Links: 6CD Deluxe Box: amzn.to/3V1ctpU 2LP Vinyl: amzn.to/3ykUXUN 2CD: amzn.to/3QMJVxI Standalone book: amzn.to/3wCC5QA Mind Games Super Deluxe Box: store.johnlennon.com/collections/music/products/mind-games-the-ultimate-collection-super-deluxe-box-set UV Torch: amzn.to/3xheHsb These and other variants available through johnlennon.com
Thanks Andrew for taking the time to give such in-depth analysis and review. It’s really appreciated and I can’t wait to hear it all when it’s released.
Thank you so much for this clear and informative review video. I'll get the Uncut cd soon to whet my appetite before I can get hold of this apparently impressive box set.
Excellent review Andrew, thankyou so much for the review and taking the time out to explain the box set. I've picked up the magazine on holiday. What a year for Beatles fans, just got tickets for Paul in Manchester, can't wait.
Out Of the Blue and I Know I Know were always my favourite tracks on the album. Two underappreciated classic Lennon rockers that would have sounded incredible in a Live Concert.
You have really whetted my appetite for this set and cannot wait for my box, CD's, double LP to arrive. Going by the Uncut CD, this is gonna be the best of the Lennon Boxes so far. Then we hopefully have a Walls and Bridges box to look forward to as well as Rubber Soul... Can't wait to be playing all of this through my surround sound system. Thank you so much for this Andrew..
Thank you so much for the detailed review. Was a little worried by the delay following the unboxing but can fully appreciate the reason for this. You have not rushed out an ill-considered overview, but have spent time becoming accustomed to the various mixes before providing your comments. Mind Games has always been a favourite Lennon album of mine. Perhaps because it was the first of his albums that I experienced when I was buying records myself and fully appreciating music rather than it just being 'around'. I have heard the promo tracks released by the estate and the Uncut CD and am really now looking forward to the deluxe set. Thank you again for the lengthy video. It is much valued. Cheers.
Looking forward to what you have lined up next. I guess it could be about the secrets and hidden mysteries within the box, but if you have been away with just the music, is it related to the big arty package?
Excellent comprehensive review of the box audio. Be really interesting to see if my opinion changes once I get to hear it. I've ordered yhe 6cd version so hope its worth it.
My take on John as a producer/mixing engineer is that he really was rooted in the music he grew up with & listened to at the time. He definitely was not fussed about 'clarity & separation' & did at some point wear a badge stating 'Back to Mono'!! His concession to stereo was to make it sound more like mono!
Brilliant video as always. I know (I know) Mind Games isn't considered to be John's best album by some people, but for me it's an absolute classic. I don't think there's a bad track on there. This review has me salivating in anticipation for the box set release.
You Are Here has now slowly crept up the list of my favorite Mind Games tracks after buying this set and hearing the different mixes. As for the Ultimate Mixes. I do feel there are some that I prefer the 2010 mix to over the Ultimate (such as Tight A$, Bring On The Lucie, Intuition, and especially my favorite of the album, Meat City. I feel the warmth added takes away from the rocking/grittiness of the 2010 mix, not familiar with the original or 2002 mix). And I do thank you for helping explain how to find the hidden tracks on the cd’s, I’m enjoying Mellotron Magic as I type. And finally breaking down and buying a moderately priced blu ray player now.
Hi Andrew. Thank you so much for your videos which I always enjoy watching. I have now received the set and I have managed to discover all the hidden extras on the blue-ray disc, with the exception of the black and white footage of John playing Mind Games on his guitar. Could you kindly tell me how to find it? Cheers!
What an outstanding overview of the set. Thank you so much for going so deep with your analysis of the sound quality. Much appreciated, and I look forward to the big video you mentioned. Off topic Andrew: what is that red and white ON AIR you have displayed behind you?? Feel like I should know, but I don’t. 🤔
My set should be coming within the next few days. Love the Plastic Ono and Imagine box set sitting neatly on my shelf. Looked forward to your review 😂❤ Thank you
My feeling is that they've gone big with this one, using the title Mind Games as a reason to have big fun and games. I wouldn't be surprised if it's back to normal from Walls And Bridges onwards, but I could be wrong!
This is an excellent review - thank you! You’ve more than answered all the questions I’ve had about the CD box. Really appreciate how thorough you were. I seriously doubt that a better quality review will appear anywhere.
I bought this album when it was released on vinyl, a schoolboy’s pocket money, always liked it. I hope they do something with ‘ sometime in New York City, and Walls and Bridges, thanks for great in-depth review
What a wonderful review Andrew ❤! I can’t wait to hear it on Spotify. Things are getting too expensive to buy these days 😢. FYI .. Elton John does an incredible job on his version of “ One Day At A Time” it was on the flip side of Lucy in the Sky , you can find it streaming check it out!
Mid 70s is my favorite Lennon musical period. Mind Games and Walls and Bridges to me are the Rubber Soul and Revolver of his catalogue. They could easily be part 1 and part 2 of a double album. Mind Games just always suffered from an inferior mix that it looks like this set will finally rectify once and for all.
This may take many listens, but how do the title track, I Know (I Know) and Out the Blue compare to the same tracks on the Gimme Some Truth set? Or do the liner notes indicate that they are the same mixes?
So I’ve finally bit the bullet and ordered via an offer on rough trade via eBay at £110- gonna need to get a UV torch now! Another great video Andrew - and I’ve ordered the uncut promo too- I have been well and truly mind gamed!
Great in-depth review as ever. It certainly does seem to be a massive improvement on the original mix, especially if listening on headphones. For some reason, I’ve always really liked “Intuition” and thought that it could’ve been a hit single on the radio - but maybe that’s just me!
