You are a Genius Beatley! My favorite cut on the Album is "Maya Love"- Willie Weeks on Bass?....................... very Funky! George had so many Issues in 1974: His Father was not in great health or did he Die? Pattie and he were separating, He's got Ulcers, He was still trying to settle the My sweet Lord controversy, Paul MCcartney was on Top of the World because of Band on the Run, John's Walls and Bridges was selling well and Ringo's Goodnight Vienna was also a success. Financially, he was struggling because of The Dark Horse tour and he had to pay all the musicians that backed him. I read on one of the books that Harrison have helped the roadies to move his gear and lighting equipment, all of these contributed to his froggy voice and He went almost without it but thanks to the Ginger gargle and drinking Tea and honey, he made it. Criticism aside, I bought the Album and I love it so much due to the fact that Harrison used his alternative to sing Falsetto to hit the notes and nailed the Tracks. God Bless You and your Channel........... You are The Man !!!
High praise indeed. Thank you very much you are too kind Michael. This is a much better album than it is ever given credit for so i happy to be able to give it a good review.
As I have mentioned to you before , this album has a special place in my heart. Like you, it was one of my first solo Beatles Album.i bought. I had heard that Living in The Material had gotten some negative reviews, but I heard nothing about this album from anyone. I got it on or around 1976. So, i noticed his voice was hoarse but did not mind. I thought thats just the way it was. I was aware of the Dark Horse, but when i heard Ding Dong, I said wow i did not know he did this song, as it sounded familar to me. But the hidden gem was So Sad. I thought the guitar was beautiful.
Another great video Tone. In my opinion you have underrated it as Dark Horse, So Sad and Simply Shady deserve a 10. Dark Horse has always been a George album that I go to at certain times.
Hi Tone, I wanted to make another video on this topic, but I think you might be getting tired of me doing that, so I try to be concise as I can. Around the same 18 months (76-77) I was buying all the Beatles and solo Lennon catalog, I also bought the first 4 “real” solo Harrison studio albums along with the live Bangladesh album. All these albums are close to my heart, and yes even Extra Texture, and I would put Dark Horse and Extra Texture as joint 3rd in my list of favorite Harrison albums after Material World (2nd) and All Things Must Pass (1st). IMO the strongest songs on the album are: Simply Shady (10), Ding Dong (10), Far East Man (10) and It is He (10), followed by Dark Horse (9), So Sad (8), Maya Love (8). I agree with you about instrumentals and Hari’s on Tour (7) seemed like a filler but it was OK for what is was. The weakest song for me was the rework of Bye, Bye Love (6). Love the original Everly Brothers version but this one not so much. I know you have a bit of a downer on Ding Dong, but I love it. I think it’s totally unique as a New Year’s song. It’s a real fun party record with a catchy hook that should have done a lot better in the charts. I love the promo video for the song as well, with George having fun. I also love It is He, I think it’s a great mantra. I must admit it’s a little strange to have what sounds like an Australian wobble board in it, but it works for me. I just hope that Rolf Harris wasn’t playing on it (like he did for tie me kangaroo down), as this would put a bit of a damper on it. Simply Shady and Far East Man are just excellent kick back songs, like George does best. Have a good one mate!
Great review Bob. I never tire of your opinions be the written or video so its up to you. I guess most people feel the same way about BBL as you do but i dont know, i just like its querkiness. Its deffo no Rolf Harris playing thank goodness. The player is listed on the inner sleeve but gis name escapes me without it in front of me. Thanks for a great comment
Matey, I love the review and I agree completely with it. For me, the mid 70s were not kind at all to George. He had a few really good songs, but most just were not very commercial. I have all those albums, but I rarely listen to them, preferring to listen to ATMP or TBoGH.
Thanks Richard glad you enjoyed the review. I agree he lost his commercial sensibilities for a while. If we're allowed to call 1976 the mid 70s , he found them again for Thirty Three and a third
I got this album for Christmas in 74’. I was 15. Back then all my friends were listening to Zeppelin and Aerosmith, and so was I…….so my solo Beatles listening was usually by myself. I loved Dark Horse. I think if he’d replaced Bye Bye Love and Ding Dong with a couple stronger tunes, it would have made a big difference. The musicianship is stellar throughout…. Almost Steely Dan ish. Tracks like Simply Shady, Dark Horse and Far East Man are complex pieces. Maya Love has a nice groove too.
Yes I agree, the musicianship on this album carries it to places it maybe doesnt deserve to go to but Im very fond of this album . Thanks for a great comment
Funny, until your episode on this album I always wondered why George’s voice sounded like that for the song Dark Horse. I actually think it works well for the song though. I didn’t realize he was sick.
If and when i listen to it i try to enjoy it and sometimes i do but it's certainly my least favourite George Harrison album. I like 'Simply shady' & 'So sad' but after that it's probably 'It is he (Jai Sri krsna)' i struggle to understand how record execs/George thought - "This album will go down well" i think the following albums certainly paid the price for this ramshackle set...Merely my opinion of course... Great video as always Tone. I know well that you're fond of this....i know you bought it early as you said - that counts. My first Wings was 'Red rose speedway' and i love it dearly - i understand one develops a soft spot for these albums.
Thanks Kier, glad you enjoyed the video. Im sure that with all the Beatles solo albums , where each Beatle produces, the fact that there is nobody there to say 'NO' it leads to the self indulgent messes that some of these are. However I do think there is much to enjoy on this one and repeated played reveals its gems - This happened for me with Maya Love. I think this album is a document of where George was at in 1974 - it's a bit like where John was at at very stages in his career. I get it that this album is not for everyone and I may be bias because of that 'soft spot'.
Ding Dong did chart: 36 in the US, 38 in the UK and a top 10 hit in the netherlands. So it was not that bad, some strong John or Paul tunes where more behind..
I like George's solo material better than most of his Beatles output, but still I might be able to fit all the George solo songs I really like on one cd. I don't think I care for anything on this disc. But when George is good, he is really good: Blow Away, This Song, What Is Life?, etc.
Great review I like the album apart from the last track. I do love Ding Dong is such a fun song ,love watching the video of it here on youtube . I do like your channel its fab well done and long may it continue to grow .
Got mine when it came out....really like it, Far East Man a great track. Ok it took some criticism but for me the best George stuff was up until the Jeff Lynne influence came in, still like that stuff but prefer the earlier
Hi mate. George was a bad boy at this time!!!! But I do like this Album not my Favorite, but it is ok. And I got this years ago just like you were saying!! Thanks for the story and background. Take care and have a Fab :) weekend!!!! .... PS UK pressing .... Beter then ther US one LOL cheers!!!!!
