The Beatles is probably the most influential band of all time, and the album “Revolver” is one of its most influential records.
Like “Rubber Soul,” “Revolver” deviates from the pre-’65 era; the “Beatles,” are becoming more creative and innovative (not that any of their albums were not innovative) and are still maintaining a similar feel. It still is not as radical as “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” or “The White Album.”
The song “Taxman” has its famous bass line that is rock and funk at the same time, creating a unique sound for that song and is the perfect opening track. This is probably George Harrison’s best song written for the Beatles and one of the most overtly political songs ever.
“Eleanor Rigby” is a brilliant song written by Paul McCartney. He uses piano and an orchestra through this haunting ballad. McCartney talks about “all the lonely people” he has seen.
“She Said, She Said” is top contender for the best song on the album. It was inspired by John Lennon’s own personal experience with Peter Fonda.
“And Your Bird Can Sing” contains some of Harrison’s best lead work of his time in the Beatles. There are multiple leads and riffs that contribute to the overall tone of the song and it is unique in the way it is set up. It has been covered by several other artists over the years, including “Social Distortion.”
“Tomorrow Never Knows” is an amazing song with many groundbreaking aspects to it. They used backwards guitars to create seagull sounds and there are many indistinguishable sounds below the surface of sound. At one point Lennon’s voice is made to sound like it has been put through a loud speaker. According to George Martin, parts were inspired by Timothy Leary’s book, “The Psychedelic Experience.”
In “Yellow Submarine” many guest singers appear including Brian Jones of the Rolling Stones, singer, Marianne Faithful, the folk singer, Donovan and even the Beatles’ roadie, Mal Evans provided background vocals.
Lyrically the Beatles have matured on this album and have become more creative, telling stories in “Eleanor Rigby” and “Yellow Submarine”, talking about real life events in “She Said, She Said” and singing about political issues in “Taxman,” though John Lennon and Paul McCartney have always been word-smiths from the beginning of their career and before.
As always John Lennon’s voice proves that he is one of the best vocalists of all time.
Paul McCartney also demonstrates the amazing range and versatility of his voice in songs like “Eleanor Rigby” and “For No One.”
“Rubber Soul” also shows definite signs of the move towards psychedelic styles in rock music, for example “She Said, She Said” and “Tomorrow Never Knows.”
Many new influences can be seen on this album. Even more of Bob Dylan’s influence can be seen.
The album “Revolver,” laid the ground works for future Beatles’ albums and new artists. It is a pivotal point in the Beatles’ career where they continued with changes that had started with “Help!”