“All Things Must Pass,” released in 1970, marks a pivotal moment in George Harrison’s career, both as a solo artist and as a significant figure in the post-Beatles landscape. This triple album, Harrison’s first after the dissolution of The Beatles, is a bold declaration of his creative independence and artistic prowess. While Harrison had contributed some of The Beatles’ most memorable tracks, such as “Something” and “Here Comes the Sun,” his solo debut significantly expanded his musical horizons. The album’s rich tapestry of sound and emotion contrasts with the more collaborative nature of his work with The Beatles, showcasing Harrison’s unique voice and vision.
During a time when the rock scene was evolving rapidly, with the rise of psychedelic rock, folk rock, and the burgeoning singer-songwriter movement, “All Things Must Pass” emerged as a monumental work. Its lush production, courtesy of Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound,” and its spiritual and introspective lyrics set it apart from both The Beatles’ catalog and the contemporary music of its era. The album’s release came at a time when each former Beatle was defining their solo identity, yet Harrison’s work stood out for its depth and ambition.
Artistic Intentions
With “All Things Must Pass,” Harrison aimed to transcend the limitations he felt within The Beatles. In numerous interviews, Harrison expressed his desire to explore deeper spiritual themes and to create music that was both expansive and personal. The album is suffused with his exploration of Eastern philosophy and spirituality, themes he had been interested in since The Beatles’ trip to India in 1968. Tracks like “My Sweet Lord” reflect his devotion to these spiritual pursuits, blending Western rock with Eastern musical influences.
Harrison also sought to address universal themes of love, loss, and redemption. The title track, “All Things Must Pass,” encapsulates a sense of impermanence and the cyclical nature of life, a reflection of Harrison’s philosophical outlook. In the album notes, Harrison alluded to his belief in the transformative power of music, hoping to offer solace and understanding through his songs.
Sonic Exploration
Production Quality
The production of “All Things Must Pass” is nothing short of monumental. Phil Spector’s legendary “Wall of Sound” technique is a defining characteristic of the album, enveloping the listener in layers of rich, resonant sound. The production is lush and expansive, with a polished yet grandiose feel that underscores the album’s themes of transcendence and spirituality. Spector’s approach creates a sense of immersion, allowing each track to swell and reverberate with emotional intensity. This meticulous production style serves the album well, highlighting the depth of Harrison’s compositions and the intricate interplay of instruments.
The sonic clarity achieved on this record is remarkable, especially considering the sheer number of musicians and the complex arrangements involved. The production quality ensures that every element, from the delicate strumming of acoustic guitars to the powerful crescendos of orchestrated strings, is captured with precision. This clarity allows the listener to fully appreciate the nuanced layers of sound that Harrison and Spector crafted, making the listening experience both immersive and impactful.
Musical Arrangements
The arrangements on “All Things Must Pass” are a testament to Harrison’s versatility and vision as a musician. The album features a wide array of instruments, including traditional rock setups of guitars, bass, and drums, as well as more eclectic elements like sitar, harmonium, and lush orchestral strings. The use of multiple guitars, often layered to create a dense, textured sound, is particularly noteworthy. This technique adds a rich harmonic complexity to tracks like “What Is Life” and “Wah-Wah,” enhancing the emotional resonance of the music.
Vocally, Harrison’s performances are both intimate and expansive. His voice, often double-tracked for added depth, blends seamlessly with the instrumental arrangements. Harmonies, provided by a stellar lineup of background vocalists, including Eric Clapton and members of Badfinger, enrich the vocal texture and add a communal feel to many tracks. The innovative use of slide guitar, which became a signature element of Harrison’s style, is prominently featured, providing a distinctive melodic voice that weaves through the album.
Genre Elements
“All Things Must Pass” is a masterful fusion of various musical genres, reflecting Harrison’s eclectic tastes and broad influences. At its core, the album is rooted in rock, but it seamlessly incorporates elements of folk, blues, and gospel. The influence of Indian classical music is also evident, particularly in the use of instruments like the sitar and the incorporation of modal scales that give certain tracks an Eastern flavor.
