Number 8 – Helter Skelter

I often fantasize how would the Beatles have progressed throughout the years and how would their live performances, and renditions of classics would have changed as they did. Listening to this track helps me get there at times. I love Noel’s rockier approach to what was significantly the first heavy metal recording in history. Not the best Helter Skelter cover (vocally speaking) out there but very memorable and satisfying approach indeed.

Number 7 – You’ve Got To Hide Your Love Away

Excellent pick for a B-Side filler track. Noel delivers yet another sweet rendition while staying very close to the delivery of the original song. Definitely a favorite.

Number 6 – Across The Universe (Beady Eye)

Very honest take on the original. Unfortunately the effects on the vocals and production make it sound more like an amateur cover band. But if you listen past that it has some sparks of Liam’s Lennonesque resemblance (vocally speaking), which in itself makes it worth listening.

Number 5 – Within You Without You

When the BBC decided to do a reissue for the 4oth anniversary, Oasis had the top pick for the cover album. Liam chose this song (to Noel and the band’s surprise) off the album, which has no guitars in it. So they played the reworked George Martin version found in the LOVE album with the Tomorrow Never Knows track over it. The cover had a trippy vibe to it. I wonder if this is the approach The Beatles would have taken as well if they evert decided to preform it live.

Number 4 – I Am The Walrus

Preformed with Johnny Mar. My favorite version is the one in the 2008 BBC Electric Proms with the 50 piece choir but Youtube has (for some unexplained reason) taken it down. The Ode To Joy bit at the end is utterly glorious.

Number 3 – Help (Noel)

A sweet nostalgic approach to Lennon’s original take on the Beatles renowned upbeat song, whose lyrics and message are somewhat drowned in what was then a more commercial approach. Noel goes back to some of Lennon’s demos and delivers a performance filled with a more powerful desperate cry of redemption that the lyrics were originally meant to evoke.

Number 2 – Cry Baby Cry (Beady Eye)

One of my favorite Beatles songs ever. Tender, sweet and haunting performance by BE.

Number 1 – Strawberry Fields Forever (Noel & Gem)

So how would the Beatles sound live nowadays? I like to think this is as close as we will ever get to answering that question. IMHO.