1978 is a compilation of the early songs of New England before they hit with their debut self-titled major label release. This album contains the original versions of songs like "Hello Hello Hello", "Nothing to Fear", "Along Tonight", the Deep Purple inspired "Shoot", and of course the irresistible hit single "Don't Ever Wanna Lose You", all which made it to the first album, as well as "Searchin' " from their sophomore release Explorer Suite. Celebrating the then 20 year anniversary of the beginning of New England (this complilation was originally released in 1998) the original versions of these classic songs were made available, not quite as polished as they sounded on the Infinity/MCA releases, but they showed the direction the band was solidifying. The booklet in this release has full lyrics, band photos (live and in the studio) and a short essay-overall a very nice job on presentation.
The real reason to check this album out is the inclusion of previously never before released songs like "Candy", "I Will Be There", and "Even When I'm Away", all solid rockers with great vocal harmonies (which the band were so good at), driving guitar riffs, and Jimmy Waldo's rich mix of Hammond organ, piano, synths, and Mellotron. "I Will Be There" is a wonderful piece that mixes soaring harmonies and majestic theatrics that recall The Beatles and Queen, while "Even When I'm Away" starts out as a pastoral little ballad with lush acoustic guitars, light Mellotron strings, before John Fannon rips into the mix with a fiery electric guitar solo. Fans of rockin' power pop will totally dig "Candy", a song that has hints of The Beatles, The Rasberries, The Who, and Ambrosia, with deep harmony vocals, tasty guitar licks, and symphonic keyboards.
Unfortunately New England only recorded three studio albums before breaking up, but with the recent release of 1978 as well as the Greatest Hits Live set, there are now five New England albums available for your collection. All are must haves if you like soaring pomp rock with plenty of progressive rock and pop leanings.
Track Listing
1. Alone Tonight
2. Nothing To Fear
3. Candy
4. I Will Be There
5. Shoot
6. Don't Ever Wanna Lose Ya
7. Hello Hello Hello
8. Even When I'm Away
9. Searchin'
10. Turn Out The Light
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