All This and World War II (Soundtrack Album): Introduction
“All This and World War II” is a documentary musical film with a soundtrack that includes music from Paul McCartney and John Lennon. However, other famous artists cover all the songs.
The film from 1976 was a box office flop, and the critics gave it a grilling. Not because of the music, but because of the idea in general. The film lasted just two weeks in the cinema and was never made available on any form of home media. But it still has a cult following.
The soundtrack to the film was made available, and it made more money than the actual movie. So, let us explore the soundtrack album.
In Detail
- Release Date: November 5, 1976
- Recorded: 1974–1976
- Genre: Rock
- Length: 98:45
- Label: Riva (UK), 20th Century (US)
- Producer: Lou Reizner
Performers And Instruments
- Barry Gibb: vocals
- Robin Gibb: vocals
- Maurice Gibb: vocals
- Nicky Hopkins: piano
- Les Hurdle: bass
- Barry Morgan: drums
- Ronnie Verrell: drums
- Wil Malone: orchestral arrangement
- Harry Rabinowitz: conductor
- David Measham: conductor
All This and World War II (Soundtrack): Background
The idea of having a film based around music by The Beatles would be fine if there was a good storyline, of course. However, we saw the results of the Magical Mystery Tour film that weren’t to everyone’s taste. That is, despite the music being perfect!
“All This and World War II” shows clips from the second world war, including clips of dictators such as Hitler and Mussolini. It also has clips from old movies, including Laurel and Hardy. It just didn’t work!
The Beatles songs were all cover versions by famous artists in the 1970s. Indeed, it spawned a few singles that reached the charts:
- Elton John’s version of “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” (released in 1974) became a number-one hit in the US and Canada.
- Rod Stewart’s rendition of “Get Back” became a UK hit single in 1976 and reached number 11 in the UK charts.
- Leo Sayer’s version of Let It Be reached 55 in the UK charts (1975)
- The Four Seasons released “We Can Work It Out,” which got to 34 in the UK singles chart.
- Ambrosia released “Magical Mystery Tour,” and that hit the top 40 in the US.
All This and World War II (Soundtrack Album): The Songs
The following songs are still available should you find the double LP on eBay, etc.
Take A Listen
Have a listen to one of the songs from the soundtrack that hit the charts. Then, leave us a comment or two about this album.
