The Essential Electric Light Orchestra

 
The Essential Electric Light Orchestra cover
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Electric Light Orchestra
The Essential Electric Light Orchestra

[ Sony Essentials / 2 CD ]

Release Date: Friday 3 February 2012

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This 15-track hits collection provides a great overview of the work of these hugely popular, orchestral-pop pioneers. Immediately recognizable for their electro-classical arrangements and "futuristic" production (courtesy of group founder, songwriter, and vocalist Jeff Lynne), Electric Light Orchestra was an FM radio staple throughout the late 1970s and early '80s, racking up a string of hit singles.

Almost all of those singles are included here ("10538 Overture" being the notable omission).
The disc begins with 1975's "Evil Woman" and ends with the band's 1972 cover of Chuck Berry's "Roll Over Beethoven." ELO's pop smarts (which owe a heavy debt to late-'60s Beatles songcraft) shine throughout, whether on the lilting "Strange Magic," the driving "Don't Bring Me Down," or "Calling America," a cut from 1986's BALANCE OF POWER.

Pop masterpieces "Mr. Blue Sky" and "Sweet Talkin' Woman" charm as much with sonic novelty (including synthesized vocals, epic choral backing, and sweeping string parts) as they do with their irresistible melodies. There have been more comprehensive compilations but those seeking ELO's biggest singles will find exactly what they're looking for here.

Tracks:

CD One:
10538 Overture 3:56
Roll Over Beethoven 4:31
Showdown 4:09
Ma-Ma-Ma Belle 3:37
Can't Get It Out Of My Head 3:09
Evil Woman 4:11
Nightrider 3:43
Strange Magic 4:07
Livin' Thing 3:32
Do Ya 3:45
Rockaria! 3:13
Telephone Line 4:40
Turn To Stone 3:48
Mr. Blue Sky 5:02
Sweet Talkin' Woman 3:47
Wild West Hero 4:40
It's Over 4:08
Shine A Little Love 4:11

CD Two:
Don't Bring Me Down 4:03
The Diary Of Horace Wimp 4:16
Confusion 3:41
Last Train To London 4:30
I'm Alive 3:44
Xanadu 3:21
All Over The World 4:03
Don't Walk Away 4:47
Hold On Tight 3:06
Twilight 3:42
Ticket To The Moon 4:07
The Way Life's Meant To Be 4:38
Rock And Roll Is King 3:07
Secret Messages 4:44
Four Little Diamonds 4:05
Calling America 3:31
So Serious 2:41
Surrender 2:34
Latitude 88 North 3:24