The List of Electric Light Orchestra Albums in Order of Release

How many albums does Electric Light Orchestra have?

The discography of the English rock band Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) consists of 15 studio albums, seven live albums, 40 compilation albums, 13 video albums, 33 music videos, one extended play, 50 singles, one soundtrack album and eight box sets.

 

All Electric Light Orchestra Albums in Order: Check Out The List of  Electric Light Orchestra Albums in Order of Release Here!

Here is the list of Electric Light Orchestra Album in Order of Release Date 

1. The Electric Light Orchestra — December 1971
2. ELO 2 — January 1973
3. On the Third Day — November 1973
4. Eldorado — September 1974
5. Face the Music — September 1975
6. A New World Record — October 1976
7. Out of the Blue — 3 October 1977
8. Discovery — 1 June 1979
9. Xanadu — 11 July 1980
10. Time — 31 July 1981
11. Secret Messages — 24 June 1983
12. Balance of Power — 17 February 1986
13. Zoom — 12 June 2001
14. Alone in the Universe — 13 November 2015
15. From Out of Nowhere — 1 November 2019

 

All Electric Light Orchestra Albums List in Order

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1. The Electric Light Orchestra (1971)

Tracks

1. 10538 Overture
2. Look at Me Now
3. Nellie Takes Her Bow
4. The Battle of Marston Moor (July 2nd 1644)
5. First Movement (Jumping Biz)
6. Mr. Radio
7. Manhattan Rumble (49th Street Massacre)
8. Queen of the Hours
9. Whisper in the Night

The Electric Light Orchestra, ELO’s debut studio album, debuted in December 1971 via Harvest Records in the UK. In the US, it arrived in March 1972, under the title ‘No Answer,’ due to a comical mix-up. A United Artists Records executive left a message for ELO about the album’s name, but as he couldn’t reach the band, he wrote ‘no answer’ in his notes. This misunderstanding led to the album’s unintentional moniker. Despite the initial confusion, the album showcased the band’s distinctive blend of rock and classical elements, setting the stage for ELO’s future success as pioneers of a unique and iconic sound.

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2. ELO 2 (1973)

Tracks

1. In Old England Town (Boogie No. 2)
2. Momma
3. Roll Over Beethoven
4. From the Sun to the World (Boogie No. 1)
5. Kuiama

ELO 2, the second studio album by Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), debuted in 1973. Also known as Electric Light Orchestra II in the US, it marked the end of the band’s association with the Harvest label and the usage of the definite article “The” in their name for UK releases. This album was significant as it introduced the abbreviated name “ELO.” Showcasing the band’s innovative blend of rock and classical elements, ELO 2 continued to solidify their unique musical identity, laying the groundwork for their future success as one of the most influential and iconic bands in rock history.

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3. On the Third Day (1973)

Tracks

1. Ocean Breakup / King of the Universe
2. Bluebird Is Dead
3. Oh No Not Susan
4. New World Rising / Ocean Breakup (Reprise)
5. Showdown
6. Daybreaker
7. Ma-Ma-Ma Belle
8. Dreaming of 4000
9. In the Hall of the Mountain King

On the Third Day, the third studio album by Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), marked a significant transition for the band as it was their first record without Roy Wood’s involvement. Released in November 1973 by United Artists Records in the United States and on 14 December 1973 by Warner Bros. Records in the United Kingdom, this album also led to the omission of ‘The’ from the band’s name. Showcasing ELO’s evolving sound, the album achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. A reissue on 12 September 2006 further solidified its lasting impact on the music world.

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4. Eldorado (1974)

Tracks

1. Eldorado Overture
2. Can’t Get It Out of My Head
3. Boy Blue
4. Laredo Tornado
5. Poor Boy (The Greenwood)
6. Mister Kingdom
7. Nobody’s Child
8. Illusions in G Major
9. Eldorado
10. Eldorado Finale

Eldorado is the fourth studio album by ELO, released in September 1974 by United Artists Records in the US and Warner Bros. Records in the UK. Serving as a captivating musical journey, the album features a symphonic blend of rock and orchestral elements. Conceptually rich, Eldorado narrates a timeless tale of a dreamer seeking elusive treasures. With Jeff Lynne’s artistic brilliance as the driving force, the album’s orchestral arrangements and innovative soundscapes captivated audiences. Eldorado earned critical acclaim and solidified ELO’s reputation as a groundbreaking musical force during the height of the 1970s rock era.

