Though 1974's ELDORADO is subtitled "A Symphony by the Electric Light Orchestra" and features both a portentous spoken-word prologue and an instrumental finale, this album marks Jeff Lynne's final break from classical-rock fusion in the Emerson, Lake & Palmer sense. Though there're a handful of recognizable lifts from classical and romantic composers, particularly in the swelling opening of "Boy Blue" and the grandly-titled "Illusions in G Major," most of the orchestral arrangements here are in service to Lynne's increasingly accomplished pop songs. One of those is "Can't Get It Out of My Head," a classic '70s pop ballad and FM radio staple that's among Lynne's very best work. Though this was the only hit single on ELDORADO, the rest of the album is nearly as strong. "Laredo Tornado," a Lennonesque mid-tempo strut recalling ELO's earlier hit "Showdown," is a particular standout. Worldwide superstardom was just around the corner.
01 Eldorado overture 02 Can´t get it out of my head 03 Boy blue 04 Laredo tornado 05 Poor boy (the greenwood) 06 Mister kingdom 07 Nobody´s child 08 Illusions in g major 09 Eldorado 10 Eldorado finale 11 Eldorado instrumental medley (Bonus track) 12 Dark city (Bonus track)