Album Review: “All Things Must Pass” By George Harrison

Album Review: “All Things Must Pass” By George Harrison | I Love Classic Rock Videos

George Harrison performing Give Me Love - George Harrison / Youtube

When The Fab Four broke up, George Harrison was freed from the creative shackles that bound him while he was still obligated with the group. Thus, the triple album All Things Must Pass came to be. It was comprised of earlier material that Harrison wrote and pitched to the Beatles but was rejected. Harrison’s wide range of influences became the basis of the album, ranging from rock to Indian music.

“I’d Have You Anytime” opens the album and has Eric Clapton contribute a smooth lead guitar part. Next in line is “My Sweet Lord”, one of the most famous cuts from the catalog with its recurring verses and chants. “Wah-Wah” was the first song recorded for the album and had Badfinger stand in to back Harrison. “Isn’t It A Pity” is one of the earliest written songs in the album, dating back to 1966, just along with the Rubber Soul sessions.

“What Is Life” is a rich rocker with vibrant horns in the mix, while “If Not For You” is a pop-influenced Caribbean-sounding track. “Behind That Locked Door” has a country-waltz sound to it, while “Let It Down” is another Beatles-rejected track. “Run Of The Mill” talks about the frustrations of Harrison towards his former band’s business practices.

“Beware The Darkness” opens the third side with a brooding intensity with hints of Eastern philosophy. “Apple Scruffs” follows with a light rock formulation that is reminiscent of the Beatles’ earlier material. “Ballad Of Sir Frankie Crisp” features indulgent melodies and piano-slide guitar combo that works quite well. “Awaiting On You All” comes next with a Gospel-based arrangement. The title track is one of the finest tracks in the album, showcasing Harrison’s ear for compositions that catch and flow.

“I Dig Love” is a gritty and groovy track that has a recurring pattern, while “Art Of Dying” is pure rock n’ roll. “Hear Me Lord” is what it is – a prayer coupled with profound instrumentation on the background. “Out Of The Blue” marks the start of the instrumental part of the album, with sax and organ parts embedded into it. “I Remember Jeep” is laden with synth goodness and has Ginger Baker in participation, while “Thanks for the Pepperoni” has a swampy grit to it. “It’s Johnny’s Birthday” is the only track to have vocals in it in the last two sides, and was recorded as a gag for John Lennon’s birthday.