I picked the vinyl up today and compared it to some US rainbow labels and the 2014 mono release. For me, this new mix is like hearing a completely different record. It is THUNDEROUS. But for me I'm not sure this new version will kick the early versions to the curb.
On the one hand, there is a TON more detail in the new mix, but the way it's presented wasn't as satisfying to me. In the early versions there is a hard left/right panning for some pieces and the two channels play against each other creating a dynamic that I found to be more engaging in the early versions compared to the new mix.
There's a lot going on in this record, and in the early mix it takes close listening to pick everything out. In the new mix, all those elements sit in neat compartments. It's much easier to hear what they are, but they often felt isolated from each other. And because they are so clearly defined, the record has lost some of its mystery for me. George really DOES say "..we're all one" and not "marijuana". Good to know I guess. The new mix is like comparing the answer key of a "Where's Waldo" picture to the puzzle. I'm asking myself: "is the clarity better or was it more fun to try and parse it out myself"?
But oh my God that bass! The focus on Paul's playing is the big addition here along with Ringo's cymbals. The bass lines thrum and rumble which was fun to hear tonight, and I'm curious to see how that holds up over time. I usually like the bass to sit lower in the mix than it is here.
I am amazed at how much was on the original tapes. I used to excuse the muddle of the early mix to generation loss forced by limits of four track recording in 1967. But that's not true. The backing vocals, sound effects, overdubs and orchestration is crisp and clear, which shows, I think, how ham fisted the original stereo mix was.
For me, this mix is so different from what I've known Sgt Pepper to be that I can't see it replacing the original. Instead, it will probably be a variation on the theme: original mix, mono reissue and this new record. Different options for different moods.