George Harrison’s critically acclaimed and commercially successful album, Living in the Material World, is set to receive a lavish 50th-anniversary reissue, offering fans a deeper dive into the spiritual and musical landscape of this landmark 1973 release. This expanded edition promises a treasure trove of unreleased material, a new Dolby Atmos mix, and meticulously curated artwork, offering both longtime devotees and new listeners an enriched experience of Harrison’s artistic vision.
Harrison’s second solo album after the Beatles’ breakup, Living in the Material World, reached number one on the Billboard charts and solidified his status as a significant solo artist. The album’s introspective lyrics and blend of rock, pop, and Indian musical influences resonated with audiences searching for meaning beyond the material world. This reissue provides an opportunity to revisit the album’s themes of spirituality, love, and peace, which remain relevant even five decades later.
Delving into the Deluxe Edition: Unreleased Gems and Immersive Audio
The centerpiece of this 50th-anniversary celebration is the limited-edition super deluxe edition, a comprehensive collection that includes 2 CDs, 2 LPs, and a Blu-ray disc featuring a new Dolby Atmos mix, creating an immersive listening experience. The set also boasts twelve previously unreleased recordings, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind the album. A 60-page booklet filled with archival photos and insightful commentary adds further depth to the package, providing context and illuminating Harrison’s artistic journey. A bonus seven-inch single features an unheard rendition of “Sunshine Life for Me (Sail Away Raymond)” with Ringo Starr and members of the Band, adding a special touch for collectors and fans.
Olivia and Dhani Harrison: Preserving a Legacy
Olivia Harrison, George’s widow, and their son, Dhani, have co-produced this reissue project, ensuring the preservation of Harrison’s musical legacy and offering a carefully curated experience for fans. “I hope you revisit Living in the Material World or discover it for the first time, and as you listen, share George’s wish for himself and mankind: ‘Give me Love, give me peace on Earth,'” Olivia Harrison shared in a statement, highlighting the enduring message of love and peace that permeates the album. Their involvement guarantees the authenticity and integrity of this reissue, making it a must-have for any George Harrison enthusiast.
Exploring the Unreleased Tracks: A Deeper Look into Harrison’s Creative Process
The reissue’s bonus tracks provide a fascinating window into Harrison’s creative process. The unreleased recordings include alternate takes, acoustic versions, and previously unheard compositions, showcasing the evolution of the album’s iconic songs. These rare gems offer a unique opportunity to hear Harrison’s musical ideas take shape, revealing his meticulous attention to detail and his unwavering commitment to his artistic vision. One standout track is Take 18 of the chart-topping single “Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth),” an acoustic version that strips the song down to its essence, highlighting the power and sincerity of Harrison’s songwriting.
Release Date and Availability: Mark Your Calendars
The Living in the Material World reissue is scheduled for release on November 15th and is available for pre-order now. Fans can choose from a variety of formats, including the super deluxe edition, tandem 2CD and 2LP deluxe editions featuring a new mix of the album by Paul Hicks, and single-disc versions, including color vinyl exclusives. This wide range of options ensures that there is a perfect edition for every fan, regardless of their budget or preferred listening format.
The Musical Landscape of Living in the Material World: A Collaboration of Talent
The original album featured a stellar lineup of musicians, including drummer Jim Keltner, keyboardists Gary Wright and Nicky Hopkins, bassist Klaus Voormann, and saxophonist Jim Horn. Their contributions added depth and texture to Harrison’s compositions, creating a rich and vibrant musical landscape. The album’s standout tracks, such as “Don’t Let Me Wait Too Long” and “Try Some, Buy Some”, further demonstrate the collaborative spirit of the project, with guest appearances by Ringo Starr, Leon Russell, Jim Gordon, and Pete Ham. These collaborations highlight Harrison’s ability to attract top-tier talent and create a cohesive musical experience.
‘Living in the Material World’: A Timeless Message of Peace and Love
Fifty years after its initial release, Living in the Material World remains a powerful and relevant work of art. Harrison’s introspective lyrics explore universal themes of spirituality, love, and the search for meaning in a materialistic world. The album’s message of peace and love continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the importance of inner peace and the interconnectedness of all beings. This reissue offers a timely opportunity to revisit Harrison’s profound message and rediscover the beauty and depth of his musical vision.
The Complete List of Bonus Tracks: A Collector’s Dream
The reissue’s comprehensive list of bonus tracks provides an enticing glimpse into the album’s creation. From alternate takes to acoustic versions, these previously unreleased recordings offer a deeper understanding of Harrison’s creative process and artistic evolution.
- “Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth) (Take 18; Acoustic Version)”
- “Sue Me, Sue You Blues (Take 5)”
- “The Light That Has Lighted the World (Take 13)”
- “Don’t Let Me Wait Too Long (Take 49; Acoustic Version)”
- “Who Can See It (Take 93)”
- “Living in the Material World (Take 31)”
- “The Lord Loves the One (That Loves the Lord) (Take 3)”
- “Be Here Now (Take 8)”
- “Try Some Buy Some (Alternative Version)”
- “The Day the World Gets ‘Round (Take 22; Acoustic Version)”
- “That Is All (Take 24)”
- “Miss O’Dell (2024 Mix)”
- “Sunshine Life For Me (Sail Away Raymond)”
Conclusion: A Must-Have for George Harrison Fans
This expanded 50th-anniversary edition of Living in the Material World is more than just a reissue; it’s a celebration of George Harrison’s artistic genius and enduring legacy. The combination of unreleased tracks, a new Dolby Atmos mix, and meticulously curated artwork makes this a must-have for any serious George Harrison fan. Whether you’re a longtime devotee or a newcomer to his music, this reissue offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of Living in the Material World in a whole new light. Don’t miss out on this chance to delve deeper into the musical and spiritual world of one of rock’s most iconic figures. Pre-order your copy today and prepare to be transported back to 1973, a time when George Harrison’s message of peace and love resonated with a generation seeking spiritual enlightenment.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Q: When is the Living in the Material World reissue being released?
A: The reissue is scheduled for release on November 15th.
Q: What formats are available?
A: Several formats are available, including a super deluxe edition, 2CD and 2LP deluxe editions, and single-disc versions.
Q: Where can I pre-order the reissue?
A: Pre-orders are available online through various retailers.
Q: What makes this reissue special?
A: It features unreleased tracks, a new Dolby Atmos mix, a 60-page booklet, and a bonus seven-inch single.
Do you have more questions about the Living in the Material World reissue? Share them in the comments below! We encourage you to share this exciting news with fellow George Harrison fans and join the conversation.
