IN THE BEGINNING

IN THE BEGINNING : THE BEATLES featuring TONY SHERIDAN : This is a sham. A rip off, designed to make some money of The Beatles after they have became famous. The Beatles themselves would never have let this album sees the light of day were they in control and the quality shows. I would never have got this CD too if not for the low price that I got it for. A mere RM 10.00 for just Beatles name on the CD's cover is worth it I figured.

Ain't She Sweet : The same version as on the Anthology 1 CD.

Cry For A Shadow : Like wise with this track. It was on the Anthology 1 CD.

Let's Dance : A decent track although the sound of The Beatles was not so prominence.

My Bonnie : The inclusive of this historical track somewhat raised the level of this CD a notch higher 'cos the Anthology 1 version have Paul McCartney's speech included into the song so that did not made it a stand along track.

Take Out Some Insurance On Me, Baby : A rather forgettable track that would not be out of place on the 'Live At The BBC' CD.

What'd I Say : Likewise with this track.

Sweet Georgia Brown : I remember hearing a rather interesting version of this song sometime in my early youth but this was not it.

When The Saints Goes Marching In : I like this song 'cos I've been singing in during my Hash House Harriet days and this version is okay I guess without being outstanding.

Ruby Baby : Another forgettable track.

Why : Yet another one. Really if not for the boys, I wouldn't really have bother.

Nobody's Child : I first heard this one by Karen Young and that version and this song remained my steadfast favorite. This version made it just another normal song.

Yaya : The final song, what a relief, is another feeble attempt at rock 'n' roll. John Lennon did a short demo of this with his son, Julian at the drum on his "Wall And Bridges" album and later did a full version for his Rock 'n' Roll album. Needless to say, this version beats neither of them. Yawn.

DOP : 25th August 2001.

PAST MASTERS VOLUME TWO

PAST MASTERS VOLUME TWO : The second volume of Past Masters which is my favorite of the two CD. I bought this together with Volume One. You don't think I would buy one without the other, do you. This clearly is the more superior CD of the two. With bigger hits and better songs. Which is not to say, Volume One was bad, far from it. Just a change of time and tastes.

Day Tripper ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This single was released the same time as "Rubber Soul" the album. Other bands would have include this song to sell the album but The Beatles don't need to do that. Wasn't too aware of this song when it first came out 'cos during this time I was dependent of my brother to bring records home and if he didn't, then I couldn't listen to it. I love it thought when I finally got to listen to it proper.

We Can Work It Out ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Double A Side with 'Day Tripper'. The Beatles are spoiling their fans silly. Two great songs for the price of one. Musically The Beatles were going nowhere but up. Non Beatles fans may say I am bias but in all honestly I am not. The music speaks for itself. It's only a matter of personal tastes.

Paperback Writer ( Lennon / McCartney ) :  This Beach Boys type of harmonizing is not really my cup of tea. I like it the first time I heard it but since then, other tunes have replaced it.

Rain ( Lennon / McCartney ) : I much prefer this John Lennon track to 'Paperback Writer'. I first heard this on the "Hey Jude" compilation which I had on record. I detect something similar musically with his solo track 'Mind Game' or is it just me.

Lady Madonna ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Another seemingly familiar songs but can't really be 'cos it's the latest single by The Beatles, for God's sake. I like this on first hearing, it's familiar melody and that Paul McCartney vocal.

The Inner Light ( Harrison ) : The first George Harrison track to appear on a single albeit the B side. A good melody thought the vocal can be draggy.

Hey Jude ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The mother of all singalongs. The first time I heard this, I really wasn't aware it was The Beatles until at least after I've look at the record sleeve. It sounded so different from what they have been doing all along. When I was performing this song with my band, with the audiences joining in the chorus, it brought me to a high that's surely hard to emulate.

Revolution ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The harder 'Revolution' as opposed to the softer 'Revolution ' song on "The White Album". When I first played this track, in all honesty, I thought there was something wrong with the record. I've never heard The Beatles played this hard before. Most would prefer this version but for me it's the one from "The White Album" that I'll root for.

Get Back ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This is clearly the better as compared to the one on the "Let It Be" album. With an urgent marching guitar riff, this is clearly one of The Beatles defining moments.

Don't Let Me Down ( Lennon / McCartney ) : 'Get Back' may be great but the B Side is the one for me. I can play this track a few times in one sitting and never get tired of it. John's heart wrenching vocal is hard to beat and you can actually hear George's guitar weeping in the background. I do this with my band and during my karaoke sessions and I get gratifying from the crowds and just for singing it.

The Ballad Of John And Yoko ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This track have only John and Paul on it but you wouldn't have noticed given the tight and solid musicianship. A solid rock 'n' roll number that can go nowhere but the top. One of my favorite. When this was first released, I was quite taken aback that real people can be the subject in songs. Yeah I was that young but I still know good music when I heard one.

Old Brown Shoe ( Harrison ) : The second George Harrison's track to make it on a single albeit the B side. There are many who swear by this number but it's wasn't for me. Wasn't too crazy for it.

Across The Universe ( Lennon / McCartney ) : I've already heard this from the "Let It Be" album but this is the first version of the song that was released to the public on a charity album. Stripped of Phil Spector's Wall of Sound treatment, this one is clearer and is actually the better version.

Let It Be ( Lennon / McCartney ): This was the version that I first bought on SP and this was the version that I totally and absolutely love. George Harrison's guitar solo was soften down which in my opinion works better than in the album where it was more prominent. If there's one Beatles that I can take to the moon with me, this will be it.

You Know My Name [ Look Up The Number ] ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The flip side of 'Let It Be', this one's an oddity. Most casual fans will not have heard of it except for the hard core. Probably a song made up while they were playing. With a lesser band, it will be a waste of time, but with The Beatles even garbage can be rendered listenable as this track proved. Listen to the whole song and I promise it will bring a smile to your face. I've watch my brother and that's just what happened.

DOP : 6th June 1992.

PAST MASTERS VOLUME ONE

1988 PAST MASTERS. VOLUME 1 : Without questions, during their reign, The Beatles were the leaders and they were million years apart from even their closest competitors. Other than producing blockbuster albums after albums, they were doing the same for their stand along singles. They were as profilic in producing singles as they were in producing albums and more often than not, the singles were not part of their albums. During the records days, it was no small feat to collect all The Beatles' recordings 'cos other than the albums, there were indispensable singles spread all over their SPs and EPs which make collecting all their recordings no small task. Which was why these two releases Past Masters Volume 1 & 2 are a God sent for Beatles fans all over the world.

Love Me Do ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This version was slightly different from the album version. This one have Ringo on drum while the album version have session musician Andy White drumming and Ringo shaking his tambourine. On first hearing, the bass line is quite cute.

