If you are not familiar with this recently released boxed set, then allow this description from Amazon to catch you up to speed:
"This is how most listeners first heard the group in the 1960s, when mono was the predominant audio format. Up until 1968, each Beatles album was given a unique mono and stereo mix, but the group always regarded the mono as primary. THE BEATLES IN MONO VINYL BOX SET is released in mono on fourteen 180-gram vinyl LPs with faithfully replicated artwork, newly mastered from the analogue master tapes."
Manufactured for the world at Optimal Media in Germany, The Beatles' albums are presented in their original glory, both sonically and in their packaging. The boxed collection's exclusive 12-inch by 12-inch hardbound book features new essays and a detailed history of the mastering process by award-winning radio producer and author Kevin Howlett. The book is illustrated with many rare studio photos of The Beatles, fascinating archive documents, and articles and advertisements sourced from 1960s publications.
Now that we are all on the same page, let me explain to you why I am so excited about owning this collection. I love music, I love The Beatles, and I love listening to music on vinyl. Unless I am in my car or at my desk at work, I almost always listen to music on vinyl. I love the warmth and added dimension of sound that records bring. I've been listening to The Beatles for many years, but I haven't heard many of their albums as they were originally released in England. the majority of my Beatles experience comes from greatest hits compilations or American LP's. These albums often contain fewer songs, different track listings, and have normally been in stereo. Up until about a year ago, I would have scoffed at listening to music in mono, but I have seen the light. Mono recordings have a more solid feel to them, like the artist is right in the room with you. Frankly, in my opinion, it just rocks harder. The music of the early 60's was meant to be listened to in mono, and now I've got my chance!
So why am I writing this blog? I thought this would be a great opportunity to share my journey through the music of one of the most popular and influential groups in the history of music. As I work my way through these albums, I want to share my experience with you. How do they sound? What tracks stand out? What is the packaging like? How did the music make me feel? And finally, when my journey is complete, which one of these albums is my favorite? Until now, I have always considered Rubber Soul to be my favorite record of the Fab Four, but will it remain so?
It must be stated that I am not a music critic, nor a recording expert. I am just a normal guy who loves the Beatles and loves records. I think I have a pretty nice audio set up in my man cave, but it's not like I spent thousands of dollars on the equipment. I just want to provide the perspective of an average music fan, listening to these records as they were meant to be heard for the first time. Audio snobs need not apply.
I hope you will look past my lack of writing and music experience and enjoy the journey with me. You've got a ticket to ride my friends...
Very well written. Can't wait to read more!
ReplyDelete