MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR

I'm pleased to see that most PA reviewers appreciate this one. It is often underrated elsewhere but worth the time and effort, Beatle fan or not. The movie was weird but the music is absolutely wonderful.

The title track opens the album on an exciting note but overall there is quite a mixture of moods. The instrumental "Flying" and the strange "Blue Jay Way" provide a very spacey and spooky psychedelic edge. One highlight is "Fool On A Hill", which is yet another affectingly melodic ballad by McCartney. "Penny Lane" and "Strawberry Fields" made up one of the greatest singles of all time and sum up everything special about Paul and John's complementary styles. This music wasn't only way ahead of its time but also unlike anything you're likely to hear today.

"I Am The Walrus" is a main attraction. It's an incredible avant-garde piece that really works without even approaching pretentious. Just like "Sgt. Pepper", lots of additional instrumentation play a big part on this record including trumpets, flutes, violins and cellos among others.

I personally love "Hello, Goodbye", "Your Mother Should Know" and the classic "All You Need Is Love" which ends it all with some uplifting arrangements and huge support on backing vocals. This is an album of high quality and although it is a little inconsistant in places, it's still a great ride and would be an excellent part of your collection. 4.5 stars.