By: Raj who writes a blog on Guitar Tone
Released in 1973, Living in the Material, was The Beatles’, George Harrison’s, second solo album. It was very highly anticipated as it followed the success of his solo debut triple album, All Things Must Pass [1970], and his ’71 album, Concert for Bengladesh, that helped awaken the world to the plight of a people on the other side of the planet.
Within days of its release, Living in the Material World went gold and latter would hit the #1 Billboard spot in the U.S.
Although, I’ve now listened to Living in the Material World, hundreds of times, it only took a few spins on the turntable to recognize the breadth and depth of Harrison’s third venture, as another notable achievement in an already legendary career.
Instead of describing the entire album, I’ve decided to review my favorite three tracks from Living in the Material World. The remaining tracks will be left for you to decide as to extent of their listening pleasure.
And while I enjoyed the full album, the following songs had a grip on me that wouldn’t and won’t let go. They’re catchy, clever and delightfully saturated with the incense and essence of Harrison, as he coupled his musical talents with his Hindu laden spirituality.
Top 3 Songs
Give Me Love (Give me Peace on Earth)
Arguably one of George’s best songs ever, it is very much “George” with his yearning universal lyrics that promote love and peace. Today, the track will roll you back in time to the days of flower power innocence and long haired hippies dancing and running around San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.
Although there’s not much musical conjuring from his Hindu faith, his lyrics embrace Harrison’s Bhayan devotional influences, so much so that it’s palpable – your feel it; you breathe it; and you sing it.
George’s sweet heavenly voice is like an elixir that melts into his fluid slide guitar playing, as it banters with Nicky Hopkins’ piano work.
“Give Me Love” hit the charts and zoomed to #1 in the states. Today, I still give it four stars. It’s my number 1 favorite on this disk.
The Light that has Lighted the World
Speaking of slide, this track has one of the best slide solos I’ve ever heard. Some words to describe this song would be beautiful, meaningful, and delicate.
George’s vocal and guitar playing are masterfully performed with a sad presence that may bring tears to your eyes. With all seriousness, the slide playing bleeds and weeps. This must be one of the most underrated tracks, or at least a seemingly forgotten song, of Harrison’s that deserves some serious recognition.
Don’t Let Me Wait Too Long
One of the most commercial of the tracks on the album, “Don’t Let Me Wait Too Long”, with a pop melody that compare favorably to most McCartney songs. It’s really that ‘feel good’ song that moves us, almost urges us, to sing along. It’s a track that you recognize, even if you’ve never heard it before, with its blend of simple phrasing, dual drumming (Ringo Starr and Jim Keltner) and charmed melody.
Well there you have it. Living in the Material World is a solid George Harrison pressing that reflects his talents, as he searched for the meaning of life, love and his muse.
Few would consider the album his best outing, and certainly doesn’t surpass the greatness and the expansive vision of his first album, All Things Must Pass.
Still, “Living in the Material World” captures the essence of Harrison and how his life and talents gave meaning to ours, opened us up to eternal optimism and guided us with his earnest, playful and thoroughly entertaining style.
Original release (YouTube – Full Album, Below)
Side one
1. “Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth)” – 3:36
2. “Sue Me, Sue You Blues” – 4:48
3. “The Light That Has Lighted the World” – 3:31
4. “Don’t Let Me Wait Too Long” – 2:57
5. “Who Can See It” – 3:52
6. “Living in the Material World” – 5:31
Side two
1. “The Lord Loves the One (That Loves the Lord)” – 4:34
2. “Be Here Now” – 4:09
3. “Try Some, Buy Some” – 4:08
4. “The Day the World Gets ‘Round” – 2:53
5. “That Is All” – 3:43
