the glory of High Pop. George made music for the glory of Krishna. But John made music for his muse.
It is my favorite John Lennon album. I have the 2002 remix which sounds wonderful, but apparently I don’t like it that much to want all these different version of the same songs. It’s something I will listen to one time and it’ll collect dust on the shelf. I’ll just stream it and maybe maybe get the vinyl or the two CD disc version
It's weird how much Yoko appears on the artwork, even more so on this new version when this was the start of the lost weekend. It's one of the few John Lennon albums that she doesn't perform on.
@@jimjam51075 Her kid was also his kid, but what does it matter who appears on the artwork? Led Zeppelin had the image of a zeppelin on the cover of their first two albums yet I cannot find any reference to Zeppelins anywhere in their music??? Let's all write to Terry Wogan at Points Of View and complain.
18:24 - 18:52 - I was listening the comparison of different mixes of the CDs and I think P. Cobbin's 2002 Remix is the best sounding. I also like his Yellow Submarine remix. I have to get the 2002 remix. This box is out of my league for the moment. Thanks for the review.
In 1973 I was thirteen and my first Beatles albums were the brand-new red and blue ones. _Mind Games_ was my first Lennon album, and remains a firm favourite for that reason. Along with Red Rose Speedway, Living In The Material World and _Ringo,_ they were the soundtracks to my teenage years. I look forward to picking this set up eventually and reliving that period of my life.
I was 13 also. Mind Games was my first John Lennon album, and my first solo Beatles LP. I had already started collecting the Beatles’ albums, starting with Meet the Beatles.
The Beatles red and blue collections was the first thing I bought when I moved out of my parents house at 17 in 1975. I paid $7.00 for both of them. I already had both the Imagine and Mind Games albums. Lennon the only Beatle I wanted to listen to as a solo artist in those days.
I also was 13 in 1973 and this album was one of the first I ever bought, couldn't afford LP's yet just 45's. I do have the original Mind Games 45 picture sleeve, both single and album on : 🍏 Apple Records 🍏 ☮️❤️
I think I'll stick with the basic 2 cd edition. I don't see the point of having tons of versions of the same song. Also, I'm not really interested in hidden tricks or gimmicks. I'm really only interested in the music.
@@BugRib You are correct. The comparisons people make over here is based on peak limiting on a final master. Even more so, based on waveforms which aren't even normalised, so not representative at all. I have always loved the 2002 mix because there was no alternative, but that one is actually incredibly compressed and unnaturally EQ-ed. I can see the 2002 mix becoming the new "1999 Yellow Submarine OST": a mix which is over-compressed, poorly balanced, smothered in digital reverb and noise reduced to death, but which people suddenly love just because the more recent alternatives aren't perfect.
Mahalo for those precious seconds of comparison among those various version of "Mind Games!" I'm stunned! You've just sold me on this new set, Andrew! Aloha.
Great review! Looking forward to the remix! Ideally Mind Games would have come out last year and this year we would get Walls and Bridges but for some reason it is rare nowadays for reissues to come out in the year in which they should come out.
The Peter Cobbin 2002 remix sounded better to me than the new 2024 Ultimate Mix. For everything other than John's voice, I preferred the 2002 remix. But, I guess that's got to do with my own audio preference. I was planning on just getting the 2 CD set, but I'm interested in the Raw Studio Takes CD. And I really like the book. Decisions, decisions...
18:06 No, that *IS* brick walled. I'm happy you're happy but to me this release is scraping the barrel, clever ultra-violet gimmicks or not. Here's the mix as it was on monday. And here's the mix from one week later. And here's the mix from a week after that without the drums. Six CD's? Seriously? And that ultimate mix sounds muddy and compressed. It's like AI adding colour to B/W movies. Or adding a smart phone to the Mona Lisa because now everybody has one. Sometimes it's better to leave stuff alone.
Great video as always! As far as the sound comparisons on the track Mind Games, the '02 Peter Cobbin remix by a mile! The new one sounds like it's being played with the speaker buried under a pillow....yikes!
Thanks for sharing and comparing. Listening with some good headphones. Sadly the new version loses badly to the Cobbin mix. Which is quite sad considering all the extra bits offered in the box make it quite desirable.
I think Peter's mix is my favorite. The 2024 mix seems to kill some of the mid frequencies with some of the instruments. That said, the extra mixes are definitely gonna be super interesting to listen to!
Honest response here. I thought Peter Cobbin Mind Games sounded better to me...acknowledging I'm listening to it for five seconds, RUclips video on apple laptop...so take that for what it's worth. I also am just not excited by this album-never was really-and as a result I am skipping this one. But none of that takes away from how much I enjoy your videos, reviews, production and opinions! You do a wonderful job!
Same here, but as Andrew mentioned, I understand why they did it. If it's on Spotify or another streaming service, it won't be 'overwhelmed' by the music around it.
Thanks for the review. Honestly I think either the Raw Studio Mixes or the Elemental Mixes should have been the second disc in the 2CD and 2LP editions. Those seem like cooler bonuses than the outtakes. Also I think Elemental Mixes should have been just called Stripped Down mixes to be more in line with the 2010 Double Fantasy edition, and to differentiate it better from Elements mixes.....That said, I pre-ordered the 2lp and will stream the rest. Love that these big sets exist though. The ultimate mixes released so far have been stellar. Thank you, Sean Lennon.
Nice to see more John love and a little break from Paul related stuff. Cool they gifted you the set, I ordered mine a while ago and am looking forward to it on 7/12. As far as the “Lennon camp” is concerned, would’ve been cool if the offered a zoetrope vinyl of just the ultimate mix of the album. Mind Games is one of my favorite solo Lennon albums so this was a no brained purchase. I recall when the Plastic Ono Band ultimate set came out but never bought it (even though it was more reasonably priced compared to this) but thoroughly enjoyed streaming it and how the tracks broke down.
After watching this review I will certainly buy my own copy. A huge thanks goes out to Sean and his team. This is a fan of John’s, wish come true. Sean if you’re reading this, would you consider a box set for Rock and Roll. With its rich history and numerous songs recorded. This “lost weekend “ album deserves another chance. Lastly, it has been mentioned by Yoko. That during the recording of “Double Fantasy”, a film crew made a documentary. Is it a possibility that that film could be finished and released? Andrew, you are a godsend. Thank you for all that you do and know that I appreciate and always look forward to hearing from you.
@@josedealva4205 That's what he said in that God Is A Concept song. Doesn't believe in I Ching. Yoga, Mantra, Elvis. Zimmerman, or Yoko. I think he erased that one.
Hi, Andrew… la prima volta che ho ascoltato l’lp, avevo 21 anni, nel 1992, il mio vinile era del 1973, ed era un po’ usurato dal tempo. Questo disco l’ho amato immediatamente. Certo, la registrazione non era al top, la voce di John risultava soffocata dal mix dell’epoca. Ho acquistato successivamente, le ristampe…. Ma questa edizione è veramente superlativa. La voce è centrata, presente, le parole scorrono come un fiume in piena. Il mix è ottimo. In questo momento sono di fronte al mio impianto e sto gioiendo di questo momento. Best regards from Italy. Andrea.❤
Nice review. Mind Games is my favorite Lennon album and. I do worry that my two speaker, small stereo won’t do it justice. I’d like to see a remastering/with newly added musicians for some of John’s unreleased demos such as Illusions (not for love or money), Something’s Wrong, and others. Some of them might need finishing in terms of chorus, verse .
