Underappreciated ELO Hits: Why 'Cant Get It Out Of My Head' and 'Telephone Line' Rank High

Electronic Lore, commonly known as ELO, has carved out a unique place in the annals of rock and progressive pop music. While many of their hits are well-known and loved, some songs remain underappreciated despite their profound impact on listeners. 'Cant Get It Out Of My Head' and 'Telephone Line' are two such examples. These tracks, rich in reminiscent charm and timeless appeal, offer a depth that continues to draw fans and critics alike.

Introduction to ELO

Electronic Lore, or ELO as they are more commonly known, were a British rock and pop band formed in 1970. The band was initially led by Stig Anderson, a former manager of ABBA, and featured Eric Powell and Richard Tandy. ELO's distinctive sound is a blend of psychedelic rock, progressive rock, and a touch of orchestral pop, distinguishing them from other bands of their era.

The Reign of 'Cant Get It Out Of My Head'

'Cant Get It Out Of My Head' was a pivotal hit for ELO, released in 1978. This song journeyed the globe, making ripples in both the UK and US charts. Despite its success, the track has often been overshadowed by other ELO classics like 'Livin' Thing' and 'Mr Blue Sky.'

The song's catchy melody and poignant lyrics have a way of sticking in one's mind, influencing the title of this article. It is a truly fantastic song, a testament to the band's ability to craft memorable tunes. Its success in various regions, including the UK (reaching #13 in the UK charts) and the US (peaking at #15), highlights its universal appeal. The song holds a special place in the hearts of longtime fans and has been performed live numerous times, capturing the audience's attention with its enduring quality.

A Sonic Delight: 'Telephone Line'

While 'Cant Get It Out Of My Head' reached the pinnacle of ELO's success, 'Telephone Line' is another gem that deserves more recognition. This track, featuring Eric Idle on vocals, marked a significant departure from the group's usual sound, incorporating a blend of pop and orchestral melodies.

The title track from ELO's 1976 album 'Out of the Blue,' 'Telephone Line' has a unique charm and persists in the minds of listeners. Its simple yet effective melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a standout in the band's discography. The song's breezy, almost classical feel sets it apart from other tracks, showcasing ELO's versatility in composing both pop and orchestral songs. Despite this, it has often been left in the shadows, overshadowed by more upbeat tracks like 'Ace of Spades.'

Why These Songs Deserve More Credit

Both 'Cant Get It Out Of My Head' and 'Telephone Line' are often overlooked, yet they are two of ELO's most undervalued hits. There are a few reasons behind this underappreciation.

Brilliance in Unexpected Places

These songs stand out for their unexpected brilliance. 'Cant Get It Out Of My Head,' while extremely catchy, carries a deeper emotional resonance that is not immediately apparent. It is a song that can resonate on multiple levels, from catchy pop to a poignant personal narrative. Similarly, 'Telephone Line' offers a rare pop/rock melting pot that is both fresh and timeless, reflecting ELO's evolution and creativity.

Timeless Appeal

Both tracks are characterized by their timeless appeal. They remain relevant even today, bridging the gap between their era and modern audiences. This is a testament to the enduring quality of the music, and it speaks to the staying power of ELO's ability to craft songs that not only entertain but also evoke emotion.

Need for Discovering Hidden Gems

The underappreciation of these songs also comes from a broader cultural context. It is a common phenomenon where fan communities focus more on a band's most famous hits and overlook the broader discography. This is often due to the ease of access to popular tracks via streaming services and the biases inherent in the music industry's promotion strategies.

Conclusion

While ELO is celebrated for classics like 'Ace of Spades' and 'Livin' Thing,' it is time to give due credit to 'Cant Get It Out Of My Head' and 'Telephone Line.' These underappreciated hits not only display the band's versatility and musical talent but also offer a unique listening experience that deserves the recognition it has long deserved. Rhino Handmade's Saul Ewing, to some extent, has helped restore some of this recognition, but the full extent of these songs' brilliance has yet to be fully appreciated by a wider audience.