70s Beatles: Wolfish Grin (not) released in 1973

No Beatles album for two years probably created impossible expectations. What seemed, post-Ziggy, a little disappointing can now be appreciated as a very solid album. There are a few missteps, but here is a band fully operating as a band, as the famous artwork suggests. Still, for the first time they weren't driving popular culture forward.

Though it was always billed as "some time off" the truth was no one really knew if there would be another Beatles album. It was Ringo who worked to bring everyone back together, and his new leadership is reflected in his increased presence on the album.

Listen to the whole album (on YouTube).

Side A

1) SINGLE PIGEON

Not a dramatic start to the album. May explain the critical under appreciation.

2) JOHN SINCLAIR

Lennon brings the politics and edge.

3) THE LORD LOVES THE ONE (THAT LOVES THE LORD)

George still deep in his hippy stage.

4. PHOTOGRAPH

New writing partnerships were finally happening within the band. Ringo wrote this one with George.

5. JET

Lennon hated it, refused to play on it or let it be a single. Surely would have been a hit. My 4 year old son's favourite Beatles song. 

6. MIND GAMES

Lennon insisted in this as the single. First real Beatles flop.

Side B

1. I'M THE GREATEST

Seemed a little vainglorious at the time but this is the biggest band in the world, back after a break.

2. LITTLE LAMB DRAGONFLY

3. GIVE ME LOVE (GIVE ME PEACE ON EARTH)

Hippy George. 

4. OUT THE BLUE

Gentle, soppy Lennon. 

5. LET ME ROLL IT

As I say, it's a decent album, but no real arguments that they were going off the boil.