Electric Light Orchestra fans have pinpointed the “one song” which best defines their early years as a progressive rock band.
With their debut album, and follow-up record ELO II, the band had targeted a progressive rock sound. Initially led by Roy Wood and later Jeff Lynne, the early years of the band saw frequent covers of Chuck Berry and Beethoven, as well as a few early tracks which have become staples of their live shows. A curious fan wondering about the prog-rock origins on the r/ELO subreddit asked: “What song best defines ELO’s prog era?” Fans have since shared a few song suggestions and a series of developments which paved the route from prog-rock to orchestral-backed rock.
One fan suggested King of the Universe is the best example of ELO’s early prog work, with another calling it a “very good choice.” Further explanations came from a user who said the band’s second album, ELO II, was the best example of their prog-rock efforts, shone a light on the band’s development.
They wrote: “If you define prog as overly-long songs with complex structures, ELO II is the band’s most prog album. Notable parts of the first album (No Answer) and the third album (On the Third Day) sound prog, though, so people generally consider those first three albums as ELO’s prog era. By the third album, we start seeing more concise songwriting, and I don’t consider songs like Ma-Ma-Ma Belle or Showdown as prog. Those are more rock or pop.
“From the Sun to the World is the most prog ELO song, in my opinion, so that one has my vote. If you play it for anyone who only knows ELO by the band’s hits, they won’t believe it’s the same band. Back when I was a teenager, I was listening to the first album, and my younger sister heard one of the songs.
What song best defines ELO’s prog era?
byu/Dependent-Set4324 inelo
“I think it was Battle of the Marston Moor (July 2nd, 1644) or Manhattan Rumble (49th Street Massacre) but it could’ve been any of the songs off that album. She’d only known ELO from their radio hits, and this would’ve been when Out of the Blue was the band’s latest album. She literally didn’t believe me when I said the music was ELO.
The reason I don’t think either of those two songs best define ELO’s prog era, though, is because they are instrumentals. We need some singing for something to represent that era overall. From the Sun to the World is the most prog, but that might not best represent ELO’s prog era during the band’s first three albums. Maybe something like Momma from ELO II, because that one is long and meandering, but it’s a bit more melodic.”
Other users have suggested the band’s best progressive moments can be heard much later into their career. One user wrote Strange Magic, though was met with disagreement from others. A reply reads: “I’m not sure I’d consider Strange Magic prog. I think From The Sun To The World, or something else off the first three albums would be more appropriate.”
It’s whatever song appeals to you. One of my faves is Three Little Diamonds. I like the intro!
Kuiama is a great song as well on ELO II. On record, it’s the longest ELO song ever at 11:00 plus. It has a country tang but very progressive, profound anti-war lyrics, fit the time it was released to a tee. But, I agree that From the Sun to the Moon is the most progressive. There are two live versions that both kick ass
To the World, not moon. My bad!!
As soon as I saw the headline I thought of “From the Sun to the World’ which is such a great track. Their earlier work is full of special songs such as ‘Nellie Takes Her Bow’ and ‘Queen of the Hours’