Revolution

Paul Schwartz

A suite of classical dances based on the music of Lennon, McCartney and Harrison is how this album is described on the cover, and upon my first listen I agree that you won't get a more accurate definition than that.

What you've got here are 11 well-known classics (While My Guitar Gently Weeps being the only non- Lennon/McCartney track) re-done in classical form. For someone who's not a great fan of classical Music, I did enjoy this.

The opening track 'Blackbird' features various instruments including Piano, Cello, Violin, Flute, Horn and Oboe and indeed Mr. Schwartz calls it an 18th century dance piece. A similar pattern continues throughout this album on tracks like 'Norwegian Wood', 'For No One' and ‘The Fool on the Hill’.

The highlight of the album is without doubt the title track. Featuring triple violinists 'Revolution' races at an enormous pace for almost four minutes that will leave you out of breath. I found myself singing along (lyrics are included on the sleeve), trying to keep up with the speed of the violinists.

'Revolution' was intended to be the last track on the album, but upon hearing of Linda McCartney’s death, a mellow 'Let It Be' was added at the end as "a piece of music that celebrates the release from life".

To conclude, my opinion is that this is a unique interpretation of Beatle music in classical form and if you love this type of music you're on to a winner here. If not, give it a listen anyway.

Michael Lynch

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