GEORGE HARRISON - Wonderwall Music - 1968 orig in shrink NM/VG++

I've never seen a copy this clean. NM shrink cover, VG++ vinyl

"Wonderwall Music" is the debut solo album by George Harrison, released on November 1, 1968. It is notable for being the first solo album by a member of The Beatles and the first album released on Apple Records. Here's an in-depth look at the album:

Background

• Artist: George Harrison
• Release Date: November 1, 1968
• Label: Apple Records
• Genre: Experimental, World Music, Instrumental
• Producer: George Harrison

Context and Creation

• Film Soundtrack: "Wonderwall Music" is the soundtrack to the film "Wonderwall," directed by Joe Massot. The movie is a psychedelic love story, and Harrison's music complements its surreal and dreamy atmosphere.
• Recording Locations: The album was recorded in December 1967 and January 1968 in various locations, including EMI Studios in Bombay (now Mumbai), India, and Abbey Road Studios in London. This allowed Harrison to incorporate diverse musical styles and instruments.

Style and Influence

• Musical Style: The album is an eclectic mix of Western and Indian music, reflecting Harrison's deep interest in Indian culture and music. It features a blend of rock, classical, and Indian traditional music.
• Instrumentation: Harrison used a wide range of instruments, including sitar, tabla, flute, and various Western instruments. He collaborated with Indian musicians like Aashish Khan (sarod) and Shivkumar Sharma (santoor) and Western musicians like Ringo Starr (drums) and Eric Clapton (guitar).

Tracks and Themes

1. "Microbes"

   • An ambient piece with Indian instrumentation, setting a meditative tone.

2. "Red Lady Too"

   • A piano-driven track with a whimsical, baroque pop feel.

3. "Tabla and Pakavaj"

   • A traditional Indian piece featuring tabla and pakavaj percussion.

4. "In the Park"

   • A melodic instrumental with a blend of Indian and Western sounds.

5. "Drilling a Home"

   • A more rock-oriented track with guitar and organ.

6. "Guru Vandana"

   • A traditional Indian hymn with vocal chants.

7. "Greasy Legs"

   • An experimental piece with varied instrumentation.

8. "Ski-ing"

   • A psychedelic rock track featuring electric guitar, played by Eric Clapton.

9. "Gat Kirwani"

   • A raga-based piece showcasing Indian classical music.

10. "Dream Scene"

    • A surreal, multi-part composition with diverse musical elements.

11. "Party Seacombe"

    • A lively, upbeat instrumental track.

12. "Love Scene"

    • Multiple variations of a romantic theme, blending Indian and Western music.

13. "Crying"

    • A bluesy piece with harmonica and slide guitar.

14. "Cowboy Music"

    • A Western-style track with harmonica and guitar.

15. "Fantasy Sequins"

    • A dreamy, atmospheric piece.

16. "On the Bed"

    • A relaxed, melodic track with Indian influences.

17. "Glass Box"

    • An experimental piece with varied instrumentation.

18. "Wonderwall to Be Here"

    • A reflective, melodic composition.

19. "Singing Om"

    • A meditative piece featuring vocal chanting of "Om."

Reception and Legacy

• Initial Reception: The album received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics appreciating its experimental nature and others finding it disjointed. It did not achieve significant commercial success but was noted for its innovative approach.
• Legacy: Over time, "Wonderwall Music" has been re-evaluated and appreciated for its pioneering fusion of Western and Indian music. It is considered a precursor to the world music genre and an important work in Harrison's solo career.

Album Artwork

• Cover Art: The cover features a still from the "Wonderwall" film, depicting a colorful, psychedelic image that reflects the album's eclectic and experimental nature.

Impact on George Harrison's Career

• Career Development: "Wonderwall Music" marked Harrison's first major foray into solo work and his deepening involvement with Indian music. It paved the way for his later solo albums and further established him as a musician willing to explore and blend different cultural influences.

Overall, "Wonderwall Music" is a significant album in George Harrison's discography, showcasing his experimental spirit and pioneering approach to integrating diverse musical traditions.