Live in Japan – George Harrison, Eric Clapton

Album Information Section

Album Title: Live in Japan

Artist: George Harrison, Eric Clapton

Original Release Date: July 16, 1992

Label: Unknown Label

Genres: Rock, Pop

Track Listing

1. I Want to Tell You (4:34)
2. Old Brown Shoe (3:50)
3. Taxman (4:16)
4. Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth) (3:37)
5. If I Needed Someone (3:50)
6. Something (5:21)
7. What Is Life (4:47)
8. Dark Horse (4:21)
9. Piggies (2:56)
10. Got My Mind Set on You (4:54)
1. I Want to Tell You (4:36)
2. Old Brown Shoe (3:55)
3. Taxman (4:20)
4. Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth) (3:39)
5. If I Needed Someone (3:50)
6. Something (5:22)
7. What Is Life (4:47)
8. Dark Horse (4:16)
9. Piggies (3:02)
10. Got My Mind Set on You (4:35)
1. I Want to Tell You (5.1 mix) (4:34)
2. Old Brown Shoe (5.1 mix) (3:50)
3. Taxman (5.1 mix) (4:16)
4. Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth) (5.1 mix) (3:37)
5. If I Needed Someone (5.1 mix) (3:50)
6. Something (5.1 mix) (5:21)
7. What Is Life (5.1 mix) (4:47)
8. Dark Horse (5.1 mix) (4:21)
9. Piggies (5.1 mix) (2:56)
10. Got My Mind Set on You (5.1 mix) (4:54)
1. Cloud 9 (4:24)
2. Here Comes the Sun (3:31)
3. My Sweet Lord (5:41)
4. All Those Years Ago (4:26)
5. Cheer Down (3:53)
6. Devil’s Radio (4:25)
7. Isn’t It a Pity (6:33)
8. While My Guitar Gently Weeps (7:08)
9. Roll Over Beethoven (4:44)
1. Cloud 9 (4:16)
2. Here Comes the Sun (3:31)
3. My Sweet Lord (5:42)
4. All Those Years Ago (4:36)
5. Cheer Down (3:51)
6. Devil’s Radio (4:27)
7. Isn’t It a Pity (6:35)
8. While My Guitar Gently Weeps (7:09)
9. Roll Over Beethoven (4:34)
1. Cloud 9 (5.1 mix) (4:24)
2. Here Comes the Sun (5.1 mix) (3:31)
3. My Sweet Lord (5.1 mix) (5:41)
4. All Those Years Ago (5.1 mix) (4:26)
5. Cheer Down (5.1 mix) (3:53)
6. Devil’s Radio (5.1 mix) (4:25)
7. Isn’t It a Pity (5.1 mix) (6:33)
8. While My Guitar Gently Weeps (5.1 mix) (7:08)
9. Roll Over Beethoven (5.1 mix) (4:44)

Recording Information

The album “Live in Japan” was recorded during George Harrison’s tour of Japan in December 1991. The performances were captured at the Nippon Budokan, a venue known for hosting significant musical events. The production team included renowned producer and musician Eric Clapton, who also played guitar for the live shows, enhancing the overall sound with his virtuosity. Notably, the album was engineered using a selection of analog and digital recording techniques, capturing the essence of live performances while maintaining a polished studio quality. The collaboration between Harrison and Clapton is particularly noteworthy, as it showcased a blending of their musical styles and influences.

Band Context

At the time of “Live in Japan,” George Harrison was experiencing a resurgence in his solo career after a period of relative obscurity in the 1980s. His album “Cloud 9,” released in 1987, marked a significant comeback, featuring hit singles that re-established him as a prominent artist in the rock genre. Eric Clapton, a legendary figure in his own right, was enjoying a successful solo career and had previously collaborated with Harrison on various occasions. The lineup for the live performances included Clapton on guitar, along with a talented backing band that contributed to the rich sound of the album. The tour and subsequent album release came at a time of renewed interest in Harrison’s work, as he continued to explore themes of spirituality, love, and personal reflection.

Track Commentary

The track listing of “Live in Japan” features a blend of Harrison’s classic hits and newer material, showcasing his evolution as a songwriter. “I Want to Tell You,” an early Beatles composition, opens the album with a vibrant energy, while tracks like “Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth)” highlight Harrison’s spiritual themes. “Here Comes the Sun” and “My Sweet Lord” are standout tracks that resonate deeply with fans, showcasing Harrison’s lyrical genius and melodic sensibility.

The inclusion of Clapton’s guitar work adds depth to the live performance, particularly on tracks such as “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” which combines emotional intensity with musical virtuosity. Critical reception of the album was generally positive, with particular praise for the live renditions of Harrison’s classics, which were infused with fresh energy and passion. The album not only served as a testament to Harrison’s enduring legacy but also solidified the bond between two musical heavyweights, creating an unforgettable listening experience for fans old and new.

José Olavo Cerávolo