The Moody Blues- Days of Future Passed (SIDE 1) (REACTION//DISCUSSION)
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- Опубликовано: 4 июн 2021
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This is truly one of the greatest albums:) Absolutely incredible stuff, I'm so glad you got to experience it!
Ty man!
I agree, a fantastic album and my go to Moody's album
When this was released, there was nothing else like it that had ever been done. And it suffered because the world wasn't prepared for its experimental nature, blending orchestra and a rock band. The Moody Blues went on to produce a series of highly popular albums with several charting hits, always growing their fanbase. And then, in 1972, "Nights In White Satin" charted again resurrecting interest and jump-starting sales of the album again as it climbed the charts as well. So, I guess this album was about 5 years ahead of its time. BTW the band at that time was preparing for the release of their 7th studio album.
Nice to know.
Thank you, sir. I could not have said it better myself. Of course, the first release of the album wasn't helped any by the fact that the original single edit of "Nights In White Satin" (1968) was completely botched.
This LP recorded 6 months after " sergent" was the opening act to the music everybody called " progressive music" mostly for Pinder use of the mellotron and ....Ray Thomas 's use of the Flûtes!!!
The mellotron was actually created and manufactured in the Moody Blues’ hometown of Birmingham UK (mine too), in a shop called Streetly Electronics. Mike Pinder worked there and ultimately became a pioneer of the mellotron and he is believed (depending on the source) to have introduced the instrument to the Beatles.
I absolutely love the Mellotron, it can never be overused for me.
It's true he knew the beatles personally, particularly John lennon, and did indeed introduce the instrument to them, hence, "strawberry fields" intro, he also played tambourine on John lennon's "imagine" album, and is credited on the album itself😊
Good info, mate! I knew Pinder was BIG into it but didn’t know the rest.
@@glenndespres5317 👍
fan de MELLOTRON j'apprécie vos commentaires !
JP, you've just entered the "Core 7" the beginning of the Moody Blues 1st seven albums, a rabbit hole which requires exploring all the way to the bottom. (Or the top, depending on your point of view) at any rate a journey you won't regret.
I hope he does!
Technically, this is the second Moody Blues album, but yes, it is the first album by this line-up, and the first of the Seven Sojourns.
@@fordp69 You are correct, although, I,for one don't count the "Go now" Merseybeat version of the band, I'm only referring to the Justin Hayward forward version.
Oh, yes...
Please, please, please do The Moody Blues Magnificent Seven in chronological order in their entirety by album side.
@@billhawkins1236 I know, and I usually do as well, just wanted it to be clear for Justin.
Moody Blues, they were so much more than a typical rock band, beautiful orchestration in this album, it's an LP I've always treasured.
I'm an Englishman and the orchestral interludes, tear me up; it sounds so 1960's England - when I was boy.
I was 11 when this was released, and although I never heard it at that time, whenever I listen to it, I'm transported to summer and the countryside in which I grew up.
I stumbled upon this wonderful album when I was 25 years old, bought it and listen to it to this day.
What a lovely choice Justin; thank you for not trampling on this which I hold dearly, with a dismissive or critical comment. I certainly needs several listens for it to be really appreciated.
The spoken word sections are written by Graeme Edge (drummer).
But it was Mike Pinder who recitated thé poems with his deep voice.
Some history.
The band was still on contract with Decca while they transitioned from the Denny Laine era, and in debt. At the time, Decca was putting out a series of demonstration albums to promote their new fangled stereo mastering, Deramic Stereo Sound. Since the band was going cheap after struggling to match the success of "Go Now," Decca asked them to record a rock version of Dvorak's New World Symphony. Of course, with their struggling fortunes, the band said yes. To the band's gratitude, the project producer, Michael Barclay, and orchestrator Peter Knight suggested that they do their own songs instead. They got their producer, Tony Clarke, on board with the idea. They even made sure to let the project's executive producer, Hugh Mendl, in on it.
The conspirators went into the studio and recorded the band bits in about two weeks. Peter Knight took the songs, assembled a group of sessional players, and the London Festival Orchestra (a made-up name for the occasion) recorded the overture and segues.
After it was all completed, they played the album in front of a group of executives. The assembled party was shocked. It wasn't the recording that they had asked for. But it was... good?! They weren't quite sure what to do with it. It took convincing from Walt Maguire, the head of London Records (Decca's classical music label in the USA) to put it out as is.
It wasn't a smash success--more like a slow burner--but it got the band out of debt and would grow as time went on.
That explains a lot.
Excellent synopsis of the history. Just one thing: It was Dvorak’s “New World Symphony” that The Moody Blues were asked to recreate by Decca, not the “Four Seasons.” Antonio Vivaldi composed “The Four Seasons.”