The raw studio mixes are the star of the package for me. Way better than the finished versions. It's was like a discovery to hear the instruments and John's voice way clearer, with no reverb and production tricks.
The Elemental mixes are designed to perhaps take two or three elements of the song (e.g.could be vocal, bass and keys) and create a new mix that really allows those parts to shine, for example the keys might have been a little buried in the mix so hadn't been appreciated properly before. The raw studio mixes are more like a full band version but sound as though you are in that control room with the band as it's being recorded. The mix won't have the final effects such as reverb and much other EQ applied to it, so it really sounds like you're there with the full band as they're playing.
I think the White Album bonus tracks (and Esher Demos) were pretty unbeatable. Also, the Imagine Ultimate Box and Red Rose Speedway Archive Collection are my solo favourites 👍
Hello Andrew how does this new mix stand compared to the 2010 cd in the LENNON box? Everyone keeps Comparing this to the original and the 2002 mix but I haven’t heard anything about the 2010 mix.
Hi Joseph, the 2010 version was the original mix, as it was a remaster rather than a remix. The new version is so much clearer and better EQ than the 2010 (in my opinion).
Really looking forward to this box now! The original release was indeed muddy -- there's no other word for it. I can only assume that John was trying to emulate Phil Spector's style of production. For all his (many) faults, Spector knew exactly what he was doing and how to get a very specific result, so John's attempt was never going to be as good. And I share your love for "I Know (I Know)," and hopefully it will gain its place among the best of John's solo work. It'll be interesting to compare the ultimate mix here on CD/Blu-Ray to the vinyl release when it comes out.
I’m looking forward to listening to all of this on Apple Music but I really wish the 7LP set that’s in the Super Deluxe Box Set was being sold separately. I would have easily dropped $200 on that.
Hi Andrew, I've just received my Mind Games box and guess what? Blue Ray disc 1 is missing. Have you had any issues with this? Am I missing anything by not having this disc?
I don't think there's any hidden tracks exclusive to disc 1 but there might be video content there (can't remember off hand which disc that's on) and of course there's all the hi Res content on there and your set is incomplete so you definitely ought to arrange a replacement through wherever you bought it from.
Hi Andrew, great video as always but I wanted to tell you I'm very happy, Paul is coming to Uruguay for the third time in 12 years, and as this is a very difficult year for me, I have a serious ill and I'll have surgery next month, this visit is great news, my wife told me this time I had to see him as close as possible, not since the last row of the arena (in this case Estadio Centenario of Montevideo), so we spent an incredible amount of money, and we'll go to check sound and very near the stage to the show. It's incredible that in my worst year Paul had decided to came here again, I feel is something magic, I'm 69 and the Beatles and Paul after they split are my heroes. Too long sorry but I know you can understand the feeling. Thanks
Hi Andrew I tried to reply to your Instagram page but for some reason it was taken down. I got uncut magazine too with the bonus cd which is quite good. I also liked the little magazine reviewing all JL’s solo albums. Although I like mind games, it’s not my fave John album, I’d probably place it behind plastic Ono band, imagine, walls and bridges and even double fantasy. Where does it rank on your list? Also the main feature in the magazine about the making of the new release of mind games is a good read. Cheers !
Hi, don't know what's happened over on Instagram (I'll be honest, I really don't like or understand Instagram at all, I never know what I'm doing there!) Traditionally I've tended to rank Mind Games quite low, with Imagine, POB, Walls and Bridges and Double Fantasy all ahead of it. I could certainly see it possibly rising above Double Fantasy now, and closing the gap with Walls and Bridges, I've really started to enjoy it lots more over the last year. But maybe when a Double Fantasy box is released I'll start loving that more again!
@@AndrewDixonMusicyeh I love that record too Andrew but I wonder if that will get the special treatment given the sad circumstances surrounding it and what it’s associated with. Watching England game just now. I’m Scottish so still pretty depressed after that Hungary disaster on Sunday night and suffering from Covid to boot! 😂
Thanks, Andrew, for an honest appraisal of the Mind Games Box Set. Very brief and yet thorough work Even though I haven't heard the album except on UA-cam, I can say that it is a much better album now as far as quality. I also feel that the song writing of John on this album is a bit weaker than previous and future albums. But, on the other hand, the great aspect is that John would approve because he knew there could have been better sounding tracks, and now, here it is. Sean Lennon, along with his Team really knocked themselves out presenting new sounding remixes, which is the normal way. It's over priced for the content of Classic Lennon, but give it time. Thanks for the great view.
Thanks! As far as the original mix goes it's the best version I've heard (but I've only ever had the 2010 and an 80s CD in terms of original mix), but I don't think I'm likely to listen to it often rather than the new version.
Yes I love the new version, especially Tight As. The 5 or 6 note lead guitar repeating itself all through the song improves the track and it was the first thing I noticed.
After Imagine, I think every album after was rather weak. Yes, on each there was 4 or 5 good songs. Still I’m excited to get into this Box Set and Thank You very much for the Honest review.
@@javierrod7242 Thanks! Yes that's true, it's not a fault as some people think, it's deliberate and part of the game on the Nutopia game card. Track 90 contains the answer to one of the clues.
I would have liked to have had Illusions (not for love of money) outtake remastered if that’s possible, which was apparently written during Mind Games (according to Pamela Davies who did an excellent cover of it). Mind Games if my favorite followed by Plastic Ono Band.
In my opinion, the original mix is superb. Rich and chrystal clear. But it will be interesting to hear the new mix and all the new versions. Byvthe way, Aisumasen may well be my all-tim fav John aong.
Hi Andrew , you say you have got another BIG mind games video coming soon , don’t say you have obtained the massive Mind games cube box set priced at £1’390 , from the Lennon estate.
