Released in May 1969, "Electronic Sound" is George Harrison's daring foray into the avant-garde, marking his second studio album and the final release on the Beatles' short-lived Zapple record label. This experimental masterpiece is a testament to Harrison's curiosity and innovation, featuring two sprawling compositions crafted entirely on a Moog 3-series synthesizer. The album's cover art, painted by Harrison himself, showcases his Moog IIIP, which would later leave its mark on The Beatles' iconic album "Abbey Road."
"Electronic Sound" is a pioneering work in the realm of electronic music, with each side of the vinyl dedicated to a single, expansive track: "Under the Mersey Wall" and "No Time Or Space." These compositions are not just songs but sonic landscapes, pushing the boundaries of what music could be in the late 1960s. The album's experimental nature has sparked both admiration and controversy, with some critics dismissing it as mere exploitation of the then-new Moog synthesizer. However, others recognize it as a groundbreaking exploration of electronic soundscapes, predating similar works by artists like Vangelis.
Despite its polarizing reception, "Electronic Sound" stands as a bold statement from George Harrison, showcasing his willingness to explore uncharted musical territories. The album's two lengthy pieces offer a unique listening experience, inviting the listener to immerse themselves in the raw, unfiltered sounds of the Moog synthesizer. Whether viewed as a pioneering work of electronic music or a curious artifact of the 1960s, "Electronic Sound" remains a fascinating chapter in George Harrison's musical journey.