Would George Harrison's 'All Things Must Pass' Have Been Better as a Single Record?

George Harrison's All Things Must Pass is a monumental record in the history of rock music, regarded as a masterpiece of introspection and artistic freedom. However, the album's initial release as a triple album raised questions about its pacing, consistency, and the best way to present Harrison's work to a more mainstream audience. It has sparked debates among music enthusiasts and critics over the years. In this article, we explore whether an initial single-record release of All Things Must Pass would have been a better approach, discussing the merits and drawbacks, and suggesting a possible track list for a potential single-disc version.

Context and Historical Significance

When George Harrison released All Things Must Pass, it was a triptych of remarkable soundscapes, featuring older songs from his Beatles days alongside new compositions. The album, widely regarded as Harrison's peak as a solo artist, underwent significant changes before its release, with Phil Spector famously taking a recording session and shaping parts of it into what many music critics consider the perfect production. This effort resulted in a 106-minute collection that, despite its length, is celebrated for its depth and variety.

Arguments Against a Single-Record Release

Some arguments against a single-record release of All Things Must Pass focus on the album's extensive length and the sense that it captures Harrison's entire creative experience, both old and new. For instance, the original trilogy included an entire record of jam sessions, which many consider a less polished and less representative part of the album. This addition could potentially detract from the overall quality and impact, especially when directed towards a broader audience.

One viewpoint is that the album, despite its extensive runtime, balances its tracks well and provides a consistent listening experience. The mix of older and newer songs, coupled with Harrison's powerful vocal and guitar performances, create a cohesive and emotionally fulfilling journey for listeners. Furthermore, this diverse selection showcases Harrison's evolution as an artist over the years, leaving a lasting impact on the listener.

Proposed Single-Record Track List

Despite the robust arguments against a single-record release, some enthusiasts argue that splitting the tracks into two albums or a single record could have provided a clearer focus and a more accessible experience. Here is a proposed track list for what a single-record version might look like:

All Things Must Pass My Sweet Lord Let It Down I Live for You Behind That Locked Door Let It Roll - Ballad of Sir Frankie Crisp Awaiting on You All Apple Scruffs Isn't It a Pity Beware of Darkness What Is Life The Art of Dying

Phil Spector’s Production and Its Impact

The legacy of Phil Spector's production on All Things Must Pass is a topic of intense debate. While some criticize his direction, others argue that it perfectly complements the material, providing a cohesive and polished sound. Harrison himself acknowledged the value of Spector's production in a 1992 interview, noting that the album was like "letting it out" after years of creative tension.

Some music producers, like Phil Spector, are able to bring out specific elements in the music that might otherwise be overlooked. Spector's production imbues the tracks with a power and intensity that is not replicated in Harrison's other solo releases. This precision and attention to detail in each track might be another reason why a single-record release might have been beneficial.

Comparative Album Successes and the White Album Debate

The success and reception of All Things Must Pass can be contrasted with other acclaimed albums. Similarly structured, the Beatles' The White Album, known for its sprawling nature, took a similar tour-de-force approach but to less critical acclaim. This comparison raises the question of how different album structures and production methods affect commercial and critical reception.

Some artists, like Rufus Wainwright, have successfully employed a strategy of splitting a large body of work across multiple smaller albums. This approach can sustain an artist's career momentum and offer a more refined fan experience. For George Harrison, dividing All Things Must Pass into two records might have provided a better balance of accessibility and artistic authenticity.

Conclusion

While the concept of releasing All Things Must Pass as a single record is intriguing, it ultimately comes down to artistic intent and the listener's perspective. Harrison's original trilogy, with its interplay of new and old material, provides a rich and dynamic listening experience. Splitting the material might have made it more commercially viable, but it would also have altered the album's overall impact.

Ultimately, music is a subjective art form, and the best approach depends on the goal of the artist and the reception of the audience. The question of whether All Things Must Pass would have been better as a single record is a rich topic for discussion, with no clear-cut answer. What remains undeniable is the enduring impact and significance of this legendary album on the music industry.