@@justintime42000 Oopsie! I'll correct it.
Good history there. I know I had read it before but with time..... it bears repeating and I’m sure JP appreciates it.
Thancks Kivimik to tell the right things ,thé moodies and Pinder deserved so many récognition ,they difn't got while thé 7 core lps !!!!!
51 years later and I can still feel the cellophane tearing,as I get ready to listen to this!"In Days of Future Passed,I was In Search of the Lost Chord,but Every Good Boy Deserves Favour,so it's a Question of Balance!To Our Children's,Chidren's Children,I will wait till December to leave on the Seventh Sojurn.Peace.
Well done, sir!
Justin, I beg you, even though it will take months, if not years, to find time to do it, please consider doing The Moody Blues Magnificent Seven albums, all worked in to the post I'm replying to, in their entirety in chronological order. The Moody Blues takes one on a musical, some (me included) think spiritual, journey through these albums. In their entirety, by album sides, is the best way to listen to them.
Were you on the Threshold of a Dream?
@@Georgestella100 Quite!
Other bands might have combined rock and orchestral music, but The Moody Blues did it first and they did it best.
Though good it is the second side,(half), that really comes alive and makes this a legendary and the beginnings of the progressive movement of pre-progressive rock movement! The Moody Blues only made better and better albums for 7 straight years! Go through the journey and just smile and appreciate the wonders of this bands magical, entertaining, and expansive music!👍🏻❤️👍🏻❤️👍🏻❤️☮️🎼🎤🎹🎸
Actually, it was 7 albums in 6 years. Two albums were released in 1969
My initial thought was to skip to the reaction/discussion, but the music started and now I have to watch the whole video 🙃
Man! No other band, not even the Fab4, have 7 álbuns in a row known as The 7 Magnificent. Enough said!
The Album the Beatles wish they had made ! Massive change from the 1st Moody Blues generation material.
Instead, all they made was Sgt. Pepper's, lmao. The album Moody blues wish they had made
Just like you, people weren't expecting such a heavy symphonic use of the orchestra when this album came out. It was truly unique and a first of its kind, and the Moody Blues took a big gamble releasing an album on which they allowed their great creative muse to so freely have its way. I still have fond memories of riding around in my car in college, listening to the 8-track. I enjoyed your reaction to side one and look forward to the rest. Side one is just a hint of how glorious side two is.
The Moody Blues were one of the first bands to experiment with concept albums and songs that linked together. They were at the start of prog rock and years ahead of their time, this was 1967! They were innovative and experimental with the gear they had at that time. Understand these guys were in a different place then others at the time, out on their own in a different space trying new things. In search of the lost chord is one of their greatest albums from the late 60's. I really like the Moody Blues. I consider they are the founders of Prog Rock. Thanks for this review of the Moody Blues and the great reaction.
Love your comment dummy ,love Pinder music since ....
Man, I can't believe how fast that side went.
It's always so cool to wake up and find music from you that's perfect for starting my day. Thank you!
And, hell yes, the Moodies are progressive! As much as Pink Floyd and Supertramp are, that's for sure.
The Moody Blues were early purveyors of the Mellotron, even before King Crimson. But both bands were known for their heavy use of the instrument in their early recordings.
As always, I enjoyed your comments and perspective. It's nice hearing what a fresh set of ears hears and gets from music that's unknown to them. That helps me stay interested in music I've heard a million times.
And being here with you makes so many of us feel as if we're sitting down with a good buddy and playing a new song or album for them, like we did waay back when. (shout out to all the old farts out there!)
I'm one of the old farts I'll be 61 next month just love this album
Very true and who knows without the Moody Blues doing this album maybe it would have taken another decade for the progressive movement to take place!👍🏻☮️
@Bookhouse Boy Genesis as well, in my opinion. Both Genesis and Crimson relied on Mellotron and flute in their earlier albums, following the Moody Blues’ example, and not by accident, in my opinion.
Mike Pinder calling to a generation with "Do you understand that all over this land there's a feeling..." which in time resulted in the disclaimer of "I'm just a singer in a rock and roll band". These are bookends to a movement.
Excellent observation.
I never thought about it. It makes a lot of sense.
Take a look at the lyrics on "I'm just a singer...". They talk about music being a bridge (an influence or communication). They also say "...don't tell me I'm [that] just a singer in a rock n roll band".
Hang in there, side two is great!! ✌️
If you love mellotron you've got to listen To Our Children's Children's Children
BTW, Tex Avery was a genius!
Without doubt Children is their best album
My favorite is Every Good Boy Deserves Favour, but I am hoping we can convince Justin to do full listens of all of The Moody Blues Magnificent Seven. Those are the only way to listen to them.
