Rhino Records has just released a three-disc expanded Deluxe Edition of Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb’s 1969 double-LP pop masterpiece, presented in deluxe packaging that reproduces the original release’s red-flocked cover, including a poster and sticker. Disc one features the original stereo mixes of the title’s 17 song sequence. Disc two marks the U.S. recording debut of the original mono mixes of the same 17 songs. Bonus disc 3 boasts 22 previously unreleased recordings, including 20 alternate takes and demos plus two songs not featured on the original album–“Pity” and “Nobody’s Someone.” If you’re only familiar with the disco Bee Gees and “Stayin’ Alive” you’re in for a treat. Odessa is classic baroque pop.
GRADE: A
One of the most distinctive sounds ever.
The Bee Gees evolved over their long career. Odessa remains one of their more daring, though underrated, works.
I still like and listen to the first album, with “New York Mining Disaster” and “Holiday”.
The Bee Gees first album was an instant classic.