All Over the World: The Very Best of Electric Light Orchestra

Electric Light Orchestra was really popular along with other classic rock bands from 20-30 years ago, but their music always managed to stand out. Similar to bands like Queen, Electric Light Orchestra wasn’t afraid to try new sounds and combinations of instruments that often would sound strange, yet interesting. From electronic sounds, to backward-recorded vocals, to the use of violins and cellos, the band was always pushing the pop/rock genre. Jeff Lynne (singer, songwriter, lead guitarist and producer) was one of the biggest forces behind the band and in the late 80s began to produce albums for other artists like George Harrison, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison, and Paul McCartney. From the period between 1974 and 1986 the group had 20 Top 40 Hits. No single CD can contain all of Electric Light Orchestra's hits, but All Over The World (The Very Best Of) contains most of the essentials.

You will find Xanadu and All Over The World, frequently omitted from Electric Light Orchestra compilations on both sides of the Atlantic, together with Living Thing, Hold on Tight, Telephone Line, Rockaria, Wild West Hero, Don't Bring Me Down, Shine a Little Love and other classic tracks that you would expect to find. Don’t go to Electric Light Orchestra to hear the darker side of emotional experience. Lynne’s voice never sounds anything but chipper, no matter what he’s singing. But if you’re looking for something both fun and exquisitely crafted, you can’t top hits like Evil Woman, Sweet Talkin’ Woman, Strange Magic, and, best of the best, Mr. Blue Sky. Some of the songs are less known, but still decent. The tracks are not in chronological order, which will disappoint some people, but it is far better to have all the tracks that matter than to have a chronological compilation that omits essential tracks. If you only want one Electric Light Orchestra collection of their music, this will suit you ideally providing all your favorites are here.

Electric Light Orchestra's smart blend of pop and rock with modernly orchestrated classical music flourished throughout the '70s and '80s, since their sound was one of a kind. Plush arrangements that drowned themselves in bright synthesizers and vibrant guitar gave way to a brand new type of music, giving the Electric Light Orchestra a distinguished setting atop the vast rock & roll mantle. Jeff Lynne’s always been making something unique and distinctive. If you haven’t been introduced to the wonders of Electric Light Orchestra, All Over The World (The Very Best Of) will be a nice introduction to the band.