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Moody Blues

• 1964 - formed as a blues-based band
  • their early hit ("Go Now," #10 in 1965) was blues-oriented
• after two albums (Go Now--Moody Blues #1 and The Magnificent Moodies), two original members departed
  • added Justin Hayward & John Lodge
  • just as important, the band purchased a Mellotron which became their signature sound generator (played by keyboardist Mike Pinder)
• Pinder's favorite song was Ellington's "Mood Indigo"
  • he was replaced by Patrick Moraz in 1978
• the core quartet has remained together since 1967--4 decades!!
  • Ray Thomas - flute & vocals
  • Justin Hayward - guitar & vocals
  • John Lodge - bass & vocals
  • Graeme Edge - drums
• 1968 - released Days of Future Passed, a concept album recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra
  • The Day Begins
  • Dawn: Dawn Is a Feeling
  • The Morning: Another Morning
  • Lunch Break: Peak Hour
  • The Afternoon: Forever Afternoon (Tuesday?)
  • Evening: A Time To Get Away
  • Evening: The Sun Set
  • Evening: Twilight Time
  • The Night: Nights In White Satin
  • Late Lament
• rather superficial attempt at art rock - orchestra provides overture and transitions between rock band songs, with very little concurrent interaction

Dawn is a Feeling

by Michael Pinder

Dawn is a feeling, a beautiful ceiling,

The smell of grass just makes you pass into a dream.

You're here today, no future fears,

This day will last a thousand years.

If you want it to.

 

You look around you, things they astound you,

So breathe in deep, you're not asleep open your mind.

You're here today, no future fears, …

Most art rock musicians utilize a concept of "classical music" that is over 75-100 years old!!

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