The Beatles' Apple Corps has announced an expanded reissue of their Anthology series, including a new fourth volume of unreleased tracks, alongside a remastered TV series and a 25th anniversary book. Initially bundled and sparking fan backlash, the releases will now be available separately. The project features contributions from director Peter Jackson, tying into the recent 'Now and Then' single.
The Beatles' ongoing remastering efforts continue with the Anthology series, first released in 1995 alongside the single 'Free as a Bird.' This year's update introduces Anthology 4, containing previously unreleased demos and recordings such as the first attempt at 'I Saw Her Standing There,' two takes of 'This Boy,' alternate versions of 'Tell Me Why' and 'I've Just Seen a Face,' Lennon's initial take of 'In My Life,' a different rendition of 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' featuring Eric Clapton (complete with Harrison's sandwich request), and another take of 'Helter Skelter.' Remastered versions of 'Free as a Bird' and 'Real Love' are also included, enhancing Lennon's vocals.
Release Details
The Anthology collections will be available as double CDs and triple vinyl sets on November 21. All four volumes, including the new one, can now be purchased separately following fan outcry over the initial bundled announcement. The six-part Anthology television series receives an audio remix and an additional chapter overseen by Peter Jackson, premiering on Disney+ from November 26. The 'The Beatles Anthology 25th Anniversary Edition' book is already in stores.
Peter Jackson's Involvement
Jackson, known for directing 'Get Back,' uncovered over 14 hours of 1995 footage showing Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr working on tracks like 'Now and Then'—a Lennon demo rejected by Harrison at the time but revived using modern technology. Released in 2023, 'Now and Then' became the band's final single, charting in the top five in multiple countries including the UK, US, and Japan.
This reissue highlights Apple Corps' control over the band's catalog, balancing fan demands with new archival material.