I am hoping Justin will listen to the albums in the order in which they were created. There are two albums before TOCCC which shouldn’t be passed over.
@@justintime42000 agreed
I love DoFP, but TOCCC is my favorite of all the Moody's albums.
This was an album the whole family enjoyed. I was 10 or 11 when my parents bought it. The blend of rock and orchestra was incredible. And I’ve appreciated it ever since.
This one definitely has something for everyone!
The orchestral writing and arrangements are quite good. Props to Peter Knight. Smallcreep’s Day by Mike Rutherford would be a good Saturday reaction.
Mike Pinder recited the poetry, but it was written by drummer Graeme Edge.
Ah gotcha. Its beautifully written!
Graeme Edge. A phenomenal poet. RIP. I am glad he lived long enough to get into the Rock n roll Hall of Fame after years of snubbing. At least Ray Thomas knew about the Hall of Fame before he passed away in 2018
Thank you for this, especially for listening to the album full side to full side.
Definitely! Ty Bruce :D
A better Moody Blues album to give a run through is To Our Children's Children's Children. Real spacey and full of rich harmonics.
Yes!
Probably my favourite, especially side 2, ending with Watching and Waiting, a beautiful song and one of their very best!
I'm of the very strong opinion that The Magnificent Seven albums by the Moody Blues, Days of Future Passed through Seventh Sojourn, should be first experienced in chronological order. So, Justin should listen to In Search of The Lost Chord and On the Threshold of a Dream in their entirety before hitting To Our Children's Children's Children. Then of course follow them with A Question of Balance, Every Good Boy Deserves Favour (my personal favorite), and Seventh Sojourn.
Octave could be included at the end, but I don't think most consider it part of the core albums, as Mike Pinder left the group during the recording sessions for it.
In my top 10 of all time along with “To Our Children’s Children’s Children “ and I’m 67!
Probably my favourite too, side 2 of the album is wonderful, ending with Watching and Waiting, one of their most beautiful songs!
Ray Thomas is the added element with the Moodies....he has such a strong and beautiful voice. A lot of attention is on Lodge and Hayward, but I am always drawn to his compositions.....Legend of a Mind, For My Lady, And The Tide Rushes In, etc. Twilight Time on this one is outstanding.
Could not agree more on Twilight Time!
The most memorable songs for me were written by Justin Hayward. Having said that, all their music was wonderful and l have been enjoying their songs for nearly 50 years.
Ray did established thé flûte in thé rock scène !!! As did Mike with thé mellotron for psychedellic to concert to prog...
@@glenndespres5317in fact it was Mike music with Ray's lyrics ,but Mike gave it to his cofounder and old mate from Hambourg days !! Twice they created thé moodies!
The entire point of the record was to highlight the studio's new techniques for stereo recording of orchestras. The Moodies were brought in to increase novelty and appeal of it.
Also, they used the "Day" as a metaphor for cycles in general, be it a life or a social dawning.
Great album to wake up to
Perfect I'd say! :D
The Moody Blues music was more than just music to me, as it was literally a part of my spiritual growing up, and their music still brings to my mind the profound vistas of potential and possibility in the universe that I early on suspected, and have only grown more sure exists. Their music is imbued not only with the genius of British melodic beauty, but a depth of truth and meaning as well.
"The smell of grass, just makes you pass, into a dream" I'm not sure grass means the green stuff on lawns?
It actually does, Mike pinder stated this in an interview.
I always felt it had a double entendre and I’ve never seen an interview with Mike Pinder saying it wasn’t about marijuana. I’d like to see that if you have a link or other reference. Everyone in The Moody Blues (minus John Lodge) was smoking a lot of “grass” (one of its nicknames in the 1960s) in those days, along with all the big name musicians in London like The Beatles. Their marijuana use continued for another 4-5 years after this album was released. It’s well documented in several interviews given by Justin Hayward over that the 4 members smoked marijuana and took LSD as well. They were a part of the “swinging 60s” London music scene.
@@justintime42000 Cathy, moodies did experiment for short while with LSD, and have said so since, but iv got a dvd with Mike pinder interview, he states in this instance it is definitely about literal grass😊
@@dougreed2257Well I’m sure Mike was aware people would think of the other type of grass at the time when he wrote the song even though he wrote it about lawn grass.The smell of grass from a lawn doesn’t make anyone want to pass into a dream but the other type of grass certainly can. Which DVD is this and when did Mike say this? I have been following this band for 52 years, and not much has passed without me hearing about it. I’m always interested in learning new things about them so thanks for the info!