Thank you Andrew! I prefer the 2002 Cobbin mix when you played all four together. The new one sounds very deep and bassy. The Cobbin one had nice EQ highs.But in any case it will be good to hear this album all over again! Also, I can never understand why John never liked his own voice. It had a majestic crunch to it - you always knew it was John.
@@tubinonyou Why cds continue to be mastered this way... makes no sense. "Loudness wars"? Against who? Some ghost in an adjacent room who years ago forget what a volume knob is for?
Don't get fooled by a non-normalised waveform. Listen with your ears and hear how the mix completely opens up once it goes from the cluttered and harsh 2002 remix to the 2024 remix. The 2024 is far from perfect (for me way too boomy, the vocals slightly too loud, it misses midrange on the instruments), but "brickwalled" it is really not. It's actually much more dynamic and way less compressed than the 2002 mix, just listen to the drums alone.
Had this album on CASSETTE in the early 80s, and got the CD when it came out in '87 and listened the heck out of it!!! Always liked this album, considered it one of John's solo best. Thanks for this preview, and glad you were able to share some sound bites, as this new mix sounds AWESOME!!! And with all the other cool things it has, this box set just might have to end up in my collection!! (Have to wait and see the cost when it comes out!!) Thanks again, Andrew for all you do! Cheers and best wishes from your biggest fan in Boston, George B.!!!
As a thought, an article on Paul Hicks career might be an interesting subject after all, he has worked on some outstanding stuff. Also, an occasional look at engineering wizards such as Peter Mew, Geoff Emerick, Glyn Johns, Norman Smith, and Peter Cobbin, to name a few.
My thoughts on this album are that I didn’t like the sound quality on the original release but really enjoyed the 2002 Peter Cobbin remix which I only discovered recently. I don’t think I will furnish my shelves with further Mind Games media but I will take a listen to it on Qobuz. It seems like the production team have worked really hard to produce this box and they are to be congratulated. Thanks again Andrew for a great review, here’s to the next one!
The evolution documentaries (together with the full outtakes) are such a great idea. I really love the format. I wish the Beatles deluxe editions also included them.
This is the best and most accurate review I've seen on this incredible box set. Thank you so much for sharing your video and the hard work you've put into it.
Congrats on receiving the gift from the Lennon Estate. Nice to see! I have always loved this album and have numerous versions on CD, vinyl and cassette. My go-to version is the Cobbin version/mix but what I have heard of this new mix, I am excited to hear it in it's entirety. I really loved how you compared the different mixes, too. The fact that throughout this deluxe edition version we are hearing John's beautiful voice clearer is a welcome plus. So far, I love what Sean and Paul have done with these modern mixes in these classic albums. Cannot wait to get my copy. Excellent job on presenting this new set, Andrew. 🎵👍
Thank you for your always quality content but especially for your "Mind Games" sound quality comparison in this instance. I was surprised to find that I was partial to the 1989 CD. I will have to give this further exploration.
great review! I can't wait to pick this up I honestly prefer the Peter Cobbin mix. the new 2024 mix sounds really muffled to me,as if someone threw their speaker underneath their pillow or something lol
2002 seems to be the unanimous prefered mix, to which I wholeheartedly concur. And no doubt your video reviews will be thee number one resource for diehards. cheers Andrew, keep it up!
Hola !! Desde Argentina, muy fan de John, amé toda tu explicacion !!! espectacular y ese acento britanico acompañando la explicacion da gusto oirlo. Te felicito. gran video. gran disco
Perfektní video 👏👏✌️ Johna mám moc ráda, můj nejoblíbenější zpěvák,moc ráda poslouchám jeho hudbu ❤ Bohužel tady v České republice není taková možnost mít takový výběr CD jako v Americe, všechny Johnova alba znám, nejraději mám Double Fantasy,na toto album Mind Games jsem hodně zvědavá, určitě si ho strašně ráda poslechnu na Spotify, věřím, že tam určitě bude a budu mít srovnání s původním albem,moc se těším ✌️ Slyšela jsem už You Are Here a I Know s novým mixem z roku 2024 i s videoklipem, který jsem viděla poprvé a je to fantastické,na celé album jsem strašně zvědavá,moc děkuji Seanovi a Yoko za tuto úžasnou práci, mají můj velký obdiv a respekt 👏👏☮️✌️
Another great overview, Andrew. Mind Games b/w Meat City was the first 45 I ever bought for myself (age 6!) so I have a huge soft spot for this era. Just the little clip from it in comparison was revelatory! I’m hoping the better or more artistic mix choices will help me like the minor tracks (to me) better once I listen on July 12.
I like your comments and you look to be the best one to do it. I didn't listen to it now, but I Love this LP since his original release and I know I will Love it. Thanks for your opinion.
Once you see the cat sitting in the clouds on the cover you can never unsee it. Andrew, fantastic that the Lennon estate is now aware of your channel, well deserved. For me, Mind Games the song remains John’s finest solo song matching any of his best Beatles work. However on hearing the Mind Games album on its release in 73 did not consider it very good at all and my mind has not changed. The evolution mixes on the Mind Games song are exceptional though. BTW at 12.10 everythink should be pronounced everything. Keep up the great work.
Well, out of all the Walls And Bridges previews I've seen so far (3 of them) yours is by far the best out there with the detail of the hidden tracks and just the explanation of everything. Great Job!! 2 thumbs up!!🏆🏆
Been waiting for this review like a dog waiting for his late dinner, straining at the leash and my tongue hanging out. Great review and left me gagging for the release date. However, like many other people, it is unlikely I would be able to afford the super duper deluxe version so will have to make do. Personally I love stripped down and raw mixes so am gutted I won't get a copy of the raw mix version. I also love it when John lets his hair down and gets his rock on and have always been a huge fan of Meat City, so would love to hear the raw version of that. I will have to make do with whatever I can get, but thanks for a great review Andrew
I had that very same cheap Mind Games release from the 70’s. I loved the album and would play it all the way through not missing a track. Could not understand why and how this album was not more appreciated. The songs were super strong and it seemed like a strong number three in a trilogy of great Lennon releases. POB and Imagine being one and two. Sadly I’m just as broke now as I was as a child so won’t get to listen to all these mixes but thank you for a comprehensive breakdown of a box set so deserving to such a fine album.
Another fab video, Andrew. I noticed the lack of the reverb ending of Aisumasen (I’m sorry) in the recent video release. I’m also mystified as to why Sean would remove the saxophone at the end of One Day (At A Time). Artistic license is OK I suppose, but I concur, if John wanted it there originally and it wasn’t something that caused an annoyance, why take it out? I do hope Sean gives an answer if he sees your video. It’s a very valid question. Having said that, I’m looking forward to getting my set in a couple of weeks. I always felt that the production/mix of the album let it down. Kind of seems like John was making as “mono” as possible a mix in stereo format, but it just took away the album’s apparent sonic vibrancy. I’ve been listening to the 2002 mix from the moment I purchased it 22 years ago because I just can’t with the 1973 mix. Bring on the Walls and Bridges set! Seems the most likely one to be given this treatment next.
