The Beatles release early version of ‘Norwegian Wood’

The Beatles have released an early studio recording of ‘Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown) (Second version – Take 2)’. This track is part of the upcoming special editions of the ‘Rubber Soul’ album, scheduled for release on October 2.

The released version offers insight into the song’s development and George Harrison’s early experimentation with the sitar. Harrison, who had recently discovered the instrument after purchasing a budget model in London, used it to fill a perceived gap in the song’s sound. Unlike the final version, this take features a different arrangement, including double-tracked sitar melodies during the bridge.

The ‘Rubber Soul’ collection will include various formats, such as a Super Deluxe Edition featuring 24 early session tracks, including previously unreleased material like ‘Little Girl’. The release will also utilize advanced demixing technology to provide new stereo mixes from the original four-track master tapes.