@@justintime42000 hi Cathy, the dvd is 'classic artists' the moody blues, 'their full story' I understand what you mean about 'double meanings' but I assure you in this specific instance, Mike specified it was literal grass! But see if you can find the documentary on youtube, or even purchase the dvd which is for sale on amazon, regards😊
This album isn't typical of the Moody Blues' sound, the next 6 albums are the real deal. I like this album but don't play it often. Their next one "In Search of the Lost Chord" is my personal favorite.
My 1st introduction to the band was the incredible compilation "This Is the Moody Blues" which was a 2 record set compiled from their classic 7 albums (plus a b-side 'A Simple Game'). It flows really well. I have all those albums and decided to put that collection to 2 discs which gave me extra room to add a few tracks. 'Peak Hour' leads off the 2nd disc, love that song, catchy as hell. I included 'Forever Autumn' by Justin Hayward.
It's true! My first introduction to classical music was via cartoons. When I started to actually listen to orchestral pieces, I related it to a cartoon or movie that I first heard it in. For example, the movie The Pied Piper with Van Johnson had Grieg's Peer Gynt I featured throughout it.
Hey, it’s ok, cartoons and comics made a lot of us enter the gateway to adult music and literature. Nothing to be ashamed of.
@@-davidolivares Just the reverse. I used cartoons to teach my own kids as well as my students in Music Appreciation. I just wish they would use more classical music in movie soundtracks - sorta like Clockwork Orange using Rossini's William Tell. LOL
@@joemercury100
That to me, would have been heaven to be taught the way you are now, well done. “I love ta singa, like tha moona in the Joona and tha springa…
The lyric from 'Another Morning' that had you puzzled is incorrect. It should read 'Mary Green today's a queen/One thousand dollies are her dream/In cotton frocks and golden locks'. The orange box is an upturned crate - we have to import all our oranges in this cold, damp neck of the woods - that the little girl's imagination has turned into a palace.
Great review. I don't think you'll be disappointed by the rest of the album.
One more Master Piece!
And great sound, also! Remember it was made to show what Stereo Deram was capable of...
Thanks Justin. One of my all time favorite albums. It gave me an appreciation for classical style music that I might not have acquired otherwise. They also seem to touch on the feelings of innocence lost due to the pressures of dealing with adult responsibilities. Trying to find the balance between the two. Between night and day.
Ah brilliant - another big album of my childhood! The joys of having lots of aunts and uncles who were mad about music, all trying to influence my young ears!
In the beginning there was The Moody Blues, ever since we've been reaping the rewards of their innovation. The part that reminded you of Tex Avery makes me think of a street scene from a Vincente Minnelli musical and the end of side one always reminds me of 'I Can't Explain' by The Who. A very nice and thoughtful reaction, looking forward to side 2.
More Whoey than Beachy. Yes.
A rare morning for me, fell asleep in between a “tall boy” lager… woke up and had myself a beer… cheers, not morning for you.
Absolutely ground-breaking album! So glad you’re doing this one!
Also released in 67 was Sgt Pepper’s, another album with Symphonic elements.
Great way to start the day, listening to the morning side of Days of Future Passed. I might just wait until the afternoon for the next side.
Peter Knight's orchestrations have lots of concert harp - I didn't notice that before. When the Moody Blues toured in 1992 and performed this album (25th anniv.), they advanced the Days of Future Passed music score to local symphony orchestras to rehearse and perform live with them. So I got to see The Moody Blues live with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra! The amphitheater they were playing in was close to getting inundated by the flood, but they made it!
The Moody Blues are special to me in my life. I first heard “Question” in 1971 and they opened up the world of “transcendtal” rock to me. Saw them do this album with the North Carolina symphony backing in the early 90’s. And then I met them in the Detroit airport in 96. Justin Heyward was a gentleman and he held up the boarding to talk with me for a few as I stumbled over my lips to tell him the impact their music had upon me and so many of us. The Moodies created an entire genre of music. Stalwarts.
Absolute masterpiece...this is why I fell in love with them. Just pure talent
As others have commented, this album represents their "core 7." Interestingly, a collection was released in 1974 called "This is the Moody Blues," but instead of being a simple "compilation" album, it is an entire thematic mix with quite a few deviations from the original releases. I recommend it to anyone who has listened to the entire Moody Blues catalog, but skipped this one because they thought it was a "greatest hits" set.
"This Is..." was my first Moody Blues album. I agree that it works brilliantly as an album on its own. They actually treated the music (and thus the band) with the respect it deserved. My only complaint about it was it didn't include the song "Gypsy" from "To Our Children's...". I still listen to "This Is..." when I need a dose of Moody Blues. A brilliantly compiled set indeed. It's nice to see someone else appreciates it too.