I'm sure you get video suggestions all of the time so forgive me, but I just sat down and started listening to the John Lennon Anthology for the first time in over 15 years. The songs in this box set are as raw as they can be and sound amazing. To me anyway. This box set was the first time I'd ever heard any John Lennon solo music outside of the John Lennon Collection and it blew my mind. I remember patiently waiting for "Oh My Love" to buffer over a 14.4K modem in what must have been a very early implmentation of streaming technology. It's almost incomprehensible these days. If you covered the John Lennon Anthology already I don't see it but I know you would shine a light on it like no one else.
Thanks for the review, Andrew: always look for to your new videos and valuable information'. I've never cared much for this album, more so for the songs than the mix. I'll wait for Walls & Bridges.
Thank you for the deep dive review, excellent job as always! As far as the mixes go the Peter Cobbin mix is still superior to these ears. I don’t understand why the new mix needs to complete with modern music though in this instance. This set is for the hardcore fan playing it on a decent setup not a younger person playing it on ear buds while zipping around the city. I need to hear it on my system though to know for sure. I’ve had sets like this in the past that included all known mixes available and that would have been really nice here as well. Can’t wait to get my copy though as there is so much more contained within that more than makes up for a potentially brick wall-ish sound the ultimate mix appears to have.
Another fun one Andrew! Love seeing your face light up when you believe in something. That 4th example seemed to have embodied everything from the first 3 to me…plus a little hammering of frequencies. I’ve always loved this album. I’ll be anxious to hear it up close and personal. Packaging looks great. Cool concepts abound and of course the outtakes and stripped down mixes. Can’t wait! Until next time, thanks again for this time!
Michael Brecker was one of the greatest saxophonists of all time, although at the time Mind Games was recorded he was mainly still a session musician. In retrospect it is a high honor that he graced Mind Games, and his removal from this mix is completely baffling and somewhat insulting.
I am 6 years elder Beatles collector and recall in 1975 at my local record shop I was looking at John Lennon albums and was deciding on which one to buy well I chose Mind Games. The other John Lennon album was a used/new copy of John Lennon RocknRoll Roots on Adam VIII. Ahhh. I Later found out how rare this album is now.Rats well did not know at that time. After hearing your review of this new reissue i will look into which reissue version to pick to add to my collection. It is too bad to read the negative comments about the coming reissue. I personally enjoy all version of Beatle / solo tracks. To me it is another way to hear the great music I grew up with. I like the 2024 remix so far. Great picture of you with your bike. I have a picture just like yours with my bike poss in 1975. I rode my new bike every weekend to the record store to purchase my LP's.Keep up the great work on your post. Always look forward to new ones.
I didn't know the Peter Cobbin mix, it sounds very good! I really look forward to see some Menlove Av. reamster or remix, it really is a forgotten album :(
20:00 it sure will!!! cant wait to listen to it! but my favorite version will always be the 80s... my dad was his fan and i am too since forever; i met the beatles when 5 told you the story ;) im so fonded to that sound but, ill listen to it anyway. talking about the Lennon State, how we should consider -Lennon Acoustic-? thanks! the video was FANTASTIC!!!
Thanks for this comprehensive review, Andrew. It's annoying that I have to wait another nearly two weeks to hear the set for myself, but I appreciate the information, especially about the hidden tracks. I'm not completely sanguine about having to hope that my Blu-Ray player can access those tracks; I thought we'd done away with such nonsense when they used to do it on CDs in the 90s. But we'll see. Not sure if I want to bother to invest in the "ultra-violence" - er, ultraviolet light, either. But again, having the information is very useful. You have provided an important service to us fans!
Hey Andrew, As usual, I thoroughly enjoyed this episode. Thanks for the in-depth look at the new box. From the examples you shared, I preferred the 2002 mix. - Roger
From this video presentation, the 2002 Peter Cobbin Mix sounds like the best one on my audio system. The original one in 1987 always has value as it was the "first one" and we remember the sound of that first release.
Peter cobbin mix is the best,this being my favourite john Lennon album, first got this on tape on mpm back in late 1970's and still have it played it constantly when I was young .Bought it a couple of times on CD ,but to my dismay never owned it on vynal. Keep up with good work 👍.
Finally got round to watching your video Andrew. I love this album. Ive always felt the Imagine and Double Fantasy albums have been given a lot of attention over the years and I first heard this over 20 years ago on the 87 cd I loved every second of it! Still do! Out The Blue is one of my favourite John songs. Gerry Raffertys version is great as well and you can tell a lot of live went into that version. I think the shaved fish version of mind games sounds the best, nice soft sound. I enjoyed the 2002 remix but it’s very loud and harsh, as I’m this current version to be also. I’ll stick with my 2010 remaster as I always go back to original mixes over remixes. I’ll get the two disc version when the price drops in a few months.
Andrew, great insight into an album which, honestly, I never thought about much. My mistake. Great music with what sounds like an awesome mix. Looking forward to more content from you and the Lennon estate.
I prefer the Cobbins mix alas I've never come across on cd. I will buy the 2 cd edition and the set like what you feature are very nice but will wait for Walls & Bridges for these type sets.
Wow this is the best review I've watched - so much wonderful stuff in this box set. And as for the new sound, what a joy! That clip from the title track really does John's vocal justice.
This looks like a great boxed set. I'm probably going to pass on getting it, but I am looking forward to hearing the new remix on Apple Music when its released. Great review, and thanks for sharing.
Thank you enjoyed your review immensely. I was going to go for the vinyl but I think your caution regarding the quality of pressing is helpful. I will maybe wait and see what people say about it ! The box sounds great and I am tempted to just go for it. One thing I have a vinyl mobile fidelity album I bought new years ago and no one seems to mention it. The mix of the song mind games was very different! I also have the Peter Conan mix and it is I think outstanding - the new mix sounds pretty in your face !
Mind Games has such a magic sound to it that buying a lovingly remixed and remastered compilation is a no brainer. Listening to each component laid bare shows that it wasn't just ahead of its time, it is timeless.
6 месяцев назад+1
I AGREE, the 2002 version has a much more clear sound, I even like the original 1973 mix because I remember getting it when it came out then, and like on all of John's early solo records, the sound he gave them had character you could hear. I do have one good bootleg CD that I bought maybe 20 years ago, it sounds really good of alternate takes and mixes from the album.
I couldn’t agree with you more. I LOVE what Sean has done (Aisemasen & One Day At a Times odd edits are the only puzzle but not important enough to complain about) I bought the original when it came out and although I loved the record felt, as you do, that it sounded very dull and boring. Sean has made this record a BRAND NEW RELEASE for the world to enjoy. There is SO much to enjoy about this set that you keep discovering.