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5. Face the Music (1975)

Tracks

1. Fire On High
2. Waterfall
3. Evil Woman
4. Nightrider
5. Poker
6. Strange Magic
7. Down Home Town
8. One Summer Dream

Released in September 1975 by United Artists Records (and in the UK by Jet Records on 14th November 1975), “Face the Music” marked Electric Light Orchestra’s (ELO) fifth studio album. Departing from the grand orchestral style of their previous album “Eldorado,” the record embraced a more accessible pop/rock sound while retaining prominent string sections. This shift resonated with audiences, making it the first ELO album to achieve platinum status. “Face the Music” showcased ELO’s musical evolution, cementing their position as one of the era’s successful bands, blending classical influences with radio-friendly tunes.

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6. A New World Record (1976)

Tracks

1. Tightrope
2. Telephone Line
3. Rockaria!
4. Mission (A World Record)
5. So Fine
6. Livin’ Thing
7. Above the Clouds
8. Do Ya
9. Shangri-La

A New World Record, the sixth studio album by Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), released in October 1976, marked a pivotal shift towards shorter pop songs that would shape their career. Recorded at Musicland Studios in Munich, the album proved to be a breakthrough for the band in the UK, becoming their first top ten album. Its global success earned multi-platinum status in the US and UK, selling five million units worldwide within a year. The album’s iconic cover featured the debut of the ELO logo designed by Kosh, which became a staple on subsequent releases. A New World Record spawned four hit singles, including “Livin’ Thing” and “Telephone Line.” Remastered and re-released in 2006, the album continues to captivate audiences.

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7. Out of the Blue (1977)

Tracks

1. Turn to Stone
2. It’s Over
3. Sweet Talkin’ Woman
4. Across the Border
5. Night in the City
6. Starlight
7. Jungle
8. Believe Me Now
9. Steppin’ Out

Released on 28 October 1977, “Out of the Blue” stands as the seventh studio album by the British rock sensation Electric Light Orchestra (ELO). Masterminded by the band’s frontman Jeff Lynne, this double album became a commercial triumph, earning its place among ELO’s most successful records. Boasting an exquisite blend of pop and classical influences, the album mesmerized audiences worldwide, amassing a staggering 10 million copies sold by 2007. With its timeless sound and captivating production, “Out of the Blue” remains a pivotal moment in ELO’s musical legacy, solidifying their status as one of rock’s enduring and acclaimed groups.

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8. Discovery (1979)

Tracks

1. Shine a Little Love
2. Confusion
3. Need Her Love
4. The Diary of Horace Wimp
5. Last Train to London
6. Midnight Blue
7. On the Run
8. Wishing
9. Don’t Bring Me Down

Discovery, the eighth studio album by Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), showcased their innovative blend of rock and pop with elements of classical music. Released on June 1, 1979, in the UK via Jet Records, it quickly climbed the charts, securing a prominent position. The album made its way to the United States on June 8 through Columbia Records distribution. ELO’s creative genius came to life in a music video album, featuring captivating performances by the band. Initially released on VHS in 1979, the video album was later included in the Out of the Blue: Live at Wembley DVD and VHS in 1998, captivating audiences with ELO’s exceptional artistry.

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9. Xanadu (1980)

Tracks

1. Magic
2. Suddenly
3. Dancin
4. Suspended in Time
5. Whenever You’re Away from Me
6. I’m Alive
7. The Fall
8. Don’t Walk Away
9. All Over the World
10. Xanadu

Xanadu, the soundtrack to the 1980 musical film starring Olivia Newton-John and Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), was released in June 1980 by MCA Records in the US and Jet Records in the UK. The LP featured Newton-John’s songs on one side and ELO’s on the other. Despite the film’s lackluster reception, the soundtrack achieved worldwide success and garnered acclaim from critics. It earned double platinum certifications in the US and Canada, with singles “Magic” and “Xanadu” reaching number one in the US and UK, respectively. Olivia’s duet “Suddenly” with Cliff Richard topped the charts in Belgium. The album ranked fifth among the most popular US soundtracks of 1981.

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10. Time (1981)

Tracks

1. Prologue
2. Twilight
3. Yours Truly, 2095
4. Ticket to the Moon
5. The Way Life’s Meant to Be
6. Another Heart Breaks
7. Rain Is Falling
8. From the End of the World
9. The Lights Go Down
10. Here Is the News
11. 21st Century Man
12. Hold On Tight
13. Epilogue

Time, the ninth studio album by Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), unleashed in July 1981 on Jet Records, delves into a captivating concept. The album revolves around a man transported from the 1980s to 2095, where he grapples with the clash between technological advancement and a yearning for past romance. Topping the UK Albums Chart for two weeks, Time received mixed reviews due to its extensive use of synthesizers and a stylistic shift from ELO’s customary orchestral rock. Nonetheless, it garnered a devoted following, especially among retrofuturist enthusiasts. Combining elements from various genres, including synth-pop, reggae, rockabilly, and more, Time remains a landmark concept album and a celebrated work of ELO’s discography.