What a pleasant surprise !! (But should've done this on a Tuesday, lol )
🚬😎
Haha I thought about it! :D
So glad you're doing this album, it's definitely one of the most influential early prog albums that laid the groundwork for important albums like "In the Court of the Crimson King" and later symphonic prog albums released buy Yes, ELP and Genesis in the early 70s. BTW the "Mary Green today's a queen" verse is just describing a little girl playing with her dolls in an orange box. The song is about how children can just enjoy the small things in life. They're in the "morning" of their lives when everything is new and fresh and seem to naturally take the time out to simply enjoy the moment. Contrast that with the constantly rushing and bustling adults in peak hour who often forget to take the time to stop and enjoy the moment. The concept of this album has a double meaning. It's not only describing the phases of a day, but also the different phases of a life: Dawn = Birth and infancy; Morning = Childhood; Peak Hour = Young Adulthood; Afternoon = Middle Age; Evening = Elderhood; Night = Death and Rebirth.
Not sure how I missed that notification. I love this album side to is even better than side one
I didn't get a notification either, @Dave King ...
That ‘arty philosophy’ would carry them through other albums to the point where many fans were looking to the group to philosophically inspire them, as if they had the answers to the cosmos. I guess you got to put it in the zeitgeist of the times. The Moody’s would be answering those who were looking for enlightenment from them in the song I’m Just a Singer in a Rock and Roll Band found on their album Seventh Sojourn.
The spoken word segments on all The Moody Blues albums were written by Graeme Edge and spoken by Mike Pinder.
The reason this album has so much orchestration is because it was commissioned by Decca to be a demonstration of stereo of a specific classical music piece with an orchestra combined with a rock band interpretation. It is the only album that has an orchestra The Moody Blues recorded. It’s already been explained how Peter Knight decided to “surprise” the Decca executives with a completely original work that would still be able to highlight the sound capabilities of classical and rock together using their “Deramic Stereo Sound. A very bold move on Peter Knight’s part. The album sold enough copies that The Moody Blues got to make their second album all on their own, so it certainly became a life changing event for The Moody Blues.
The long first section with orchestra is supposed to be similar to an Overture for a musical or opera, where the main musical themes of the musical or opera are first introduced. “West Side Story” had an orchestral overture, and the opera “Carmen” which you know is an operatic example. There are several overtures in theater and opera.
I also like “Dawn Is A Feeling” the most on Side 1. It’s so hypnotic.The song was written by Mike Pinder but he wanted Justin to sing the verses, and Mike sang the bridge, as you noted.
Great reaction, Justin! I’m really glad you went back to The Moody Blues. There is so much incredibly beautiful atmospheric music to discover and they rocked too. Their albums from DOFP to Every Good Boy Deserves Favour all have this ethereal, other worldly quality because of The Mellotron. They used a Chamberlin on Seventh Sojourn, which was also invented by the same person who invented the Mellotron.
The MB had 5 songwriters and 4 singers so there are a lot of different textures in their music. I loved it all when I discovered it but over the years have remained the most partial to Justin Hayward’s songs. They were quite magical though, as a collective unit, during their core 7 albums years, snd there are some real gems in their later, more commercial music as well.
I think this album was a VERY successful experiment. I have a fair amount of classical/popular music combinations by Deep purple, Rick Wakeman, ELP, Jeff Wayne and others. I think this one blends the two music styles the most successfully. By the way,I kind of felt "her palace is an orange box" perhaps refers to the girl's doll house where she imagines her dolls in a real life. Back in the 60s boys often played cowboys while girls were playing a scene that involved the home. It all fits well. Looking forward to side 2. Enjoy.
I'm only just over 8 minutes into this vid, and I'm cryin' like a baby. I have to stop and take a coffee & breakfast break.........and come back and try again later, and see if I can get through it without bawling!
Awe, dear heart…
@@-davidolivares Bless you for empathizing! I just now came back to try again, and just reading your comment caused the waterworks to break again.
Being highly sensitive has both its blessings, and its curses! Today, seems over the top for me. Must be the moon. (That's my excuse, and I'm sticking to it.)
Maybe I will just give myself permission to feel whatever comes up, and finish watching this reaction.
@@MissAstorDancer That's in tune with the message of this album, living in the moment, making the most of each hour, embracing life and what it holds.
I think its great that you can feel so connected to the music that way! Hope you enjoy the rest of it :D
@@1nelsondj Excellent observation!
Always a favorite! Thanks!
My pleasure!
Monster Hits, Nights In White Satin Beautiful song, especially the ending !! : )
And Tuesday Afternoon !!
And "The Mellotron" !!!! The keyboard of Prog !! : D
Great analyses, Justin. Just so you know, the opening is essentially an Overture, in which all of the songs to follow are given a glimpse.
The Moodies were in a class of their own and oddly rejected by Prog people. Ib 1973 they were second only to the Stones in album sales I believe.