Stellar job, as always, Andrew! Thanks for all your hard work! I'm 2 weeks late to the party, but I did want to experience the box with my own two eyes and ears before watching this video. I am stunned at how much this box changed my opinion of this album from something I liked in places and not so much in others to an essential piece of the Lennon artistic canon. You hit every nail on the head with your assessment of each disc. I found myself completely absorbed in disc 2 and totally in love with disc 5. I was totally intrigued when the song Mind Games on disc 3 turned into Whiter Shade Of Pale right before my very ears. To me, the only fly in the ointment on this album remains Aisumasen. I just have never liked it and no iteration included here changed that opinion. I did like the Lennon Collection mastering the best pre-remixes. There just isn't much that can be done with the original cd or lp. The Blu-Ray discs won't read on my computer drive (an issue I had with several of the Beatles Blu-Ray audio discs), so I have to hook up my standalone Blu-Ray player to experience those discs. I guess I need to invest in a UV light too. Last thing: I'm glad the Lennon estate chose uniformity in the boxes. It's frustrating when anyone switches sizes from release to release on catalog.
Sean is such a talented guitarist, and I love his work with Les Claypool. I know some people are going to knock all the various incarnations of this "set" but I think it's a lot better proposition for fans to find a middle ground for their purchases. How often is there only the choice between the "standard" CD and the ultra-kick ass domination deluxe mega-edition remix limited to 723?
This was a great review, especially since I am such a huge fan of the Peter Cobbin remix from 2002. Your conclusion these new ultra remixes actually improve upon Mr. Cobbin’s work is very exciting and I’m looking forward to hearing them on July 12. You asked us to let you know what future Lennon releases we are looking forward to, to me, it remains “Sometime in New York City, which is my favorite John Lennon album. I was so disappointed the box set was pulled after the announcement it was the next release. Was there ever a reason given as to why this happened?
A first listen to any Beatles or solo Beatles box sets its interesting and fascinating. Then it sits on the shelf. How often do you pull it out and play the other mixes...I would have love to see another disc with just John's voice only and contemporary artist adding new music making it sound like 2024 in Paul's song title..that would be something.. I'll buy 2cd. Yoko's the mountain on.the.cover in the video in pages of the book..can't we have a lennon album without yoko for once ? That leaves walls & Bridges and Rock and Roll. .
From the title track examples alone, I can say I still prefer Peters mix. It feels open and bright, whereas what you played sounds ok and certainly better than the original, but that brick wall…let’s say it for what it is here. That said, I’m quite happy to be proven wrong and I’m excited to hear the whole thing! It HAS raised one interesting question: does the inclusion of “I’m The Greatest” mean definitively that Ringo cares not a jot about deluxe editions? It certainly appears that way, sadly. Thanks Andrew for your honest and fun review!
Best review of this set thus far! And I have watched quite a few! They never really focus on the actual music! Just playing that little sample of the mind games raw mix has me wanting to get this set now! Great job as usual!
Really enjoyed your review of this box set. I have been looking forward to this set since Sean announced its release date. The Lennon camp turns out such great sets, I am always happy with the outcome. My order consists of this box set, the 2 album set and the regular CD . now all I need is the blue torch lite and the games can begin. Take care!
Thank you for the in depth discussion. (For me, sound is everything -- so I'm sticking with the previous remix.) G'day and thanks again for another well-produced session.
I loved this review, it's great and it's good that Sean and his team have given permission to use a bit of their material. Keep up with your reviews, we love them. Greetings from Mexico City.
The original CD sounds great to me, also is one of the first Lennon CD I bought so I have great memories discovering his music through that CD collection.
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By removing that sax at the end of One Day + the echo effect at the end of Aisumasen, Sean has unfortunately broken the unwritten rule no. 1 when doing a remix of an album: You are not supposed to remove anything. If you do so, you're just going to risk upsetting a lot of people - mainly the actual customers. Sean's or anyone else's opinion on that sax ending is simply irrelevant. He wasn't even born in 1973, and putting a sax on the tail end of that song was just the 1973-way of doing that sort of stuff! And it was John's choice to do it. Enough said.
that "unwritten rule" you mentioned lives only in your head and nowhere else...
Absolutely ridiculous that he did that. I want a remix of the original recording not a reimagining.
@@Eluwilussit Oh, come on... Re-mixing an original album is all about enhancing the overall sound which is already there in an objective way, perhaps correcting a supposed error or two. It is not about removing instruments and personel who did them on the grounds of subjective opinions, no matter how "sensible" they might appear. If you do that, at least you have to make sure that the original album is enclosed. Especially in a lavish box-set like this.
@@bengto.hansen7791I wholeheartedly agree with your take. I don't agree with removing instruments, but if they included a flat transfer of the original mixes on blu ray and or CD, it wouldn't be as much of an issue.
It’s a remix, not a remaster. Remixes can replace all instrumentation entirely if they want to.
That Peter Cobbin mix was the best mind games I’ve ever heard. 2024 mix is still great though but 2002 for me sounds so cool. I wish I had those cds
Soft spot for the Cobbin mix here as well!
Las remezclas que se hicieron desde el 2000 hasta el 2004, me parece que son las mejores,y lamentablemente, están descatalogadas.
The 2024 mix sounds like there's no treble at all. Sounds like it's under water. 2002 for me.
Cobbinjx and 2024 way to go
I recently managed to find used copies of the Peter Cobbin remixes of Mind Games, Walls and Bridges and Rock ‘n’ Roll so they are still available if you search. I got my copies through Discogs.
Congratulations on being gifted the deluxe Mind Games edition Andrew. This is my favorite John Lennon album with the title track being one of all time favorites from John. I have never liked the sound of it going back to the original CD but I grew to fully appreciate it after hearing Peter Cobbin’s 2002 remixes and that has been my go to CD when listening to this album. I am so happy to see this album get the deluxe treatment. Thanks for your honest review. Take care!
Thanks Bill. The new mix is a big improvement over the original but the 2002 was good.
At that price, the secrets will stay hidden from many of us. Sean has learned the wrong lessons from the Harrison estate.
Under yoko’s supervision, we got 2 affordable box sets. Luckily those 2 are arguably his best work.
I’m bummed that I’ll be priced ou of an upcoming Walls & Bridges super deluxe. My favorite Lennon album. I can only imagine how much collectible material will be added if they are thinking about mirroring the original promotional campaign (all the “Listen to…” stickers etc)
I had a great Mind Games bootleg once, the highlight was a take of One Day At a Time without the strained falsetto lead vocal.
I can’t wait to hear the super deluxe mixes(unfortunately at the price point, I’m forced to find an alternative way to access the material)
Great episode.
So happy to see Mind Games get the love and attention it deserves (with major assist from Parlogram)! Like all classic music it grows stronger each year from it's own inner beauty and strength. Each of John's solo releases has a clear sense of identity and coherence, even if a few songs aren't as memorable. Solo, Paul and Ringo made music for the glory of High Pop. George made music for the glory of Krishna. But John made music for his muse.
The Peter Cobbin 2002 mix is by far the best. Excellent work, Peter!
I agree 🤟
Oh dear. I always liked that sax outro. I can hear it in my mind now...
