S Poddar
It’s a momentous occasion, especially for fans, with news that George Harrison’s 1973 solo album Living In The Material World is to be lavishly reissued as a 50th anniversary box set. This was announced on September 19, and the new box set will arrive on November 15 via Dark Horse Records/BMG. The biggest piece of news surrounding the reissue: there is unique content and new versions of songs many know and love.
Available in both standard edition, deluxe edition, and limited super deluxe edition, this re-release will feature its content carefully curated with oversight from George’s widow, Olivia Harrison, and son Dhani. The standard edition, featuring a new mix by Grammy-winning producer Paul Hicks, will be available on CD and LP. This will also be available digitally and on streaming services, thus listeners have a chance to catch it on their preferred option.
There are two CDs and two LPs with 12 unreleased early recordings, so that we can peek into the creative process of the album. No doubt, it would excite listeners thirsty for a deeper insight into the artistic journey Harrison undertakes around that period.
The more exciting version in view is the super-deluxe edition: limited to 5,000 copies worldwide, it is nothing short of a luxurious celebration of Harrison’s creative process. This special edition includes everything in the deluxe version, but will add two CDs, two LPs, and a Blu-ray with Dolby Atmos surround sound. Fans will also receive a 60-page booklet brimming over with extensive sleeve notes and stunning photography and artwork from the Harrison archive. Curiously, this edition includes a 7″ single of the previously unheard track, “Sunshine Life For Me (Sail Away Raymond),” boasting some contributions from rock icons Robbie Robertson, Levon Helm, Garth Hudson, Rick Danko, and the legendary Ringo Starr.
The album is also accompanied by a composite version of “Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth) (Take 18)” which fans now get to hear as a new rendering of the classic track.
Speaking to the press on the occasion of this box set, Olivia Harrison observed, “I would really be happy if people listened to it again and rediscovered it, or for that matter perhaps never heard it before but discovered it for the very first time.”. She ends by saying, “I hope you revisit ‘Living in the Material World’ or find it for the first time, and as you listen, share George’s wish for himself and for mankind… Give me Love. Give me Peace on Earth.” Her words ring out clearly, encapsulating the spirit of the record and the timeless message.
Dhani Harrison was also enthusiastic about the re-release and said, “At last, we are delighted to introduce you to the 50th anniversary package of George Harrison’s ‘Living in the Material World.’ For all of you who are just getting to know this album; This record came out in service and with deep love for all our Brothers and Sisters around the world who people this dualistic system we live in called Earth.”. Peace upon all living things.
His reflections went straight to the heart of the themes of love and harmony in the record, which are just as fresh as they were fifty years ago, when the album came out.
What fans can expect from the Living in the Material World 50th Anniversary Box Set is treasure both for dedicated fans and new listeners alike with new content and better listening experiences. And this near the date of commemoration, the excitement will surely soar high and remind us all to remember George Harrison’s huge impact on music and culture. With this reissue comes not only an important point in time but encourages the new generation to be stuck on Harrison’s artistry and vision for peace and love in what seems to be a splintered world.