There is a good video on You tube about the "Music Industry's War on the Moody Blues...
The story has it that they were supposed to record an arrangement on Dvorak's symphony to demonstrate the new recording techniques for their record label. Instead they recorded this theme album based on their live show. At this time they had almost ran to the end of their rope, having only few minor hits after "Go Now" such as "Boulevard De La Madeleine" which was a hit in The Mid-Europe and in The Nordic Countries. The complete change of musical change did the trick, obviously.
The 50th anniversary of the 1967 release was 2017 and their last tour. They had never played the whole album before. There was a gorgeous dvd video from Toronto made which included all the background screen video accompanying the songs. This was the first album meant to be played right through and was the story of the day in the life of one man. I first heard it at a college party 1972. We were all mesmerized. It’s best to listen on headphones with your favorite herb/beverage and candles. The Moodies are my favorite band. The drummer Graeme Edge is now retired and the two leads, Justin Hayward and John Lodge, continue solo tours. I went on all 5 of their Moodiescruises 2013-2019. They invited tons of other famous bands. Photo sessions, Q&As, and chances to stand next to them in the banquets! Things scheduled every hour. I’ve met them all over the years and collect all their music and memorabilia worldwide. Working on a price guide for their collectibles. 🥰🙏🏼🎶🎸🇬🇧🇺🇸
You really should listen to all of "Our Children's Children's Children", it is, in my opinion, their best album but shouldn't be listened to as single tracks.
My favourite, too! ✌💜
Oh, yes!
Probably my favourite too, especially side 2, ending with Watching and Waiting, a beautiful song and one of their best!
Oh my Justin, thank you so much for this. This album is one of my favorites.
Of course! Its been great so far
The beginning orchestral piece could also be considered the overture to the LP. And as you know, overtures contain elements of the entire body of work.
Possibly the first rock band to incorporate classical music and poetry. They repeated this idea on the next six albums and that makes them both legendary and unique.
What A Concept of a Rock n Roll Band adding Orchestral Sound to their Music back in the late sixties ! Who would Have Thunk That and to Last All this Time and I see No End in Sight in my Mind ! Great Band and a Great 👍 job with your reaction to not only Side 1 of this Album but also the 2nd Side of this Album in another reaction in there entirety 😊
Stunning Justin.. What a gorgeous side of music butty. That, and the orchestral start.. Superb. The arrangements of strings, and woodwind instruments.. Class Justin.
This is a stunning debut by the Moodies imho. ❤️
Great review butty, stunning side of music.. Roll on nx weekend butty. 😊
One of the first concept albums. Unforgettable.
Great job as always, Justin!
Thank you!
Alright! Glad you took a dive into this album!! Love it love it. I personally enjoy side 2 more. Looking forward to side 2 next week.
😋
Side two is simply stunning!
There’s a great story behind this album as related in the history of the Moody Blues. It was originally a demo record for new stereo technology. One side was a full orchestra playing classical music. The other side was the Moody Blues. When the orchestra’s producer heard the Moodies music he asked if they could just blend the two together. It was first released to the stereo demo bargain bins.
Very earnest, heartfelt, well-crafted and beautifully performed prog-lite. Sunday morning music with a cup of coffee at hand.
My all time favorite band. I’m going on my 6th Moodies cruise 1/28/23 with Justin Hayward and bands he invited. So fun!!! 🥰🎸🎶🥳
Afternoon, Justin. Dave from London. For me, demonstrating Stereo was The Name of The Game. I have never really considered this a proper Moodies album; there is too much imported orchestration that sounds like a 60s Ealing comedy soundtrack. Some nice songs (more so on side 2), but I feel that phase 2 of this band only really hit its stride with Children's Children, Lost Chord and my absolute favourite On The Threshold of a Dream. Justin's singing is pure nectar of course, and I've always been a fan of Mike's poems.
Correction: Graeme's poems!
mike just does the vocal of Graeme's poetry
I haven't listened to this album from start to finish in so many years. I'd forgotten how wonderful it is.
This album is seminal to prog/art rock and later albums introduced long form new age type songs through the first 7 albums. hard to overstate this breakthrough in one of the first truly stereo records from the 60's.
Another superb album.... they had a string of excellent albums in the late 60's early 70's....
I love that you hear the day… my 9 year old Aspie son loves this.
Now my own thoughts on the album.
It's probably not my favourite of theirs in their 50+ years of history, but it is very solid and a great reintroduction of the new line-up to the world at the time. For me, side two is the stronger collection.
It's funny that you should notice a similarity with the Beatles in "Another Morning." The bands were friends with each other, and the Moodies opened for them on one of the Beatles last UK tours. Mike Pinder and Ray Thomas would contribute to at least a couple of Beatles recordings, like "Fool on the Hill"--and Mike is on John Lennon's "I Don't Want to Be a Soldier."
