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Electric Light Orchestra - Face the Music CD (album) cover

FACE THE MUSIC

Electric Light Orchestra

 

Crossover Prog

3.38 | 295 ratings

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Gatot
Special Collaborator
Honorary Collaborator
3 stars "Face The Music" is ELO's fifth studio album where as previous album "Eldorado" that string arrangement was composed by Louis Clark, the key characteristic of this album is heavily on orchestration. As a band with pop rock orientation, this could be considered pioneer in a way that orchestration was being used intensely throughout the album. The opening track "Fire on High" (5:30) is an impressive orchestra in instrumental style that serves as an overture. It seems that the band was quite sure in their music direction as per Jeff Lynne concept where the album starts with an overture. This kind of approach has also been adopted by power metal bands before the music blasts off with double pedal drums rhythm section.

"Waterfall" (4:27) follows nicely with nice melody and medium tempo music revolves around vocal work of Jeff Lynne. It then flows naturally to another pop outfit which was also released as single: "Evil Woman". It's pretty clear how Jeff composed this song which contains the elements of light orchestra in the pop song. This made this song was different from what available in music industry at that time, and no wonder this song received good acceptance from public. I especially like the way piano is being composed in the music. "Nightrider" (4:23) is actually not a major hit but it's still an interesting track to enjoy. "Poker" (3:31) relies heavily on guitar work combined with keyboard at the beginning of the track followed with fast tempo rock music.

"Strange Magic" (4:29) is another hit that was quite popular in radio program. "Down Home Town" (3:54) reminds me to Kansas on the opening part with violin work, even though when vocal enters it's something different. "One Summer Dream" (5:47) opens thematically with great string section followed with vocal in mellow style. The music moves into upbeat style once the drums enter the music. It's quite nice song.

Overall, this kind of album is suitable for you to take a break after enjoying some heavy and complex stuff. It's recommended as easy listening outfit. Keep on proggin' ..!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW

Gatot | 3/5 |

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