The album’s genre-blending is particularly innovative. For instance, “My Sweet Lord” combines the devotional intensity of gospel with rock and Indian music, creating a transcendent anthem that resonates across cultural boundaries. “Isn’t It a Pity” channels the melancholy of folk and the grandeur of orchestral rock, resulting in a profound meditation on love and loss. “Apple Scruffs” offers a nod to the simplicity of folk rock, with its acoustic guitar-driven arrangement and harmonica interludes, while “Art of Dying” ventures into more experimental territory with its psychedelic overtones and complex rhythmic structure.
Lyrical Analysis
Themes and Messages
“All Things Must Pass” is rich with themes of spirituality, introspection, and the transient nature of life. At the heart of the album is a profound sense of spiritual exploration and enlightenment. Harrison’s lyrics frequently touch upon his devotion to Eastern philosophy and his quest for inner peace. Songs like “My Sweet Lord” and “Hear Me Lord” express a deep yearning for divine connection and a sense of spiritual fulfillment.
Another central theme is the impermanence of life, encapsulated in the title track “All Things Must Pass.” This song, with its poignant lyrics, serves as a meditation on the inevitability of change and the acceptance of life’s cyclical nature. The themes of love and loss are also prominent, particularly in tracks like “Isn’t It a Pity,” which reflects on the sorrow of human disconnection and the healing power of empathy and understanding.
Lyrical Depth
The lyrics on “All Things Must Pass” exhibit a remarkable depth and poetic quality. Harrison’s songwriting is both introspective and expansive, blending straightforward narrative with abstract, meditative reflections. In “Beware of Darkness,” for instance, he uses metaphor and allegory to warn against the pitfalls of materialism and emotional turmoil, urging listeners to seek a higher, more spiritual path.
Harrison’s use of recurring motifs, such as light and darkness, love and loss, and spiritual longing, creates a cohesive lyrical thread throughout the album. His poetic approach often leaves room for interpretation, inviting listeners to find their own meaning in the songs. This is particularly evident in “Awaiting On You All,” where the lyrics mix direct references to spiritual practices with more abstract, almost mystical language.
Emotional Impact
The emotional resonance of the lyrics in “All Things Must Pass” is profound. Harrison’s honest and heartfelt expressions of his spiritual journey and personal struggles evoke a wide range of emotions. The sincerity in his plea for divine connection in “My Sweet Lord” stirs a sense of yearning and devotion. The reflective tone of “All Things Must Pass” and “Isn’t It a Pity” evokes contemplation and a deep sense of empathy, as Harrison explores themes of impermanence and human frailty.
The album also conveys a sense of hope and redemption. In “Awaiting On You All,” Harrison’s upbeat tempo and uplifting lyrics inspire a sense of joy and spiritual liberation. “Art of Dying” confronts the inevitability of death with a sense of acceptance and transcendence, encouraging listeners to live fully and embrace the spiritual journey.
Cohesion and Flow
Track Progression
“All Things Must Pass” excels in its seamless track progression, creating an immersive listening experience from start to finish. The album’s structure, spread across three discs, allows for a deliberate unfolding of themes and emotions. The first disc introduces the listener to the core of Harrison’s spiritual and philosophical musings, beginning with the upbeat and devotional “I’d Have You Anytime” and moving through the soulful anthem “My Sweet Lord.” The transition from track to track is smooth, with each song complementing the previous one both thematically and sonically.
The second disc delves deeper into introspective and reflective territory, featuring tracks like “Isn’t It a Pity” and the title track “All Things Must Pass.” These songs build on the emotional groundwork laid by the first disc, exploring themes of love, loss, and impermanence with a greater sense of depth and melancholy. The flow of tracks maintains a narrative arc, guiding the listener through a journey of self-discovery and acceptance.
The third disc, known as “Apple Jam,” shifts gears with a collection of instrumental jams. While this might seem like a departure from the rest of the album, it serves as a cathartic release after the emotional intensity of the previous discs. The organic, spontaneous feel of the jams provides a sense of closure, bringing the album to a relaxed and satisfying conclusion. The placement of these instrumental tracks at the end allows the listener to reflect on the album’s themes in a more abstract, less structured manner.
Thematic Consistency
Thematic consistency is one of the album’s greatest strengths. Throughout “All Things Must Pass,” Harrison maintains a steadfast focus on spiritual growth, love, and the acceptance of life’s transience. This thematic thread is woven into every track, creating a cohesive narrative that feels both personal and universal. The recurring motifs of light and darkness, love and separation, and spiritual longing provide a sense of continuity, linking each song to the album’s overarching message.
