#88 – No Reply with guest Jeff Slate (musician, journalist)

The journey of “No Reply” is a curious one. A song John seemed to not think much of, and originally offered to another Brian Epstein-managed artist, it was also possibly slated to be the final song recorded for A Hard Day’s Night. If not for Ringo’s tonsillitis, who knows what would’ve happened with it. After spending some time with it though, and working it into a bit more interesting arrangement, it turned out to be the lead off track to the band’s 4th album, and a real signpost to where the band was headed. More introspective than what had come before it, and a much less energetic album opener than Beatles fans were expecting, No Reply is a real sneaky song. It’s filled with great melody and harmony, possibly one of the best bridges the band ever recorded, and it’s all done very economically. Not a second is wasted on this song. It shows a real growth that the band is starting to go through, with John painting a brilliant scene throughout the song. It’s a fantastic and unique way to start a Beatles record, and a song that doesn’t get nearly enough love.

Joining us this week is musician and journalist Jeff Slate. You may have read his articles in Rolling Stone, Billboard, or the New Yorker, or heard him as guest DJ on Sirius XM or KLOS. He’s got a brand new record out, The Last Day of Summer with a laundry list of great players joining him. It’s a fantastic pop rock album, we can’t recommend it enough. We chat with Jeff about working with the Elephant’s Memory band, being challenged by Pete Townsend, John’s toilet demo, Weekend Wilburys, and more! He’ll be on the road this November supporting the Wallflowers on the East Coast so don’t miss it! Check out all things Jeff at ⁠www.jeffslatehq.com⁠ or follow him on ⁠Twitter⁠ or ⁠Facebook⁠!