It is my favorite John Lennon album. I have the 2002 remix which sounds wonderful, but apparently I don’t like it that much to want all these different version of the same songs. It’s something I will listen to one time and it’ll collect dust on the shelf. I’ll just stream it and maybe maybe get the vinyl or the two CD disc version
That 2024 Mix almost sounds like a parody of bass boosted RUclips videos. Literally sounds muffled.
Sounds muddy.
The amount of bass is comical. Terrible.
It's weird how much Yoko appears on the artwork, even more so on this new version when this was the start of the lost weekend. It's one of the few John Lennon albums that she doesn't perform on.
Will May Pang be involved on Walls and Bridges next release?
Her kid put the project together, so it's to be expected.
Yes, I had the same thought, Aparently Sean is trying ti re-write history.
@@jimjam51075 Her kid was also his kid, but what does it matter who appears on the artwork? Led Zeppelin had the image of a zeppelin on the cover of their first two albums yet I cannot find any reference to Zeppelins anywhere in their music??? Let's all write to Terry Wogan at Points Of View and complain.
@@KebabMusicLtd I make an obvious and neutral observation and you leave the "No Yoko - yay!!!!" guy alone.
The Peter Cobbin mix rocks! It is best of all four samples that you played. They're supposed to improve on the sound, not regress.
18:24 - 18:52 - I was listening the comparison of different mixes of the CDs and I think P. Cobbin's 2002 Remix is the best sounding. I also like his Yellow Submarine remix.
I have to get the 2002 remix. This box is out of my league for the moment. Thanks for the review.
In 1973 I was thirteen and my first Beatles albums were the brand-new red and blue ones. _Mind Games_ was my first Lennon album, and remains a firm favourite for that reason. Along with Red Rose Speedway, Living In The Material World and _Ringo,_ they were the soundtracks to my teenage years. I look forward to picking this set up eventually and reliving that period of my life.
I share a similar musical experience
I was 13 also. Mind Games was my first John Lennon album, and my first solo Beatles LP. I had already started collecting the Beatles’ albums, starting with Meet the Beatles.
Same here as well, except my first Lennon album was Imagine, but close enough LOL
The Beatles red and blue collections was the first thing I bought when I moved out of my parents house at 17 in 1975. I paid $7.00 for both of them. I already had both the Imagine and Mind Games albums. Lennon the only Beatle I wanted to listen to as a solo artist in those days.
I also was 13 in 1973 and this album was one of the first I ever bought, couldn't afford LP's yet just 45's. I do have the original Mind Games 45 picture sleeve, both single and album on :
🍏 Apple Records 🍏
☮️❤️
Great Video Andrew. Love it! Very excited to stream this one!
Thank God they dialed the top end back!!!! So beautiful! Thank you, Andrew!
2002 mix is the winner, thanks I just saved myself some money for vacation time this summer.
Damn, opinions can vary wildly! I thought the 2024 mix sounded so much more alive than any other, without sounding annoyingly "modern"!
@@BugRib wait another six or seven years and they will remaster it again with a super super deluxe edition. 😆
I think I'll stick with the basic 2 cd edition. I don't see the point of having tons of versions of the same song. Also, I'm not really interested in hidden tricks or gimmicks. I'm really only interested in the music.
@@BugRib You are correct. The comparisons people make over here is based on peak limiting on a final master. Even more so, based on waveforms which aren't even normalised, so not representative at all. I have always loved the 2002 mix because there was no alternative, but that one is actually incredibly compressed and unnaturally EQ-ed. I can see the 2002 mix becoming the new "1999 Yellow Submarine OST": a mix which is over-compressed, poorly balanced, smothered in digital reverb and noise reduced to death, but which people suddenly love just because the more recent alternatives aren't perfect.
Mahalo for those precious seconds of comparison among those various version of "Mind Games!" I'm stunned! You've just sold me on this new set, Andrew! Aloha.
Great review! Looking forward to the remix! Ideally Mind Games would have come out last year and this year we would get Walls and Bridges but for some reason it is rare nowadays for reissues to come out in the year in which they should come out.
The Peter Cobbin 2002 remix sounded better to me than the new 2024 Ultimate Mix. For everything other than John's voice, I preferred the 2002 remix. But, I guess that's got to do with my own audio preference. I was planning on just getting the 2 CD set, but I'm interested in the Raw Studio Takes CD. And I really like the book. Decisions, decisions...
I prefer Cobbin's. Great video, Andrew ❤
18:06 No, that *IS* brick walled. I'm happy you're happy but to me this release is scraping the barrel, clever ultra-violet gimmicks or not. Here's the mix as it was on monday. And here's the mix from one week later. And here's the mix from a week after that without the drums. Six CD's? Seriously? And that ultimate mix sounds muddy and compressed. It's like AI adding colour to B/W movies. Or adding a smart phone to the Mona Lisa because now everybody has one. Sometimes it's better to leave stuff alone.
The atmos Blu-ray’s have a solid DR of 11-12. nothing brick walled
Perhaps the best Beatles info channel on RUclips
Thank you!
Great video as always! As far as the sound comparisons on the track Mind Games, the '02 Peter Cobbin remix by a mile! The new one sounds like it's being played with the speaker buried under a pillow....yikes!
Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for your input on the comparisons.
Thanks for sharing and comparing. Listening with some good headphones. Sadly the new version loses badly to the Cobbin mix. Which is quite sad considering all the extra bits offered in the box make it quite desirable.
The Peter Cobbin mix is the best. No need to mess with the album again.
I think Peter's mix is my favorite. The 2024 mix seems to kill some of the mid frequencies with some of the instruments. That said, the extra mixes are definitely gonna be super interesting to listen to!
Honest response here. I thought Peter Cobbin Mind Games sounded better to me...acknowledging I'm listening to it for five seconds, RUclips video on apple laptop...so take that for what it's worth. I also am just not excited by this album-never was really-and as a result I am skipping this one. But none of that takes away from how much I enjoy your videos, reviews, production and opinions! You do a wonderful job!
Same here, but as Andrew mentioned, I understand why they did it. If it's on Spotify or another streaming service, it won't be 'overwhelmed' by the music around it.
Thanks for the review. Honestly I think either the Raw Studio Mixes or the Elemental Mixes should have been the second disc in the 2CD and 2LP editions. Those seem like cooler bonuses than the outtakes. Also I think Elemental Mixes should have been just called Stripped Down mixes to be more in line with the 2010 Double Fantasy edition, and to differentiate it better from Elements mixes.....That said, I pre-ordered the 2lp and will stream the rest. Love that these big sets exist though. The ultimate mixes released so far have been stellar. Thank you, Sean Lennon.
Nice to see more John love and a little break from Paul related stuff. Cool they gifted you the set, I ordered mine a while ago and am looking forward to it on 7/12. As far as the “Lennon camp” is concerned, would’ve been cool if the offered a zoetrope vinyl of just the ultimate mix of the album. Mind Games is one of my favorite solo Lennon albums so this was a no brained purchase. I recall when the Plastic Ono Band ultimate set came out but never bought it (even though it was more reasonably priced compared to this) but thoroughly enjoyed streaming it and how the tracks broke down.
