No.56 - ‘A New World Record’ - Electric Light Orchestra (1976)
“ Hey, how're you feelin'? Are you still the same? Don't you realise the things we did, we did, were all for real? Not a dream; I just can't believe they've all faded out of view …” Yes, it’s one of those rare, pre-90s albums to feature on this list. From absolutely loving Mr Blue Sky as a child (a song I would possibly say is the best popular song ever written), I took the time a few years back to pour over their albums. Out of the Blue is THE album for most people but A New World Record just pips it to the post for me. This album is incredible. A huge range to the styles, really catchy songs, interesting melodies and well written, crafted, produced and played. I love Jeff Lynne’s voice and the harmonies are so sweet in both tone and theatrics. The mix of classical music and rock works so well. Others have tried to great success, most notably the Beatles who are a huge influence for ELO, but to make it the interwoven core of every song; no-one has ever done...