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Electric Light Orchestra - Eldorado CD (album) cover

ELDORADO

Electric Light Orchestra

 

Crossover Prog

3.84 | 432 ratings

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aapatsos
Special Collaborator
Honorary Collaborator
3 stars Transitional phase?

ELO's sound has moved distinctively from the heavy cellos of their debut album to more string arrangements and softer symphonic melodies. Whereas nobody can deny the existence of a full orchestra delivering attractive melodies, the musical approach has shifted significantly to less challenging patterns.

The album mainly consists of slow compositions, often hypotonic, that are based on the skilled execution of arrangements and instruments rather than on creative song-writing. Overall, good ideas and a very pleasant atmosphere from beginning to end, but with only a few high points that would produce the spark required to catch the listener. There is variety in musical styles ranging from ballad-like tracks (Can't Get it out of my Head, Mister Kingdom) to bluesy (Nobody's Child) and rock 'n roll (Illusions in G Major). However, the product seems like a mix of pop-derived songs rather than prog or symphonic rock.

The major highlight of the album is the opening (and subsequently closing) theme of album that creates high expectations with the storming and melodic violins generating a majestic atmosphere. Other interesting moments include the rocking Boy Blue and Poor Boy which include the most interesting symphonic arrangements (not coincidentally). Vocal performance is at high standards and the variety of singing approaches is a positive element.

A relatively interesting album, Eldorado, does not match the experience of the debut release (set as standard for quality comparison). While the compositions are arranged almost perfectly, the musical approach is much more commercial; prog fans that are keen on symphonic arrangements might find some interest here.

aapatsos | 3/5 |

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