From Me To You ( Lennon / McCartney ) : There were some discrepancies as to whether 'Please Please Me' was a No. 1 hit or not 'cos it was No.1 in three of the published rankings but only made the runner up spot in the now widely quoted fourth. 'From Me To You' was an unanimous No.1 and the first of 11 consecutive British No.1 for The Beatles. An early favorite of mine. The first song that my son can sing even before he can even speak properly.

Thank You Girl ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The B side to 'From Me To You'. Written as a thank you note to their fans. This was a throwaway but still retained some of The Beatles' magic nevertheless.

She Loves You ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The first big one from The Beatles. The one that started Beatlemania and gave us the immortal catch phase 'Yeah, Yeah, Yeah'.

I'll Get You ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The flip side of 'She Loves You' and one of my favourite. I remember my brother asking me what Beatles' song that I like and he'll type it out for me on our newly purchased typewriter. I replied the one with the wording ' I'll get you in the air....yes, I will, I'll get you in the air.....'. This was also the one the son sang along to in the CD shop when the DVD was played to the amusement of the people around.

I Want To Hold Your Hand ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The one that introduced The Beatles to America. I have a soft spot for this tune, Don't know why but I just love this song.

This Boy ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The flip to 'I Want To Hold Your Hand' and what glorious harmony. I didn't really have the chance to listen to this song until the time I bought this 'Rarities" album.. Totally love it.

Komm, Gib Mir Deine Hand ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The German version of 'I Want To Hold Your Hand'. The arrangements are exactly the same as the original.

Sie Liebt Dich ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The German version of 'She Loves You'. Knowing John Lennon's off beat sense of humour during the time of recording of this two tracks, it would be wise to check the translations.

Long Tall Sally ( Johnson / Penniman /Blackwell ) : This came out originally on an EP. I wasn't too crazy about this track.

I Call Your Name ( Lennon / McCartney ) : I could vaguely remember this song from my youth. I can only sing the the first verse but when I finally got to hear it in it's entirely, it practically blew me away. Originally given to Billy J. Kramer & The Dakotas but John deemed it fit to record a version of it with The Beatles.Wise choice. I absolutely love this version.

Slow Down ( Williams ) : I remember this mostly from the cartoon version. Like this.

Matchbox ( Perkins ) : Ringo's tune. Another track that I can live without. This was one cool EP, with four songs sang by each of The Beatles.

I Feel Fine ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The one with the most famous distorted guitar feed back in the history of Rock Music. Released on the same day as the album "Beatles for Sale ". I love this one, who wouldn't.

She's A Woman ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Not particularly crazy about this track but that's something special about it. Like so many Beatles' songs. Sounds familiar and yet.....can't put my fingers on it but this is essential stuff,

Bad Boy ( Williams ) : I heard this once on a pirate record and then lost track of it until I got the rarities album. My band loves me doing this song and I love singing it equally.

Yes It Is ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The flip side of 'Ticket To Ride; and was considered a 'horror' by John Lennon. What saves it was the beautiful harmony first served on 'This Boy'. And yeah, for once I agreed with John, this one is not one to shout home about.

I'm Down ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The flip side of 'Help!', this one was a rocker on the vein of Little Richard's 'Long Tall Sally'.
I am not too crazy about this track either but I find I enjoyed the version on the Anthology 2 CD without the backing more.

DOP : 6th June 1992.

LET IT BE

1970 LET IT BE

LET IT BE : Finally, after much speculation and disbelief, to the utter sadness of the fans, the break up of The Beatles was finally out in the open.The Beatles. The greatest band on the planet. The greatest band of all time is no more. When this album was released, The Beatles have already ceased to be an entity and none were available to see to the technical aspects of the album. hence it's distorted state. Whatever the case, as always indicated, The Beatles' worst were only worst among their circle, other bands would sell their mothers to have being able to make an album such as "Let It Be" for it contained no less than three No.1 singles. As none of The Beatles could face editing the tapes, Phil Spector was bought in to sort out the mess and to his credit, because him, we have one more Beatles' album.

Two Of Us ( Lennon / McCartney ) : A nice quiet acoustic opener from Paul that hacked back to their earlier days. Initially thought to be about John and Paul but it was actually about Paul and Linda. Still it brings a warmth  to the heart to hear John and Paul harmonizing once more. Loves this especially the opening snippets.

Dig A Pony ( Lennon / McCartney ) : John Lennon have been on record saying that this track was a piece of garbage. That's a bit harsh. Great song it ain't but garbage it certainly isn't. I can live with this.

Across The Universe ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This is more the John that we've known and loved. The melody is great while the lyrics are just superb. Written as only John can, the word play is a joy to listen to.

I Me Mine ( Harrison ) : George's song and it was also the title of his autobiography. Not the greatest of songs but it fitted in nicely here.

Dig It ( Lennon / McCartney / Harrison / Starkey ) :  This was a forty five minutes track which they wisely extracted from a 12 minute jam, or else we'll be faced with another Revolution 9. I've heard the long version. It was nothing more than a long endless jam with words or names made up as they go along.

Let It Be ( Lennon / McCartney ) : One of the last great Beatles' song. Another of those songs that I never grow tired of listening of. This version is slightly different from the version released as the single. George's guitar is given more prominent here. Hymn like and beautiful beyond words. I much prefer the single version though.

Maggie Mae ( Lennon / McCartney / Harrison / Starkey ) :  Another of those studio jam seasons which they've recorded for prosperity. John have a longer version of this song in his anthology box set. In the old days, when I was recording songs in cassette form, I use to insert this song for the short bit of tape left just before the last song ended. The Beatles have lots of this short songs.

I've Got A Feeling ( Lennon / McCartney ) : One of those rare moments when John and Paul have both their unfinished songs mingled into one. I like this rocking number. And it feels kinda warm when you have the two feuding greats singing alongside each other.

One After 909 ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This one was dated from their old days before they became music Gods. John added in another of his song to make the song whole. Not one of my favorite but it's way better then when they originally sang it.

The Long And Winding Road ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Another great one from Paul, thought not as universal as 'Let It Be  '. I've always imagine this song should be a theme for a great movie. Movies along the line of "Gone With The Wind", or "Doctor Zhivago". Great song for a great movie. A truly incredible masterpiece that tugs at your heart string wherever or whoever you are. Love it, love it love it.

For You Blues ( Harrison ) : George final song in this album.This one is quite jolly thought not as memorable as his other songs. The slide guitar, courtesy of John, is a joy to listen to. The power that be thought enough of this song to include it in "The Best Of George Harrison" album, a decade later.

Get Back ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This version of 'Get Back' was not the same as the version issued as the single. The version here was much shorter with snippets of The Beatles chatting near the end of the song. Ironic that the last song here was called 'Get Back' when after this, The Beatles were all going their separate ways. Never to record as an entity again.

DOP : 8th May 1993.

