Badfinger - Magic Christian Music [UK Import]

Magic Christian Music is where The Iveys became Badfinger, and where a young Welsh band on The Beatles' own label got their first taste of worldwide success. This edition arrives as a UK import.

Released in 1970, the album pairs three songs written for the Peter Sellers and Ringo Starr film The Magic Christian with newer recordings and remixed Iveys tracks. Paul McCartney, Tony Visconti and Beatles road manager turned producer Mal Evans shared production duties, giving the record a bright, polished sheen.

Come and Get It, written and produced by McCartney, is a perfect slice of piano-driven pop and became the band's first international hit. Carry On Till Tomorrow is a soaring, wistful ballad with strings arranged by George Martin, and Rock of All Ages shows the group could rock hard when they wanted to. Maybe Tomorrow, from their Iveys days, is a gentle, aching gem that hints at the songwriting gifts of Pete Ham and Tom Evans.

The harmonies are sweet and the melodies seem effortless, with the Beatles influence worn proudly without ever tipping into imitation.

For fans of No Dice and Straight Up, this is the charming first chapter of one of power pop's most beloved and bittersweet stories.