Articles by: Kit O'Toole

Beatles Gift Guide: Kit O’Toole’s Top 2018 Albums, Books, Movies, Box Sets and More

Beatles Gift Guide: Kit O’Toole’s Top 2018 Albums, Books, Movies, Box Sets and More

The year 2018 proved to be a bonanza for Beatles fans. Here’s a look back at some of the best albums, books, movies, box sets and more.

Vinyl

John Lennon – ‘Gimme Some Truth’ and ‘Imagine’ (2018): Movies

Younger generations who think Beyoncé invented the visual album should be shown the conceptual film John Lennon and Yoko Ono co-directed in 1971.

The Beatles, “I’m Looking Through You” from ‘Rubber Soul’ (1965): Deep Beatles

The Beatles, “I’m Looking Through You” from ‘Rubber Soul’ (1965): Deep Beatles

“I’m Looking Through You” paints a vivid picture of a troubled relationship, but another muse may have inspired this Beatles track: Bob Dylan.

Vinyl

Geoff Emerick (1946-2018): An Appreciation

The man who specialized in “every sound there is,” Geoff Emerick left a lasting impact on music that will forever be celebrated.

Ringo Starr and His All Starr Band, September 22, 2018: Shows I’ll Never Forget

Ringo Starr and His All Starr Band, September 22, 2018: Shows I’ll Never Forget

When Ringo Starr sits behind the drums and shakes his head to the beat, time temporarily turns back to 1964.

Jeff Lynne’s ELO, August 15, 2018: Shows I’ll Never Forget

Jeff Lynne’s ELO, August 15, 2018: Shows I’ll Never Forget

Jeff Lynne once again demonstrated what makes Electric Light Orchestra special, namely combining various genres to render the music timeless.

The Beatles, “Little Child” from ‘With the Beatles’ (1963): Deep Beatles

The Beatles, “Little Child” from ‘With the Beatles’ (1963): Deep Beatles

“Little Child” paints a tantalizing picture of the organic sound of the Beatles, giving a taste of their early years.

The Beatles, “Helter Skelter” from ‘The White Album’ (1968): Deep Beatles

The Beatles, “Helter Skelter” from ‘The White Album’ (1968): Deep Beatles

“Helter Skelter” shatters previous stereotypes of the Beatles and, in turn, reveals the future of rock music.

The Beatles, “Mother Nature’s Son” from The White Album (1968): Deep Beatles

The Beatles, “Mother Nature’s Son” from The White Album (1968): Deep Beatles

The Beatles deep cut “Mother Nature’s Son” proves Paul McCartney’s mastery of simplicity in melody, subject and arrangement.

The Beatles, “Don’t Pass Me By” from The White Album (1968): Deep Beatles

The Beatles, “Don’t Pass Me By” from The White Album (1968): Deep Beatles

The off-kilter charm of “Don’t Pass Me By” showcased Ringo Starr’s personality, while also serving as the first step on a path away from the Beatles.