Why don‘t you compare the excisting ultimate mixed songs to the gimme some truth ultimate mixes anymore like you did with imagine and plastic ono band? We already have Mind Games, Out The Blue and I Know.
You know Andrew, I wasn’t that fond of this album when it first came out, but the versions of the songs on this disk set are pretty good. Little pricey though.
Thanks! I think that might vary from player to player, but most of the discs will involve something along the lines of pressing play on track 1 then rewinding back before the start of it.
Hello Andrew, I am so glad that you did this video. I don't have a Blu-ray player and I thought all these hidden tracks were going to be Blu-ray only so I was disappointed in that after I've already ordered the box set. So the hidden tracks that are on just the regular CDs one through six I'll be able to find easily is that the case? I just watched this whole video and I'm going to be watching it again. I love this album and I can't wait to get the box. Brilliant video Andrew very informative. Thank You. Kregg from Phoenix AZ.
Whether you'll find them easily I can't guarantee, but I'm sure there will be lots of people online swapping info about how they found the hidden CD tracks on various types of players.
I am really starting to like the new Mind Games release. After listening to it a few times, I am really starting to like the songs. John Lennon is such a good writer, even his lesser songs are good. Sure beats most of the music out these days.
Hello there Andrew, Sorry about this is so long. You mentioned where on can find the upcoming hidden tracks on this new Mind Games box set. For example, I'm The Greatest is the last track on disc 1 immediate following track 6, but all of the other hidden tracks you only talked about them and the disc they are on. If it is easy to find these other tracks that's fine, but if it is not that easy, would it be possible for you to mentioned where these tracks can be found (I would imagine they are all the last track on the discs, but it wasn't mentioned) or send out a short video or written message as to where these tracks can be found. By the way, I have watched other people's UA-cam channels talking about this new Mind Games box set. The only people I will ever watch their UA-cam channels are yours and the guy from Polygram Auctions. That's because most of the others are just goofy and I won't want to watch something like that. The one thing I don't care for is the Polygram channel more like real business type video where he is taking about Beatles related things which is fine, but what I don't like is when he talks about those commercial like items in the middle of his videos, other than that I do like him a lot. I started watching his channel I think just over a couple of years, shortly after that I found your channel. I do and will only watch those two UA-cam channels. You both seem very privileged and honored to receive your items from record companies or in this case from Sean Lennon. Anyway, too much about that. I've been "collecting" The Beatles since 1969, but I have thinned down my collection considerably except now I only having CD's. Almost everything else that I had I've sold off. You are really good at what you do. Thank you so much for all your work.
Thanks for that 👍 Om some of the discs the hidden tracks are actually before track 1, so you need to press play and then rewind back prior to track 1, and then on some discs they're at the end. It might vary depending your brand of player as to exactly what to press to access them so it's not really feasible for me to try and explain that too much. On the subject of me becoming an advert part way through my videos, I have had various enquiries from companies asking if they can pay me to do that and it's not something I feel comfortable with so have rejected them all, so I hope I can promise you that's not something I'm going to start doing! 🙂👍
It sounds like i’m going to have issues ripping the CD. (i already have issues since on some CDs my external disc drive ejects on the last 2 or 3 songs while ripping even if the CD is brand new, that’s why i like have a few bonus tracks on there because at least there’s a good chance i’ll rip the original album) I may have to pass and just stream☹️ BTW, have you ever heard Elton’s cover of “One Day At a Time”? His version is better i think 😄
Sounds like the song was actually written for Elton in fact..i just wish John would’ve just gave it to him and maybe put “Rock & Roll People” in its place on “Mind Games”.😂
Interesting review Andrew. Waiting for mine to come in July Uncut magazine has a free sampler and a supplement reviewing all John’s albums. It rates every track. It seems Side one of Two Virgins gets 3 stars. As does the song Imagine 😂 laughable
I always loved this record. I purchased it upon initial release and never thought the mix was muddy like everyone is saying. Of course, there was nothing to compare it to at that point. I still own my OG LP but one of my cats has rendered my turntable unplayable(no need for details here). It seems like this Ultra version is too much work! All the hidden stuff! If I want hidden stuff I’ll buy a Where’s Waldo! Who has time for this? Sean, I love ya, but you’ve gone too far! I’m probably just going to get the double CD set and be very satisfied. Cheers from Asbury Park NJ USA!
Thanks Andrew a very enthusiastic review. I'm surprised there are 18 takes of some tracks, given John always said he was 3 takes - done! I've got the 2 CD version & book on order and just bought the new Uncut so working my way through that. The album received a lowly 4/10 in Classic Rock. While not my favourite JL album it's worth more than that. How do you rate it on a scale of 1 - 10?
I’ve got the Uncut Magazines CD containing some of the extras which is more than enough for me so all I’m wanting now is a single remastered vinyl album as originally issued…… but it aint gonna happen is it and I’m expected to fork out £40+ for a double album half of which I don’t want. 🤨
You would think that if any artist/estate sends you a copy of their music to PROMOTE, that they would also give fair use license to use SHORT SNIPPETS of their music to add to the review/promotion.
I think even if they did allow that, I wouldn't risk it because the record company (separate to the estate) and UA-cam could mess up and override that and I'd end up in trouble. Between the John Lennon UA-cam account and the new Uncut magazine there must be well over a dozen full tracks from the box released already so hopefully there's plenty to help people make their minds up 👍
@@jasonl1942 Yes I have them all, they were very easy to find with my disc ripping software: The following 5 songs appear as hidden tracks on both CD & Blu Ray: I'm The Greatest [Ultimate Mix] You Are Here [Out-Take Take 4] Mellotron Magic/Weird Slide Guitar Rock 'n' Roll People [Ultimate Mix] Meat City [Single Version] [Ultimate Mix] (The track listing that shows up via UV on the back of the box set suggests that Rock n Roll People [Ultimate Mix] and Meat City [Single Version] are CD only but this is not true. I ripped both of these from Blu Ray Disc 2). The following 2 songs are hidden tracks on Blu Ray Disc 2 only: I'm The Greatest [The Evolution Documentary] Matchbox / That's Alright Mama / Heartbreak Hotel / Jam
I collect these things just for the sake of it. My grandchildren and great grandchildren will inherit a large collection of Beatles related music.The long and winding road
This set is way overpriced in Canada at $250 Cdn while the POB and Imagine sets are $100 cheaper. I will wait till the price comes down but in the meantime will download a free copy online.
