4 Fantastic and Unforgettable Album-Closers by Electric Light Orchestra
Electric Light Orchestra created one of the most remarkable catalogs of the classic rock era, featuring a mix of symphonic arrangements and powerful rock. Jeff Lynne’s unique approach, blending classical influences with rock energy, set the band apart throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
The Art of Album Endings
Lynne’s exceptional production and often underappreciated songwriting gave ELO a consistent supply of strong material. Across fifteen studio albums, the band produced numerous unforgettable closers that perfectly wrapped up their records. Among them, four stand out for their brilliance and emotional resonance.
“Out of the Blue” and Creative Renewal
During the making of Out of the Blue, Lynne overcame a period of creative stagnation and delivered a truly ambitious double album. It brimmed with musical variety and cohesive energy despite its rapid creation. The final track, Wild West Hero, brings the album to a stirring conclusion.
“Wild West Hero” ends the whole thing on an epic note. It centers on a theme that resonated with Lynne, that of the everyday Joe who imagines himself in a more vibrant life.
This theme of ordinary dreams also appeared in ELO’s acclaimed 1974 album Eldorado. The song’s saloon-inspired piano, played by Melvyn Gale—usually the band’s cellist—adds charm to the piece. Gradually, the composition rises from soft verses to powerful choruses, with Lynne’s vocals surrounded by a lush musical whirlwind. Around the same time, fans joked that the next album, Discovery, could be read as “Disco-Very”.
Author’s Summary
ELO’s masterful integration of orchestral sounds and rock instincts made their album closers, especially “Wild West Hero,” timeless demonstrations of Jeff Lynne’s creative vision.