ABBEY ROAD

1969 ABBEY ROAD

ABBEY ROAD : Although "Let It Be" was the last official Beatles release, "Abbey Road " was their true swan song, a fitting cap to their career and the decade they dominated. As was usual with Beatles' album, there are no bad tracks here. Divided into two distinct halves with one half being stand alone songs and the other half a continuous medley of songs that justifies its musical pretentious. With this album. George Harrison finally came out of Lennon / McCartney's shadow by producing the two best tracks from the album. The Beatles although deep in tension with each other, set aside their differences long enough to show the world they still have the power to rock 'n' roll and in return we have the best rock 'n' roll record ever from The Beatles or from anyone else in the rock era. Asked a certain group of people from a certain times about a certain type of music and they will tell you that Rock 'n'  Roll went downhill after this.

Come Together ( Lennon / McCartney ) : John with his quasi-Beatles albums. I am never tire of this song and also one of the few Beatles' songs that I love singing during my karaoke seasons.
nonsense lyrics again and arguably the best of the lots. One of the few songs that John sang in his concert and also one of the best opener of any

Something ( Harrison ) : Frank Sinatra once praised George by saying that "this was one of the century most beautiful love songs ever written.." but in the same breath stabbed him in the back by saying " by Lennon / McCartney ". This was the only Beatles song that Frank Sinatra would sing. Whatever Frank say or he may have got the credits mixed up, we agreed with his first statement for this is indeed one of the most beautiful love songs ever written. George Harrison's finest achievement within The Beatles and the second most covered Beatles' song. This was also the first George Harrison's single as a Beatles.

Maxwell's Silver Hammer ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The Beatles generally didn't care much for this number except for Paul McCartney who wrote it of course. I love it. Singing in his clearest voice, in nursery rhyme style the song is about a serial killer. Not really one for the children but the melody and arrangement is so damn catchy and irresistible that you just can't help but let your children listen to it. Only The Beatles can make a song about a serial killer sounds so joyful.

Oh Darling ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Another Paul McCartney's song written in the style of John Lennon. Yet another song that I don't care much for initially. When I finally got round to it, it have me in even more awe of  the power that was The Beatles or Paul McCartney. This was the one that separates the mere singers from the bona file musicians. Engelbert Humperdinke or any other crooners could never sing this in a million years or for a million bucks. It's unbelievable when you think that the sweet voice that sang 'I Will', 'Yesterday' and 'Here, There And Everywhere' could actually sounds like this. Awesome.

Octopus's Garden ( Starkey ) : The first Ringo Starr composed Beatles' song that I genuinely like. Written with a little help from his friend, George, it was a sequence of sort to 'Yellow Submarine'. It have charms in spades. One of those Beatles' song that I never get tired of listening to. Ringo got his dues.

I Want You ( Lennon / McCartney ) : John at his heaviest on this album. This is generally a good song with limited lyric but it went on for too darn long. If John have shorten it a bit, it could even be single material. Yeah it was that good but then again too long. The influence of Yoko is felt here.

Here Comes The Sun ( Harrison ) : George's second song on the album and generally considered the second best song on the album. Just the song to lift your spirit up when you are having a bad day.

Because ( Lennon / McCartney ) : One of John most beautiful love song to Yoko, this one have three part harmonies by John, Paul and George and it is almost their best.

You Never Give Me Your Money ( Lennon / McCartney ) :  This song started the famous medleys on Side 2 of the original record.. It was due to Paul's genius that he managed to link the follow eight songs and linked them together beautifully. This song have three parts. It starts off with a piano ballad, turned into a blues rocker in the middle then fades out with a nursery like ending. Paul was always a master at linking unfinished songs together as he have demonstrated again and again in his solo outings.

Sun King ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The next song in the medley which I considered to be the weakest. Maybe it was due to the Royce Royce standard of  the other songs, this one sounds rather...ahem....stale.

Mean Mister Mustard ( Lennon / McCartney ) : With this the tempo picks up. John at his rocking best although a wee bit too short. Before you know it, it's over. Frustrating to say the least.

Polythene Pam ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The sister of 'Mean Mister Mustard', this one demonstrated the rock 'n' roll side of John that he loves so much and which we are so starved of.

She Came In Through The Bedroom Window ( Lennon / McCartney ) :  Paul back in the game with this beautiful song due to a recent incident where groupies broke into his apartment and stole some of his stuffs. Joe Cocker would record his own version but The Beatles' version rules..

Golden Slumbers ( Lennon / McCartney ) : With this beautiful lullaby, the tempo quieten down. Paul demonstrated yet again he is still at the top of the game. While visiting his father, he came across a song book with a traditional song 'Golden Slumbers' written by one Thomas Dekker, from the 17th century. As he couldn't read music, he wrote his own version of the song with the same title but with a totally different melody. Awesome.

Carry That Weight ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Another sing-along song from Paul. This song show Paul's thought of The Beatles in its twilight days with its subjects of moneys, business problems and the burdens that goes with it. This is also the kind of mini medleys that Paul loves so much and it set the trends that was to continued through his solo outings..

The End ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The final song from the final album from the greatest band of all time, or was it. This track was more instrumental than vocal. It was as if The Beatles knew that it was to be their last album, their last hurrah, so each of them, John, Paul and George have a guitar solo. Even Ringo who doesn't like drum solo have a drum solo. The last verse for this song says it all " And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you made'. And with that, The Beatles bowed out. They did not go out with a whim, they went out with a bang that would be heard forever.

Her Majesty ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This last song or could it be called a song was originally slotted to be part of the medley but somehow deemed unsuitable so it was left out. The original album doesn't have this title on the record sleeve so fans was pleasantly surprised when they heard it. Sub-sequence CD have this title on the sleeves.

DOP : 2nd February 1993.

THE BEATLES ( AKA THE WHITE ALBUM )

1968 THE BEATLES ( AKA THE WHITE ALBUM )

THE BEATLES ( AKA THE WHITE ALBUM ) : The Beatles first and only double album during their time and yet another masterpiece. With this effort, The Beatles decided to go back to their root but instead it took them everywhere. Never before or since, in the history of rock music, have there been so many varieties of music cramped into an album. There are soul, reggae, blues, good old fashioned rock 'n' roll, 50's style rag time and everything else except the toilet bowl that you can name. Most of the songs were written in India. The album also show the different directions the bands were going and the disharmony within the group. Although it is The Beatles in all their brilliance, it is actually more a recording of four individuals with the others acting as backing band. George Martin reportedly tried to get the lads to trimmed it down to a single album but at this point, The Beatles were beyond negotiable  Nevertheless, a great album.

Disc 1

BackIn The USSR ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This great rock 'n' roll number by Paul opens the album. Influenced by their boyhood idol Chuck Berry and said to be a send up to The Beach Boys, this one was an instant classic. If this doesn't rock you, nothing will.

Dear Prudence ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Written about Mia Farrow's sister, Prudence, this one shows a rare softer side of John Lennon that's more in the style of Paul McCartney. I found this quite slow at first but gradually like most Beatles' songs, it grew on me.