I had the 45 Dark Horse but never picked up the album. In 74 money was tight, so I belive I went for either a Thin Lizzy or a Bowie like Diamond Dogs. I am now going for albums that I passed over for one reason or another, so thanks for reminding me. I can see me getting a better copy then what you have because that's what life is all about topping others in what they have. Good video as always.
The only problem I heard with the Dark Horse album is that George recorded it during a time when his voice wasn’t particularly strong. (George actually loses his voice during the title track.) And it didn’t help that he went out on tour just after completing the album.
And yes, there is a jewel case edition of Dark Horse. Especially the American copy. And, has anyone else noticed that one of the sweaters has the 1971-1977 Capitol circle target logo?
Hi Tone, great video, very informative and very entertaining, I also have an extremely soft spot for this album despite me having only the cheapo MFP version. I agree that the standard of songs on this LP is very high and I think that it has been very under appreciated over the years. Hopefully your video might encourage some more people to relisten and to reevaluate these great songs.
Thanks very much, Im glad you enjoyed the video. yes this album is so underrated and never seems to get the credit it deserves which is a real shame as there are so may gems held within . Glad you like it too
I agree pretty much with what you say about the album but having it coming above Wings At The Speed Of Sound. really is fighting talk. I love So Sad which should have been a single. The single Dark Horse went to 15 in the States. No show in UK. Ding Dong 38 in UK and number 5 in Switzerland. Album no 4 in States. Did not chart in UK but eventually went silver with 50,000 copies sold. Sales.must have been spread out.
Some great songs on Speed of Sound but it's probably the weaker ones like Cook of the House that drag it down. I cant remember so you might have to watch the review Duncan to discover the culprits
I love this album. Great guitars on it. Georges' slide guitar playing is fantastic. Alot of soul. Tone your rating is right on. Do you know if it went gold? Love your channel.
Thanks very much, glad you enjoy the channel and I appreciate you telling me. This album is so much better than its ever given credit for so Im glad to be able to give it a good review here. It went Gold in the US and silver in the UK
Hi Beatley Tone, another great deep dive and mostly I agree with you except on It Is "He" which I really like and is a great album closer. In all I have always really liked this album and couldn't understand about the not so good reviews. Also I do have the original CD release in jewel case plus the one you showed on here, mine is from the Apple Years box set. Thanks once again for another excellent podcast!!
Thanks very much Maurice , glad you enjoyed the video and you're welcome. Yes I agree, generally this is a much better album than it's ever given credit for, so Im glad to give it a good review here.
@@beatleytonesbeatleschannel i listened to it last night after watchimg your deep dive and it could definitely do a with a remix. Hopefully that might happen 🤞🤞🤞 fingers crossed!!
Hi Tone, hope you’re doing well. Great review and one I agree with almost entirely. Dark Horse and Somewhere In England were the first George albums I ever owned, bought together sometime in 1982. My first copy was on the Axis budget label - a single sleeve package, that used the back cover as the front cover. I have long since picked up an original Australian pressings as well as reissues included in both the Apple Years CD box and the 2017 GH vinyl box set. I remember seeing the Ding Dong video on a late night music video show (pre-MTV) as part of a solo Beatles special. I thought it was hilarious at the time, but on reflection George looks very gaunt and showing all the tell tale signs of his vices. That man had more adventures in 1974 than us mere mortals have in a lifetime 😂 The album itself is one I come back to quite regularly. Yes the vocals are rough but the songs and musicianship are for the most part very good. As I said, I agree almost entirely with your review. I love the opening 3 tracks, Far East Man is excellent and the Dark Horse demo is proof of how good that song (and the album) could have been with better vocals. My only point of departure from you is Bye Bye Love. For me, it could be the nadir of George’s recording career. I find it a sloppy performance and the new lyrics are awful. If it’s meant to be funny, the humour is lost on me I’m afraid - I skip this track almost every time. Nonetheless, Dark Horse is still in the top 3 GH albums I listen to most often. In some perverse way, maybe all the things others criticise it for, somehow make it a more authentic and compelling listen for me.
Great post Jase. Interesting that we are close in opinions on this album. I get why you dont like BBL i guess it just aporals to my quirkiness-most people would agree with you im sure. You’re certainly right about the number of adventures George had in 74. Chance would be a fine thing😂
You're very brave taking on this album aftet STINYC! Having said that, DH is a very good album, good songs, good musicianship and an "interesting" voice. I have long thought that, on the album, the state of his voice suits the songs, it's just that he should never have gone on tour with no voice. The only possible "cringe" song is Ding Dong, the rest are perfectly acceptable as songs, even BBL, I think. Not as good as Walls and Bridges, but definitely better than the bland Mind Games. My only vinyl copy of this album was released on MFP, though I have since bought the reissied cd. By the way "Ring in...Ring out.." comes from Tennyson's poem In Memoriam, which Frank Crisp must have liked!
Well I guess its my job with this channel to take on all these albums good or bad Allan.Glad you are a fan of this album too and I agree although the voice isnt great on certain songs its not terrible and suits the songs
Beatley Tone, excellent review of Dark Horse, a very much maligned album. I agree with most of your takes and think handful of these songs featured an edge often missing from George’s work. Unfortunately, his voice issues do hamper some but not all of Dark Horse. I do still like it but I always get wistful and wonder “what if” had he taken care of doing his album first before worrying about producing others. Thanks so much from a USA fan, a country where album (#4) and singles (#15, #38) did much better than in the UK. Keep the solo overviews coming!
Thanks very much Timothy , glad you enjoyed the review. Yeah it's a real shame about his voice but I dont actually think it sounds that bad . Bob Dylan has got away with a lot worse in my opinion. Always good to hear from stateside fans
One of my favourite George albums! Relaxed and laid back. Lots of strong melodies with superb arrangements. Cool, raspy Dylan-esque voice throughout. Much prefer this to All Things Must Pass. Unbelievably underrated!
I agree Anders, that it is never given the credit it deserves so Im glad to be able to give it a good review here. I dont think it's as good as ATMP but each to their own. Thanks for a great comment
Hiya Tone, thanks for doing this video, I have always loved this album and think it's very overlooked, I love the songs Dark horse, and Ding Dong, I also like his version of bye bye love, okay it's not on par with All Things Must Pass, but I think it's a great little album and always enjoy listening to it, Great video and review,as always really enjoyed this one mate 😊, cheers, Dave
Hey Dave, I agree this album never seems to get the credit it deserves so Im glad to be able to give it good review here . Glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for leaving a great comment
Great review, Beatley. I've always really liked the album, with the exception of Bye Bye Love, which I've never liked much. My only other complaint is Jai Krishna goes on for way too long; would have been better edited way down. For Dark Horse, he probably should have used the early version he cut with Ringo where his voice isn't shredded. BTW, there was a jewel case earlier version.
