LP SEALED JUSTIN HAYWARD SONGWRITER 1977 DERAM DES-18073 ORIG PRESS NOT CUTOUT

$

35

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"Songwriter" is the debut solo studio album by Justin Hayward, the lead singer, guitarist, and primary songwriter for The Moody Blues, released in 1977 on Deram Records (a subsidiary of Decca). This album came during a period when The Moody Blues were on hiatus, allowing individual members to pursue solo projects.

Here's a brief summary of the LP:

• Context: After the immense success of The Moody Blues throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, the band took a break in 1974. This provided an opportunity for Hayward, who was responsible for many of their most iconic songs ("Nights in White Satin," "Tuesday Afternoon," "Question"), to explore his own musical ideas outside the band's established sound.

• Musical Style: Classic Hayward Melodies, Lighter Touch: "Songwriter" is instantly recognizable as a Justin Hayward album, largely due to his distinctive voice and melodic songwriting. The style leans heavily into soft rock, melodic pop, and folk-rock, with a generally more laid-back and acoustic feel than The Moody Blues' more symphonic and progressive rock approach.

  • Acoustic Focus: While there are electric instruments and orchestral flourishes, the acoustic guitar often takes center stage, reinforcing the "songwriter" aspect of the title.
  • Lush Arrangements: Despite the lighter feel, the album still benefits from tasteful arrangements, incorporating strings and subtle keyboards, often reminiscent of the Moodies' more gentle moments.
  • Romantic and Introspective Lyrics: The themes are typically introspective, often focusing on love, relationships, travel, and personal reflection, delivered with Hayward's characteristic sincerity and poetic touch.

• Key Tracks:

  • "Raised on Love": A catchy, upbeat pop-rock track that gained some radio play.
  • "Country Girl": A more folk-tinged tune.
  • "Tightrope": An atmospheric ballad that highlights his vocal range and emotional depth.

• Production: The album was produced by Martyn Ford, with arrangements by various individuals including Ford, Ken Freeman, and Paul Buckmaster. The production is clean and allows Hayward's voice and melodies to shine.

• Legacy: "Songwriter" is a beloved album for many fans of Justin Hayward and The Moody Blues. It confirmed Hayward's strength as a solo artist and demonstrated that his melodic gifts were not solely dependent on the band's collective sound. It's an excellent listen for anyone who appreciates well-crafted, melodic soft rock.

LISTEN   “Raised on Love”

• 1977 LP Released on Deram Records # DES-18073 (Stereo).    .
• This is a Sealed Gatefold Album and will Provide you with Brilliant Sound Quality from your Player. Shrink separation on top edge and has seam splits on parts of upper edge. (See Photo). No cut out marks.