Glass Onion ( Lennon / McCartney ) : One of those nonsensical songs that John was so good at. Written to confuse fans about the secret messages supposingly in their songs. This song gives fans a field days 'cos it contain several references to their earlier hits. A solid rocker no less.

Obladi, Oblada  ( Lennon / McCartney ) :  A firm favorite during my school days and it's not hard to see why. When my brothers have this album on tape, due to the stereo effect, only this song have vocals on it while the rest of the songs doesn't. Even my mother was taping her foot to this infectious song. The Marmalade took advantage of The Beatles not releasing this song and took it to the top of the chart themselves.

Wild Honey Pie ( Lennon / McCartney ) : A throwaway track which Paul McCartney probably made up in the studio.

The Continuing Story Of Bungalow Bill ( Lennon / McCartney ) :  This next one from John was not a favorite with me. Probably another one that John made up just to fill up the album's space. Nevertheless, one man's meat could well be another man's poison. There are others who like this.This was also the first time that Yoko made her vocal contribution on a Beatles song.

While My Guitar Gently Weeps ( Harrison ) : The first great one from the quiet one. Incredibly I don't like this when I first heard it. Finding it too long and right after this, the great John Lennon's song 'Happiness Is A Warm Gun' doesn't help either. Now, this song is indispensable to me. I could press the repeat button and listen to it again and again.

Happiness Is A Warm Gun ( Lennon / McCartney ): This one has been a favorite to me ever since the first time I heard it. Consisting of four different sings somehow mingled together wondrously as only the late great John Lennon can. This is more in Paul McCartney's territory but then John can always do a Paul and Paul can always do a John if they want to. Till today, this song can still stop me in my track. Ironically in the end, it was a gun that cut short his happiness.

Martha My Dear ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Paul's song supposedly about his sheepdog but in actuality about his then relationship with Jane Asher, in that famous music hall sounding horn arrangement that he was so good in. This will have you shaking your hips and smiling through the song's duration. Very distinctively Paul McCartney. Love it.

I'm So Tired ( Lennon / McCartney ) : One of John's lazy song which he did so perfectly well in 'I'm Only Sleeping' on "Revolver". I sing this song whenever I am feeling weary or tired. A good one to sing to your other half when she is asking you to do things and you are feeling so darn tired.

Black Bird ( Lennon / McCartney ) : A sweet little ditty written and sung by Paul McCartney with just his acoustic guitar. This is just one of those songs that The Beatles could write in their sleep and still have it sound great.. Such is the power of The Beatles.

Piggies ( Harrison ) : Another favorite of mine. This ones from George. Clearly George is showing his grown as a songwriter within the class of Lennon / McCartney thought he still doesn't have as many songs as them.

Rocky Raccoon ( Lennon / McCartney ) : A country 'n' western song which was a straight favoite of mine as well as my mum. Can you beat that. The Beatles' music can even reach my mother, a typical Chinese lady who doesn't know English from Spanish. This is one of the Beatles' song that I like to sing at karaoke. I don't usually do Beatles' songs 'cos they are all sacred songs to me but I do this one and I do it good even if I may say so myself. Ahem ! Ahem !.

Don't Pass Me By ( Starkey ) : Even Ringo got in the act with this country 'n' western number. Not a particular favorite but tolerable. I much prefer his improvised live version of this song in one of his later live albums.

Why Don't We Do It In The Road ( Lennon / McCartney ) :  A close to 4 minutes song with only two sentences. Incredible. I never used to like this song but as the years pass....The piano thumbing lends a sense of urgency that stops you from pressing the skip button. Initially I though it was Ringo singing this but of course it was Paul doing his 'Lady Madonna' kind of vocal. Always amazed me at how Paul can change his voice for any kind of songs that he choose to.

I Will ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Trust The Beatles to follow up with one of their hardest song on the album with one of the gentlest and most beautiful one. When Paul turned on his charms, even the birds will stop and listen such as this one. Another nice one to sing to your love ones.

Julie ( Lennon / McCartney ) : As mentioned before, sometimes John can write a Paul McCartney song as well as Paul McCartney himself as he so ably demonstrated on this gentle track about his mother and Yoko, as and when he wants to.

 Disc 2 

Birthday ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Again, another tracks that I don't like initially. It was so heavy. Too heavy for my tender ears. I was only 9 years old then for crying out loud. Now I love it enough even to sing it to my Beatles loving friends' birthdays. It bought to mind an episode of 'Moonlighting' when Bruce Willis sang this song at a birthday party.

Yer Blues ( Lennon / McCartney ) : I like this tracks even when I haven't a clue what John was singing about. This was just   one of the three Beatles' songs that he performed when The Beatles disbanded. The other two were 'I Saw Her Standing There' and ' Come Together'. A solid blues number about suicide. Is there anything that The Beatles can't write and sing about and sings it so brilliantly too, I like to hear about it.

Mother Nature's Son ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Another Paul McCartney's gem that he seems to write so effortlessly. A beautiful country ballad but due to it's inclusion so late in the album somehow lesser it's impact. A beautiful song by any standard. John Denver covered this and tried to claim it as his own but nope, Paul's version is the best as most Beatles' songs are. The Beatles rules..

Everybody's Got Something To Hide Except For Me And My Monkey ( Lennon / McCartney ) : What a mouthful. This is one of those rare Beatles' songs that I can do without.. Written in protest of a cartoon that showed Yoko as a monkey that was riding on his back, draining him of his talents.  Maybe there's some truth in that cartoon, albeit temporary.

Sexy Sadie ( Lennon / McCartney ) : You just can't keep a good man down for long. John bounced back splendidly with this wonderful ballad about his disillusion with the Maharishi who was said to have made a pass at one of his followers. True or not, we are all grateful for the inspiration that gave birth to this great classic.

Helter Skelter ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Earlier it was John Lennon writing a Paul McCartney tune, now it's Paul's turn to write a John Lennon's type of rocker. I really didn't like this at all when I first heard it during my tender years. I'm not sure I like it still. The distorting guitar and obnoxious scream. This is arguably the first heavy metal record although John said the first was 'Ticket To Ride'. I much prefer the more slimmer down version that Paul did in the 2000's at the Grammy show. This was also one of the song that got the crazed murderous Charles Manson on a killing spree. The other was George's 'Piggies'

Long, Long, Long ( Harrison ) : Again after you have lower the volume down for 'Helter Skelter, came this super soft offering from George. So soft you'll have to turn up the volume again. This is a beautiful song but a tab too soft for my liking. I was hoping that George would do a re make of this track and make it more accessible to the ears, but.......

Revolution 1 ( Lennon / McCartney ): I like this one. The false starting and all.  John having his say at politic and he do it best in music. It's much softer in tune than the other version with the distorting guitar and much more louder. Impact wise the other one, I have to admit was bigger.

