On The Threshold Of A Dream is an album where the sum is better than the parts. There were no breakout songs or hit singles such as “Nights In White Satin” and “Tuesday Afternoon” from Days Of Future Passed, or “Ride My See Saw” from In Search Of The Lost Chord. Instead the music all hangs together and the songs need to be experienced as a whole rather than individually. Released in April of 1969, it would be the Moody Blues largest selling album to date and would reach number one in England.
It was another concept album from The Moody Blues. After exploring the themes of a day in the life of a person, and the journey of spiritual enlightenment, they now turned to dreams. While still maintaining their classical-rock fusion roots, they would move a little closer to what can be considered to be progressive rock. The lyrics were a little more obscure and open to interpretation than in the past, but the lush instrumentals maintained their other worldly quality. Of all their releases this one may have painted the best visual pictures.
Graeme Edge leads off the album in typical Moody Blues fashion. “In The Beginning” introduces the theme as he employs spoken lyrics again. It immediately establishes the mood of what will follow.
John Lodge continued his tradition of providing upbeat material. His “Send Me No Wine” and “To Share Our Love” can both be considered love songs hidden in rock structures, and Mike Pinder provides the lead vocal for the second tune which was rare for a Lodge composition. His songs would usually stand out as they tended to rock more than the material by the other members of the group.
Justin Hayward contributed two songs. “Lovely To See You” and “Never Comes The Day” are both melodic and feature his comfortable vocals. They tend to lull the listener and draw him or her into the sound.
Article comments
1 - tregardock
Graeme Edge's words do lead off the album. But as always, it is Mike Pinder doing the speaking.
2 - JANK
Pinder is the glue for the Moodies. Justin, John & Ray were in the forefront but Pinder with his ethereal touch was a key element in their first 7 albums. OTTOAD is a masterpiece!!!