SGT. PEPPER'S LONELY HEARTS CLUB BAND

The Beatle's, and iconic group to say the least, and highly influential to the world that became Progressive Rock. Of all their albums, it is safe to say: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band is one of the most influential albums the Beatles ever recorded. Often referred to as the Beatle's crowning achievement, this album, recorded at Abbey Road, was released to the public on June 1, 1967 (June 2nd for those in America).

The Beatles, tired of touring, were attempting some more experimental music, progressing greatly from their simple beginnings. The album featured many elaborate scores, from wind pieces, to keyboard instruments ranging from the Hammond Organ to the Harpsichord, as well as Sitar and interesting guitar compositions. Reverb and echo effects were prevalent in a way no one had currently attempted. Also, innovative, as far as the music industry was concerned, was the fact the Beatles released absolutely no singles with Sgt. Pepper's, fans would have to buy the whole album to obtain any of the songs.

One approaches Sgt. Pepper's with high expectations, given its influence on the musical world ever since its release. And, in most cases, it doesn't fail to meet expectations. The album is far from perfect, however, as the progressive aspects of the album were still being tested against the generally familiar Beatles sound. Though the progression of the Beatles sound is clear, the flow of the album is disrupted at times by the fact that so many of the songs are familiar Beatles classics, and identified completely separately from the album as a piece. Some continuity is also lacking between certain tracks, as most versions are stereo edited mixes of the original mono recordings and mixes.

Sgt. Pepper's stands out, however, as a vastly historical album, and one that is always pleasant to listen to. The album has many tracks which do seem to flow and glide together, the precursor to the most developed progressive concept albums. Though the familiarity of the songs can be disrupt the permanence of the album as a whole, it also means the songs here can be listened to stand alone, an option there, though not recommended, as it does not give the full range of experience. The sweet melodies, and more experimental sounds of the album give it a rounded feel, a wholeness hard to find on most albums.

In conclusion, this album is a definite yes on my recommendation list. Most fan of Progressive Rock should find the milestones of this album enjoyable as well as significant. Though not the Beatles very best album, it is among them, and it is certainly one of the most influential.