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11. Secret Messages (1983)

 

Tracks

1. Secret Messages
2. Loser Gone Wild
3. Bluebird
4. Take Me On and On
5. Four Little Diamonds
6. Stranger
7. Danger Ahead
8. Letter from Spain
9. Train of Gold
10. Rock ‘n’ Roll Is King

Secret Messages, the tenth studio album by Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), debuted in 1983 under Jet Records. Noteworthy for multiple reasons, it marked the farewell of bass guitarist Kelly Groucutt, conductor Louis Clark, and the full orchestra from the band’s lineup. Additionally, Secret Messages concluded ELO’s collaboration with Jet Records, ending an era. The album’s significance extended further as it became the last ELO studio release to achieve worldwide success, securing a spot in the top 40 charts. Serving as a memorable milestone in the band’s history, Secret Messages remains a testament to ELO’s enduring musical prowess.

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12. Balance of Power (1986)

Tracks

1. Heaven Only Knows
2. So Serious
3. Getting to the Point
4. Secret Lives
5. Is It Alright
6. Sorrow About to Fall
7. Without Someone
8. Calling America
9. Endless Lies
10. Send It

Released in 1986, “Balance of Power” marks the eleventh studio album by the Electric Light Orchestra (ELO). This album holds a unique distinction as it is the final one to showcase the drumming talents of co-founder Bev Bevan, and also the last to feature significant contributions from keyboardist Richard Tandy. The band’s signature blend of pop and classical arrangements continues to shine through in this album. With its rich musical tapestry and innovative soundscapes, “Balance of Power” serves as a testament to ELO’s enduring legacy as one of the most influential and beloved rock bands of their time.

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13. Zoom (2001)

Tracks

1. Alright
2. Moment in Paradise
3. State of Mind
4. Just for Love
5. Stranger on a Quiet Street
6. In My Own Time
7. Easy Money
8. It Really Doesn’t Matter
9. Ordinary Dream
10. A Long Time Gone
11. Melting in the Sun
12. All She Wanted
13. Lonesome Lullaby

Zoom is the twelfth studio album by the renowned British symphonic rock band, Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), marking its release on 12th June 2001 under Epic Records. This album is of significant importance as it marks ELO’s first official release since their 1986 album, ‘Balance of Power.’ Led by the talented musician and producer Jeff Lynne, the album showcases the band’s signature fusion of rock and orchestral elements, captivating listeners with its dynamic soundscapes and timeless melodies. ‘Zoom’ stands as a triumphant return, reaffirming ELO’s enduring legacy and their ability to continue captivating audiences with their innovative musical style.

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14. Alone in the Universe (2015)

Tracks

1. When I Was a Boy
2. Love and Rain
3. Dirty to the Bone
4. When the Night Comes
5. The Sun Will Shine on You
6. Ain’t It a Drag
7. All My Life
8. I’m Leaving You
9. One Step at a Time
10. Alone in the Universe
11. On My Mind

Alone in the Universe: Released on 13 November 2015, this thirteenth studio album by British rock band Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) marked the return of new original material credited to the group after a hiatus since their disbandment in 1986. Credited to Jeff Lynne’s ELO, the album’s moniker was a response to ELO tribute bands using the name for their own tours. Met with generally favorable reviews, it peaked at number two on the Billboard Top Rock Albums and number four on the UK Albums Chart, earning a Platinum certification. This successful comeback was followed by the release of ‘From Out of Nowhere’ on 1 November 2019.

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15. From Out of Nowhere (2019)

Tracks

1. From Out of Nowhere
2. Help Yourself
3. All My Love
4. Down Came the Rain
5. Losing You
6. One More Time
7. Sci-Fi Woman
8. Goin’ Out on Me
9. Time of Our Life
10. Songbird

From Out of Nowhere is the fourteenth studio album by the iconic British rock band Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), also credited to Jeff Lynne’s ELO. Released on 1st November 2019 through Big Trilby and Columbia Records, it marked the band’s return to the studio after a four-year hiatus. The album showcases Jeff Lynne’s musical prowess as he played most of the instruments himself, while keyboardist Richard Tandy made a significant return as a permanent member, despite featuring on only one track. The lead single, “From Out of Nowhere,” was released on 26th September 2019, adding to ELO’s legacy of timeless rock classics.

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