BLUE JAYS

This absolute treasure was written while The Moody Blues' were on hiatus between 'Seventh Sojourn' and 'Octave'. Every single track on the album is melodic, moody, deep and rich. With the Moodies' long-time producer, Tony Clarke, at the mixing desk, it is hardly surpising that this sounds like a Moody Blues album, although it is actually quite different in many respects.

For those who love Haywards profound ballads and Lodge's airy harmonies this is a must hear. There is something different about each song and there are interesting choices of backing instruments (pipe organ and trumpets on 'Maybe' to a simple string quartet on 'Who Are You Now?' to the rocking guitar and piano on 'Saved by the Music'). "My Brother" and "I Dreamed Last Night" are big heartwarmers, drenched with emotion and lyrical imagery. Who can sing of the bittersweet pain and promise of love like Hayward?

I could often compare the songwriting combination of Hayward and Lodge to the quality of Lennon-McCartney. I once read a reviewer describing this pair as the masters of mellow rock. I don't believe anyone can write songs as beautiful as this anymore. There is nothing too deep or philosophical in the lyrics, just a blend of voices to paint with sound on the canvas of imagination. The wonderous harmonies here are good for a romantic evening in front of the fire place. It's a fantastic album that never tires of listening too - several times in one sitting! Every Moodies fan must have this in their collection. 5 stars.