Yes I have the jewel case version somewhere. Glad you enjoyed the video and like the album . It never seems to get the credit it deserves so glad to be able to give it a good review here
Pity this album is not getting a 50 year makeover. A few outtakes and some live tracks from the tour would be good. I wish the Harrison estate was more proactive regarding George's music.
Yes totally agree with you, Keith, although we have seen with other albums given the box set treatment that anniversaries aren't necessarily the only excuse for a makeover so you never know it might happen when we least expect it. Fingers crossed anyway
Hi Tone I agree with almost everything you said about this album. I didn't expect to like it, but I love it. The weakest track for me is the opener. I also love Ding Dong as side 2 opener. I think George has the most consistent back catalogue of the four Beatles. The only albums i haven't got are Self Titled(79) and Wonderwall. I even have Electronic Sound on vinyl. The only album I have a problem with is Extra Texture, which I find quite boring. Great video
Thanks very much Andrew, glad you enjoyed the video. Oh you have to get self titled , it's one of the best. I agree bout Extra Texture - horrible album
Thanks for this interesting review. I must admit I haven't played this album in many a year, and now I will give it a spin over the coming weekend. I always regarded it as George's break up album (allbeit a rather bitter break up album) As you pointed out at the start of this vid George was not in the best of places as he made this album. Personally, professionally and physically. Aside from the laryngitis he also contracted Hepititis and was extremely ill for some time. I first became aware of it when I bought the compilation The best of George Harrison and heard Dark Horse for the first time. I loved that song, still do. What I remember when I heard the album was thinking why did you not work on this album when your voice was in better shape, and you were in a better frame of mind? There is some great material on Dark Horse, but I need to sit down and give this a proper immersive listen, get reacquainted with it again. But without listening to it again, and going by your own views I think you have given it a fair score. As for Gone Troppo over Bad Boy? Sorry Ringo but George's album comes out on top for me. Now there are two albums for future deep dive reviews my friend.
Yes do give this album another go Terry. Im sure that repeated plays reveals the many gems on this album. It's really difficult to say whether he should have delayed the recording of the album until his voice was better - although I actually dont think it's that bad although obviously not at his best. There were probably legal implications regarding delivery dates and obviously he wanted to get the album done in time for the tour but I totally take your point. I hope you enjoy your listen at the weekend mate
One thing I like about this album is the cover itself. It must have been fun putting it together and the old teachers-whoever were left-looking at the symbols on their shirts and trying to read any significance to them. For example, there's a fellow with a snake or it could be a pound sign on the front. I agree with you, Mr Beatley tone, about the choice of track to open the album. It just gets off to a MOR/bland start. It sounds like a '70's US cop/detective TV drama and the second track is a bit dreary suffers from the illness affected voice, as you mentioned. But the rest of side one is really good. I think the 'Bye Bye' cover is excellent. I'm curious to know what the Everly's thought about it. The second side doesn't really hold up that well. It just seems a bit out of focus and incoherent. It seems there isn't a core of musicians really concentrating on an outcome. But it's the first time I've listened to it for awhile. I might play it again later to get some more impressions. Thanks for putting this review up, appreciate it!
I always took the 'snake' as being representative (rightly or wrongly) of Parlophone and other teachers have the Apple and Dark Horse records symbols on their shirts. es I would love to know wheat The Everlys thought of BBL lol. I dont expect they were that impressed. Glad you enjoyed the review and are giving the record another go. Ive always though repeated plays reveals its gems . thanks for a great comment
Hi Tone. Haven't seen this video yet, but for sure, it's an underrated album, in my opinion. I always liked the album, I even prefer it above Living In The Material World, for instance. I'm gonna watch the video later. Take care.
Beatley My Friend, great review of Dark Horse, I agree with you, I know if he could have waited, I think it would have done better, with his voice the way it was, I think George did fantastic. The songs all with emotion of what he was going through, I think it is a great album My Friend Takecare, Besafe, Blessyou, Steve
Ha, I like your version of It Is He better than George's. Yeah, I'd say about half the songs aren't bad, but the album didn't survive my latest LP purge. I really hardly listened to it. Seeing George around this time was my first rock concert. It was exciting to finally see a Beatle, but it seemed like we got more Ravi, Billy and Tom Scott than George. The lyric changes were kind of odd too. So this era has a feeling of disappointment for me.
Yes I understand the tour was disappointing Stephen. Probably less George wasnt the original plan but a necessary change because of his voice. The lyric change was unforgivable though
I think the two singles off the "Dark Horse" album are wonderful, especially the title track. But, the rest doesn't appeal to me very much. I think George Harrison should have postponed the tour, and waited for his vocal abilities to improve, before starting recording of the album. His "weak" vocals really do get in the way of one's enjoyment of this album. Imagine the song "Dark Horse", with much better vocals from George.
He probably would have liked to postpone the tour and the recording of the album but I expect there were legal implications that didnt allow that. Although his vocals aren't at their best on the album I dont think they are terrible. Dylan has got away with far worse
Good review Tone I bought it the day it came out as a fifteen year old. Loved it then and love it now. The timing was all wrong with the album hitting the shops so close to Christmas. Some great songs but the production and vocals could have been better. Listen to Alvin Lee perform So Sad where George plays all the guitars. It’s better than George’s version. The production in the Shankar and Splinter albums are also superior. The quality suffers due to having to rush it out because of the tour and other pressures. I still love it.
Thanks very much Edward glad you enjoyed the review and are a fan of the album too. it never seems to get the credit it deserves so gad to be able to give it a good review here. I have head the Alvin Lee version of So Sad, its superb
@@beatleytonesbeatleschannel I read that Dark Horse was a concept album George was out and about (Haris on tour) going off the rails ( simply shady) Marriage over (so sad, bye bye love) what / who is love ( maya Love) A new start ( ding dong ring in the new) George might surprise us ( Dark Horse) With the support of friends ( far east man ) and God ( it is he)) George said the album was like Peyton Place a soap opera 😂
Great review. I’m not a huge fan of the album, but it’s due to his voice. The songs for the most part I like. I always think in Far East Man he’s saying “he’s a policeman”.
