George Harrison's masterpiece, "All Things Must Pass," is an album of compelling songs with beautiful melodies and lush, majestic arrangements. Of all the solo albums released by the alums of The Beatles, “All Things Must Pass” is arguably the most impressive.
Harrison’s material usually was not in the forefront of The Beatles’ studio work. On many of the band’s albums, priority was given to Lennon and McCartney compositions with a token Harrison penned tune or two added to the final outcome. George was obviously a skilled and talented songwriter and it is easy to understand his growing frustration within the confines of the band. Upon the disbanding of The Beatles, George quickly set out to release an album of material he had been accumulating during the final days of his stint with his legendary band.
There are few throwaway tracks, if any, which is impressive considering the length of the album (originally a 3 LP release in 1970). This is an example of when an artist has a fruitful period of brilliant writing; when the ideas, words and melodies just effortlessly flow from within. The album had some hits like “My Sweet Lord” and “What Is Life” as well as essential tracks like “Beware Of The Darkness,” “Isn’t It A Pity,” “Wah Wah,” “Awaiting On You All,” and the title track “All Things Must Pass.” The album opener “I’d Have You Any Time” is a gorgeous song, co-written by Harrison and Bob Dylan, with an affectionate melody and some inspired, delicate slide guitar playing. And some of the less-heralded songs such as “Apple Scruffs” and “Ballad Of Sir Frankie Crisp (Let It Roll)” turn out to be true gems.
What I consider to be a real highlight is the final sequence on the album known as “original jam.” This portion of the album is basically a jam session with George Harrison and members of Eric Clapton’s Derek And The Dominos line-up (sans Duane Allman). While some music journalists dismiss this portion of the album as being unnecessary, I personally find it completely fascinating. George hadn’t had a chance to let loose like this in years. George was known as a gifted guitarist, and on “All Things Must Pass,” particularly during the “original jam” portion of the album, his talent is showcased properly for the first time on record.
“All Things Must Pass” is one of Rock’s greatest albums. One does not need to be a fan of The Beatles to find the appeal. It is a pretty extensive piece of music to explore, but ultimately it is a very fulfilling ride.
Harrison’s material usually was not in the forefront of The Beatles’ studio work. On many of the band’s albums, priority was given to Lennon and McCartney compositions with a token Harrison penned tune or two added to the final outcome. George was obviously a skilled and talented songwriter and it is easy to understand his growing frustration within the confines of the band. Upon the disbanding of The Beatles, George quickly set out to release an album of material he had been accumulating during the final days of his stint with his legendary band.
There are few throwaway tracks, if any, which is impressive considering the length of the album (originally a 3 LP release in 1970). This is an example of when an artist has a fruitful period of brilliant writing; when the ideas, words and melodies just effortlessly flow from within. The album had some hits like “My Sweet Lord” and “What Is Life” as well as essential tracks like “Beware Of The Darkness,” “Isn’t It A Pity,” “Wah Wah,” “Awaiting On You All,” and the title track “All Things Must Pass.” The album opener “I’d Have You Any Time” is a gorgeous song, co-written by Harrison and Bob Dylan, with an affectionate melody and some inspired, delicate slide guitar playing. And some of the less-heralded songs such as “Apple Scruffs” and “Ballad Of Sir Frankie Crisp (Let It Roll)” turn out to be true gems.
What I consider to be a real highlight is the final sequence on the album known as “original jam.” This portion of the album is basically a jam session with George Harrison and members of Eric Clapton’s Derek And The Dominos line-up (sans Duane Allman). While some music journalists dismiss this portion of the album as being unnecessary, I personally find it completely fascinating. George hadn’t had a chance to let loose like this in years. George was known as a gifted guitarist, and on “All Things Must Pass,” particularly during the “original jam” portion of the album, his talent is showcased properly for the first time on record.
“All Things Must Pass” is one of Rock’s greatest albums. One does not need to be a fan of The Beatles to find the appeal. It is a pretty extensive piece of music to explore, but ultimately it is a very fulfilling ride.
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