DAYS OF FUTURE PASSED

Well, it's been long argued which was the first truly prog album and whether it's this one or not really doesn't matter in the end. What does matter though is the caliber of music on the album, because this disc is simply wonderful. Especially given the fact that we're talking 1967 here - The Moody Blues pushed all kind of boundaries with this album as would The Beatles in the same year with Sgt. Peppers. The difference between the two (well, okay, they're nothing alike anyways) is that while The Beatles made a concept album these guys really took the idea of a concept a step ahead. The album itself is a day in the life of a person going through their daily activities. We get the somber mornings, the bouncy, busy daytime and the beauty of dusk and evening.

Style wise, the album is very removed from conventional rock. The backing of a full orchestra really helps the progression of the album and allows for a full spectrum of emotion as the day presses on. The Day Begins with an overture that sees themes set for the rest of the album that will come into play later on and as we make our way into Dawn we get a spoken word intro that sets the lyrical tone for the album. The lyrics for this album are really something else. Beautifully crafted poetry whisks together with pretty orchestrations are enough to make anyone with an appreciation for anything like that sit with jaw agape at just what kind of imagery this combination presents. ''Cold hearted orb that rules the night, remove the colors from our sight. Red is grey and yellow - white, but we decide which is right'' - just gorgeous!

Some parts of the album are incredibly eerie, others, very upbeat. Depending on the time of day the Moodies change the music to fit. Lunch Break:Peak Hour has a very upbeat pace as it moves along in an almost silly way that fits strangely enough. Evening:The Sun Set:Twilight Time is where the eeriness comes into play with darker tones taking over, not unlike an actual evening. Nights In White Satin finished the album with more spoken word and what is easily one of the most beautiful songs ever recorded.

There's a reason this album gets a lot of attention - it's pure gold! This album is a must for any prog fan who wants to know any little detail about the genre before it got it's name, and knowing prog fans, they all will. 5 nights in white satin out of 5 - this one is undoubtedly completely essential for a prog music collection. Absolutely perfect in every way and worth many many listens. Very, very, very highly recommended.

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