The stylistic consistency is also noteworthy. Despite the diverse range of musical influences, from rock and folk to gospel and Indian classical, the album never feels disjointed. Harrison’s distinctive voice and slide guitar work, combined with Phil Spector’s cohesive production, tie the varied elements together. Even when the album shifts from vocal tracks to the instrumental jams of “Apple Jam,” it retains a sense of unity through its organic, free-flowing style.
Emotionally, the album maintains a consistent tone of introspection and sincerity. While there are moments of joy and upliftment, such as in “What Is Life” and “Awaiting On You All,” these are balanced with more contemplative tracks like “Beware of Darkness” and “Run of the Mill.” This emotional balance ensures that the album feels cohesive, with each track contributing to the overall emotional journey.
Standout Tracks and Moments
Highlight Key Tracks
“My Sweet Lord”
One of the most iconic tracks on the album, “My Sweet Lord” stands out for its profound spiritual message and catchy melody. The song seamlessly blends Western pop with Indian devotional music, featuring Harrison’s signature slide guitar and the chant-like repetition of “Hare Krishna.” Its universal appeal and heartfelt devotion set it apart as a timeless anthem of spiritual longing.
“Isn’t It a Pity”
This track is a poignant reflection on human relationships and the sorrow that often accompanies them. The song’s lush orchestration and melancholic melody highlight Harrison’s ability to convey deep emotion through music. The lyrics, questioning why people cause each other pain, resonate with a universal sense of empathy and introspection.
“What Is Life”
A vibrant and upbeat track, “What Is Life” showcases Harrison’s skill in creating infectious rock melodies. The driving rhythm, jubilant horns, and uplifting lyrics make it one of the album’s most memorable songs. Its exuberance contrasts beautifully with the more introspective tracks, adding dynamic energy to the album.
“All Things Must Pass”
The title track encapsulates the album’s central theme of impermanence and acceptance. Its gentle, contemplative melody and philosophical lyrics make it a standout piece. The song’s serene tone and introspective message invite listeners to reflect on the transient nature of life, making it a cornerstone of the album’s emotional journey.
Memorable Moments
Slide Guitar on “My Sweet Lord”
Harrison’s slide guitar work on “My Sweet Lord” is a defining element of the song. The melodic, almost vocal quality of the slide guitar adds a layer of emotional depth and spiritual yearning that perfectly complements the song’s lyrical content. This moment captures Harrison’s unique blend of technical skill and heartfelt expression.
Crescendo in “Isn’t It a Pity”
The extended outro of “Isn’t It a Pity” features a powerful crescendo of orchestration and vocal harmonies. This build-up, culminating in a cathartic release, amplifies the song’s emotional impact and leaves a lasting impression on the listener. It’s a masterful use of dynamics that showcases Harrison’s ability to craft emotionally resonant music.
Harmonica in “Apple Scruffs”
The harmonica interludes in “Apple Scruffs” add a charming, earthy quality to the song. This touch of folk instrumentation provides a delightful contrast to the more heavily produced tracks, highlighting Harrison’s versatility and connection to his roots. The harmonica’s playful, free-spirited sound encapsulates the album’s blend of seriousness and light-heartedness.
Orchestration in “All Things Must Pass”
The orchestral arrangement in the title track is a standout moment. The sweeping strings and gentle horns create a lush, serene backdrop for Harrison’s reflective lyrics. This orchestration not only enhances the song’s meditative quality but also exemplifies the album’s overall production excellence.
Instrumental Jams on “Apple Jam”
The spontaneous, free-form instrumental jams on the third disc offer a refreshing change of pace. Tracks like “Out of the Blue” and “I Remember Jeep” capture the joy of musical improvisation and collaboration. These moments showcase Harrison’s willingness to experiment and highlight the collective talent of the musicians involved, adding a unique dimension to the album.
Artistic Contribution and Innovation
Place in Genre/Industry
“All Things Must Pass” holds a significant place in the rock genre and the broader music industry, marking a pivotal moment in the early 1970s. As George Harrison’s first solo album after the breakup of The Beatles, it was eagerly anticipated and did not disappoint. The album’s expansive sound, ambitious scope, and deeply personal content distinguished it from contemporaneous releases. Within the rock genre, it transcended the typical boundaries, incorporating elements of folk, gospel, and Indian classical music. This fusion of styles not only showcased Harrison’s versatility but also contributed to the evolving landscape of rock music, which was becoming increasingly experimental and diverse.
