"All in all, I think these tracks are quite amazing because neither Roy or me had any idea how to approach this project, we just got on with it." Jeff Lynne, 2006

"I would have to say that together, Jeff and myself made my original dream into a reality. If I am to be honest, I sincerely love him for it." Roy Wood, 2001

THE ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA: 1970 - 1972

Roy Wood's ambitious plan to augment The Move into a ten-piece ensemble named the Electric Light Orchestra was realised on this debut album. Released as 'No Answer' in America due to a miscommunication with the band's US label, this first ELO album was produced by Jeff Lynne and Roy Wood. The core trio of Lynne, Wood, Bev Bevan, augmented by Bill Hunt and Steve Woolam, approach the music alternatively like a hard rock band attacking a song and a string ensemble playing chamber music.

Recording a rock band using classical and acoustic instrumentation as opposed to hiring experienced session musicians was proving a gruelling experience for all involved. There simply was no precedent for what Roy Wood and Jeff Lynne were attempting at the time. Wood in particular found himself tackling an ever-expanding list of instruments as classically trained musicians proved unwilling to embrace their new concept and join the group. The lengthy gestation of the album saw sessions dragging on as Lynne and Wood were forced to endlessly overdub sounds in pursuit of their dream.

The US edition of 'No Answer' is different to EMI's UK release from 2001. Selected songs are newly remastered, four bonus tracks are included and though it does not include multimedia or '10538 Overture' promo video, the booklet is repackaged and in full-colour with new commentary from Jeff Lynne (Roy Wood's notes are the same as EMI's edition) plus in-depth sleeve notes by ELO archivist Rob Caiger.