Hope you enjoy your set, Steve!
After watching this review I will certainly buy my own copy. A huge thanks goes out to Sean and his team. This is a fan of John’s, wish come true.
Sean if you’re reading this, would you consider a box set for Rock and Roll. With its rich history and numerous songs recorded. This “lost weekend “ album deserves another chance. Lastly, it has been mentioned by Yoko. That during the recording of “Double Fantasy”, a film crew made a documentary. Is it a possibility that that film could be finished and released?
Andrew, you are a godsend. Thank you for all that you do and know that I appreciate and always look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you Andrew. Fantastic and as always, clearly a well informed and balanced review. Can’t wait for mine to arrive.
I was under the impression that John did not believe in I Ching.
He probably agreed with it on the Friday and didn’t agree with it anymore on the Monday.
@Jose No, just in Me, Yoko and Me…
@@josedealva4205 That's what he said in that God Is A Concept song. Doesn't believe in I Ching. Yoga, Mantra, Elvis. Zimmerman, or Yoko. I think he erased that one.
Hi, Andrew… la prima volta che ho ascoltato l’lp, avevo 21 anni, nel 1992, il mio vinile era del 1973, ed era un po’ usurato dal tempo. Questo disco l’ho amato immediatamente. Certo, la registrazione non era al top, la voce di John risultava soffocata dal mix dell’epoca. Ho acquistato successivamente, le ristampe…. Ma questa edizione è veramente superlativa. La voce è centrata, presente, le parole scorrono come un fiume in piena. Il mix è ottimo. In questo momento sono di fronte al mio impianto e sto gioiendo di questo momento. Best regards from Italy. Andrea.❤
Nice review. Mind Games is my favorite Lennon album and. I do worry that my two speaker, small stereo won’t do it justice.
I’d like to see a remastering/with newly added musicians for some of John’s unreleased demos such as Illusions (not for love or money), Something’s Wrong, and others. Some of them might need finishing in terms of chorus, verse .
Thank you Andrew! I prefer the 2002 Cobbin mix when you played all four together. The new one sounds very deep and bassy. The Cobbin one had nice EQ highs.But in any case it will be good to hear this album all over again! Also, I can never understand why John never liked his own voice. It had a majestic crunch to it - you always knew it was John.
Excellent review. I'll be getting my order in. I always loved Mind Games, so this is an important release for me.
The variety of textures in the kislux pack is impressive. From smooth leather to textured suede, there's something for everyone.
That wav you showed of the 2024 mix is the very definition of brickwalled. Dear Lord.
"Music is mixed that way today"... Tragic! The 1980's discs sound so much better.
Over compressed as well and you can even see the highs being clipped.
@@tubinonyou Why cds continue to be mastered this way... makes no sense. "Loudness wars"? Against who? Some ghost in an adjacent room who years ago forget what a volume knob is for?
Don't get fooled by a non-normalised waveform. Listen with your ears and hear how the mix completely opens up once it goes from the cluttered and harsh 2002 remix to the 2024 remix. The 2024 is far from perfect (for me way too boomy, the vocals slightly too loud, it misses midrange on the instruments), but "brickwalled" it is really not. It's actually much more dynamic and way less compressed than the 2002 mix, just listen to the drums alone.
Had this album on CASSETTE in the early 80s, and got the CD when it came out in '87 and listened the heck out of it!!! Always liked this album, considered it one of John's solo best. Thanks for this preview, and glad you were able to share some sound bites, as this new mix sounds AWESOME!!! And with all the other cool things it has, this box set just might have to end up in my collection!! (Have to wait and see the cost when it comes out!!) Thanks again, Andrew for all you do! Cheers and best wishes from your biggest fan in Boston, George B.!!!
Cheers George! Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks Andrew. Very much appreciated !
As a thought, an article on Paul Hicks career might be an interesting subject after all, he has worked on some outstanding stuff. Also, an occasional look at engineering wizards such as Peter Mew, Geoff Emerick, Glyn Johns, Norman Smith, and Peter Cobbin, to name a few.
My thoughts on this album are that I didn’t like the sound quality on the original release but really enjoyed the 2002 Peter Cobbin remix which I only discovered recently. I don’t think I will furnish my shelves with further Mind Games media but I will take a listen to it on Qobuz. It seems like the production team have worked really hard to produce this box and they are to be congratulated. Thanks again Andrew for a great review, here’s to the next one!
The evolution documentaries (together with the full outtakes) are such a great idea. I really love the format. I wish the Beatles deluxe editions also included them.
This is the best and most accurate review I've seen on this incredible box set. Thank you so much for sharing your video and the hard work you've put into it.
Thank you kindly!
Congrats on receiving the gift from the Lennon Estate. Nice to see! I have always loved this album and have numerous versions on CD, vinyl and cassette. My go-to version is the Cobbin version/mix but what I have heard of this new mix, I am excited to hear it in it's entirety. I really loved how you compared the different mixes, too. The fact that throughout this deluxe edition version we are hearing John's beautiful voice clearer is a welcome plus. So far, I love what Sean and Paul have done with these modern mixes in these classic albums. Cannot wait to get my copy. Excellent job on presenting this new set, Andrew. 🎵👍
Thanks Anthony 👍
@@Parlogram You're welcome.
Thank you for your always quality content but especially for your "Mind Games" sound quality comparison in this instance. I was surprised to find that I was partial to the 1989 CD. I will have to give this further exploration.
great review! I can't wait to pick this up
I honestly prefer the Peter Cobbin mix. the new 2024 mix sounds really muffled to me,as if someone threw their speaker underneath their pillow or something lol
2002 seems to be the unanimous prefered mix, to which I wholeheartedly concur. And no doubt your video reviews will be thee number one resource for diehards. cheers Andrew, keep it up!
Hola !! Desde Argentina, muy fan de John, amé toda tu explicacion !!! espectacular y ese acento britanico acompañando la explicacion da gusto oirlo. Te felicito. gran video. gran disco
Great video review and a fantastic looking set. But to my ears, I preferred the 2002 mix from the samples played.
Great review. I’ve won a couple of tickets to the Dolby Atmos playing on 11th Soho. Can’t wait a
Perfektní video 👏👏✌️ Johna mám moc ráda, můj nejoblíbenější zpěvák,moc ráda poslouchám jeho hudbu ❤ Bohužel tady v České republice není taková možnost mít takový výběr CD jako v Americe, všechny Johnova alba znám, nejraději mám Double Fantasy,na toto album Mind Games jsem hodně zvědavá, určitě si ho strašně ráda poslechnu na Spotify, věřím, že tam určitě bude a budu mít srovnání s původním albem,moc se těším ✌️ Slyšela jsem už You Are Here a I Know s novým mixem z roku 2024 i s videoklipem, který jsem viděla poprvé a je to fantastické,na celé album jsem strašně zvědavá,moc děkuji Seanovi a Yoko za tuto úžasnou práci, mají můj velký obdiv a respekt 👏👏☮️✌️
Another great overview, Andrew. Mind Games b/w Meat City was the first 45 I ever bought for myself (age 6!) so I have a huge soft spot for this era. Just the little clip from it in comparison was revelatory! I’m hoping the better or more artistic mix choices will help me like the minor tracks (to me) better once I listen on July 12.