It's unfortunate that Intuition is considered by many to be minor, because the lyrics are very life-affirming. I've sent them to people when they've been feeling down, particularly 'it's only a condition of seeing things that way' and 'confirmed an old suspicion it's good to be alive'.
The Lennon estate has apparently sent this box set to several UA-cam creators. I've seen at least 3 or 4 others like this. Great way to get this way overpriced set promoted. Please do not misunderstand me, I have all of John's records, and several of Yoko's on vinyl from 50 years ago. So, it's not like I don't love John and Yoko. Lovely presentation, Andrew.
Nice. I needed a new box set! You mention the poor mix on the original album....well, that's obviously true. It was muddy and somewhat ugly. Walls and Bridges didn't have much of a better mix, in my opinion, so that should be nice to hear in an Ultimate Mix as well someday. However, what I really want is a Some Time in New York City box set! The mix on some of those songs is truly horrible! Which is a real shame, because apart from the superfluous live disc, it has some absolutely excellent songs on it. Even Yoko's songs rival those of John's for once! But I guess I'll have to wait a very long time, indeed, for a box like that...
A fine job regarding the 6 CD"s but..... I am perplexed that the high resolution surround mixes on the blu rays have been missing in action here. Who cares abut the dopey video portions!... the surround mixes are a major selling point, at least for myself.. I also despise the hidden track easter egg/ultraviolet scenario. That concept went out the window years ago with DVD movies and are beyond played out. Just put the tracks on and allow the listeners to access them minus the juvenile game playing that Sean seems to embrace. One more thing.... I hope the mixes are not the bass heavy nonsense that are too prevalent with the previous Lennon boxes and the abomination that was the Dhani inspired "All Things Must Pass." Bobby Whitlock was right on the money about that bit of amateur hour before he was threatened in some kind of degenerate fashion for speaking his mind at the time.
Links:
6CD Deluxe Box: amzn.to/3V1ctpU
2LP Vinyl: amzn.to/3ykUXUN
2CD: amzn.to/3QMJVxI
Standalone book: amzn.to/3wCC5QA
Mind Games Super Deluxe Box: store.johnlennon.com/collections/music/products/mind-games-the-ultimate-collection-super-deluxe-box-set
UV Torch: amzn.to/3xheHsb
These and other variants available through johnlennon.com
Thanks Andrew for taking the time to give such in-depth analysis and review. It’s really appreciated and I can’t wait to hear it all when it’s released.
The video I’ve been waiting for! Really enjoying what I’m hearing on the uncut CD!
Mines in post.whats on it ?
@@trevordixon1427 Its a sampler cd, you get 9 tracks from the box set, a few of which have been released already on streaming and on record store day
Thank you so much for this clear and informative review video. I'll get the Uncut cd soon to whet my appetite before I can get hold of this apparently impressive box set.
Excellent review Andrew, thankyou so much for the review and taking the time out to explain the box set. I've picked up the magazine on holiday.
What a year for Beatles fans, just got tickets for Paul in Manchester, can't wait.
“I fought in the war for your sort…”
“I’ll bet you’re sorry you won.”
Out Of the Blue and I Know I Know were always my favourite tracks on the album. Two underappreciated classic Lennon rockers that would have sounded incredible in a Live Concert.
As always fabulous video Andrew thank you so much for all your hard work we really do appreciate it👍🎸
Thank you for watching! 👍
At last ! A review...Thanks, I enjoy yr videos, Andrew.
Whoua ! The best review I ever seen ! What work ! Thank you Andrew !
Thank you 🙂👍
I love your honest review l Discovered lots you went through this in a clever way ,I find this personally and the deluxe box a fine piece of art.👏
Awesome video, Andrew! Thank you for this! Your thoroughness and objectivity is much appreciated! Can't wait for July 12th to arrive!
You have really whetted my appetite for this set and cannot wait for my box, CD's, double LP to arrive. Going by the Uncut CD, this is gonna be the best of the Lennon Boxes so far. Then we hopefully have a Walls and Bridges box to look forward to as well as Rubber Soul... Can't wait to be playing all of this through my surround sound system. Thank you so much for this Andrew..
Thank you so much for the detailed review. Was a little worried by the delay following the unboxing but can fully appreciate the reason for this. You have not rushed out an ill-considered overview, but have spent time becoming accustomed to the various mixes before providing your comments.
Mind Games has always been a favourite Lennon album of mine. Perhaps because it was the first of his albums that I experienced when I was buying records myself and fully appreciating music rather than it just being 'around'.
I have heard the promo tracks released by the estate and the Uncut CD and am really now looking forward to the deluxe set.
Thank you again for the lengthy video. It is much valued. Cheers.
Thanks for watching! Yes, the delay was a combination of me wanting to properly know the songs, and timing with me being away on holiday for a week.
Looking forward to what you have lined up next. I guess it could be about the secrets and hidden mysteries within the box, but if you have been away with just the music, is it related to the big arty package?
My go-to is my trusty iPod Classic! Wonderful review, as always, Andrew!
