ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA [AKA: NO ANSWER]

No Answer is an example of underrated and therefore not influential record. As surely one of the most progressive efforts ever produced in rock, it merges sound of orchestra with then modern rock approach. It is orchestra instruments that dominate over traditional sounds. Two masterminds behind the record, Roy Wood and Jeff Lynne teamed up to create the work of exceptional songwriting quality filled with incredible musical ideas that are very ambitious at the same time.

The instrumental complexity cannot be arguably compared to more mature progressive rock bands. Anyway it was never the main focus of ELO, the best attractions here are very decent songwriting, capturing of the great old sometimes maybe menacing atmosphere. Composers were apparently very familiar with the way it should sound. Orchestral parts are flawless and well constructed.

From the vocal point of view, Wood's voice fits better in this experimental part of music, Lynne likes imitating Beatles, fortunately not to a too great extent on that record.

If I should recommend a few tracks, start with the first two. Battle of Marston Moor reveas many musical surprises. 1st movement is a less solemn track with clear rock pattern. Mr. Radio bears the Beatles influence, more audible on the consequent records but still has enough experimentation. Whisper in the night is a brilliant ballad sung by Wood.

Certainly the best and least accessible album ever produced by ELO, although my most favorite one is the next effor ELO II