The grand finale, "Carry That Weight/The End," sounds as if Yellow Dubmarine knew they couldn't deviate too far from the heavy rock and dueling guitar-sound of the Beatles' iconic version. But the slower tempo and horns, which duel with the guitars, just doesn't evoke the ferocity, the "let's go out on top" note of the original. Yes, they do end with the "hidden" track, "Your Majesty," which features a distorted vocal, piano, and slight percussion, sounding like it was recorded via tape recorder in someone's basement.
I realize it might be unfair to expect a group like Yellow Dubmarine to equal the Beatles. However, covering a Fab Four album invites, nay demands, such comparisons. Anyone attempting to completely re-imagine a classic album by any artists will encounter resistance. Embarking on such a project is fraught with danger, and Yellow Dubmarine obviously bravely took on this challenge. The results are mixed, and one wonders if some songs simply do not lend themselves to drastic remakes. Dub fans may want to check out Abbey Dub, but Beatles fans—and classic rock fans in general—will constantly find themselves comparing these tracks to the originals, and in every case, the Beatles still come out on top.
For more information, visit Yellow Dubmarine's official site.
Article comments
1 - Joann
Just when I thought there couldn't be anything "new" to do with the Beatles--here it is! But based on your review, Kit, I think I'll look elsewhere for my "new music" holiday shopping.
2 - Johnny Rhythm
Nice article Kit, makes me wanna check it out. I take it you heard the Mojo Abbey Road compilation from 2 years back?
3 - NotcomingBack
You're entirely too picky. I've never met a single person who has listened to the album or gone to a show who hasn't been totally blown away. I think you're being picky just to have something to fight about. They're not trying to replicate it. They're trying to bring it to an audience who, weird, WASN'T ALIVE when the Beatles were around. I see 14 year olds belting the lyrics to Oh Darlin! They have great respect for the Beatles and if I were you, I'd encourage anyone I could to check the album out. Or even better, pay the 10 bucks to go see a show. You are way too nit-picky. I will never read another one of your reviews ever again. and that's the truth. play on, YELLOW DUB!!!!