LOVE IT Andrew! im still stuck on the mini shuffle! haha
Excellent comprehensive review of the box audio. Be really interesting to see if my opinion changes once I get to hear it. I've ordered yhe 6cd version so hope its worth it.
My take on John as a producer/mixing engineer is that he really was rooted in the music he grew up with & listened to at the time. He definitely was not fussed about 'clarity & separation' & did at some point wear a badge stating 'Back to Mono'!! His concession to stereo was to make it sound more like mono!
I think he was trying to incorporate Phil Spector.
@@theleads6627 Lol, you learn something new everyday - such an innocent word in the UK!!
Brilliant video as always. I know (I know) Mind Games isn't considered to be John's best album by some people, but for me it's an absolute classic. I don't think there's a bad track on there. This review has me salivating in anticipation for the box set release.
You Are Here has now slowly crept up the list of my favorite Mind Games tracks after buying this set and hearing the different mixes. As for the Ultimate Mixes. I do feel there are some that I prefer the 2010 mix to over the Ultimate (such as Tight A$, Bring On The Lucie, Intuition, and especially my favorite of the album, Meat City. I feel the warmth added takes away from the rocking/grittiness of the 2010 mix, not familiar with the original or 2002 mix). And I do thank you for helping explain how to find the hidden tracks on the cd’s, I’m enjoying Mellotron Magic as I type. And finally breaking down and buying a moderately priced blu ray player now.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts Andrew, very valuable as always.
Hi Andrew. Thank you so much for your videos which I always enjoy watching.
I have now received the set and I have managed to discover all the hidden extras on the blue-ray disc, with the exception of the black and white footage of John playing Mind Games on his guitar. Could you kindly tell me how to find it? Cheers!
I’m struggling to find the 9 mins videos cans you please tell me how to access them. Cheers.
What an outstanding overview of the set. Thank you so much for going so deep with your analysis of the sound quality. Much appreciated, and I look forward to the big video you mentioned.
Off topic Andrew: what is that red and white ON AIR you have displayed behind you?? Feel like I should know, but I don’t. 🤔
Thanks Dan!
The On Air sign is just a metal sign, no hidden meaning or story behind it 👍
My set should be coming within the next few days.
Love the Plastic Ono and Imagine box set sitting neatly on my shelf.
Looked forward to your review 😂❤
Thank you
I still use my Shuffle every day, Andrew! Thanks for the review.
I used to have an iPod shuffle for running..what a device that little thing was..all my indie tunes on it😁
Thank you. Just what I was looking for. Really enjoyed that!
Thanks Andrew. Do you think they will do the same for walls and bridges
My feeling is that they've gone big with this one, using the title Mind Games as a reason to have big fun and games.
I wouldn't be surprised if it's back to normal from Walls And Bridges onwards, but I could be wrong!
This is an excellent review - thank you! You’ve more than answered all the questions I’ve had about the CD box. Really appreciate how thorough you were. I seriously doubt that a better quality review will appear anywhere.
Thank you, much appreciated 🙂👍
I bought this album when it was released on vinyl, a schoolboy’s pocket money, always liked it. I hope they do something with ‘ sometime in New York City, and Walls and Bridges, thanks for great in-depth review
What a wonderful review Andrew ❤! I can’t wait to hear it on Spotify. Things are getting too expensive to buy these days 😢. FYI .. Elton John does an incredible job on his version of “ One Day At A Time” it was on the flip side of Lucy in the Sky , you can find it streaming check it out!
Thanks will check it out!
it was talking about cloud9 boxet should been out in june, do u know more of this
Very informative Andrew. Now I’m counting the days! ✨🙏✨
which are the titles of the hidden tracks ?
Mid 70s is my favorite Lennon musical period. Mind Games and Walls and Bridges to me are the Rubber Soul and Revolver of his catalogue. They could easily be part 1 and part 2 of a double album. Mind Games just always suffered from an inferior mix that it looks like this set will finally rectify once and for all.
I hope I will be able to play all the hidden tracks. Other reviews seemed to say they were in Blu-ray only. Now I know only a few are on Blu-ray only.
Of the 7 hidden tracks, only 2 are Blu Ray only. the other 5 are definitely on the CDs
This may take many listens, but how do the title track, I Know (I Know) and Out the Blue compare to the same tracks on the Gimme Some Truth set? Or do the liner notes indicate that they are the same mixes?
So I’ve finally bit the bullet and ordered via an offer on rough trade via eBay at £110- gonna need to get a UV torch now! Another great video Andrew - and I’ve ordered the uncut promo too- I have been well and truly mind gamed!
Great job Andrew. Great video.
Great in-depth review as ever. It certainly does seem to be a massive improvement on the original mix, especially if listening on headphones.
For some reason, I’ve always really liked “Intuition” and thought that it could’ve been a hit single on the radio - but maybe that’s just me!
The raw studio mixes are the star of the package for me. Way better than the finished versions. It's was like a discovery to hear the instruments and John's voice way clearer, with no reverb and production tricks.
I don't get the difference between the raw studio mixes and the elemental mixes. Can you explain, Andrew?
The Elemental mixes are designed to perhaps take two or three elements of the song (e.g.could be vocal, bass and keys) and create a new mix that really allows those parts to shine, for example the keys might have been a little buried in the mix so hadn't been appreciated properly before.
The raw studio mixes are more like a full band version but sound as though you are in that control room with the band as it's being recorded. The mix won't have the final effects such as reverb and much other EQ applied to it, so it really sounds like you're there with the full band as they're playing.
@@AndrewDixonMusic Great!
Are there any full demos?
Andrew,
Which of the Beatles box sets is your favorite (Revolver, SPLHCB, WA, AR) and which of the individual Beatles' box sets is your favorite?
I think the White Album bonus tracks (and Esher Demos) were pretty unbeatable.
