In the mid-1990s, a large number of studio outtakes and hidden gems were released from the Beatles’ catalog in a series called Anthology. These were released in three parts, covering different sections of the Beatles’ story, and accompanied by an 8-part TV series. To commemorate the 30-year anniversary, a fourth part of the Anthology series, as well as another episode, has been released. 

The new Anthology includes standouts like “In My Life (Take 1),” “Get Back (Take 8),” and “Don’t Let Me Down (First Rooftop Performance).” There are also remixes of the two revived songs that originally were featured on the first Anthology. The previously unreleased tracks reveal a greater sense of the Beatles’ greatness, showing how they would work through a song before the final version is recorded and released.

Producer Giles Martin has stated that this will probably be the last of these sorts of Beatles projects, as the vault of Beatles unreleased music is close to being emptied, and much of what is left is meaningless fodder that will only be substantial for the largest of Beatles fans. While that is unfortunate, I think it is incredible that only after just over 60 years, we are just now running out of Beatles media. What that group of men has achieved in 7 years of full activity is better and more extensive than most other bands 20 20-year careers. 

But what’s up next for the Apple Corp crew? Fans have been begging for a full remix of all their material, especially Rubber Soul. Giles Martin, the de facto voice for the Beatles revival, has stated that those are in the works. For those who still want more from the Beatles’ catalog, many bootlegs exist on the internet of throwaway takes and other jams from their studio sessions. If any of that sounds interesting, look around on the Internet Archive and find what you like.