Whether you’re a Beatle maniac (and if you don’t know what that is, you’re probably a 2nd or 3rd generation fan) or simply interested in “roots” of rock, this 4 cd set is a must for your collection. Back in 1994, Capitol released a pair of discs that had 56 recordings from their 52 appearances on the BBC between 1962 and 1965. That collection of originals, covers and banter has been reissued with a second volume of 37 previously unreleased performances (and 23 speaking tracks) from the years 65-66, so you’re getting the Fab Four just at the crest of their peak.
The earlier sessions (all in mono, ranging from excellent to good quality bootleg , but always definitely listenable and never a factor) have them running through some of their own pieces such as “I Feel Fine,” “I Saw Her Standing There” and “Things We Said Today” and it’s wonderful to hear them in a performing context. Covers such as “That’s All Right (Mama)” and “I Forgot To Remember to Forget” show their allegiance to Elvis’ earliest recordings on Sun Records. Some material by Carl Perkins, Little Richard and Chuck Berry that never made it to the original albums have a gloriously raw energy, such as on “Lucille,” that is desperately missing today. Just as enjoyable is the dialogue and conversation (all staged?) between the songs. Nowadays, people don’t appreciate the fact that when the Beatles first came out, their attraction wasn’t only their music, but also their sharp wit and humor, which is in typical British display here.
The second volume is a treasure trove of material. Besides the “interviews” with John, Paul George and Ringo just before Rubber Soul came out; you get some previously unrecorded tunes such as “Lend Me Your Comb” by Carl Perkins as well as “Memphis, Tennesee” and “I’m Talking About You” by Chuck Berry. The rockabilly roots material shines when Harrison delivers a swinging “Glad All Over” and Ringo two steps “Honey Don’t.” Of their own material, vintage hits such as “Please Please Me” and”She Loves You” sound marvelous, but there is a forward look in their more recent pieces such as “I’ll Follow the Sun” and “If I Fell” that shows an impressive maturity. Once again, the glowing innocent joy that is exuded from the Liverpool lads at this stage, well before the fame, fortune and egos all got in the way, makes this both a musical and historical treasure.