Produced By George Martin

Despite a long and varied career, George Martin is most celebrated for his era-defining work with the Beatles. The six-CD Produced by George Martin commemorates his 50 years behind the boards with discs that are in chronological order and loosely themed, including the early years, comedy recordings, '60s hits, and orchestral works. Those expecting an imaginative selection of Beatles tunes will be severely disappointed. A mere quartet of blindingly obvious tracks ("I Want to Hold Your Hand," "Yesterday")--all pre-1966--represents the Mop Top legacy. Surely, the inclusion of "Tomorrow Never Knows" or "A Day in the Life" would not only have more thoroughly illustrated the Fabs phenomenal musical development, but would also have emphasized the role of Martin as mentor, arranger, and collaborator. Disc 3, the finest and by far the most consistent, showcases George's chart-slaying 1960s productions. Highlights include Cilla Black's Macca-penned "Step Inside Love," Ella Fitzgerald's swingin' reading of "Can't Buy Me Love," and the Action's floor-stomping version of "Land of a 1,000 Dances." While the concept of paying tribute to one of music's most illustrious producers is commendable, the truth is that his mainstream output during the 1960s eclipses the rest of his work. A box set concentrating solely on Martin's 1960s pop productions might have proved the better option. --Chris King

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