The album’s success—both critical and commercial—cemented Harrison’s reputation as a formidable solo artist. It reached number one on the charts in several countries and was hailed as a masterpiece by critics. Its influence extended beyond its immediate success; “All Things Must Pass” inspired subsequent artists to pursue greater creative freedom and explore more profound, introspective themes in their music. By proving that a former Beatle could thrive independently, Harrison paved the way for his bandmates and other musicians of the era to venture into solo careers with confidence.
Innovation
“All Things Must Pass” is renowned for its innovative production, genre-blending, and thematic depth. Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound” production technique played a crucial role in the album’s distinctive sound. The densely layered arrangements, lush orchestration, and meticulous attention to detail created a sonic landscape that was both grandiose and intimate. This approach to production was particularly innovative in the context of a rock album, bringing a level of sophistication and complexity that was relatively uncommon at the time.
Musical Influences
Another notable innovation is the album’s seamless integration of diverse musical influences. Harrison’s use of Indian instruments and motifs, which he had begun exploring with The Beatles, reached new heights on this album. Songs like “My Sweet Lord” and “Awaiting On You All” feature a blend of Western and Eastern musical elements, creating a unique and spiritually resonant sound. This cross-cultural fusion was ahead of its time, foreshadowing the world music trends that would gain prominence in the decades to follow.
Thematically, “All Things Must Pass” broke new ground by delving deeply into spiritual and philosophical subjects. Harrison’s exploration of Eastern spirituality, reflected in both the lyrics and the music, offered listeners a profound and introspective experience. This thematic focus set the album apart from the more secular and hedonistic themes prevalent in much of the rock music of the era. By addressing concepts of impermanence, spiritual longing, and inner peace, Harrison created a body of work that resonated on a deeper, more existential level.
Triple Album Format
The triple-album format itself was an innovative choice, allowing Harrison the space to fully express his artistic vision. The inclusion of the “Apple Jam” disc, featuring extended instrumental jams, highlighted his willingness to experiment and provided a platform for showcasing the collective talent of the musicians involved. This unconventional structure challenged the norms of album production and expanded the possibilities for what a rock album could be.
Closing Thoughts
“All Things Must Pass” is an enduring testament to George Harrison’s artistic vision and creative genius. The album’s strengths are manifold: its rich production quality, innovative musical arrangements, and profound lyrical themes coalesce into a work of art that transcends its era. Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound” production enhances the emotional depth of the album, creating a lush, immersive listening experience. The seamless blend of rock, folk, gospel, and Indian classical music showcases Harrison’s versatility and willingness to push musical boundaries.
Thematically, the album’s exploration of spirituality, love, and the impermanence of life offers listeners a deeply introspective journey. Tracks like “My Sweet Lord,” “Isn’t It a Pity,” and the title track “All Things Must Pass” stand out for their emotional resonance and philosophical depth. Harrison’s ability to convey complex emotions through both lyrics and music is a testament to his growth as a songwriter and artist.
While the album’s ambitious scope and triple-disc format could be seen as overwhelming, it is precisely this expansiveness that allows Harrison to fully articulate his artistic vision. The inclusion of the “Apple Jam” disc, with its extended instrumental jams, might feel indulgent to some, but it also highlights the collaborative spirit and creative freedom that defined the album’s creation.
“All Things Must Pass” holds a significant place in Harrison’s career, marking his emergence as a solo artist with a distinct voice and vision. It stands as a monumental achievement that not only solidified his legacy but also influenced a generation of musicians to explore deeper themes and innovative sounds in their own work.
Official Rating
Given the album’s artistic merit, innovation, and emotional impact, I am compelled to give “All Things Must Pass” a perfect rating of 10 out of 10. This rating reflects the album’s enduring significance and its ability to resonate with listeners across different generations. It is a masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of Harrison’s artistic journey and continues to inspire and move audiences worldwide. In the grand tapestry of rock music, “All Things Must Pass” shines brightly as a timeless classic.