Summary
Step aboard the starship of sound with ELO’s Greatest Hits, the 1979 vinyl classic from Electric Light Orchestra, released via JET Records (JET LX 525). This record isn’t just a gateway to ELO’s shimmering world of symphonic rock, it’s a treasure chest packed with their biggest and brightest anthems from the mid-70s explosion. From lush string arrangements to infectious hooks, this compilation illustrates why Jeff Lynne and his crew rode a rocket straight into rock ’n’ roll legend.

About the Artist
Formed in Birmingham, England, in 1970, Electric Light Orchestra (or ELO, for short) was originally conceived by Jeff Lynne, Roy Wood, and Bev Bevan as a project to pick up where The Beatles left off—merging pop songwriting with classical instrumentation. Their sound fused cello, violin, synths, and rock, earning a unique place in the decade’s music scene.

By 1979, ELO had shed its early experimental trappings under Lynne’s clear-eyed leadership and embraced a slick, pop-forward sound. Their ear for melody, dramatic arrangements, and futuristic production placed them firmly in the pantheon of 70s supergroups.

About the Record
ELO’s Greatest Hits is, quite simply, a parade of chart-toppers. Gathering singles from the band’s golden period (mainly 1973–1977), it spotlights their shift from quirky orchestral experiments to refined symphonic pop. Why does this matter? Because it documents that brilliant sweet spot: after their raw early records, before the disco-leaning 80s.The record has the original inner sleeve.

The album includes ten songs, all handpicked by Jeff Lynne himself. Instead of chronological order, he arranged the tracklist for maximum emotional impact. From the jubilant “Mr. Blue Sky” to the wistful strings of “Telephone Line,” every song shines with ELO’s signature blend of lushness and innovation. For vinyl fans, it’s a seamless, toe-tapping journey through ELO’s most dazzling years.

About the Cover
Jet Records paired the music with cover art that glimmers with ELO’s trademark, showing a medal with the  ELO logo.

About the Lyrics & Music
Musically, ELO’s Greatest Hits is where lavish, multi-layered arrangements rule. Each track sparkles with strings, synthesizers, and catchy, meticulously crafted hooks. Lyrically, Jeff Lynne gravitates towards love’s hopes and misadventures (“Telephone Line,” “Livin’ Thing”), but his playful wordplay and storytelling give even sadder songs a gleaming, optimistic undercurrent.

Standout tracks:
“Mr. Blue Sky” – A pop masterpiece often dubbed “the happiest song in the world.” Its driving piano and joyful harmonies have made it an enduring playlist favorite.
“Evil Woman” – This saucy, string-fueled stomp became an instant radio staple, featuring one of the most recognizable intros of the ’70s.
“Strange Magic” – Dreamy, psychedelic, and endlessly catchy—a showcase of Lynne’s Beatle-esque songcraft.
“Livin’ Thing” – A kinetic burst of energy, balancing lush orchestration with a rock backbeat.

Behind the scenes, Lynne was an early adopter of studio layering and effects, making musical magic happen with multitrack tape machines and experimental overdubbing. For audiophiles, this is a masterful slice of analog-era wizardry.

Conclusion
ELO’s Greatest Hits is more than a compilation—it’s a cosmic invitation to ELO’s most irresistible moments. Whether you’re an analog aficionado or a casual fan, spinning this record is pure audio joy. The production values, clever songwriting, and unashamed sense of fun all combine to make this album a vinyl must-have. Prepare for repeated plays; these hooks are built to last.

Other Recommendations
Craving more of that orchestral rock magic? Here are a few records to keep your turntable spinning:

ELO – Out of the Blue (1977): Their iconic double-LP and the source of “Mr. Blue Sky.”
ELO – A New World Record (1976): The band at their radio-ready best.
Queen – A Night at the Opera (1975): For those who love dramatic arrangements and pop grandeur.
Supertramp – Breakfast in America (1979): Another classic fusion of pop, prog, and studio wizardry.
So, dust off your stylus and get ready for a musical adventure. With ELO’s Greatest Hits, the magic of symphonic rock is alive and well—and never out of style.

For die-hard collectors and vinyl newcomers, this record is pure gold. Let it rocket into your collection and enjoy the journey!