GEORGE HARRISON

"Brainwashed"

Capitol Records

When you hear the name George Harrison what words pop into your mind? I'm sure most people associate his name with The Beatles, guitar legend or rock and roll. However, George Harrison represents so much more to the world. His name coincides with words such as truth, reflection, peace, humor and honesty. These are the things that George Harrison sought out in life, and in turn, through his music, inspired people to reflect and live their lives differently. George Harrison will be missed but his spirit will live on through his music.

I was first struck by George's ingenious solo work when I was sifting through my father's stack of records. I came upon a double album with these disturbing little gnomes on the jacket cover who were all gathered around a longhaired and bearded George Harrison. The inviting title of the first song on the album "All Things Must Pass" drew my curiosity. "I'd Have You Anytime" was the title of the song and I took George up on the invite many times afterwards. "All Things Must Pass" has had a significant impact on my life and many others who are in search of truth, honesty and which road to travel in life.

Well, why would "Brainwashed" be any different from George's past music? Just as some write letters or leave videos, "Brainwashed" documents George's last thoughts and parting words to his loved ones. Aided by his son, Dhani, on guitar and vocals, and inspired by his wife, Olivia, George was able to record both a joyous and emotional compilation of music.

"Any Road" kicks things off on a light hearted and reassuring note as George sings, "I keep traveling around the bend. There was no beginning, there is no end… But if you don't know where you're going, any road will take you there." George explores all genres of music and uses a variety of musical instruments on the twelve songs, playing everything from acoustic and electric guitar to the banjulele.

Near the end, George was still asking life's questions and searching for the truth, which is well illustrated on "Pisces Fish". This track has a bluesy, Middle Eastern sound and displays George's ability as a wordsmith as he writes, "I'm living proof of all life's contradictions. One half's going where the other half's just been." "Looking For My Life" and "Run So Far" are reminiscent of the Traveling Wilburys' songs. "Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea" gives off a ragtime feeling and features George on ukulele. "Rocking Chair In Hawaii" is a slow tempo song that allows the listener to drift off to a better place while George sings, "And if those blues don't leave me, gonna rock on away from here."

"Marwa Blues" is a heartfelt instrumental that showcases George's slide guitar work and is reminiscent of some Beatles' songs from "Sgt. Pepper's" and "Magical Mystery Tour" with his use of string arrangements. "Stuck Inside A Cloud" is a wonderful song, however, it unfortunately contains some saddening imagery of the struggles often associated with the end of life.

Finally, the title track "Brainwashed" ends this release with a bang and an important final lesson. Similar to Pink Floyd's, "Another Brick In The Wall", George warns people of the many social issues that plague the world. Maybe he put this track last so the listener would have something to reflect upon after the music is over?

- Jamie Sattel

****1/2