It sounds like you may be listening to the 1967 original mix, which is great. Most CD reissues use the 1972 master, which has some elements missing. The original mix finally got its digital due back in 2017.
Great observation, all!
For people who may not know, the lineup of the Moody Blues which toured with The Beatles in late 1965 was the original with Denny Lsine and Clint Warwick, before Justin Hayward and John Lodge joined. There’s a photo of them all sitting at a large dinner table together, which can be found by searching for “Moody Blues Beatles.”
As for 'her palace is an orange box': That's one solid little-kid game of pretend right there. Who needs a full-on dollhouse when you can grab an empty box?
Thanks for playing this! From early in my music appreciation education. Good job, not breaking it up into songs.
I think the real MVP of side one is Peter Knight. Thanks for the reaction. Notice that the opening of the album is also the end of the album, the striking of a gong, but it's played back in reverse. The Moodies were one of my very favorite bands back in the 70s, and Every Good Boy Deserves Favor was the first album I ever bought with my own hard earned cash. I hope you do more Moody Blues reactions after Days.
They went on some tours where local US orchestras played with them live. They had so many offers that they could’ve played 365 days per year.
Wow JP... just when I finally get to a campground with decent wifi... I find this! So here I am sitting among the tall shady pines, at waters edge on a 93 degree day, and with ‘time’ on my hands enough to to indulge in this masterpiece! This could be a Forever Afternoon! Hope you enjoy and appreciate this iconic gem. Have a great day! One last thought here... I saw them do Peak Hour on video at some club in France and what a joy to see! Young hip folk dancing ‘go-go’ style to this? Just awesome. Ok, one more thing: “THE CORE 7”. DO THEM ALL!
Sounds like you're having a lovely day! Ty Glenn
Tex Avery's Merry Melodies, so it DID start with an "M".
Who's old enough to remember Silly Symphonies, or even older Happy Harmonies.
If it was Warner Brothers, I'm sure Carl Stalling did the musical production.
Haha I was close then!
Awesome record. I know it by heart ❤️! The Moody Blues are one of my favorite bands.
If it wasn't for my friend who turned me on to The Moody Blues, I only would've known them for their hits. Thankfully, I went to a concert with him and eventually went to 2 more. Got to see Patrick Moraz with them once too, which was incredible. Just a fun band to watch live.
I love the Moodies albums while Mike was still with them, I lose a bit of interest after that, his voice and Mellotron were such an integral part of the sound for me. Also to answer your question, pretty much all of the spoken word segments on the albums were written by Graeme!
Yes, and Graeme reads. And all the magnificent 7 had a kind of poetry contribution from him. If you continue chronologically you will notice.
I once read about the line "cold hearted orb that rules the night" and they were referring to television. Don't know where I read it anymore. But it's a hell of a statement.
Besides, anyone noticed that their song Cities is one of first environmental statements in pop music? Others were Jefferson Airplane (Rejoice, for example) or Doors (The End).
The poems that bookend DOFP, Morning Glory, and Late Lament, were written by the drummer, Graham Edge, and narrated by Mike Pinder. The main songwriters for each of the tracks: Dawn is a Feeling, Pinder, Another Morning, Ray Thomas, Peak Hour, John Lodge, Forever Afternoon (Tuesday?) Justin Hayward, the unlisted (Evening) Time to Get Away, Lodge, Sunset, Pinder, Twilight Time, Thomas, Nights in White Satin, Hayward.
The orange box castle, alluded to by Thomas, in Another Morning, is a nod to childhood imagination.
Really excited for "A Passion Play"
Thanks for this JP, I had forgotten how good the first side is, because the second side was always my favourite. Can't wait til next week when you listen to the second side.
Thank you!
when the Moodies are singing, the orchestra is not playing. that is the mellotron. the orchestra had 1 rehearsal session and was recorded on the second. Great discussion! hope you do their next album "on the threshold of a dream"
Threshold is the third album, the second is "In Search of the Lost Chord", but I love them both.
@@fordp69 oops my goof...cant believe i screwed that up
Justin a masterpiece, remember this was 1967! To combine classical and British rock music. With the additions of Justin Hayward and John Lodge to the Moody Blues changed music history! Justin poems are written and spoken by Graeme Edge the drummer. Nights is my favorite Tuesday Afternoon a close second .
That isn't like any classical music I've ever heard. It's more like kids TV theme / sixties progress documentary music.
@@Doupyourflies everyone is entitled to their opinion
This band had a torn affection for me, which while listening closely with yoos guys might change. Let me explain, I had another artist friend from school, more into jewelry and selling crafts and esoteric goods like jasmine soaps and such. He would play more Moody Blues than I liked but, if he hadn’t, I wouldn’t be enjoying this as much. Brings back sooo many memories.
