UK Reissue (1973)
PCS 7009
Discogs | TheBeatles-Collection
Matrix:
Side A: YEX 605-2
Side A: YEX 606-2
Discogs lists it as being from 1973 (they actually quote a book source with the info that the earliest instances of the “EMI Records” rim text were already in use by that year). Therefore, I let it stand, as the 1973 version indeed used the second UK cut of this album with the -2/-2 matrices. Lacking a 1st cut in my collection, this will be the reference pressing to compare the others with.
Just one word to describe this record. Real smooth. Two words!
The overall harmonization between the basses (which are strong, but still detailed and well-defined), the voices and the trebles is excellent. “Taxman” especially suitable as a demo track, having 1) the powerful, but detailed bass line, 2) the choir singing on the bridges, 3) detailed tambourine on the trebles and 4) the overall harmonic feeling to it. But this goes on with other songs, as well. “I’m Only Sleeping” with the bass and the acoustic guitar, or Paul’s ballad “Here, There and Everywhere” or “For No One” are good examples. And the last three tracks on Side B are quite good references for the relentlessly pounding bass, being strong but not over the top.
Though it’s not without its flaws, as well. The last songs on each track, “She Said, She Said” and “Tomorrow Never Knows” sound somehow muddled. I suppose that’s because both are 1) rather of dynamic character, and 2) placed close to the center labels. Both factors in combination mean they’re being prone to inner-groove distortion. Thus, they slightly lack in detail and resolution.
Overall: great version of this album.