Honey Pie ( Lennon / McCartney ): Another ragtime kind of music from Paul McCartney or is it Granny type of music. I love this one. So fun filled and lively. Surprisingly, this was one of his least successful ragtime kind of song. Fortunately, it does not hinder him from writing more of these songs.

Savoy Truffle ( Harrison ) : George's final track and it's written based on a chocolate that Eric Clapton have eaten that have given him a toothache. When we have toothache, we go and see a dentist but when The Beatles or anyone they know got a toothache, they go and write a song about it. Regarded by some as the best rock 'n' roll song from this album, this is great stuff.

Cry Baby Cry ( Lennon / McCartney ) : John Lennon writing a fairy tale in musical language. A charming song although a bit long. Still the charms cannot be denied.

Revolution 9 ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The most hated track on the album or the most hated Beatles' track of all. A recorded voice calling out No.9, No 9, No 9, repeatedly...till you want to scream and then followed by snippets of interviews that goes on forever. Yoko have her hand all over this. George Martin and the rest of The Beatles tried desperately to keep this out of the record, but John wouldn't bulged. All these years, due to my debt to The Beatles, I've heard the whole track through only once and that was it. Never again.

Goodnight ( Lennon / McCartney ) : John made his amendment after the above atrocious track. A beautiful lullaby written for his son, Julian but was given to Ringo to sing. I use to sing this to my children to sleep too. A nice end to an awesome album.

DOP : 17th January 1993.

YELLOW SUBMARINE

1969 YELLOW SUBMARINE

YELLOW SUBMARINE :  Released in 1969, this soundtrack broke a Beatles record. It was the album that broke their streak of nine No.1 albums that stretched back to 1964. It only reached No.2 on the Billboard's album chart. The poor showing however, doesn't reflect on The Beatles' creativity or popularity, for this album consist of only four new Beatles' songs with two previously released tracks and the other side made up of orchestra music by George Martin. Only four new songs but still managed to bring the album to No.2 is a considerably achievement for any band, I would say. A failure only by Beatles' standard but a triumph by any other bands.

Yellow Submarine ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The same track from "Revolver".

Only A Northern Song ( Harrison ) : A George Harrison's song showing his resentment that much of the earning from his song was taxed by the accountants, the taxmen, etc. A subject he tackled so effectively on 'Taxman' on the "Revolver" album. His attempt here is much weaker but it's still listenable. I quite enjoy this.

All Together Now ( Lennon / McCartney ) : A relatively new Beatles song to me which I only got to heard when I have it recorded on one of my cassettes. A charming little ditty that can only come from Paul McCartney.  During football seasons, you may just hear this song in a football fields with football supporters cheering their favorite players. I love singing this to my daughters too when there were still small.

Hey Bulldog ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The real heavyweight from this album naturally can only come from John Lennon. I love this one. The guitar sound was so far out. Hard to imagine that all the songs gather here were considered as throwaways by The Beatles not worthy to be on any of their albums.

It's All Too Much ( Harrison ) : A six minutes long track from George Harrison that waxes philosophical with 'Tomorrow Never Knows' styled guitar and tape effects. There are people who swear that this is one of The Beatles or George Harrison's greatest song. Who am I to argue, but at six minutes long, it's a tab bit too long for me and it's not exactly 'Hey Jude'.

All You Need Is Love ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The same track from "Magical Mystery Tour".

DOP : 9th August 1995.

MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR

1967 MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR

MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR : I've never have this album during my younger days. When I finally got the CD, the songs were relatively 'new' to me other than the singles, of course. I once stumbled upon the EP in a record shop, a long way back. I should have grabbed it but during that time, a school boy's allowance is quite limited. If I have got my hand on that EP, what a collector's items it would be now. Sign.

Magical Mystery Tour ( Lennon / McCartney ) : It was this side of the album that I was not familiar with till years later. Quite a revelation for me. I guess I was one of the rare ones who don't quite get this title track. It was the title track and it was supposed to grab you by the throat like so many before it. But nope, I didn't feel the magic this time. Never like the song and never have.One of these rare Beatles' tracks that I pressed the skip button.

The Fool On The Hill ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The Beatles redeemed themselves somewhat with this Paul McCartney song. I say somewhat because I've mentioned somewhere, great as the song may be, it was better done by Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66. I like the bass line which was practically invented by Paul and the melody. A classic nevertheless.

Flying ( Lennon / McCartney / Harrison / Starkey ) : The first time an instrumental track even to graced a Beatles album and the first time all Beatles were credited on a track. A throwaway though doesn't deem necessary to press the skip button.

Blue Jay Way ( Harrison ) : George's turn to shine but sadly he didn't. A boring tune if I could ever say that of a Beatles' song. This one just go on and on and on on the same note that makes you want to scream. Supposingly about his friend Derek Taylor being lost on his way to see the lads. The tune sounded lost too. Boring.

Your Mother Should Know ( Lennon / McCartney ) : It was up to Paul to save the day again with this delightful little song  which seems like a close cousin to 'When I'm Sixty Four', which Paul was so good at.. The type of 'Granny" music which John so detested but was usually well received else where. Me included.

I Am The Walrus ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Now I am back in familiar territory. Heard first on the flip side of 'Hello, Goodbye', I find this song weird on first listening.. Often hailed as John Lennon's masterpiece, the lyric is pure nonsensical and show John's admiration for the works of Lewis Carroll with his work play.This is one of those songs that can only be written by John Lennon. Not even Bob Dylan can come up with something close like this.

Hello, Goodbye ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The more radio friendly Beatles' song that is readily lapped up by the public in opposed to the more experimental and adventurous 'I Am The Walrus'. A No.1 no less. I like to sing this to my baby girl with me singing one verse and she singing the next.

Strawberry Fields Forever ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Coupled with 'Penny Lane', this was universally agreed by critics and fans alike to be the single most important single of all time. Incredibly, and to the eternal shame of the British, it was held off the No.1 spot by none other than Engelbert Humperdinck's 'Release Me' and it broke their long run of  No.1 hits. When I first heard this, I find it a vastly different kind of music. Initially, on first hearing, I couldn't believe it was The Beatles. It was meant as part of the Sgt. Pepper's album but The Beatles were pressured to released a single after their long hiatus in between albums. So they released this.

Penny Lane ( Lennon / McCartney ) : As usual, Paul's song is the more radio friendly type and this was the one that got to No. 1 while 'Strawberry Fields Forever' got to No.8. An irony actually when the DJs took the two songs on the the same record as separate singles. Truly, rock never got more adventurous than this. Two vastly separate individuals who are as alike as night and day, recording different songs on the same subject on the same disc.

Baby, You're A Rich Man ( Lennon / McCartney ) : A somewhat lesser song as compared to the first two titans. A mingle of two separate songs that was suppose to be about their manager, Brian Epstein. Still, any recordings by The Beatles warrant a listen and this one is no exception.

