Diesel 11
As you scream into the web of silence...
I think I like different Beatles covers than most people because "Act Naturally" is one of those tracks I'd probably pick over something more iconic like "Twist and Shout". Ringo's voice is perfect for the lyrics and I love the lush, warm instrumentation on the track. I've come to appreciate "A Taste of Honey" a bit as a spotlight on Paul's voice, which sounds great on that track. "Roll Over Beethoven" is fine, just a serviceable rock 'n' roll cover.
"Good Morning Good Morning" is definitely the weakest track on Sgt. Pepper, but I like its placement and think it's just fine overall. The best thing about it is how the animal noises segue into the title track reprise. Kind of a funny Pet Sounds nod since these two albums are such close landmarks in music history.
I'm with you on "All Together Now", it's a nothing song, but I like George's two inclusions on Yellow Submarine. "Only a Northern Song" is a cool psychedelia parody and "It's All Too Much", while running longer than it needs to, is a very fun song about self-exploration that also explores musical arrangement.
And "For You Blue" is underrated, IMO, just a simple little song with some lovely guitarwork.
Also I've finished going through the mono box set and I would definitely say that the majority of it is better than the stereo. Those early albums really come to life and Sgt. Pepper cooks. I think I need some more time with Rubber Soul and Revolver; the vocals not being centered is really the biggest issue for me in stereo, but that said a song like "Norwegian Wood" sounds better to me with the sitar and guitar panned in separate speakers. The White Album is the one where I think I can pretty much stick to the stereo version since the band put focus into both mono and stereo mixes for that record. "Helter Skelter" sounds way heavier in mono but is missing the iconic outro; "Don't Pass Me By" sounds worse sped up; and "Revolution 9" is more alive with the abilities stereo affords it.
"She's Leaving Home" is really the biggest revelation for me. I had no idea till I got the box that the stereo version was actually slowed down and hearing the original mono speed I'm torn. It sounds brighter and more colorful in mono, and while the stereo version is almost mournful, and honestly I think both versions are great for what they are. One of them just happens to have come about thanks to a mixing mistake.