Album Info
| Artist: | George Harrison |
| Album: | Somewhere In England |
| Released: | Worldwide, 24 Feb 2017 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Blood From A Clone | |
| A2 | Unconsciousness Rules | |
| A3 | Life Itself | |
| A4 | All Those Years Ago | |
| A5 | Baltimore Oriole | |
| Lyrics By - Paul Francis Webster | ||
| Music By - Hoagy Carmichael | ||
| B1 | Teardrops | |
| B2 | That Which I Have Lost | |
| B3 | Writing's On The Wall | |
| B4 | Hong Kong Blues | |
| Written-By - Hoagy Carmichael | ||
| B5 | Save The World |
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Description
George Harrison's "Somewhere in England," released in 1981, stands as a reflective piece in the former Beatle's solo discography, marked by its introspective lyrics and a blend of musical styles. The album's journey to release was not without its challenges, as Harrison initially submitted a version to Warner Bros. Records in 1980, only to have it rejected for being too downbeat. This led to the reworking of several tracks and the addition of new ones, which ultimately shaped the final product.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "All Those Years Ago," a tribute to John Lennon, who was tragically murdered in December 1980. The song features contributions from fellow Beatles, Ringo Starr on drums and Paul McCartney on backing vocals, making it a poignant reunion of sorts. The track was well-received, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, and it remains one of Harrison's most memorable solo hits.
The album opens with "Blood from a Clone," a song that reflects Harrison's frustration with the music industry's commercial demands. Its biting lyrics and upbeat tempo set the tone for an album that oscillates between personal reflection and social commentary. Another notable track is "Life Itself," a spiritual ballad that showcases Harrison's deep-seated spirituality and his signature slide guitar work.
"Teardrops," another single from the album, is a more upbeat, pop-oriented track that contrasts with some of the more somber themes present in other songs. Despite its catchy melody, it did not achieve the same level of commercial success as "All Those Years Ago."
The album's cover art, featuring a painting of Harrison's face superimposed on a map of the world, complements the album's title and its themes of searching and introspection. The artwork, like the music, reflects Harrison's global perspective and his interest in exploring both personal and universal themes.
Critically, "Somewhere in England" received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised Harrison's songwriting and the album's production, while others felt it lacked the cohesion and impact of his earlier works, such as "All Things Must Pass." However, the album has gained appreciation over time, with listeners recognizing its depth and the sincerity of Harrison's artistic expression.
In terms of cultural significance, "Somewhere in England" captures a moment in Harrison's career where he was navigating the complexities of being a solo artist in the shadow of the Beatles' legacy. The album reflects his ongoing struggle to balance commercial pressures with his desire for artistic authenticity, a theme that resonates with many artists even today.
While "Somewhere in England" did not win any major awards, its lead single "All Those Years Ago" remains a significant part of Harrison's legacy, both as a tribute to Lennon and as a testament to the enduring bond between the former Beatles. The song's success helped to bolster the album's profile and ensured its place in the annals of rock history.
Overall, "Somewhere in England" is a testament to George Harrison's resilience and his commitment to his craft. It offers a window into his world during a turbulent time, marked by personal loss and professional challenges. For fans of Harrison and the Beatles, the album provides a deeper understanding of his journey as an artist and a human being, making it a valuable addition to his body of work.
