Moody Blues

Label: Deram
Country: UK
Released: 1969
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Release Overview

The Moody Blues' fourth studio album, On The Threshold Of A Dream, was released on April 25, 1969, under the Deram label. This album represents a continuation of the band's exploration into the realms of rock music infused with psychedelic and symphonic elements. The recording took place at Decca Studios in West Hampstead in early 1969, with production led by Tony Clarke and engineering by Derek Varnals, assisted by Adrian Martins.

Concept and Themes

On The Threshold Of A Dream is a conceptual album that delves into themes of dreams, religious inquiry, and personal liberation. The track listing unfolds in a manner that suggests a journey through these themes. Side one opens with "In The Beginning," which sets the stage for the lyrical exploration that follows. Justin Hayward contributes "Lovely To See You," a song that encapsulates the band's melodic rock style. Ray Thomas's "Dear Diary" and John Lodge's "Send Me No Wine" further enhance the album’s narrative focus.

Musical Composition

The second side of the album culminates in Mike Pinder's symphonic three-part suite, which includes "Have You Heard? (Part 1)," the instrumental piece "The Voyage," and "Have You Heard? (Part 2)." This suite showcases the band's use of orchestral instruments, such as the Mellotron and flute, which add a rich layer to the soundscape. The combination of these elements marks a distinctive approach within the rock genre at that time.

Artwork and Presentation

The album features gatefold artwork, which was designed to enhance the listening experience. A lyric booklet accompanies the vinyl, and the cover painting is attributed to artist Phil Travers. This attention to visual detail complements the album's thematic elements and reflects the band's commitment to a holistic artistic expression.

Band Lineup

The Moody Blues during this period consisted of Justin Hayward, John Lodge, Mike Pinder, Ray Thomas, and Graeme Edge. Each member's contributions are integral to the album's cohesive sound. This lineup helped define the band's unique style, blending rock with orchestral influences.

The album topped the UK Albums Chart following its release.

Tracklist

A1	In The Beginning Written-By – Edge*
A2	Lovely To See You Written-By – Hayward*
A3	Dear Diary Written-By – Thomas*
A4	Send Me No Wine Written-By – Lodge*
A5	To Share Our Love Written-By – Lodge*
A6	So Deep Within You Written-By – Pinder*
B1	Never Comes The Day Written-By – Hayward*
B2	Lazy Day Written-By – Thomas*
B3	Are You Sitting Comfortably Written-By – HaywardWritten-By – Thomas
B4	The Dream Written-By – Edge*
B5	Have You Heard? (i) Written-By – Pinder*
B6	The Voyage Written-By – Pinder*
B7	Have You Heard? (ii) Written-By – Pinder*