Electric Light Orchestra: A New World Record

A New World Record: ELO's Masterful Fusion of Rock and Classical

Electric Light Orchestra's sixth studio album, A New World Record, marks a pivotal moment in the band's evolution. Building on the modest commercial and critical success of previous albums Eldorado and Face the Music, this 1976 release represented ELO's definitive breakthrough, cementing their place in music history.

The Sound that Changed Music
What made A New World Record special was its perfect balance of accessible pop sensibilities with ELO's signature orchestral rock foundation. Standout tracks like "Livin' Thing," "Telephone Line," "Do Ya," "So Fine," and "Tightrope" attracted listeners from across the spectrum, dominating charts worldwide with their infectious melodies and lush arrangements.

ELO deserves recognition as true pioneers in the fusion of rock and classical music. Jeff Lynne and company dared to blend the raw energy of rock 'n' roll with the sophisticated structures of classical composition. This willingness to experiment and take risks helped pave the way for the more dynamic, multifaceted music we enjoy today.

The Vinyl Verdict: A Mixed Bag
For vinyl enthusiasts interested in experiencing this landmark album in its original format, some caution is warranted. The 1970s was a challenging era for vinyl production, with inconsistent quality control being a common issue. Some attribute this to the energy crisis of the decade, while others point to the industry's shifting focus toward emerging formats like 8-track and cassette tapes.

In reality, the manufacturing plant likely played the most significant role in determining quality. Plants like Santa Maria and Pittman maintained higher standards during this period, while others struggled with consistency.

Original Pressings: Proceed with Caution
Our evaluation of original pressings yielded disappointing results. The embossed cover version pressed by Research Craft falls short of audiophile expectations. Despite Research Craft's long history (operating from the 1940s until the early 1980s), the frequent changes in ownership—from United Artists Records in 1971 to Capitol Records in 1978—appear to have negatively impacted quality control.

A second pressing from Terre Haute performed even worse, despite lacking the embossed cover feature. Both versions suffer from excessive surface noise and fail to capture the energy and vitality that must have been present during the original recording sessions.

Modern Alternatives
While first pressings are often prized among collectors, ELO's A New World Record may be an exception to this rule. The 2018 reissue from Epic has received positive feedback on Discogs and might be the preferred option for those seeking sound quality over historical authenticity.

That said, this album deserves a proper audiophile treatment. One can only hope that a dedicated label will eventually take on the project of releasing a version that truly showcases the sonic potential of this remarkable album.

Until then, listeners will have to weigh their priorities: the historical significance of an original pressing versus the superior listening experience offered by more recent reissues. 💸

💰Invest
💵 Consider
💸 Pass