Also, the Imagine Ultimate Box and Red Rose Speedway Archive Collection are my solo favourites 👍
@@AndrewDixonMusic Thank you, sir! I love your website and reviews. Keep up the necessary work!!
Why bother us with the hidden tracks? I just want to put it in and press to play.
Hello Andrew how does this new mix stand compared to the 2010 cd in the LENNON box? Everyone keeps
Comparing this to the original and the 2002 mix but I haven’t heard anything about the 2010 mix.
Hi Joseph, the 2010 version was the original mix, as it was a remaster rather than a remix.
The new version is so much clearer and better EQ than the 2010 (in my opinion).
are you getting the super deluxe cube of mind games? if so when will you be doing unboxing
Let's see what unfolds with that... 😉
I’m happy for those who buy this ‘stuff’ every year
Andrew delivers.
My great hope is they don’t bloat the low end like I’ve found on some of John’s remixes & Giles Martin’s Beatles work.
Really looking forward to this box now! The original release was indeed muddy -- there's no other word for it. I can only assume that John was trying to emulate Phil Spector's style of production. For all his (many) faults, Spector knew exactly what he was doing and how to get a very specific result, so John's attempt was never going to be as good. And I share your love for "I Know (I Know)," and hopefully it will gain its place among the best of John's solo work.
It'll be interesting to compare the ultimate mix here on CD/Blu-Ray to the vinyl release when it comes out.
The reviewers had this Box Set really early. We're still waiting. Ordered the Two Sets. Vinyl/CD Deluxe Box Set.
I’m looking forward to listening to all of this on Apple Music but I really wish the 7LP set that’s in the Super Deluxe Box Set was being sold separately. I would have easily dropped $200 on that.
Hi Andrew, I've just received my Mind Games box and guess what? Blue Ray disc 1 is missing. Have you had any issues with this? Am I missing anything by not having this disc?
I don't think there's any hidden tracks exclusive to disc 1 but there might be video content there (can't remember off hand which disc that's on) and of course there's all the hi Res content on there and your set is incomplete so you definitely ought to arrange a replacement through wherever you bought it from.
@AndrewDixonMusic Cheers Andrew. It was Amazon so I'll get in touch with them. Thank you.
Where's the 2 Virgins ultimate mix box set?? 🤣
Playboy magazine? 😂😂😂😂
Hi Andrew, great video as always but I wanted to tell you I'm very happy, Paul is coming to Uruguay for the third time in 12 years, and as this is a very difficult year for me, I have a serious ill and I'll have surgery next month, this visit is great news, my wife told me this time I had to see him as close as possible, not since the last row of the arena (in this case Estadio Centenario of Montevideo), so we spent an incredible amount of money, and we'll go to check sound and very near the stage to the show. It's incredible that in my worst year Paul had decided to came here again, I feel is something magic, I'm 69 and the Beatles and Paul after they split are my heroes. Too long sorry but I know you can understand the feeling. Thanks
Good luck with your health, and enjoy seeing Paul up close, should be great! 🙂👍
@@AndrewDixonMusic Thanks a lot Andrew
Hi Andrew I tried to reply to your Instagram page but for some reason it was taken down.
I got uncut magazine too with the bonus cd which is quite good. I also liked the little magazine reviewing all JL’s solo albums.
Although I like mind games, it’s not my fave John album, I’d probably place it behind plastic Ono band, imagine, walls and bridges and even double fantasy. Where does it rank on your list?
Also the main feature in the magazine about the making of the new release of mind games is a good read. Cheers !
Hi, don't know what's happened over on Instagram (I'll be honest, I really don't like or understand Instagram at all, I never know what I'm doing there!)
Traditionally I've tended to rank Mind Games quite low, with Imagine, POB, Walls and Bridges and Double Fantasy all ahead of it.
I could certainly see it possibly rising above Double Fantasy now, and closing the gap with Walls and Bridges, I've really started to enjoy it lots more over the last year.
But maybe when a Double Fantasy box is released I'll start loving that more again!
@@AndrewDixonMusicyeh I love that record too Andrew but I wonder if that will get the special
treatment given the sad circumstances surrounding it and what it’s associated with.
Watching England game just now. I’m Scottish so still pretty depressed after that Hungary disaster on Sunday night and suffering from Covid to boot! 😂
Thanks, Andrew, for an honest appraisal of the Mind Games Box Set. Very brief and yet thorough work Even though I haven't heard the album except on UA-cam, I can say that it is a much better album now as far as quality. I also feel that the song writing of John on this album is a bit weaker than previous and future albums. But, on the other hand, the great aspect is that John would approve because he knew there could have been better sounding tracks, and now, here it is. Sean Lennon, along with his Team really knocked themselves out presenting new sounding remixes, which is the normal way. It's over priced for the content of Classic Lennon, but give it time. Thanks for the great view.
I know it must be your summer time when you have one of your Hard Days Night themed tee shirts on.
What did you think about the 2010 version of Mind Games?
Keep up your good work.
Thanks! As far as the original mix goes it's the best version I've heard (but I've only ever had the 2010 and an 80s CD in terms of original mix), but I don't think I'm likely to listen to it often rather than the new version.
Yes I love the new version, especially Tight As. The 5 or 6 note lead guitar repeating itself all through the song improves the track and it was the first thing I noticed.
After Imagine, I think every album after was rather weak. Yes, on each there was 4 or 5 good songs. Still I’m excited to get into this Box Set and Thank You very much for the Honest review.
Great video Andrew! Curious if you are planning to do a One Hand Clapping review? Would like to know your thoughts. Thanks!!