Thanks very much Dustin, glad you enjoyed the review . I also think it sounds like policemen. Give the album few spins, I always think repeated plays reveals this albums gems
Hey Tone, enjoyed your review of the Dark Horse Album. I didn't quite catch the Gone Troppo comment in regards to comparing it to a Ringo album? I happened to catch George on that 74 tour which I was bummed out, not because his voice wasn't up to it but it appeared to me he simply was just phoning it in as they say, and couldn't wait to get tge show over. Billy Preston stole the show. Overall I'd rank the album a 5 and Gone b Troppo imo , much higher
Re Gone Troppo v Bad Boy, I was just being facetious 😂 I would have loved to have been on the US tour, I think they used other members of the band more than originally planned to spare George's fading voice
Im pausing you just before your review starts, Tone. Have had this lp for many years but havent played it since i got it in the seventies . So, Im gonna give it a spin tomorrow.. then watch your video. Think thats the best way to go.
Gave it a listen this afternoon, Tone. Not a bad lp...lotta nice piano from Billy Preston and slide guitar from GH. Agree woukda been much better had George not had throat problems. My initial thought on Bye Bye Love was what the...is he doing. However, your history of what gave rise to this version sheds a lot of light. Until today, I avoided this record but will give it another spin so it will no longer be yet another of my many dust collectors.Cheers BT.
Hello tone i bought this album in 1975 at my local record shop it was in the dumper bin it was on tape thats the format i bought my music in those days. its not my fave lp by george i think the matearial world album put a lot of people of buying it due to the preachy attitude of the songs on that set and i do think apart from paul all the other fabs were struggling a bit by 74 there are some great tracks on here so sad is a very melodic song great guitar the title track is a fine song dare i say i have a guilty plesure for ding dong simply shady is ok ans hari on tour exspress is ok this album does suffer from georges voice which was shot he went on tour with this album and got torn to peices for it it went gold in the states the singles were minor hits in the uk i bought them still have them i like 50 percent of this record so for me as a overall score of 5 out of ten i know you love this album tone are you judging this record with your rose coloured specs on 🤣🤣love your channel and your enthusiasm ps ding dong ding dong got to no 38 in the uk but the album flopped.
Yes maybe some rose-tinted glasses from me but I do genuinely like this album and although George's voice is not at its best, its suits some of the songs well. I think this is a much better album than it's given credit for and much less preachy than LITMW.
when i think of the great tunes that george held over for other albums george could have made a stonker round this time cosmic empire ,women dont you cry for me ,beautiful girl , you , not guilty, sour milk sea he gave that to jackie lomax ,deep blue b side to bangladeh , circles mix them with the best fom dark horse he would have had a monster do you think . also i have a few greatest hits comps and only one track from dark horse was ever on any and that was dark horse from the best of from 76 im gonna play d h this weekend i havnt for a while cheers tone 👍
@timothyedgeley6387 yeah i mostly agree although i dont think Circles or Sour Milk Sea are that great but the others you say - yes. Enjoy revisiting the album Timothy
I like Dark Horse for what it is - leaving the personal shenanigans out of it and focusing on the music. The best songs for me are Simply Shady, So Sad, Dark Horse, and Far East Man. I kind of like Maya Love and the Hari's On Tour, and It Is He. But they each seem like mediocre outtakes. Lovely melodies and instrumentation. Cracker jack band for sure. Am I too harsh? I'm leaving out Ding Dong. I am not drawn into that one at all. The thing about George's vocal performance could have been better had he waited until he stopped ravaging his voice and his soul. Extra Texture is much better in that respect. And combined, there are some really cool tracks. Except each has a different set of musicians. George's sense of humor, even somewhat self deprecating as it is is one cool thing about George and his wit. Bye Bye Love is an example of that. Wow. How low can you go and be so transparent with humility and humor. Pure George albeit pretty unlistenable (for me). I've gone on too long. Thank you for doing this series. It curls my toes as I watch each LP you review. I love how you are so frank and knowledgeable. You have great insight and divine perception. One of a kind!!! And your pitch is spot on!! You got skills! Not that I am surprised. See you next time!!
Thanks very much Rick for the praise here, I really appreciate it and thanks for giving your view on the album. I must say that I much prefer this album to Extra texture, whihc is an album that Ive never found a way to love, although I have tried but I agree with a lot of what you say here. cheers mate
You did about as nice a job repping the album as can be done (and I do like it myself), but no wayyyyyyyyyy I can rate this higher than the gloriously powerful Back to the Egg! All because you can't stand The Broadcast! hahaha
Hi Tone as i said to you before this album destroyed Georges reputation in the Uk failing to chart so i,m afraid that tells you everything about it.A great song Simply shady and an ok Dark horse.I,m afraid the rest is awful.I prefer Extra Texture
I strongly disagree that poor sales tells us all we need to know about an album David. Besides, this album made number 4 in the US. There is plenty to enjoy on this album if only it was appraised properly rather than by reputation.
You are a Genius Beatley! My favorite cut on the Album is "Maya Love"- Willie Weeks on Bass?....................... very Funky! George had so many Issues in 1974: His Father was not in great health or did he Die? Pattie and he were separating, He's got Ulcers, He was still trying to settle the My sweet Lord controversy, Paul MCcartney was on Top of the World because of Band on the Run, John's Walls and Bridges was selling well and Ringo's Goodnight Vienna was also a success. Financially, he was struggling because of The Dark Horse tour and he had to pay all the musicians that backed him. I read on one of the books that Harrison have helped the roadies to move his gear and lighting equipment, all of these contributed to his froggy voice and He went almost without it but thanks to the Ginger gargle and drinking Tea and honey, he made it. Criticism aside, I bought the Album and I love it so much due to the fact that Harrison used his alternative to sing Falsetto to hit the notes and nailed the Tracks. God Bless You and your Channel........... You are The Man !!!
High praise indeed. Thank you very much you are too kind Michael. This is a much better album than it is ever given credit for so i happy to be able to give it a good review.
Love the album. It gets some heat. I love it even more when that happens.
It does get some stick Richard but sometimes with these things its more on reputation. A proper appraisal of the album reveals its gems I think
As I have mentioned to you before , this album has a special place in my heart. Like you, it was one of my first solo Beatles Album.i bought. I had heard that Living in The Material had gotten some negative reviews, but I heard nothing about this album from anyone. I got it on or around 1976. So, i noticed his voice was hoarse but did not mind. I thought thats just the way it was. I was aware of the Dark Horse, but when i heard Ding Dong, I said wow i did not know he did this song, as it sounded familar to me. But the hidden gem was So Sad. I thought the guitar was beautiful.
Thanks for sharing your views on the album James. I agree So Sad is a highlight
I have always had a special love for this album. I am glad to hear appreciate so many of the same songs I do and for similar reasons.
Thanks Brad, glad you enjoyed the review
Another great video Tone. In my opinion you have underrated it as Dark Horse, So Sad and Simply Shady deserve a 10. Dark Horse has always been a George album that I go to at certain times.