I like your comments and you look to be the best one to do it. I didn't listen to it now, but I Love this LP since his original release and I know I will Love it. Thanks for your opinion.
Once you see the cat sitting in the clouds on the cover you can never unsee it.
Andrew, fantastic that the Lennon estate is now aware of your channel, well deserved.
For me, Mind Games the song remains John’s finest solo song matching any of his best Beatles work. However on hearing the Mind Games album on its release in 73 did not consider it very good at all and my mind has not changed. The evolution mixes on the Mind Games song are exceptional though.
BTW at 12.10 everythink should be pronounced everything.
Keep up the great work.
Well, out of all the Walls And Bridges previews I've seen so far (3 of them) yours is by far the best out there with the detail of the hidden tracks and just the explanation of everything. Great Job!! 2 thumbs up!!🏆🏆
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks, Andrew, for another very informative video. I will definitely get the new double album. Till next time. Nelio.
Thanks Nelio!
Been waiting for this review like a dog waiting for his late dinner, straining at the leash and my tongue hanging out. Great review and left me gagging for the release date. However, like many other people, it is unlikely I would be able to afford the super duper deluxe version so will have to make do. Personally I love stripped down and raw mixes so am gutted I won't get a copy of the raw mix version. I also love it when John lets his hair down and gets his rock on and have always been a huge fan of Meat City, so would love to hear the raw version of that. I will have to make do with whatever I can get, but thanks for a great review Andrew
I had that very same cheap Mind Games release from the 70’s. I loved the album and would play it all the way through not missing a track. Could not understand why and how this album was not more appreciated. The songs were super strong and it seemed like a strong number three in a trilogy of great Lennon releases. POB and Imagine being one and two. Sadly I’m just as broke now as I was as a child so won’t get to listen to all these mixes but thank you for a comprehensive breakdown of a box set so deserving to such a fine album.
Love this review !! Thank you for this gem of a video
Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it!
Another fab video, Andrew. I noticed the lack of the reverb ending of Aisumasen (I’m sorry) in the recent video release. I’m also mystified as to why Sean would remove the saxophone at the end of One Day (At A Time). Artistic license is OK I suppose, but I concur, if John wanted it there originally and it wasn’t something that caused an annoyance, why take it out? I do hope Sean gives an answer if he sees your video. It’s a very valid question. Having said that, I’m looking forward to getting my set in a couple of weeks. I always felt that the production/mix of the album let it down. Kind of seems like John was making as “mono” as possible a mix in stereo format, but it just took away the album’s apparent sonic vibrancy. I’ve been listening to the 2002 mix from the moment I purchased it 22 years ago because I just can’t with the 1973 mix.
Bring on the Walls and Bridges set! Seems the most likely one to be given this treatment next.
That section of the raw mix of "Mind Games" you played is amazing. I was walking across the room and stopped in my tracks when I heard it.
I'm sure you get video suggestions all of the time so forgive me, but I just sat down and started listening to the John Lennon Anthology for the first time in over 15 years. The songs in this box set are as raw as they can be and sound amazing. To me anyway. This box set was the first time I'd ever heard any John Lennon solo music outside of the John Lennon Collection and it blew my mind. I remember patiently waiting for "Oh My Love" to buffer over a 14.4K modem in what must have been a very early implmentation of streaming technology. It's almost incomprehensible these days. If you covered the John Lennon Anthology already I don't see it but I know you would shine a light on it like no one else.
Thanks for the review, Andrew: always look for to your new videos and valuable information'. I've never cared much for this album, more so for the songs than the mix. I'll wait for Walls & Bridges.
Thank you for the deep dive review, excellent job as always! As far as the mixes go the Peter Cobbin mix is still superior to these ears. I don’t understand why the new mix needs to complete with modern music though in this instance. This set is for the hardcore fan playing it on a decent setup not a younger person playing it on ear buds while zipping around the city. I need to hear it on my system though to know for sure. I’ve had sets like this in the past that included all known mixes available and that would have been really nice here as well. Can’t wait to get my copy though as there is so much more contained within that more than makes up for a potentially brick wall-ish sound the ultimate mix appears to have.
Another fun one Andrew! Love seeing your face light up when you believe in something.
That 4th example seemed to have embodied everything from the first 3 to me…plus a little hammering of frequencies.
I’ve always loved this album. I’ll be anxious to hear it up close and personal. Packaging looks great. Cool concepts abound and of course the outtakes and stripped down mixes. Can’t wait!
Until next time, thanks again for this time!
Cheers Brian. Hope you enjoy yours!
Michael Brecker was one of the greatest saxophonists of all time, although at the time Mind Games was recorded he was mainly still a session musician. In retrospect it is a high honor that he graced Mind Games, and his removal from this mix is completely baffling and somewhat insulting.
I am 6 years elder Beatles collector and recall in 1975 at my local record shop I was looking at John Lennon albums and was deciding on which one to buy well I chose Mind Games. The other John Lennon album was a used/new copy of John Lennon RocknRoll Roots on Adam VIII. Ahhh. I Later found out how rare this album is now.Rats well did not know at that time. After hearing your review of this new reissue i will look into which reissue version to pick to add to my collection. It is too bad to read the negative comments about the coming reissue. I personally enjoy all version of Beatle / solo tracks. To me it is another way to hear the great music I grew up with. I like the 2024 remix so far. Great picture of you with your bike. I have a picture just like yours with my bike poss in 1975. I rode my new bike every weekend to the record store to purchase my LP's.Keep up the great work on your post. Always look forward to new ones.
I didn't know the Peter Cobbin mix, it sounds very good! I really look forward to see some Menlove Av. reamster or remix, it really is a forgotten album :(
20:00 it sure will!!! cant wait to listen to it! but my favorite version will always be the 80s... my dad was his fan and i am too since forever; i met the beatles when 5 told you the story ;) im so fonded to that sound but, ill listen to it anyway. talking about the Lennon State, how we should consider -Lennon Acoustic-?
thanks! the video was FANTASTIC!!!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks for this comprehensive review, Andrew. It's annoying that I have to wait another nearly two weeks to hear the set for myself, but I appreciate the information, especially about the hidden tracks. I'm not completely sanguine about having to hope that my Blu-Ray player can access those tracks; I thought we'd done away with such nonsense when they used to do it on CDs in the 90s. But we'll see. Not sure if I want to bother to invest in the "ultra-violence" - er, ultraviolet light, either. But again, having the information is very useful. You have provided an important service to us fans!
Hey Andrew, As usual, I thoroughly enjoyed this episode. Thanks for the in-depth look at the new box. From the examples you shared, I preferred the 2002 mix. - Roger
From this video presentation, the 2002 Peter Cobbin Mix sounds like the best one on my audio system. The original one in 1987 always has value as it was the "first one" and we remember the sound of that first release.
Hi Andrew, thanks again for this very entertaing video. Cheers Fred
Glad you enjoyed it, Fred!
