George Harrison – Dark Horse

Released in 1974 during a turbulent period in George Harrison's life, Dark Horse is a deeply personal and often misunderstood album. Recorded amidst vocal strain, a hectic tour schedule, and the collapse of his marriage, the album trades polish for raw honesty. It blends spiritual yearning, biting wit, and emotional vulnerability across a mix of rock, funk, and Indian-influenced styles. Tracks like “Far East Man” and the title song “Dark Horse” stand out for their heartfelt sincerity, while “Simply Shady” captures Harrison’s weary self-reflection. Though not universally acclaimed at the time, the album has gained respect as a bold and revealing work.

Reviews

“A flawed but fascinating album—its rawness is part of its appeal.” – Rolling Stone

“Dark Horse is Harrison at his most candid... rough-edged but full of feeling.” – Uncut

“Despite the vocal strain, there's an endearing honesty here that cuts through.” – Mojo

“Undervalued on release, the album now plays like an emotional diary—unfiltered and deeply human.” – AllMusic