All You Need Is Love ( Lennon / McCartney ) : One of John simplest and grandest statement ever. A timeless love anthem for all the world to sing along. No one writes anthems better than John and he wrote a couple more if not greater ones in the years that follow.

DOP : 27th February 1993.

SGT.PEPPER'S LONELY HEART CLUB BAND

1967 SGT. PEPPER'S LONELY HEART CLUB BAND

SGT. PEPPER'S LONELY HEART CLUB BAND : If The Beatles, starting from "Rubber Soul" started their transcend from merely a good band to a great band, then this 1968 release surely sees them reached their musical Nirvana. This album has been called the greatest album of all time and heaps of lavish praises allocated it by critics and fans alike. But somehow to me, it still falls short of something. There seems to be more fillers here than on other Beatles' album. For the title of best Beatles album, I'll place my bet on either "Rubber Soul", "Revolver" or "Abbey Road" or even "The Beatles"   Still, this does not mean that "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart Club Band " is bad. It's a great album but there are just better Beatles albums abound. There are many 'first' that comes with this album. Among the most significant was that it was the first album that comes with lyrics, the first that comes with an open sleeve. There are also cut outs of  a picture of Sgt. Pepper himself which was also a first.

Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart Club Band ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The album's famous opener that spurred a thousand imitations. Jimi Hendrix was so impressed with this song that he was singing it on his concert within days of it's released. It also inspired the ill fated movie of the same name starring The Bee Gees and Peter Frampton plus a host of other stars. Afirm favorite..

With A Little Help From My Friends ( Lennon / McCartney ) :  The second most successful Ringo Starr  vehicle since 'Yellow Submarine" from "Revolver". Joe Cocker later would make an even more successful cover of this song taking it to greater height. Still, I prefer this version to Joe Cocker's or any others versions. Call it the Ringo charm.

Lucy In The Sky With Diamond ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The first totally blown out psychedelia song by John with his love of words play. Inspired by a drawing by his son Julian's friend called Lucy. It was also suspected to be a drug song not helped by its initials LSD, which led it to be banned from the radio.  John have denied its reference to drug to his dying days.

Getting Better ( Lennon / McCartney ) : After the surreal feeling from 'Lucy In The Sky With Diamond', we are bought back to earth by this bountiful wonderful song by Paul. It's a optimist song with a few cynical remarks thrown in by John. A winner and the lead guitar is awesome.

Fixing A Hole ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Another winner by Paul. This one is about just what the song implied, fixing a hole. Fixing a hole in the ceiling or whatever but somehow the power that be suggested that it might be another drug song as in getting a fix. Those in the know knows that you just don't look for deep meaning in Paul McCartney's songs unlike John Lennon who might just be liable to do that.

She's Leaving Home ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Compare to the glorious ballads in their respective albums, this one is quite a downer for me. Not that it's bad, on the contrarily, most band of the day would sell their mothers to have a song like this in their album. Just that compared to the greater than great ballads in their previous albums, this one is a step down.

Being For The Benefit Of Mr. Kite ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This one is an eye opener. Close your eyes when this song is being played, you could swear that you are in the circus. Copied almost words for words from an old circus poster, this one shows the power that The Beatles process. I am convinced that they can even make a hit song out a telephone book.

Within You, Without You ( Harrison ) : A weird but fine track from George Harrison one and only offering here. This one features only George and a few Indian musicians. It's a joke to play this at home and have your neighbors giving you strange look. Initially I used to skipped this track but in time, I grew to appreciate the musical side of it.

When I'm Sixty Four ( Lennon / McCartney ) : A personal favorite of mine and anyone who's over 50. Paul's favorite 50's style of musical tribute to his father. A nice one to sing to your lover during the courting stage. Never fail.

Lovely Rita ( Lennon / McCartney ) : A slight filler on the album according to Beatles standard. Beatles fillers as numerous times being acknowledged are usually still heads and shoulders above any other artists. Filler or not, this one have a catchy melody.

Good Morning, Good Morning ( Lennon / McCartney ) : A throwaway according to the composer, John Lennon, and this time I quite agree with him.. Filler only by Beatles standards. I've been using this as wake up call on my phone since cell phone have been in use.. A good way to start any mornings with The Beatles waking you.

Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart Club Band [ Reprise ] ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This is the second time this song appear on the album, though only a short one. This one is more upbeat.

A Day In The Life ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This song have been listed by many polls as being the most popular Beatles songs of all time. It's the perfect blending of actually two songs by both John and Paul and the result is earth shattering to say the least. In spite the reputation it have acquired since, it's not my favorite on this album, 'cos there are just too many great songs for me to choose from here.

DOP : 16th May 1992.

REVOVER

1966 REVOLVER

REVOLVER : With this album, The Beatles continued their transcend from being a mere pop group to greatness beyond the reach of mortal bands started during their last album "Rubber Soul". This is the album where George Harrison finally came out of the shadow of Lennon / McCartney and  also the only Beatles album that housed three George Harrison's compositions. John Lennon's songs here are more experimental than ever while Paul McCartney's songs are all bona file classics that some even went as far as to call this a Paul McCartney's album. We have this album in the house.

Taxman ( Harrison ): George's finest song so far and a splendid opening. The lead guitar is what drive the song and it's being played by Paul. It's every beat as good as any Lennon '/ McCartney song and it also fits in very well with The Beatles' tendency to open their albums with an upbeat number. A solid number.

Elanor Rigby ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Paul's next number was an instant classic. Written in almost the same style of 'Yesterday', but with more orchestral backing. This was one of the few songs that John and Paul have some disagreement over how much input John have into the lyrics. This song also won the 1966 Grammy for Best Contemporary Pop Vocal Performance, Male. So what more is there to say.

I'm Only Sleeping ( Lennon / McCartney ) : A lazy song for lazy people but what a glorious lazy song. I like this song. It's nice to sing to someone who try to get you up early in the morning.

Love You To ( Harrison ) : Another of George's songs that reflects his Eastern wisdom that he gathered from from his visits to the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, complete with Indian instruments. Not one of my favorite but it fits in with the album.

Here, There And Everywhere ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Paul can always be depended upon to come up with a beautiful ballad or two on any Beatles' album and this time, he seems to have outdone even himself. Arguably his greatest ballad, and my all time favorite. This song was a favorite among young courting couples on the dance floor and one song that I could press on the repeat button forever. Paul did a new version of this song on one of his solo album in the eighties.

Yellow Submarine ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Amid all these classics, they still find time to write a children's song for Ringo Starr to sing. In Ringo's word, 'You can start a career with just this one song' and indeed,he have been singing this song in his so;o concert ever since. A delightful distraction, this song will definitely outlive us all.