I still communicate with this friend and recently he’s been trying to sell me back one of my early paintings.
:(
Peace and Mellotron memories Music
The classical elements are excellent. The recurring themes really help tie the concept songs together. However, Renaissance combined the rock and the classical better IMO. The band and the orchestra more or less play separately on this side. As the mellotron's influence increased over the next few albums the need for the orchestra diminished.
I can imagine people expecting a rock album being disappointed... Not me. My first love is classical music.
Days of Future Passed is the only MB album with an orchestra. They played every instrument themselves after this album.
I can't wait for the other side. Great analysis.
Ty Gemini!
@@JustJP Yw
Woot!! I have lots to say about this album. Will comment a bit later today! 👍🏾🍻
I'll be waiting! :D
@@JustJP Sorry for the delay in the commentary. Time got away from me.. typical! :P
Excellent commentary. I genuinely appreciate your thoughtfulness and care when evaluating music on your first listen. What is interesting to me is your willingness to go with the flow, whether a genre is your thing or otherwise.
I first heard the radio edits of Tuesday Afternoon and the longer Nights in White Satin on album oriented rock stations in the early 70s, not knowing the context of the album from which they came. I just thought that they were good songs. If you had asked me to name the band, or any of their other selections from their discography in the years that followed, I would have been stumped (shocking as I considered myself to be quite the music nerd back in the day).
Everything changed when I dated a lovely woman a few years back who introduced me to the album as a whole. Needless to say, it was on heavy rotation for months thereafter. As a progressive rock fan, this concept album scratched an itch I didn't even know I had. Even though the relationship with the lady didn't work out (we're still friends), Days of Future Past remains anchored to a period of my life that I will never forget.
"The Day Begins" is my favorite track on side one, though I love the other titles nearly as much. It is epic in scope, lyrically lush, and produced extremely well. The orchestra is on point, and as a guy near 60, the message of the song is not lost on me.
"...Faster than eyes could ever see" is the truth bomb that will hit you even harder when you revisit this album in a decade or so down the timeline.
Thanks for the upload, Justin. Looking forward to your reaction to side two, which will include some familiar territory, but with enhanced context. ;-)
Super Reaction JP. There are secrets about Day's of Future Passed that I wanted to add to my comment, but, it is much more fun to see if you catch on. You are very intuitive.
I've always understood it that Ray Thomas wrote the poetry
THanks Ken! :D
Graeme Edge wrote the spoken words and Mike Pinder spoke them.
subscribed !!!
I would hope that between now and next weekend when you wrap up this album, you do a little research into this album. I really think you would enjoy it. Thank you so much for doing this album, and hope you do more of their "core 7" albums.
BTW, I WILL BE TUNING IN NEXT WEEK FOR THE CONCLUSION!!!
Favourite album of theirs
I saw the Moodies in Detroit in 71. I just dig there music so much. The one thing that I'll always remember was how good the drummer Graeme Edge was. When you think of this band the drumming isnt high on peoples list. Saw them a few more times over the years. Never disappointed.!!!!
Hi Mickael ,Graeme was pretty praised in late 60s ,hé did in 67 fill in drums sit 26:33 for Beck s group in Rugby show ,Dunbar unavailable ,later in 68 hé did took place of his wife sisters husband ,Ginger Baker , for Clapton and Bruce in a Cream s show last tour ! .
As I'm sure you realized, "a day" is a metaphor for a life. Still matchless as an album and a journey.
there is an old fisherman's idea ... I heard many years ago .... when someone tells a fishermen ... " you didn't catch anything " .... and the fishermen says,, " I didn't say I was going out fish catching , .... I said I was going out fishing " ...in other words, don't want to catch anything, just want to fish and relax
.... now I'm remembering, ..... you know the theme to the Andy Griffith show .... the whistle ..... there are actually lyrics to that
My Mothers all time favorite group and her favorite album of theirs. Was brought up on Moody in my toddler days.... great stuff. First music I ever heard on a headphones.
The first LP I bought was their 3rd album, On The Threshold Of A Dream, which is just dripping with mellotron (no orchestra) and with truly magical songwriting. So when I tracked back to this album I was a bit put off at first by the very 1960s cinematic light orchestra and some of the musical theater style song writing. To my teenage ears back then it sounded maybe a bit dated. But now I recognise it as a milestone in the history of rock music recording and enjoy it for what it is. I still prefer the following few albums which are more typical of their sound (the incomparable Nights In White Satin and also the other typical Hayward song Tuesday Afternoon on side two of this one show the sort of thing they would go on to do), while retaining all the poetic and melodic signature elements found here.