Thanks! I certainly hope to, I went away on holiday the day after One Hand Clapping came out and I just couldn't get it in my schedule
Andrew, is it true that CD1 has 90 tracks, many of them with no sound? Nice channel
@@javierrod7242 Thanks! Yes that's true, it's not a fault as some people think, it's deliberate and part of the game on the Nutopia game card. Track 90 contains the answer to one of the clues.
Richard Ashcroft does a very good version of Bring on the Lucie, worth a listen 🎶
I remember that one!
Also The Charlatans did a great job of stealing it when they practically renamed it as Just When You're Thinking Things Over 😉
@AndrewDixonMusic yes! Totally agree, hope Yoko isn't reading this 🫣
I would have liked to have had Illusions (not for love of money) outtake remastered if that’s possible, which was apparently written during Mind Games (according to Pamela Davies who did an excellent cover of it). Mind Games if my favorite followed by Plastic Ono Band.
In my opinion, the original mix is superb. Rich and chrystal clear. But it will be interesting to hear the new mix and all the new versions. Byvthe way, Aisumasen may well be my all-tim fav John aong.
Hi Andrew , you say you have got another BIG mind games video coming soon , don’t say you have obtained the massive Mind games cube box set priced at £1’390 , from the Lennon estate.
does the blue ray cds work?
The Blu Rays work perfectly for me.
Why don‘t you compare the excisting ultimate mixed songs to the gimme some truth ultimate mixes anymore like you did with imagine and plastic ono band? We already have Mind Games, Out The Blue and I Know.
I now heard the Mind Games ultimate mix (song) and the vocals sadly sound buried next to the gimme some truth ultimate mix..
You know Andrew, I wasn’t that fond of this album when it first came out, but the versions of the songs on this disk set are pretty good. Little pricey though.
I’m sure you went over this, but how do you find the hidden tracks on the CDs? Great work Andrew.
Thanks! I think that might vary from player to player, but most of the discs will involve something along the lines of pressing play on track 1 then rewinding back before the start of it.
Hello Andrew, I am so glad that you did this video. I don't have a Blu-ray player and I thought all these hidden tracks were going to be Blu-ray only so I was disappointed in that after I've already ordered the box set. So the hidden tracks that are on just the regular CDs one through six I'll be able to find easily is that the case? I just watched this whole video and I'm going to be watching it again. I love this album and I can't wait to get the box. Brilliant video Andrew very informative. Thank You. Kregg from Phoenix AZ.
Whether you'll find them easily I can't guarantee, but I'm sure there will be lots of people online swapping info about how they found the hidden CD tracks on various types of players.
@@AndrewDixonMusic Ok thanks Andrew.
@@AndrewDixonMusic Andrew when you got the Lennon box set did you play it from CD one through six or did you go 6 to 1?
I went 1 to 6 👍
@@AndrewDixonMusic okay I think I'll do the same.
I am really starting to like the new Mind Games release. After listening to it a few times, I am really starting to like the songs. John Lennon is such a good writer, even his lesser songs are good. Sure beats most of the music out these days.
Hello there Andrew, Sorry about this is so long. You mentioned where on can find the upcoming hidden tracks on this new Mind Games box set. For example, I'm The Greatest is the last track on disc 1 immediate following track 6, but all of the other hidden tracks you only talked about them and the disc they are on. If it is easy to find these other tracks that's fine, but if it is not that easy, would it be possible for you to mentioned where these tracks can be found (I would imagine they are all the last track on the discs, but it wasn't mentioned) or send out a short video or written message as to where these tracks can be found. By the way, I have watched other people's UA-cam channels talking about this new Mind Games box set. The only people I will ever watch their UA-cam channels are yours and the guy from Polygram Auctions. That's because most of the others are just goofy and I won't want to watch something like that. The one thing I don't care for is the Polygram channel more like real business type video where he is taking about Beatles related things which is fine, but what I don't like is when he talks about those commercial like items in the middle of his videos, other than that I do like him a lot. I started watching his channel I think just over a couple of years, shortly after that I found your channel. I do and will only watch those two UA-cam channels. You both seem very privileged and honored to receive your items from record companies or in this case from Sean Lennon. Anyway, too much about that. I've been "collecting" The Beatles since 1969, but I have thinned down my collection considerably except now I only having CD's. Almost everything else that I had I've sold off. You are really good at what you do. Thank you so much for all your work.
Thanks for that 👍
Om some of the discs the hidden tracks are actually before track 1, so you need to press play and then rewind back prior to track 1, and then on some discs they're at the end.
It might vary depending your brand of player as to exactly what to press to access them so it's not really feasible for me to try and explain that too much.
On the subject of me becoming an advert part way through my videos, I have had various enquiries from companies asking if they can pay me to do that and it's not something I feel comfortable with so have rejected them all, so I hope I can promise you that's not something I'm going to start doing! 🙂👍
Enjoyed the review and glad you're enjoying the set. I'll be passing on it since, in my opinion, Mind Games is a sub-par album.
Thank you Andrew.
Is I Promise on it?
No
I love One Day (At A Time)!
It sounds like i’m going to have issues ripping the CD. (i already have issues since on some CDs my external disc drive ejects on the last 2 or 3 songs while ripping even if the CD is brand new, that’s why i like have a few bonus tracks on there because at least there’s a good chance i’ll rip the original album) I may have to pass and just stream☹️
BTW, have you ever heard Elton’s cover of “One Day At a Time”? His version is better i think 😄
I didn't know Elton had covered the song, I'll look for it online!
@@AndrewDixonMusic it was a bside single to his cover of "Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds"
Sounds like the song was actually written for Elton in fact..i just wish John would’ve just gave it to him and maybe put “Rock & Roll People” in its place on “Mind Games”.😂
Interesting review Andrew. Waiting for mine to come in July
Uncut magazine has a free sampler and a supplement reviewing all John’s albums. It rates every track. It seems Side one of Two Virgins gets 3 stars. As does the song Imagine 😂 laughable
I was very surprised by the low ratings of the Imagine songs!