She Said, She Said ( Lennon / McCartney ) : A song inspired by something that movie actor Peter Fonda said, this is another one of John Lennon's experimental song. Experimental songs don't come any better than this.The lead guitar is awesome.

Good Day Sunshine ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Paul seems to be on the right footing with his lady love on this album as opposed to his songs on "Rubber Soul". Almost all his song save for the lonely 'Elanor Rigby' are bountiful and a joy to listen to and this is no exception. The Tremeloes have a hit with this song.

And Your Bird Can Sing ( Lennon / McCartney ) : John again and it sounds like he is having a ball. This song used to be the theme song for their cartoon series on TV. I love this song. The only complain was that it was too short. Just when you were getting into the groove of thing, it ended. Damn.

For No One ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Another great one from Paul. When I say that Paul was on a roll, now you know what I mean. Heck, this album doesn't seems like an ordinary album at all. Matter of fact it seems more like a greatest hit album than the normal album. This is a quieter track in direct contrast to John's earlier louder effort.. This was later re recorded by Paul as well in the eighties.

Doctor Robert ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This was said to be about the good doctor who introduce The Beatles to the world of drug. A rocking number, I somehow detected some similar musical notes from 'Nowhere Man' or is it just me.

I Want To Tell You ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The last one from George. Not my favorite but a  worthwhile song anyway.

Got To Get You Into My Life ( Lennon / McCartney ) : An awesome one from Paul. Just when you thought nobody could top this, Earth, Wind & Fire did just that in the ill faded 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart Band' soundtrack. In fact, this was the only song that most people remember from that movie. Still, much as I loved Earth, Wind & Fire's version of this song, Paul's version here could not be faulted either.  Like comparing oranges and apples. Just different.

Tomorrow Never Knows ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The last one from John Lennon was the one that have everybody from here to the moon raving about. Not really one of my favorite but then there are really no bad Beatles' songs just different. You may not like a particular song but they will be many others who will swear by it.

DOP : 31st May 1992.

HELP !

1965 HELP !

HELP! : SOUNDTRACK FROM THE MOTION PICTURE : 1965 bring gave us "Help!", the soundtrack to their second feature film of the same name. The album lead more towards folk rather than pop. Clearly the influence of Bob Dylan could be plainly felt. Containing two No.1 hits no less and the most covered song in history 'Yesterday', it was still considered relatively weak in Beatles standard.

Help! ( Lennon / McCartney ): The first confessional song from John that's in actuality a cry for help. But because he is obliged to write a theme song for the movie, the tempo was speed up and so we have another sure fire No.1 from the lads. Tina Tuner made an impressive version later in her career. Yet another song that was over exposed. Not one that I listen to too often.

The Night Before ( Lennon / McCartney ): This was Paul's song. An average song that somehow doesn't merit its place as the second track on the album. Still a Beatles song can't be all bad. 

You've Got To Hide Your Love Away ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Here The Beatles redeem themselves with this Bob Dylan influenced love song rumored to be about their gay manager, Brian Epstein. A highlight from this album. This use to be one of favorite but again due to over exposure.....

I Need You ( Harrison ) : On this, George was beginning to show his meddle as a songwriter who's surely but slowly on his way to rival Lennon and McCartney. A sweet country sounding little ditty, this one is a favorite with me. Strangely, George doesn't think much of this track 'cos he didn't mention this on his autobiography "I.Me,Mine".

Another Girl ( Lennon / McCartney ): A throwaway from Paul, and also a throwaway only by Beatles standard. This one nevertheless have its  charm. A song of it's time but still listenable.

You're Going To Lose That Girl ( Lennon / McCartney ): Another average song saved only by The Beatles marvellous harmonising skill. I used to love this song but I grew out of it, rending it just another average song for me.

Ticket To Ride ( Lennon / McCartney ): This, according to John Lennon was the first heavy metal song. Driven by a riff that's so infectious that it'll take days before you can get it out of your head. The second No.1 from the album and deservedly so. Another song that is so over exposed that it almost killed my interest in it.

Act Naturally ( Morrison / Russell ) :  From the first album on, this is easily my most liked Ringo's vocal. This is country and western at its most infectious. Years later, Ringo would re record this song with the writer , Buck Owens on one of his solo album.

It's Only Love ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Regarded by John Lennon as totally rubbish, this is, nevertheless one of my favorite on the album. In my own little way, I misinterpreted part of the lyrics as 'Heaven have the right to take it up girl......'.

You Like Me Too Much ( Harrison ) : Not terribly memorable nor terribly bad, this was George's second song on the record. Still, tolerable.

Tell Me What You See : Considered a filler, this was nevertheless a Beatles track so it wasn't all that bad. 

I've Just Seen A Face ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This is one of the gems from Paul McCartney. A country and western tune, it was a favorite of Paul's too 'cos he played this song time and time again at his solo concert. 

Yesterday ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The standard of all standards. This was pure Paul from beginning to end. Who could have thought that classical music and pop music can blend so well together. Not really my favorite though, I much prefer his other standards or rather his version from his solo soundtrack from the movie "Give My Regards To Board Street". 

Dizzy Miss Lizzy ( Williams ) : Trust The Beatles to come up with this rip roaring vocal right after the gentle reading of 'Yesterday'. I've hated this song for a good many years 'cos it was much too hard for the young and tender me. I only came to appreciate it after hearing it from the "Live At The Hollywood Bowl" album. The bass there was more upfront softening the rawness of this song. Hence, I am able to appreciate it more now. Back then, I once asked my brother '"Why  was he screaming" and he answered in a heartbeat " That's 'cos somebody hammered on his hand ...".

DOP : 15th May 1993.

A HARD DAY'S NIGHT

1964 A HARD DAY'S NIGHT

A HARD DAY'S NIGHT : SOUNDTRACK FROM THE MOTION PICTURE :  Another album and  another milestone for The Beatles. This was the first Beatles album to composed all original materials and out of the thirteen tracks, all but three are by John Lennon which made this the closest thing to a John Lennon album that you can get. The other three by Paul McCartney proved that quality are more than a match for quantity. This album is the soundtrack to the movie of the same. The movie have being called 'The Citizen Kane of Junkbox Movie" and well, that's another story. We have this album in the house, courtesy of my brother of course so I am very familiar with the songs here. This album got lost in transaction and years later I got my own album and later CD of course.

A Hard Day's Night ( Lennon / McCartney ): From the unmistakable opening clang from George Harrison's 12-string Rickenbacker, this is clearly the song to beat on the album but nope, this is just not possible 'cos the songs that follows just get better and better. This song also suffered from over exposure for me. It could well be the best track from the album but not for me. This was also one of the few songs by The Beatles that is instantly recognizable within the first two seconds.

I Should Have Known Better ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This song was a blast. Anybody who doesn't like this song can't
seriously be called a music lover. The harmonica alone makes me wanna go right and buy me one.

