Jeff Wayne's Musical Version of The WotW (1978)
I don't personally regard every song on Jeff Wayne's début concept album to be perfect in itself, but when considered as a whole I feel it's a masterpiece of adaptation, design (including artwork) and aural joy. It's an album I've loved for 30+ years.
Actor Richard Burton narrates the story, based on H. G. Wells' famous 1898 novel; his euphonious baritones are perfectly suited to the work.
Completing the magic are a String and Prog Rock accompaniment, together creating a sweeping aura that carries the listener on a stirring, emotional journey. The changes in tone and dramatic intensity move it seamlessly from ominous to propitious, from elation to woe, all the while able to satisfy people in search of storytelling just as much as people in search of music. It's a work of art that's rich in imagery, content, and 1970s style.
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