GEORGE HARRISON LET IT ROLL:SONGS BY GEORGE HARRISON
It’s hard to believe that a complete solo BEST OF George Harrison has not been released until now. . And it’s interesting that this record is sub-titled "Songs by George Harrison" and the first one on it ("Got My Mind Set On You") was written by a guy named Rudy Clark and was originally done back in the early 60's. There's also a song on here written by fellow Wilbury-er Bob Dylan ("I Don't Want to Do It"). This song was originally featured on PORKY'S REVENGE (a pretty cool soundtrack actually!) The title of this 19 song collection is a reference to the (included) song "The Ballad of Sir Frankie Crisp (Let It Roll)". George's post-Beatles solo career is represented here from ALL THINGS MUST PASS (1970) through BRAINWASHED (2002).
Of course, with any career spanning best of collection, there will always be something missing. This could've easily been a two disc set and perhaps a more comprehensive offering is in the works. Personally, if I was in charge, I would’ve included Beware of Darkness. And Apple Scruffs. And I don't know that I would've thought to include Marwa Blues. But hey! That’s just me.
The compilation was overseen by George's wife and son, Olivia and Dhani with much love and dedication and again, perhaps a bigger box set is in the works for some future time and that would be a good thing because there’s so much material to choose from. Perhaps some outtakes? Alternate versions?
A lovely 28 page booklet is included with lots of pictures from the Harrison family collection and liner notes written by Warren Zanes (of the Boston band Del Fuegos with experience in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and projects with Steven Van Zandt among other many accomplishments).
Three Beatles songs GH performed at MSG during The Concert for Bangladesh: "While My Guitar Gently Weeps", "Here Comes the Sun" (with Badfinger's Pete Ham on dual acoustic guitar) and "Something" are found in this set as well.
Olivia told an interviewer that George’s work always maintained a thematic link throughout the years. Of course, a current of spirituality is fairly constant but longing and always a bit of humor can be found as well.
Olivia has also said that George would've taken part in a Beatles reunion if Paul and Ringo had agreed upon it. “George had great love for the others. As you get older, you value and treasure your friends so much more”. Songs like “All Those Years Ago” and “When We Was Fab” are ties to the past and the ethereal “All Things Must Pass” speaks of the fleeting nature of all life on earth.
This is a good self-contained collection as a reminder that the “quiet” Beatle was an excellent songwriter and guitarist. Next time around though, I’d love to see The Wilburys and guest stints on other performances included. George’s career can easily cover multiple discs.