On June 16th, 2025, Lauren Passarelli paid tribute to one of her early inspirations, George Harrison, by releasing her version of his classic music "Be Here Now." Originally featured on Harrison's 1973 album "Living in the Material World," Passarelli's rendition brings a new depth and connection to the piece, filled with respect, artistry, and a calming intimacy.
A lifelong fan of Harrison and the Beatles, Passarelli first encountered the original song when she was just 13 years old. Now, years later, she approaches it not just as a fan but as a skilled musician who fully understands her artistic voice. Her version is not intended to overshadow Harrison's original. Instead, it honors its essence while adding her touch. Thoughtful layers of sound mark the recording. Passarelli plays all the guitars, with her lead slide guitar gently bending notes like sunlight filtering through fog. She sings with a soothing quality that draws listeners in. Alongside her, Kate Chadbourne's sensitive piano and Mike Bishop's warm bass create a rich and inviting atmosphere that feels both earthly and otherworldly. Passarelli also introduces a variety of unique sounds to the track, including rhythms from drums, the beautiful ringing of a swarmandal, an Indian harp, the gentle hum of tanpura, chimes, and strings that mimic a guitar. The music invites listeners to immerse themselves without being overwhelmed, allowing space to relax and exist in the moment.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this project is the care and detail involved. Passarelli not only arranged and performed most of the music herself, but she also handled the recording, mixing, and mastering from her home studio. This makes her interpretation a deeply personal endeavor. She describes it as an act of love for Harrison, for his music, and for the stillness that his songwriting inspires.
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