Me too David, I've always loved it. Yes possibly all 10s on any particular day. Glad you enjoyed the video
Hi Tone,
I wanted to make another video on this topic, but I think you might be getting tired of me doing that, so I try to be concise as I can.
Around the same 18 months (76-77) I was buying all the Beatles and solo Lennon catalog, I also bought the first 4 “real” solo Harrison studio albums along with the live Bangladesh album. All these albums are close to my heart, and yes even Extra Texture, and I would put Dark Horse and Extra Texture as joint 3rd in my list of favorite Harrison albums after Material World (2nd) and All Things Must Pass (1st).
IMO the strongest songs on the album are: Simply Shady (10), Ding Dong (10), Far East Man (10) and It is He (10), followed by Dark Horse (9), So Sad (8), Maya Love (8).
I agree with you about instrumentals and Hari’s on Tour (7) seemed like a filler but it was OK for what is was. The weakest song for me was the rework of Bye, Bye Love (6). Love the original Everly Brothers version but this one not so much.
I know you have a bit of a downer on Ding Dong, but I love it. I think it’s totally unique as a New Year’s song. It’s a real fun party record with a catchy hook that should have done a lot better in the charts. I love the promo video for the song as well, with George having fun.
I also love It is He, I think it’s a great mantra. I must admit it’s a little strange to have what sounds like an Australian wobble board in it, but it works for me. I just hope that Rolf Harris wasn’t playing on it (like he did for tie me kangaroo down), as this would put a bit of a damper on it.
Simply Shady and Far East Man are just excellent kick back songs, like George does best.
Have a good one mate!
Great review Bob. I never tire of your opinions be the written or video so its up to you. I guess most people feel the same way about BBL as you do but i dont know, i just like its querkiness. Its deffo no Rolf Harris playing thank goodness. The player is listed on the inner sleeve but gis name escapes me without it in front of me. Thanks for a great comment
Matey, I love the review and I agree completely with it. For me, the mid 70s were not kind at all to George. He had a few really good songs, but most just were not very commercial. I have all those albums, but I rarely listen to them, preferring to listen to ATMP or TBoGH.
Thanks Richard glad you enjoyed the review. I agree he lost his commercial sensibilities for a while. If we're allowed to call 1976 the mid 70s , he found them again for Thirty Three and a third
Hi. I have rarely listened to this album for 40+ years of fandom. Gone troppo i've played tons of times. Never understood why people dont like it.
Give it another go Chris. A fresh appraisal will reveal its gems Im sure.
Troppo was ignored.even by g.
Yeag couldnt be bothered to promote it. Few decent tracks on it
I got this album for Christmas in 74’. I was 15. Back then all my friends were listening to Zeppelin and Aerosmith, and so was I…….so my solo Beatles listening was usually by myself. I loved Dark Horse.
I think if he’d replaced Bye Bye Love and Ding Dong with a couple stronger tunes, it would have made a big difference. The musicianship is stellar throughout…. Almost Steely Dan ish.
Tracks like Simply Shady, Dark Horse and Far East Man are complex pieces.
Maya Love has a nice groove too.
Yes I agree, the musicianship on this album carries it to places it maybe doesnt deserve to go to but Im very fond of this album . Thanks for a great comment
Funny, until your episode on this album I always wondered why George’s voice sounded like that for the song Dark Horse. I actually think it works well for the song though. I didn’t realize he was sick.
I think it works too
Love your deep dive videos Tone.Thank you 👍
Thanks very much Jim. Gladyou enjoy them and appreciate you telling me
Love this Album.
Me too
If and when i listen to it i try to enjoy it and sometimes i do but it's certainly my least favourite George Harrison album. I like 'Simply shady' & 'So sad' but after that it's probably 'It is he (Jai Sri krsna)' i struggle to understand how record execs/George thought - "This album will go down well" i think the following albums certainly paid the price for this ramshackle set...Merely my opinion of course... Great video as always Tone. I know well that you're fond of this....i know you bought it early as you said - that counts. My first Wings was 'Red rose speedway' and i love it dearly - i understand one develops a soft spot for these albums.
Thanks Kier, glad you enjoyed the video. Im sure that with all the Beatles solo albums , where each Beatle produces, the fact that there is nobody there to say 'NO' it leads to the self indulgent messes that some of these are. However I do think there is much to enjoy on this one and repeated played reveals its gems - This happened for me with Maya Love. I think this album is a document of where George was at in 1974 - it's a bit like where John was at at very stages in his career. I get it that this album is not for everyone and I may be bias because of that 'soft spot'.
Hi Tone, another great in-depth review. This album is one of my faves too. Thanks for the video!
Thanks very much Paul. Glad you enjoyed the video
Ding Dong did chart: 36 in the US, 38 in the UK and a top 10 hit in the netherlands. So it was not that bad, some strong John or Paul tunes where more behind..
I like George's solo material better than most of his Beatles output, but still I might be able to fit all the George solo songs I really like on one cd. I don't think I care for anything on this disc. But when George is good, he is really good: Blow Away, This Song, What Is Life?, etc.
Oh there's gold in them hills if you look for it Christopher . Repeated plays of this album often reveal its hidden gems
Great review I like the album apart from the last track. I do love Ding Dong is such a fun song ,love watching the video of it here on youtube .
I do like your channel its fab well done and long may it continue to grow .
Thanks very much Karen , im really glad you like the channel and i thank you for your contribution abd support
Got mine when it came out....really like it, Far East Man a great track. Ok it took some criticism but for me the best George stuff was up until the Jeff Lynne influence came in, still like that stuff but prefer the earlier
Glad you like this album too Peter. it never seems to get the credit it deserves so gad to be able to give it a good review here
Hi mate. George was a bad boy at this time!!!! But I do like this Album not my Favorite, but it is ok. And I got this years ago just like you were saying!! Thanks for the story and background. Take care and have a Fab :) weekend!!!! .... PS UK pressing .... Beter then ther US one LOL cheers!!!!!
Hi Brad, I never think this album gets the credit it deserves so im glad to give it a good review here. Have a great weekend yourself my friend
@@beatleytonesbeatleschannel Nice job Tonny!!!
I had the 45 Dark Horse but never picked up the album. In 74 money was tight, so I belive I went for either a Thin Lizzy or a Bowie like Diamond Dogs. I am now going for albums that I passed over for one reason or another, so thanks for reminding me. I can see me getting a better copy then what you have because that's what life is all about topping others in what they have. Good video as always.
Glad you enjoyed the video and I hope you enjoy the album when you get it
The only problem I heard with the Dark Horse album is that George recorded it during a time when his voice wasn’t particularly strong. (George actually loses his voice during the title track.) And it didn’t help that he went out on tour just after completing the album.
