The Beatles * Revolver

The most successful and influential band in Rock history, the Beatles, delivered a distinctive sounding record that changed their careers and the way they wrote music. ‘Revolver’ was released in 1966 around the time of Beatlemania. Prior to this album, the Beatles were performing and writing music that had to do with relationships, girls, and sexual love. They were at the top of their career and were extremely popular throughout the U.K and U.S. When they first started to record for ‘Revolver,’ instead of writing simple love songs, they went a whole different direction with their sound and image.

Around this time, the band began experimenting and becoming curious with non-musical substances. Paul and John started taking illegal drugs such as LSD and smoking marijuana. Despite taking these illegal drugs, they began to see things differently and were influenced by being even more creative with their ideas. They started recording songs that were very different in sound from popular music and their lyrics were no longer about girls and relationships. The band also did something that no other band had ever done before. They used the studio as an instrument during the making of this album. ‘Revolver’ opens up with the song ‘Taxman’ and you can actually hear the band counting down as they begin the recording process. Its almost like they invite the listener into the studio to get a feel for the making of the album. Not only was ‘Revolver’ different in the recording process, it was also very innovating with the production.

One innovation on the album are the drums and rhythm section on some of the songs. In the song ‘Eleanor Rigby,’ the band didn’t even use any drums or bass at all. Instead, they use a number of stringed instruments to keep the rhythm of the song. They compress the drums in other songs to sound upfront and ‘in your face.’ Another innovation was the use of a Sitar on the song ‘Love You Too.’ They took the Sitar and gave it a rock and roll sound on this indian influenced song. Other innovations on this album include, artificial double tracking to thicken their sound. They did this with most of their vocals to give it a richer and fuller sound.

As a listener, ‘Revolver’ gives me this very relaxed, different, and almost psychedelic impression. I enjoyed listening to the different instruments they used and the different effects as well. It was something that was never really heard during that time. As an industry professional, I can appreciate the work of George Martin as a producer and his innovative ways in creating something new. I like how he used strings as the rhythm section on ‘Eleanor Rigby,’ instead of drums. As a professional I respect what these pioneers did and how they paved the way for popular music. Another classic album to add to your must hear and favorite albums!