Days of Future Passed
The Moody Blues' second album was also their first of what would be a succession of "concept" albums. Inspired by theBeatles'Sgt. Pepperand utilizing the London Festival Orchestra primarily for epic instrumental interludes between songs,Days of Future Passedmoved the Birmingham band away from its early R&B; roots (as displayed on its debut album with soon-departed futureWingsmember Denny Laine) into uncharted rock territory, making them the early pioneers of both classical and progressive rock. The concept of the 1968 release was very simple, tracing a day in the life from dawn to night, from awakening to sleep. The seven tracks spawned two hit singles--"Tuesday Afternoon" and "Nights in White Satin" (which hit No. 2 four years after the LP's original release) and a prog-rock cottage industry.--Bill Holdship