And yes, there is a jewel case edition of Dark Horse. Especially the American copy.
And, has anyone else noticed that one of the sweaters has the 1971-1977 Capitol circle target logo?
@@georgeprice4212 and Palophone, Apple and Dark Horse records
He has laryngitis when recording it so some of the songs suffer from that George
Hi Tone, great video, very informative and very entertaining, I also have an extremely soft spot for this album despite me having only the cheapo MFP version. I agree that the standard of songs on this LP is very high and I think that it has been very under appreciated over the years. Hopefully your video might encourage some more people to relisten and to reevaluate these great songs.
Thanks very much, Im glad you enjoyed the video. yes this album is so underrated and never seems to get the credit it deserves which is a real shame as there are so may gems held within . Glad you like it too
I agree pretty much with what you say about the album but having it coming above Wings At The Speed Of Sound. really is fighting talk. I love So Sad which should have been a single. The single Dark Horse went to 15 in the States. No show in UK. Ding Dong 38 in UK and number 5 in Switzerland. Album no 4 in States. Did not chart in UK but eventually went silver with 50,000 copies sold. Sales.must have been spread out.
Some great songs on Speed of Sound but it's probably the weaker ones like Cook of the House that drag it down. I cant remember so you might have to watch the review Duncan to discover the culprits
I love this album. Great guitars on it. Georges' slide guitar playing is fantastic. Alot of soul. Tone your rating is right on. Do you know if it went gold? Love your channel.
Thanks very much, glad you enjoy the channel and I appreciate you telling me. This album is so much better than its ever given credit for so Im glad to be able to give it a good review here. It went Gold in the US and silver in the UK
Hi Beatley Tone, another great deep dive and mostly I agree with you except on It Is "He" which I really like and is a great album closer. In all I have always really liked this album and couldn't understand about the not so good reviews. Also I do have the original CD release in jewel case plus the one you showed on here, mine is from the Apple Years box set. Thanks once again for another excellent podcast!!
Thanks very much Maurice , glad you enjoyed the video and you're welcome. Yes I agree, generally this is a much better album than it's ever given credit for, so Im glad to give it a good review here.
@@beatleytonesbeatleschannel i listened to it last night after watchimg your deep dive and it could definitely do a with a remix. Hopefully that might happen 🤞🤞🤞 fingers crossed!!
@@mauricehoulden5553 yes it could. I hope that happens at some point soon
Good review......Have you heard \Platinum Wierd...This Guitar with George and Dhani.....etc
Thank you and no
spotify top 5 most streamed songs:
1. Dark Horse (6.0m)
2. Ding Dong Ding Dong (1.5m)
3. Far East Man (1.4m)
4. Simply Shady (0.8m)
5. So Sad (0.5m)
Interesting Ricardo - thanks for your research - I would say that these are the 5 best tracks but not in that order
Hi Tone, hope you’re doing well.
Great review and one I agree with almost entirely.
Dark Horse and Somewhere In England were the first George albums I ever owned, bought together sometime in 1982. My first copy was on the Axis budget label - a single sleeve package, that used the back cover as the front cover. I have long since picked up an original Australian pressings as well as reissues included in both the Apple Years CD box and the 2017 GH vinyl box set.
I remember seeing the Ding Dong video on a late night music video show (pre-MTV) as part of a solo Beatles special. I thought it was hilarious at the time, but on reflection George looks very gaunt and showing all the tell tale signs of his vices. That man had more adventures in 1974 than us mere mortals have in a lifetime 😂
The album itself is one I come back to quite regularly. Yes the vocals are rough but the songs and musicianship are for the most part very good.
As I said, I agree almost entirely with your review. I love the opening 3 tracks, Far East Man is excellent and the Dark Horse demo is proof of how good that song (and the album) could have been with better vocals.
My only point of departure from you is Bye Bye Love. For me, it could be the nadir of George’s recording career. I find it a sloppy performance and the new lyrics are awful. If it’s meant to be funny, the humour is lost on me I’m afraid - I skip this track almost every time.
Nonetheless, Dark Horse is still in the top 3 GH albums I listen to most often. In some perverse way, maybe all the things others criticise it for, somehow make it a more authentic and compelling listen for me.
Great post Jase. Interesting that we are close in opinions on this album. I get why you dont like BBL i guess it just aporals to my quirkiness-most people would agree with you im sure. You’re certainly right about the number of adventures George had in 74. Chance would be a fine thing😂
You're very brave taking on this album aftet STINYC! Having said that, DH is a very good album, good songs, good musicianship and an "interesting" voice. I have long thought that, on the album, the state of his voice suits the songs, it's just that he should never have gone on tour with no voice. The only possible "cringe" song is Ding Dong, the rest are perfectly acceptable as songs, even BBL, I think. Not as good as Walls and Bridges, but definitely better than the bland Mind Games. My only vinyl copy of this album was released on MFP, though I have since bought the reissied cd. By the way "Ring in...Ring out.." comes from Tennyson's poem In Memoriam, which Frank Crisp must have liked!
Well I guess its my job with this channel to take on all these albums good or bad Allan.Glad you are a fan of this album too and I agree although the voice isnt great on certain songs its not terrible and suits the songs
Beatley Tone, excellent review of Dark Horse, a very much maligned album.
I agree with most of your takes and think handful of these songs featured an edge often missing from George’s work. Unfortunately, his voice issues do hamper some but not all of Dark Horse. I do still like it but I always get wistful and wonder “what if” had he taken care of doing his album first before worrying about producing others.
Thanks so much from a USA fan, a country where album (#4) and singles (#15, #38) did much better than in the UK. Keep the solo overviews coming!
Thanks very much Timothy , glad you enjoyed the review. Yeah it's a real shame about his voice but I dont actually think it sounds that bad . Bob Dylan has got away with a lot worse in my opinion. Always good to hear from stateside fans
Love Beatley Tone, Love this channel and love this album. Need I say more?
not really but I thank you
One of my favourite George albums! Relaxed and laid back. Lots of strong melodies with superb arrangements. Cool, raspy Dylan-esque voice throughout. Much prefer this to All Things Must Pass. Unbelievably underrated!
