The War of the Worlds

"Jeff Wayne's musical version of 'The War of the Worlds' was originally released in 1978, 40 years after Orson Welles' historic radio interpretation of the H.G. Wells novel. While it may not have triggered the panic and confusion that the radio play did, Wayne's 'The War of the Worlds' certainly impressed a lot of listeners.

In the tradition of earlier '70s orchestrated concept albums such as Rick Wakeman's 'Journey to the Centre of the Earth', Wayne's pop / rock opera has fine production and detailed musical arrangements. The contributors include the late Phil Lynott (of Thin Lizzy), Jo Partridge, New Zealand singer Chris Thompson, Julie Covington, David Essex plus Justin Hayward of The Moody Blues. Of particular note is the eloquent and gripping narration from the late Richard Burton.

This unique double album keeps one engrossed with the story while intertwining songs throughout. Highlights include Hayward's most appealing "Forever Autumn" (which went on to become a hit single) and "Spirit of Man", which features Lynott as a priest amidst the alien invasion.

'The War of the Worlds' is a highly atmospheric recording, particularly the sections that contain the chilling "Ooollaahh" extraterrestrial cry and also when the eerie, red weed covers London.

This was Jeff Wayne's one and only masterpiece, perfectly complimented with striking illustrations on the cover and within the accompanying booklet by artist, Geoff Taylor. Like the original book, 'The War of the Worlds' remains a phenomenal work."
-GEOFF