TIME

First of all, let me say that I am NOT a big ELO fan, and I don't particularly enjoy their 'classic' 70s output. While the melodies were often quite good, the string arrangements generally put me off. That said, I do recognize their originality and acknowledge that they were a truly unique band. It just didn't align with my tastes.

But then the '80s arrived, and the band decided to change their image, replacing much of the strings with synthesizers. The strings are still there, but they're more in the background now. I can understand why long-time fans might bash this album. After all, the strings were a trademark that made them so distinctive. From that perspective, it might seem like a decline in quality. However, as I mentioned earlier, I never really cared much for the strings, so for me, this shift works as a plus. Finally, I can focus on the melodies! And let me tell you, they're stronger than ever! I'd even go so far as to call this album a MASTERPIECE of early '80s synth-pop.

Now, this is where I should probably stop and say, "Oops, we're on a prog site, where synth-pop is probably the most hated genre, and the early '80s are the most hated period in music. Not only because it ushered in the 'plastic' era of sound but also marked the end of the progressive era for bands like Genesis, Yes, and Rush." But instead of doing that, I say, SO WHAT? I'm here to review music and point out what's good or bad. I always try to be objective and not dismiss an album just because it doesn't fit someone's idea of what real music (read: prog) should sound like, or how a particular band should sound based on their earlier work. So, I just have to say: this album offers some very catchy, melodic synth-pop and an intriguing futuristic concept. Sure, there are a couple of weaker spots (the two bookend ditties are throwaways, as are "Yours Truly" and "From the End of the World"), but the rest of the songs are solid, with some even bordering on classic. If I were to compile a "best of" ELO collection, I'd include at least 6-7 songs from this album among their top 15-20 tracks: "Twilight," "Ticket to the Moon," "The Way Life's Meant to Be," "Rain is Falling," "The Lights Go Down," "Here is the News," and "Hold on Tight". It's just one great song after another.

Now, giving 5 stars to a synth-pop album on a prog site might be pushing it, even if it is a masterpiece of its genre. But 4 stars? Why not? It's a great record, no doubt about that, and it is, after all, a concept album! Hey, just like "Thick as a Brick" or "The Wall"! ;) So let that fact alone make it an "excellent addition to any prog music collection." ;)