Electric Light Orchestra - Secret Messages (2LP)

"Secret Messages" is the tenth studio album by the British rock band Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), released in June 1983 by Jet Records. The album was initially conceived as a double album but was ultimately released as a single LP due to record company constraints. This decision led to the exclusion of several tracks, which were later released as B-sides or on subsequent compilations.

The album was recorded primarily at Wisseloord Studios in Hilversum, the Netherlands, and was produced by ELO's frontman Jeff Lynne. "Secret Messages" is notable for its use of digital sampling and the Fairlight CMI, an early digital synthesizer and sampler, which was cutting-edge technology at the time. This gave the album a distinctive sound that blended ELO's signature orchestral rock with more contemporary electronic elements.

The title track, "Secret Messages," opens the album with a blend of rock and electronic sounds, featuring cryptic lyrics that hint at hidden meanings and coded messages. This theme of secrecy and hidden messages runs throughout the album, both in the lyrics and in the music itself. For instance, the song "Loser Gone Wild" includes backward masking, a technique where a message is recorded backward onto a track, which was a popular topic of intrigue and controversy in the 1980s.

"Bluebird" is one of the standout tracks on the album, showcasing Jeff Lynne's knack for crafting catchy melodies and lush arrangements. The song features a soaring chorus and intricate harmonies, making it a quintessential ELO track. Another highlight is "Four Little Diamonds," a rock-oriented song with a driving beat and memorable guitar riffs, which became a minor hit in the United States.

"Stranger" is a more introspective track, with a melancholic melody and reflective lyrics. The song's arrangement includes a mix of acoustic and electronic instruments, creating a rich, layered sound. "Danger Ahead" is another notable track, with its upbeat tempo and infectious energy, reminiscent of ELO's earlier hits.

One of the more experimental tracks on the album is "Train of Gold," which features a blend of rock, pop, and electronic elements. The song's complex arrangement and production showcase Jeff Lynne's innovative approach to music-making. "Rock 'n' Roll Is King," the album's closing track, is a straightforward rock and roll number that pays homage to the genre's roots. The song was released as a single and became a hit in several countries, including the UK, where it reached the top 20.

The album's cover art, designed by David Costa, features a surreal image of a cityscape with various objects and symbols hidden within it, reflecting the album's theme of secret messages. The inner sleeve includes a collage of photographs and artwork, adding to the album's mysterious and enigmatic vibe.

Upon its release, "Secret Messages" received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the album's production and innovative use of technology, while others felt it lacked the cohesiveness and impact of ELO's earlier works. Despite this, the album performed well commercially, reaching number 4 on the UK Albums Chart and number 36 on the US Billboard 200.

In the years since its release, "Secret Messages" has gained a cult following among ELO fans, who appreciate its experimental nature and the high quality of its songwriting and production. In 2018, a remastered version of the album was released, including several of the tracks that were originally intended for the double album, giving listeners a more complete picture of Jeff Lynne's original vision for the project.

Overall, "Secret Messages" stands as a testament to Electric Light Orchestra's ability to evolve and experiment with new sounds while maintaining their distinctive musical identity. It remains an intriguing and enjoyable listen for both longtime fans and newcomers to the band's music.