Top professional musicians working with John on Mind Games album.The band on Sometime in NYC were not very good.Thank you.
I always loved this record. I purchased it upon initial release and never thought the mix was muddy like everyone is saying. Of course, there was nothing to compare it to at that point. I still own my OG LP but one of my cats has rendered my turntable unplayable(no need for details here).
It seems like this Ultra version is too much work! All the hidden stuff! If I want hidden stuff I’ll buy a Where’s Waldo! Who has time for this? Sean, I love ya, but you’ve gone too far!
I’m probably just going to get the double CD set and be very satisfied.
Cheers from Asbury Park NJ USA!
You'll find plenty to enjoy in the 2 CD version 🙂
Thanks Andrew a very enthusiastic review. I'm surprised there are 18 takes of some tracks, given John always said he was 3 takes - done! I've got the 2 CD version & book on order and just bought the new Uncut so working my way through that. The album received a lowly 4/10 in Classic Rock. While not my favourite JL album it's worth more than that. How do you rate it on a scale of 1 - 10?
I'd give it a good solid 7.5! (For the main album), this remix helps it without doubt.
@@AndrewDixonMusic Thanks Andrew, can't wait for the release on July 12 👍
I’ve got the Uncut Magazines CD containing some of the extras which is more than enough for me so all I’m wanting now is a single remastered vinyl album as originally issued…… but it aint gonna happen is it and I’m expected to fork out £40+ for a double album half of which I don’t want. 🤨
You would think that if any artist/estate sends you a copy of their music to PROMOTE, that they would also give fair use license to use SHORT SNIPPETS of their music to add to the review/promotion.
I think even if they did allow that, I wouldn't risk it because the record company (separate to the estate) and UA-cam could mess up and override that and I'd end up in trouble.
Between the John Lennon UA-cam account and the new Uncut magazine there must be well over a dozen full tracks from the box released already so hopefully there's plenty to help people make their minds up 👍
Mind games world cup still on Andrew ???
Definitely! Will be part of my live stream soon after release
Excellent....looking forward to it. I've ordered cd box set and vinyl.
So, you havent found the hidden tracks yet?!?
@@jasonl1942 Yes I have them all, they were very easy to find with my disc ripping software:
The following 5 songs appear as hidden tracks on both CD & Blu Ray:
I'm The Greatest [Ultimate Mix]
You Are Here [Out-Take Take 4]
Mellotron Magic/Weird Slide Guitar
Rock 'n' Roll People [Ultimate Mix]
Meat City [Single Version] [Ultimate Mix]
(The track listing that shows up via UV on the back of the box set suggests that Rock n Roll People [Ultimate Mix] and Meat City [Single Version] are CD only but this is not true. I ripped both of these from Blu Ray Disc 2).
The following 2 songs are hidden tracks on Blu Ray Disc 2 only:
I'm The Greatest [The Evolution Documentary]
Matchbox / That's Alright Mama / Heartbreak Hotel / Jam
Can't wait!
I know (I know) was always my fav JL solo song.
I love Lennon but I don't see the point of having umpteen versions of the same songs.
I collect these things just for the sake of it. My grandchildren and great grandchildren will inherit a large collection of Beatles related music.The long and winding road
This set is way overpriced in Canada at $250 Cdn while the POB and Imagine sets are $100 cheaper. I will wait till the price comes down but in the meantime will download a free copy online.
Tight As Evolution Mix sounds like Beef Jerky at first
It's unfortunate that Intuition is considered by many to be minor, because the lyrics are very life-affirming. I've sent them to people when they've been feeling down, particularly 'it's only a condition of seeing things that way' and 'confirmed an old suspicion it's good to be alive'.
Nice video
You are making it very hard for me to stick with my decision to just get the 2CD version...
It's correct. If there is one Lennon album that needed a total remix, it's Mind Games. Walls and Bridges sounds so much better.
It sounds better but still over produced and over arranged imo.
@@Jimmie_Rudolfsson i do'nt know if it sounds better. i ordered the 6 cd's box, but it hasn't arrived yet.
The Lennon estate has apparently sent this box set to several UA-cam creators. I've seen at least 3 or 4 others like this. Great way to get this way overpriced set promoted. Please do not misunderstand me, I have all of John's records, and several of Yoko's on vinyl from 50 years ago. So, it's not like I don't love John and Yoko. Lovely presentation, Andrew.
Nice. I needed a new box set!
You mention the poor mix on the original album....well, that's obviously true. It was muddy and somewhat ugly. Walls and Bridges didn't have much of a better mix,
in my opinion, so that should be nice to hear in an Ultimate Mix as well someday.
However, what I really want is a Some Time in New York City box set! The mix on some of those songs is truly horrible! Which is a real shame, because apart from
the superfluous live disc, it has some absolutely excellent songs on it. Even Yoko's songs rival those of John's for once!
But I guess I'll have to wait a very long time, indeed, for a box like that...
A fine job regarding the 6 CD"s but..... I am perplexed that the high resolution surround mixes on the blu rays have been missing in action here. Who cares abut the dopey video portions!... the surround mixes are a major selling point, at least for myself.. I also despise the hidden track easter egg/ultraviolet scenario. That concept went out the window years ago with DVD movies and are beyond played out. Just put the tracks on and allow the listeners to access them minus the juvenile game playing that Sean seems to embrace. One more thing.... I hope the mixes are not the bass heavy nonsense that are too prevalent with the previous Lennon boxes and the abomination that was the Dhani inspired "All Things Must Pass." Bobby Whitlock was right on the money about that bit of amateur hour before he was threatened in some kind of degenerate fashion for speaking his mind at the time.