If I Fell ( Lennon / McCartney ): John's attempt to write a ballad and boy what a ballad it was. Most band would have given their right arms to come up with this song. Those early detractors who say that The Beatles can't sing should listen to this. The harmony is awesome to say the least.

I'm Happy Just To Dance With You ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This was considered a throwaway by John and it was given to George to sing. Don't know about you guys but this was one of the highlights for me from this album. The ooohs......from the boys are so cute and playful. I usually press the repeat button whenever I play this song. I just have to hear it again.

And I Love Her ( Lennon / McCartney ): Paul's first 'Yesterday' according to John Lennon. The song is touching and yet so simple. I remember an image of a female singer on black and white TV, just sitting down on a chair and singing this song. There was no need for any other gimmicks. The beauty of the song does it all.

Tell Me Why ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This is not a bad song but it suffered from the stiff competition from the other songs which was nothing but great. After five awesome songs in a row, the bar have to come down a bit. Most bands would still trade their dentals for this song though.

Can't Buy Me Love ( Lennon / McCartney ) The first single from the album and Paul's second song. It went to No. 1 of course. There was also a Chinese version of this song that was very popular with the local. Another song that was not on my favorite list due to over exposure.

Any Time At All ( Lennon / McCartney ): When I first heard this, my naive ear couldn't take all that rawness but as with most Beatles' songs, it grew on me and now it's one of my favorite. I even have it copied on my songbook.

I'll Cry Instead ( Lennon / McCartney ): Another throwaway according to John who was always his own worst critic but I beg to differ. The only thing bad about this song is its length. Only a mere 1.44 minutes. Yet another favorite. Joe Cocker did a version of this.

Things We Said Today ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Paul's last song on this album and it was another classic. It's amazing that at such tender age, he was writing reflective songs like this that nobody else was writing. Songs like this are truly universal. You don't need to know the language to enjoy the music and Paul McCartney is a master at creating this kind of music. Love this.

When I Get Home ( Lennon / McCartney ) : You could call this a distance cousin to 'Tell Me Why' 'cos they are almost identical. John, during this time, could write songs like this in his sleep. Still, it's good that's it's included here just so that we can catch our breath due to the amount of great songs here. And nope, I wouldn't press the skip button on this track either.

You Can't Do That ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The Beatles get back on track on this splendid rock 'n' roller. The riffs along will get you in the mood and John's vocal couldn't get any better than this.

I'll Be Back ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The last song and certainly not the least. Appropriately titled, The Beatles to entertain you all over again.
it'll will leaves you in a whirl and have you pressing the repeat button for

DOP : 5th June 1993.

WITH THE BEATLES

1963 WITH THE BEATLES

WITH THE BEATLES : Only 4 months, fresh from their debut came "With The Beatles". Even better than "Please Please Me" and it's only their second album. Following the same format as their debut, it's a mixture of 6 Lennon / McCartney originals, one George Harrison original and the remaining 6 being covers. The album cover was a reflection of their seriousness they were plying their trade. This albums starts with original songs that were arguably stronger than their debut.

It Won't Be Long ( Lennon / McCartney ) : What a start. What a song. I've loved this song even as a young boy, even when I don't really understand what they were singing about. This was what they meant when they say that music was universal and that it need no words to be understood. Apart from a catchy melody, it have that call-and-respond style of singing that The Beatles so playfully excelled in. A good album starter for any albums.

All I Got To Do ( Lennon / McCartney ) : One of John Lennon's most underrated gems of all. Sung and written in the lay back style of Bob Dylan, this track started of slowly and then moved on to uptempo and then back to slow again. Written as only John could have written it, this was John at his raw and direct best. This song was never included in any of their numerous collection CD which concluded my thinking that this song was criminally neglected.

All My Loving ( Lennon / McCartney ) : Paul McCartney's first classic. Paul always have a natural gift for writing songs that stuck in your mind for days or weeks and this was one of them. Though not released as a single, it was all over the radio. Great it may be but somehow I feel, this is one of those rare Beatles' song that that could have been done better by some other artists. Paul's version is good but it could have been much greater. But that's just me, the song's a standard by any standards.

Don't Bother Me ( Harrison ) : George Harrison's first ever song committed to record and it wasn't bad at all. Don't know why he waited till a few more albums before he starts to write again. This is one of my favorite track on the album.

Little Child ( Lennon / McCartney ) : This one's a throwaway for me. It's not really a bad track but The Beatles' standard were much more higher than this.

Till There Was You ( Willson ) :  The kind of ballad that Paul McCartney exceeded in.. This was the last cover of a standard that Paul McCartney would be singing as a Beatle. From the next album on, he will be writing his own standard and needless to say, it's much more better.

Please Mister Postman ( Dobbin / Garrett / Garman / Brianbert ) :  The first time I heard this song, I was blown away by their vocals. The call-and -respond style of singing were done so effectively here that you can't help sporting a smile when you are listening to it. I loved this when I first heard it and I am still loving it now. One of my favorite Beatles' cover songs.

Roll Over Beethoven ( Berry ): A nice vehicle for George Harrison but somehow lack that something extra. Still it does not warrant a push on the skip button. Tolerable.

Hold Me Tight  ( Lennon / McCartney ): Another throwaway, this time from Paul McCartney. I usually skipped this track when I am listening to the album. Paul was to write another song in the 70's with the same title from one of his solo album 'Red Rose Speedway" which is way much better.

You Really Got A Hold On Me ( Robinson ) : If there ever was a contest for the best song that The Beatles ever covered, I guess this will be high on the list. I absolutely adored this song. I've heard the original by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles but this version is way much better. The pleading vocal of John Lennon which will ensured you'll be pressing the repeat again at least one more time.

I Wanna Be Your Man ( Lennon / McCartney ): The song The Beatles gave to The Rolling Stones and which was performed by Ringo Starr here. Not one of my favorite but when you see Ringo sings this on video, you can't help being amused.

Devil In Her Heart: ( Drapkin ) George again. I love this song. It have an infectious melody and again The Beatles adopted that call-and-respond style of singing so effectively here. I couldn't find the original source of this song as I've committed myself to do for every cover songs The Beatles did, so I could't compare but my money's pretty much on The Beatles. I finally found this song on You Tube and The Beatles' version were better and no, I am not bias.

Not A Second Time ( Lennon / McCartney ) : The last Beatles original on the album but certainly not the least. Far from it. I've always love this song. It always conjured the image of The Beatles in their cartoon form from their cartoon series to me more then the other songs, whenever this song is played.

Money ( Bradford / Gordy ):  Like many of their harder tracks, initially I don't like this track when I first heard it. Being young and impressionable, I guess this was way too raw for me so I usually off the record when I came to this track. Over the years, it grew on me. Not as much as the other tracks but I can appreciate it more now. Hell,who can resist when John Lennon let rips his vocal cord. I can't. John were to performed this song again on one of his few live album in later years.

DOP : 8th June 1992.