Rough, Raw, and Ready

Every Beatles album showcased a new phase of music--for them and often for popular music. "Please, Please Me", their debut, is unique: Most of their recordings are very slick and accomplished. This recording only represents the latter. It's hallmarks are well documented, however. The title track and their rendition of the Isley Brothers' "Twist and Shout," are unforgettable classics. What makes this C.D. so worthwhile are the songs seldom heard. "I Saw Her Standing There," (with McCartney at the vocal helm) used to be a standard song, but now is seldom heard even on Oldies radio. It is a great rocking song. More power can be attributed to other nuggets, such as a cover of the Motown song, "Boys," and their own composition "There's a Place," (sung with admirable gusto by Ringo and John respectively).

Where it all began

The world changed forever in 1963 with the explosion of Beatlemania and the ensuing British invasion. Almost instantly the Beatles become the world's most popular band, releasing critical and commercial smashes throughout the decade. The Beatles debut "Please Please Me" (1963) is the album where it all began.

Excellent debut album!

Geez, can't anyone hear McCartney's count-in that opens the first track, "I Saw Her Standing There"? It's "one...two...three...five!".