Episode 268: Songs Under the Microscope, Vol. 38: "Here Comes the Sun" and "Here Comes the Moon" by George Harrison

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, we've collected listener feedback on Paul McCartney's The Boys of Dungeon Lane, summarizing four core themes: the album as a slow burner that rewards repeat listens, praise as a surprising triumph for his age, debates about vocal tone and production, and a perceived lack of McCartney-style whimsy. We also highlight listener comments on standout tracks (e.g., "Life Can Be Hard"), track-by-track reactions, and a discussion of album variants and collector culture, concluding that overall fan response is positive and emotionally resonant. -Check out albums to buy, including The Boys of Dungeon Lane, in our Amazon store! (As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases)