"Living in the Material World" stands as George Harrison's fourth studio album, released in 1973 under Apple Records. Following the monumental success of "All Things Must Pass" and his philanthropic efforts with the Concert for Bangladesh, anticipation was high for this release. The album quickly achieved gold status in the US and soared to number one, fueled by the international hit "Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth)." It also dominated charts in Canada and Australia while securing the second spot in Britain.
Renowned for its introspective lyrics, the album delves into Harrison's quest for spiritual fulfillment amidst his fame. Critics lauded it for showcasing some of Harrison's finest musical performances, both vocally and instrumentally. Unlike its predecessor, the album took a more stripped-down approach to production, featuring a core group of talented musicians including Nicky Hopkins, Gary Wright, Klaus Voormann, and Jim Keltner, with contributions from Ringo Starr, John Barham, and Zakir Hussain.
Upon its release, Rolling Stone hailed it as a "pop classic," recognizing its luminous quality and significant contribution to Harrison's discography. While not eclipsing the grandeur of "All Things Must Pass," "Living in the Material World" is often regarded as a worthy successor, symbolizing the culmination of an era for the Beatles' London legacy. EMI reissued the album in 2006, accompanied by bonus tracks and a deluxe edition featuring film clips of selected songs, ensuring its enduring legacy.
