ELO 2 cover

ELO 2

Electric Light Orchestra · 1973

124 min · 23 tracks · pop rock

A vibrant fusion of orchestral arrangements and rock sensibilities, traversing the realms of art rock and symphonic melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    In Old England Town (Boogie No. 2) Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
  • →
    Roll Over Beethoven — This track exemplifies ELO's innovative approach by merging rock with classical motifs, effectively bridging two distinct genres into one cohesive piece.
  • →
    Kuiama — An epic composition that blends narrative storytelling with lush orchestration, showcasing the band's ambition and complexity in songwriting.
  • →
    Showdown — With its catchy melody and energetic performance, this track highlights ELO's pop-rock appeal while maintaining their characteristic orchestral flair.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic exploration with peaks
  • wave-like pacing for immersion
  • vibrant orchestral arrangements
  • long-form listening commitment
  • engaging instrumental interludes

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer short, standalone tracks
  • seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album marked a significant evolution in ELO's sound, establishing their identity.
Themes
orchestral rock fusion· narrative storytelling
Career context
Released in 1973, ELO 2 was Electric Light Orchestra's second studio album, following their self-titled debut. This album marked a significant evolution in their sound, incorporating more complex orchestral elements and a wider range of musical styles, setting the stage for their rise to prominence in the mid-1970s.
Stylistic neighbors
Yes· The Moody Blues· Genesis
New to Electric Light Orchestra? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 In Old England Town (Boogie No. 2) Start here 6:57
  • 2 Momma 6:59
  • 3 Roll Over Beethoven 7:03
  • 4 From the Sun to the World (Boogie No. 1) 8:18
  • 5 Kuiama 11:21
  • 6 Showdown 4:11
  • 7 In Old England Town (instrumental) 2:43
  • 8 Baby I Apologise 3:42
  • 9 Auntie (Ma-Ma-Ma Belle) (take 1) 1:19
  • 10 Auntie (Ma-Ma-Ma Belle) (take 2) 4:03
  • 11 Mambo (Dreaming of 4000) (take 1) 5:02
  • 12 Everyone's Born to Die 4:40
  • 13 Roll Over Beethoven (take 1) 8:16

Disc 2

  • 1 Brian Matthew Introduces ELO 0:22
  • 2 From the Sun to the World (Boogie No. 1) (BBC session) 7:25
  • 3 Momma (BBC session) 6:57
  • 4 Roll Over Beethoven (single version) 4:35
  • 5 Showdown (take 1) 4:18
  • 6 Your World (take 2) 4:55
  • 7 Get a Hold of Myself (take 2) 4:43
  • 8 Mama (take 1) 4:59
  • 9 Wilf's Solo (instrumental) 3:39
  • 10 Roll Over Beethoven (BBC session) 7:40

What to play next

On the Third Day
Listen next

On the Third Day

1973

Continues the orchestral rock fusion with more adventurous arrangements.
The Electric Light Orchestra
Go back to

The Electric Light Orchestra

1971

Sets the stage for ELO's evolving sound and orchestral style.
Full Electric Light Orchestra discography Where to start with Electric Light Orchestra Artists like Electric Light Orchestra
pop rock progressive rock

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Days of Future Passed

Days of Future Passed

The Moody Blues

Combines orchestral arrangements with rock, creating a narrative experience through lush soundscapes.

Fragile

Fragile

Yes

Shares complex compositions and intricate arrangements, blending progressive rock with symphonic elements.

The Kick Inside

The Kick Inside

Kate Bush

Features dramatic storytelling and rich instrumentation, merging pop sensibilities with art rock influences.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata