Episode 245: Songs Under the Microscope, Vol. 33: "Pipes of Peace" by Paul McCartney

In this episode, Dave and Chris break down the new Rubber Soul release: Giles Martin’s stereo remix, the mono cut, the U.S. album, and the Super Deluxe outtakes featuring demos, instrumentals and alternate takes. We highlight standout tracks, discuss sound and mixing choices, vinyl/CD configurations, fan reactions, and related Beatles and solo releases amid the set’s pros and cons. Should you listen to the set? We give you the verdict... Purchase the set here:

In this episode, Dave and Chris go back into the lab to examine the Beatles’ early B‑side “Ask Me Why,” exploring its unusual and sophisticated (for the time) chord progression, three‑part vocals, lyrics, and recording history from the Pete Best era to Please Please Me. As usual, Chris digs deep to find interesting cover versions (linked below)! We also catch you up on a couple of new items including George Harrison’s upcoming photo book, the Rubber Soul box set, and some recent Lennon family news.

Dave and Chris return from summer hiatus to rank the 14 John Lennon–related tracks from The Beatles’ White Album, including the outtake “What’s the New Mary Jane.” We discuss John's fantastic vocal performances, production choices, alternate mixes, and the songs’ contexts including “Happiness Is a Warm Gun,” “Dear Prudence,” and “I’m So Tired." And of course, we debate one of the most controversial pieces, “Revolution 9.” We finish by recapping some of the Rubber Soul news. What is your ranking? Let us know! Need to order any Rubber Soul variants or White Album sets? White Album 2 disc 50th anniversary Giles Martin remix vinyl https://amzn.to/4guPNYB

The new Rubber Soul sets are coming on October 2! In this episode, we dive into the new reissues: Giles Martin’s stereo mixes, previously unreleased session takes, mono and U.S. albums, and exclusive vinyl and Blu-ray options. We also give you all the pricing details, bonus items, fan complaints, and whether the vault material still justifies the box set approach. We engage in some speculation (!) as to future releases as well. Want to purchase any of the sets?

In this episode, Dave and Chris take a two-for-one deep dive into George Harrison’s “Here Comes the Sun” and its lesser-known companion (or sequel?) “Here Comes the Moon.” We explore the songs’ origins, lyrics, inspiration, unique musical elements (Moog synthesizer!), Ringo’s problems playing the meter changes, and a surprise uncredited co-writer for "Here Comes the Moon." As usual, we mention notable covers — from the Concert for Bangladesh and SNL to versions by Nina Simone, Yusuf/Cat Stevens, Peter Tosh and more — and speculate as to why "Here Comes The Sun" is the most-streamed Beatles song while "Here Comes The Moon" is a hidden gem. Check out the links below to buy the items mentioned in the episode: