A Hard Day's Night

d bestwhkibb (December 31, 2007)

Unbelievably good. A moderately short album that one can replay over and over and over again. Every single song is incredibly catchy, and unlike its predecessor, none shine above the others (though some would disagree). A very even album, foreshadowing practically every Beatles album Rubber Soul forward. Sure, the lyrics are silly and juvenile, but the MELODIES man!! It's insane!! I wouldn't make this one's FIRST Beatles purchase, but after Abbey Road and Rubber Soul probably the 3rd (or maybe 4th after Sgt Pepper). Completely essential. Fools who dismiss The Beatles' pre-RS music as popcrap do NOT know what they're missing.

Bruce Beatlefan (November 21, 2005)

An astonishing album. In the midst of a breakneck schedule of touring, TV appearances, interviews, etc., the Beatles find time to write and record 17 songs (including the "Long Tall Sally" EP) which show a quantum leap in depth and quality from their first two albums. It is here that the Beatles' genius is confirmed beyond doubt. 1964 was the absolute zenith of John Lennon's songwriting career (he wrote 11 of the 14 originals here, I Feel Fine, and the best cuts from "Beatles for Sale"). Paul McCartney couldn't keep up the pace (NOBODY could keep up the pace), but contributes three excellent songs for this album and She's a Woman before his "Beatles for Sale" slump (and don't forget he gave his friend Peter Asher a #1 with "A World Without Love").

And if you haven't done so yet, check out the movie--it's terrific.