I agree Anders, that it is never given the credit it deserves so Im glad to be able to give it a good review here. I dont think it's as good as ATMP but each to their own. Thanks for a great comment
Hiya Tone, thanks for doing this video, I have always loved this album and think it's very overlooked, I love the songs Dark horse, and Ding Dong, I also like his version of bye bye love, okay it's not on par with All Things Must Pass, but I think it's a great little album and always enjoy listening to it, Great video and review,as always really enjoyed this one mate 😊, cheers, Dave
Hey Dave, I agree this album never seems to get the credit it deserves so Im glad to be able to give it good review here . Glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for leaving a great comment
Great review, Beatley. I've always really liked the album, with the exception of Bye Bye Love, which I've never liked much. My only other complaint is Jai Krishna goes on for way too long; would have been better edited way down. For Dark Horse, he probably should have used the early version he cut with Ringo where his voice isn't shredded. BTW, there was a jewel case earlier version.
Yes I have the jewel case version somewhere. Glad you enjoyed the video and like the album . It never seems to get the credit it deserves so glad to be able to give it a good review here
Pity this album is not getting a 50 year makeover. A few outtakes and some live tracks from the tour would be good.
I wish the Harrison estate was more proactive regarding George's music.
Yes totally agree with you, Keith, although we have seen with other albums given the box set treatment that anniversaries aren't necessarily the only excuse for a makeover so you never know it might happen when we least expect it. Fingers crossed anyway
HI, WILL WE GET A NEW MCCARTNEY ALBUM THIS YEAR? I THINK SO; PAUL SAID HE HAS WORKED WITH A COUPLE OF PRODUCERS, INCLUDING ANDREW WATT...
I think there's a very good chance of that happening
Hi Tone
I agree with almost everything you said about this album. I didn't expect to like it, but I love it. The weakest track for me is the opener. I also love Ding Dong as side 2 opener. I think George has the most consistent back catalogue of the four Beatles. The only albums i haven't got are Self Titled(79) and Wonderwall. I even have Electronic Sound on vinyl. The only album I have a problem with is Extra Texture, which I find quite boring. Great video
Thanks very much Andrew, glad you enjoyed the video. Oh you have to get self titled , it's one of the best. I agree bout Extra Texture - horrible album
Thanks for this interesting review. I must admit I haven't played this album in many a year, and now I will give it a spin over the coming weekend. I always regarded it as George's break up album (allbeit a rather bitter break up album) As you pointed out at the start of this vid George was not in the best of places as he made this album. Personally, professionally and physically. Aside from the laryngitis he also contracted Hepititis and was extremely ill for some time. I first became aware of it when I bought the compilation The best of George Harrison and heard Dark Horse for the first time. I loved that song, still do. What I remember when I heard the album was thinking why did you not work on this album when your voice was in better shape, and you were in a better frame of mind? There is some great material on Dark Horse, but I need to sit down and give this a proper immersive listen, get reacquainted with it again. But without listening to it again, and going by your own views I think you have given it a fair score. As for Gone Troppo over Bad Boy? Sorry Ringo but George's album comes out on top for me. Now there are two albums for future deep dive reviews my friend.
Yes do give this album another go Terry. Im sure that repeated plays reveals the many gems on this album. It's really difficult to say whether he should have delayed the recording of the album until his voice was better - although I actually dont think it's that bad although obviously not at his best. There were probably legal implications regarding delivery dates and obviously he wanted to get the album done in time for the tour but I totally take your point. I hope you enjoy your listen at the weekend mate
my top 5:
1. Dark Horse (9/10)
2. Far East Man (9/10)
3. Simply Shady (8/10)
4. Ding Dong Ding Dong (7/10)
5. It Is He (7/10)
Not my top 5 but always interesting to see the opinions of there fans Ricardo as we all hear things differently
haha the end! It Is He is actually a banger
my version or George's 😂
One thing I like about this album is the cover itself. It must have been fun putting it together and the old teachers-whoever were left-looking at the symbols on their shirts and trying to read any significance to them. For example, there's a fellow with a snake or it could be a pound sign on the front. I agree with you, Mr Beatley tone, about the choice of track to open the album. It just gets off to a MOR/bland start. It sounds like a '70's US cop/detective TV drama and the second track is a bit dreary suffers from the illness affected voice, as you mentioned. But the rest of side one is really good. I think the 'Bye Bye' cover is excellent. I'm curious to know what the Everly's thought about it. The second side doesn't really hold up that well. It just seems a bit out of focus and incoherent. It seems there isn't a core of musicians really concentrating on an outcome. But it's the first time I've listened to it for awhile. I might play it again later to get some more impressions. Thanks for putting this review up, appreciate it!
I always took the 'snake' as being representative (rightly or wrongly) of Parlophone and other teachers have the Apple and Dark Horse records symbols on their shirts. es I would love to know wheat The Everlys thought of BBL lol. I dont expect they were that impressed. Glad you enjoyed the review and are giving the record another go. Ive always though repeated plays reveals its gems . thanks for a great comment
Hi Tone.
Haven't seen this video yet, but for sure, it's an underrated album, in my opinion.
I always liked the album, I even prefer it above Living In The Material World, for instance.
I'm gonna watch the video later.
Take care.
Enjoy the video when you get around to it Pe Ke. I agree this album is so underrated
Beatley My Friend, great review of Dark Horse, I agree with you, I know if he could have waited, I think it would have done better, with his voice the way it was, I think George did fantastic. The songs all with emotion of what he was going through, I think it is a great album My Friend Takecare, Besafe, Blessyou, Steve
Thanks very much Steve, glad you enjoyed the video. I agree with what you say here. I think this is a much better album than its given credit for
Ha, I like your version of It Is He better than George's. Yeah, I'd say about half the songs aren't bad, but the album didn't survive my latest LP purge. I really hardly listened to it. Seeing George around this time was my first rock concert. It was exciting to finally see a Beatle, but it seemed like we got more Ravi, Billy and Tom Scott than George. The lyric changes were kind of odd too. So this era has a feeling of disappointment for me.
Yes I understand the tour was disappointing Stephen. Probably less George wasnt the original plan but a necessary change because of his voice. The lyric change was unforgivable though
I think the two singles off the "Dark Horse" album are wonderful, especially the title track. But, the rest doesn't appeal to me very much. I think George Harrison should have postponed the tour, and waited for his vocal abilities to improve, before starting recording of the album. His "weak" vocals really do get in the way of one's enjoyment of this album. Imagine the song "Dark Horse", with much better vocals from George.
He probably would have liked to postpone the tour and the recording of the album but I expect there were legal implications that didnt allow that. Although his vocals aren't at their best on the album I dont think they are terrible. Dylan has got away with far worse
Good review Tone
I bought it the day it came out as a fifteen year old. Loved it then and love it now. The timing was all wrong with the album hitting the shops so close to Christmas. Some great songs but the production and vocals could have been better. Listen to Alvin Lee perform So Sad where George plays all the guitars. It’s better than George’s version. The production in the Shankar and Splinter albums are also superior. The quality suffers due to having to rush it out because of the tour and other pressures. I still love it.
