The John Lennon Anthology [Box] - Lennon, John (CD 1998)

I bought this boxed set as a Christmas present for my wife. We're both big fans of the Beatles and Lennon's solo work so it seemed like the perfect gift. In some ways it was.

Some songs that you might know are:Imagine, Working Class Hero (although this version is an unpolished studio version), and Steel and Glass (again unpolished). There are many studio out take versions of songs and cover tunes.

The set contains 4 CD's and a booklet. There are some touching moments in there with John talking to a very young Sean Lennon, some studio out takes that are entertaining, and some off the wall stuff. My overall impression is this is a rather esoteric collection of stuff put together for the hardcore Lennon fan. I do like the set but for some people it would not be a good choice.

You certainly see John in a different light after listening to this set. One song in particular gives you some insight into John's feelings for Paul at some point after the Beatles breakup. "The Luck of the Irish" gives you a good feeling for where John stood on the Ireland issue (BTW it's obvious he didn't think the British belonged there).

If you believe that John Lennon was one of the greatest musicians/songwriters ever then this box set is a must. If you sorta like the Beatles and think Lennon made good contributions to the group pass it by.

None of the "Compare it to artist's discography" selections allow my to express my feelings. It is very characteristic of John Lennon's later music but to say it is uninspired is not correct. I would not recommend this as the only Lennon music you own because some of it is not his best work but uncharacteristically bad is not a good description. I think obscure and esoteric sums it up best.