Peter cobbin mix is the best,this being my favourite john Lennon album, first got this on tape on mpm back in late 1970's and still have it played it constantly when I was young .Bought it a couple of times on CD ,but to my dismay never owned it on vynal. Keep up with good work 👍.
Finally got round to watching your video Andrew.
I love this album.
Ive always felt the Imagine and Double Fantasy albums have been given a lot of attention over the years and I first heard this over 20 years ago on the 87 cd I loved every second of it! Still do! Out The Blue is one of my favourite John songs. Gerry Raffertys version is great as well and you can tell a lot of live went into that version.
I think the shaved fish version of mind games sounds the best, nice soft sound. I enjoyed the 2002 remix but it’s very loud and harsh, as I’m this current version to be also.
I’ll stick with my 2010 remaster as I always go back to original mixes over remixes. I’ll get the two disc version when the price drops in a few months.
Andrew, great insight into an album which, honestly, I never thought about much. My mistake. Great music with what sounds like an awesome mix. Looking forward to more content from you and the Lennon estate.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I prefer the Cobbins mix alas I've never come across on cd. I will buy the 2 cd edition and the set like what you feature are very nice but will wait for Walls & Bridges for these type sets.
Wow this is the best review I've watched - so much wonderful stuff in this box set. And as for the new sound, what a joy! That clip from the title track really does John's vocal justice.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks
Thank you vey much, Sir!
This looks like a great boxed set. I'm probably going to pass on getting it, but I am looking forward to hearing the new remix on Apple Music when its released. Great review, and thanks for sharing.
Thank you enjoyed your review immensely. I was going to go for the vinyl but I think your caution regarding the quality of pressing is helpful. I will maybe wait and see what people say about it ! The box sounds great and I am tempted to just go for it. One thing I have a vinyl mobile fidelity album I bought new years ago and no one seems to mention it. The mix of the song mind games was very different! I also have the Peter Conan mix and it is I think outstanding - the new mix sounds pretty in your face !
Mind Games has such a magic sound to it that buying a lovingly remixed and remastered compilation is a no brainer. Listening to each component laid bare shows that it wasn't just ahead of its time, it is timeless.
I AGREE, the 2002 version has a much more clear sound, I even like the original 1973 mix because I remember getting it when it came out then, and like on all of John's early solo records, the sound he gave them had character you could hear. I do have one good bootleg CD that I bought maybe 20 years ago, it sounds really good of alternate takes and mixes from the album.
I couldn’t agree with you more. I LOVE what Sean has done (Aisemasen & One Day At a Times odd edits are the only puzzle but not important enough to complain about) I bought the original when it came out and although I loved the record felt, as you do, that it sounded very dull and boring. Sean has made this record a BRAND NEW RELEASE for the world to enjoy. There is SO much to enjoy about this set that you keep discovering.
Stellar job, as always, Andrew! Thanks for all your hard work! I'm 2 weeks late to the party, but I did want to experience the box with my own two eyes and ears before watching this video. I am stunned at how much this box changed my opinion of this album from something I liked in places and not so much in others to an essential piece of the Lennon artistic canon. You hit every nail on the head with your assessment of each disc. I found myself completely absorbed in disc 2 and totally in love with disc 5. I was totally intrigued when the song Mind Games on disc 3 turned into Whiter Shade Of Pale right before my very ears. To me, the only fly in the ointment on this album remains Aisumasen. I just have never liked it and no iteration included here changed that opinion. I did like the Lennon Collection mastering the best pre-remixes. There just isn't much that can be done with the original cd or lp. The Blu-Ray discs won't read on my computer drive (an issue I had with several of the Beatles Blu-Ray audio discs), so I have to hook up my standalone Blu-Ray player to experience those discs. I guess I need to invest in a UV light too. Last thing: I'm glad the Lennon estate chose uniformity in the boxes. It's frustrating when anyone switches sizes from release to release on catalog.
Cheers Pete! It is a great set.
I've always loved this album. It's one of my favorites from John. I can't wait to hear this new version.
Sean is such a talented guitarist, and I love his work with Les Claypool. I know some people are going to knock all the various incarnations of this "set" but I think it's a lot better proposition for fans to find a middle ground for their purchases. How often is there only the choice between the "standard" CD and the ultra-kick ass domination deluxe mega-edition remix limited to 723?
This was a great review, especially since I am such a huge fan of the Peter Cobbin remix from 2002. Your conclusion these new ultra remixes actually improve upon Mr. Cobbin’s work is very exciting and I’m looking forward to hearing them on July 12. You asked us to let you know what future Lennon releases we are looking forward to, to me, it remains “Sometime in New York City, which is my favorite John Lennon album. I was so disappointed the box set was pulled after the announcement it was the next release. Was there ever a reason given as to why this happened?
A first listen to any Beatles or solo Beatles box sets its interesting and fascinating. Then it sits on the shelf. How often do you pull it out and play the other mixes...I would have love to see another disc with just John's voice only and contemporary artist adding new music making it sound like 2024 in Paul's song title..that would be something..
I'll buy 2cd. Yoko's the mountain on.the.cover in the video in pages of the book..can't we have a lennon album without yoko for once ? That leaves walls & Bridges and Rock and Roll. .
I only noticed this week that John nicked Paul’s ‘I’ve got a feeling’ riff for the song ‘I know ( I know). 😅
From the title track examples alone, I can say I still prefer Peters mix. It feels open and bright, whereas what you played sounds ok and certainly better than the original, but that brick wall…let’s say it for what it is here.
That said, I’m quite happy to be proven wrong and I’m excited to hear the whole thing!
It HAS raised one interesting question: does the inclusion of “I’m The Greatest” mean definitively that Ringo cares not a jot about deluxe editions? It certainly appears that way, sadly.
Thanks Andrew for your honest and fun review!
Best review of this set thus far! And I have watched quite a few! They never really focus on the actual music! Just playing that little sample of the mind games raw mix has me wanting to get this set now! Great job as usual!
Thank you!
That 2002 CD sounds great. The 2024 sounds crappy. You saved me some money. Thanks!
Really enjoyed your review of this box set. I have been looking forward to this set since Sean announced its release date. The Lennon camp turns out such great sets, I am always happy with the outcome. My order consists of this box set, the 2 album set and the regular CD . now all I need is the blue torch lite and the games can begin. Take care!
Thank you for the in depth discussion. (For me, sound is everything -- so I'm sticking with the previous remix.) G'day and thanks again for another well-produced session.
I loved this review, it's great and it's good that Sean and his team have given permission to use a bit of their material. Keep up with your reviews, we love them. Greetings from Mexico City.
Glad you enjoyed it!
2002 mix is still the best. The 2024 mix was definitely made for the smart phone generation with tinny earbuds.
The original CD sounds great to me, also is one of the first Lennon CD I bought so I have great memories discovering his music through that CD collection.
I can't decide if I prefer the 2002 or the 1989, but I know I don't care much for the 2024.
Hi Andrew, I really like John's voice on Mind Games without the echo!!!
1:05 Wow I still have all those LPs!😁🎵✌