The Beatles' acclaimed 'Anthology' series is receiving a significant reissue, bringing remastered audio, expanded content, and a new collection titled 'Anthology 4'. This comprehensive project, announced on September 16, 2025, celebrates the band's history and includes updated mixes of their 'new' tracks, along with a refreshed documentary series and book. Fans can expect a deep dive into the band's archival material this fall.
Key Takeaways
- Original 'Anthology' collections remastered and reissued across 6 CDs or 9 LPs.
- New 'Anthology 4' features 13 unreleased tracks and updated mixes.
- Documentary series streams on Disney+ with a new ninth episode.
- The companion book returns in a new softcover edition.
- Release dates begin October 21 for the book, November 21 for audio, and November 26 for streaming.
Expanded Audio Experience for Fans
The core of this reissue is the remastered audio. The original three 'Anthology' collections, first released in 1995 and 1996, will be available again. These sets, compiled by George Martin, feature rare tracks and outtakes from the band's career. Giles Martin, George Martin's son, handled the remastering for these albums, ensuring a high-quality listening experience. The complete collection will be offered as an 8-CD or 12-LP box set.
A significant addition is 'Anthology 4'. This new collection, curated by Giles Martin, spans two CDs or three LPs. It draws primarily from archival material released after the band's catalog remastering in 2009. Notably, 'Anthology 4' includes 13 previously unreleased tracks. These tracks cover eras not extensively explored in recent reissues.
"The 'Anthology' project was a landmark moment for The Beatles' legacy. This new edition not only preserves that history but expands upon it, offering fans deeper insights into their creative process," a spokesperson for Apple Corps stated.
Fact: "Free As a Bird" and "Real Love"
The new mixes by producer Jeff Lynne of "Free As a Bird" and "Real Love" are included. These tracks were originally created for the 1995 and 1996 'Anthology' releases, using demo recordings by John Lennon with new contributions from Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. The 2023 single "Now and Then," from the same sessions, is also part of the new 'Anthology 4' collection.
Comprehensive Liner Notes and Archival Details
The original three volumes featured detailed notes by Mark Lewisohn. These extensive notes will be complemented by new liner notes written by Kevin Howlett. This combination aims to provide fans with an even more complete historical context for the music.
The full box set, titled 'Anthology Collection', will be released on November 21. It was also confirmed on September 16 that 'Anthology 4' will be available as a standalone 2-CD or 3-LP set. This allows fans to purchase the new material separately if they already own the original 'Anthology' releases.
Track List Highlights from 'Anthology 4'
- "If I Fell" (Take 11) - Previously unreleased
- "Matchbox" (Take 1) - Previously unreleased
- "Every Little Thing" (Takes 6 and 7) - Previously unreleased
- "In My Life" (Take 1) - Previously unreleased
- "Nowhere Man" (First Version - Take 2) - Previously unreleased
- "All You Need is Love" (Rehearsal for BBC Broadcast) - Previously unreleased
- "The Fool on the Hill" (Take 5 Instrumental) - Previously unreleased
- "Hey Bulldog" (Take 4 Instrumental) - Previously unreleased
- "Free As a Bird" (2025 Mix)
- "Real Love" (2025 Mix)
- "Now and Then"
These tracks offer a fresh perspective on the band's creative process and evolution. The inclusion of new mixes for "Free As a Bird" and "Real Love" provides a modernized sound for these iconic recordings.
Documentary Series Returns to Streaming
Beyond the audio, the 'Anthology' celebration extends to visual media. The popular 1995 docuseries, which originally captivated audiences worldwide, will begin streaming on Disney+. The first three parts will be available starting November 26. The series will include its original eight parts, plus a new ninth episode.
This additional episode will feature previously unseen footage. This footage comes from the surviving band members' studio reunion for the original 'Anthology' project. Peter Jackson's Wingnut Films and Park Road Post teams have restored all the footage for this streaming version. Additionally, Giles Martin has created new mixes for "the majority of the featured music" within the special.
Background: The Original 'Anthology' Impact
When 'The Beatles' Anthology' first launched in 1995, it was a groundbreaking archival endeavor in pop music. Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr participated in new interviews, reflecting on the band's career. John Lennon, who passed away in 1980, was represented through archival interviews. The series became a ratings success on ITV in the UK and ABC in the US, with expanded cuts selling well on VHS and DVD.
The Companion Book and Legacy
The 2000 companion book, which provided interview excerpts from all four Beatles and thousands of rare photos, will also return. It will be reissued as a new softcover version on October 21. This book offers a visual and textual complement to the audio and video releases, completing the 'Anthology' experience.
The original 'Anthology' project was notable for bringing McCartney, Harrison, and Starr together with producer Jeff Lynne. They used John Lennon's demo cassettes, provided by Yoko Ono, to create new Beatles recordings. "Free As a Bird" and "Real Love" were released as singles and achieved Top 10 success. Two other tracks, "Grow Old with Me" and "Now and Then," were initially abandoned. "Now and Then" was later completed and released in 2023, benefiting from advanced technology to separate Lennon's vocals and piano.
This comprehensive reissue provides an opportunity for both long-time fans and new listeners to explore The Beatles' vast musical legacy. The combination of remastered classics, unreleased tracks, updated visuals, and a refreshed book ensures that the 'Anthology' remains a vital part of music history.