Thanks very much Edward glad you enjoyed the review and are a fan of the album too. it never seems to get the credit it deserves so gad to be able to give it a good review here. I have head the Alvin Lee version of So Sad, its superb
@@beatleytonesbeatleschannel I read that Dark Horse was a concept album
George was out and about (Haris on tour) going off the rails ( simply shady)
Marriage over (so sad, bye bye love) what / who is love ( maya Love)
A new start ( ding dong ring in the new)
George might surprise us ( Dark Horse)
With the support of friends ( far east man ) and God ( it is he))
George said the album was like Peyton Place a soap opera 😂
@@edwardrussell5989 an interesting idea. seems like a bit of a stretch to me though
@@beatleytonesbeatleschannel agreed
Great review. I’m not a huge fan of the album, but it’s due to his voice. The songs for the most part I like. I always think in Far East Man he’s saying “he’s a policeman”.
Thanks very much Dustin, glad you enjoyed the review . I also think it sounds like policemen. Give the album few spins, I always think repeated plays reveals this albums gems
@@beatleytonesbeatleschannel it is a good one.
Hey Tone, enjoyed your review of the Dark Horse Album. I didn't quite catch the Gone Troppo comment in regards to comparing it to a Ringo album? I happened to catch George on that 74 tour which I was bummed out, not because his voice wasn't up to it but it appeared to me he simply was just phoning it in as they say, and couldn't wait to get tge show over. Billy Preston stole the show.
Overall I'd rank the album a 5 and Gone b Troppo imo , much higher
Re Gone Troppo v Bad Boy, I was just being facetious 😂 I would have loved to have been on the US tour, I think they used other members of the band more than originally planned to spare George's fading voice
Im pausing you just before your review starts, Tone. Have had this lp for many years but havent played it since i got it in the seventies . So, Im gonna give it a spin tomorrow.. then watch your video. Think thats the best way to go.
Ok Jim. I hop it surprises you
Gave it a listen this afternoon, Tone. Not a bad lp...lotta nice piano from Billy Preston and slide guitar from GH. Agree woukda been much better had George not had throat problems. My initial thought on Bye Bye Love was what the...is he doing. However, your history of what gave rise to this version sheds a lot of light. Until today, I avoided this record but will give it another spin so it will no longer be yet another of my many dust collectors.Cheers BT.
@jimconlin5546 great stuff Jim, glad you enjoyed it and have brought it in from the cold
Hello tone i bought this album in 1975 at my local record shop it was in the dumper bin it was on tape thats the format i bought my music in those days. its not my fave lp by george i think the matearial world album put a lot of people of buying it due to the preachy attitude of the songs on that set and i do think apart from paul all the other fabs were struggling a bit by 74 there are some great tracks on here so sad is a very melodic song great guitar the title track is a fine song dare i say i have a guilty plesure for ding dong simply shady is ok ans hari on tour exspress is ok this album does suffer from georges voice which was shot he went on tour with this album and got torn to peices for it it went gold in the states the singles were minor hits in the uk i bought them still have them i like 50 percent of this record so for me as a overall score of 5 out of ten i know you love this album tone are you judging this record with your rose coloured specs on 🤣🤣love your channel and your enthusiasm ps ding dong ding dong got to no 38 in the uk but the album flopped.
Yes maybe some rose-tinted glasses from me but I do genuinely like this album and although George's voice is not at its best, its suits some of the songs well. I think this is a much better album than it's given credit for and much less preachy than LITMW.
when i think of the great tunes that george held over for other albums george could have made a stonker round this time cosmic empire ,women dont you cry for me ,beautiful girl , you , not guilty, sour milk sea he gave that to jackie lomax ,deep blue b side to bangladeh , circles mix them with the best fom dark horse he would have had a monster do you think . also i have a few greatest hits comps and only one track from dark horse was ever on any and that was dark horse from the best of from 76 im gonna play d h this weekend i havnt for a while cheers tone 👍
@timothyedgeley6387 yeah i mostly agree although i dont think Circles or Sour Milk Sea are that great but the others you say - yes. Enjoy revisiting the album Timothy
I like Dark Horse for what it is - leaving the personal shenanigans out of it and focusing on the music. The best songs for me are Simply Shady, So Sad, Dark Horse, and Far East Man. I kind of like Maya Love and the Hari's On Tour, and It Is He. But they each seem like mediocre outtakes. Lovely melodies and instrumentation. Cracker jack band for sure. Am I too harsh? I'm leaving out Ding Dong. I am not drawn into that one at all. The thing about George's vocal performance could have been better had he waited until he stopped ravaging his voice and his soul. Extra Texture is much better in that respect. And combined, there are some really cool tracks. Except each has a different set of musicians. George's sense of humor, even somewhat self deprecating as it is is one cool thing about George and his wit. Bye Bye Love is an example of that. Wow. How low can you go and be so transparent with humility and humor. Pure George albeit pretty unlistenable (for me). I've gone on too long. Thank you for doing this series. It curls my toes as I watch each LP you review. I love how you are so frank and knowledgeable. You have great insight and divine perception. One of a kind!!! And your pitch is spot on!! You got skills! Not that I am surprised. See you next time!!
Thanks very much Rick for the praise here, I really appreciate it and thanks for giving your view on the album. I must say that I much prefer this album to Extra texture, whihc is an album that Ive never found a way to love, although I have tried but I agree with a lot of what you say here. cheers mate
You did about as nice a job repping the album as can be done (and I do like it myself), but no wayyyyyyyyyy I can rate this higher than the gloriously powerful Back to the Egg! All because you can't stand The Broadcast! hahaha
That's ok, I dont expect everyone to agree with me my friend
Hi Tone as i said to you before this album destroyed Georges reputation in the Uk failing to chart so i,m afraid that tells you everything about it.A great song Simply shady and an ok Dark horse.I,m afraid the rest is awful.I prefer Extra Texture
I strongly disagree that poor sales tells us all we need to know about an album David. Besides, this album made number 4 in the US. There is plenty to enjoy on this album if only it was appraised properly rather than by reputation.
Far East Man the shining star in an otherwise average album, in my opinion.
Done really agree , I think there is plenty to enjoy on this album Neil with repeated plays revealing its gems
Hello tone hope you doing well . I have dark horse but I never listen to that .
give it another go Mario. Im sure that repeated plays reveals its many gems
'Dark Horse'. You mean 'Dark Hoarse', surely?
If only I'd mentioned that in the video...no wait ....
There are some good tracks on here, but I never listened to it as a whole.
thats either the curse or the blessing of modern listening habits eh ken