In the Beginning

In the Beginning by The Byrds leads to 1964. year, at a time when the band was just forming its musical identity. Instead of later polished hits, this collection features early demos and working versions, recorded at World Pacific Studios under the direction of producer Jim Dickson. Their specialty is immediacy: you can hear a band that explores ideas, harmonizes voices and searches for its own sound.

Seventeen tracks combine folk melodies with the pop feel and energy of early rock. The Only Girl I Adore, You Won't Have to Cry and I Knew I'd Want You reveal the authorial and vocal side of the future Byrds, while The Airport Song brings a dreamier atmosphere. Rana Mr. Tambourine Man is particularly interesting as a look at a song that would become an important part of their musical identity.

The selection also includes Boston, The Reason Why, You Movin', It Won't Be Wrong, You Showed Me and She Has a Way. Tomorrow Is a Long Ways Away appears at the beginning and in the closing acoustic version, offering an opportunity to compare approaches to the same theme. Different performances show how the melody, rhythm and harmonies change during the creation of the song.

This is a release for fans of folk rock, sixties American pop and Byrds history. It will especially attract listeners who are interested in the beginnings of the band and the development of its expression. In the Beginning offers an intimate look at the process, featuring songs that retain their charm even outside of an archival context. A collection for discovering roots, early ideas, and the first outlines of their authentic sound!