Disco de The Moody Blues: “Classic Hits Unplugged”

On this CD, Justin Hayward sings the lead vocals on six of the tracks, and those six make this CD worth it. The other singers are awful, so just skip those tracks and enjoy Justin singing rare new and beautifully orchestrated Moodies hits like "In My World" and "Blue World" and "Running Water". All six songs are those that you'll rarely hear him sing live. This was all recorded back in 1994, and at first, Justin's people said that Justin was tricked into doing the lead vocals. Originally brought on to do "backing tracks" for other singers, Hayward was initially shocked that the disc was released with his vocals dominant on six songs. In fact, the vocals do seem a bit soft and whimpy for Justin, hence the original backing tracks. Still, the companies worked something out, and the last I heard was that Justin was "ok" with the project. A good buy for any Moodies/Justin Hayward fan.

I have this album packaged slightly differently. Mine is "Classic Moody Blues Hits performed by the Classical Rock Orchestra featuring Justin Hayward and friends." It has an orange and black cover, but otherwise seems to be the same. The previous reviewer is right, the Justin tracks are well worth it. Especially Blue World and Blue Guitar. The "friends" tracks are decent, but just not Justin! The orchestration is quite good as well, very reminiscent of the live concerts when they play with the full orchestra. After waiting 13 years to hear them play Blue World in concert, this album was a site for sore eyes! I'd recommend it to any good die hard Moodies fan!

Realize that the people who bash Michael Sadler have never taken the time or effort to either appreciate or simply become acclimated to his completely unique singing style. His contribution on 'New Horizons' is exceptional in my opinion - but remember that I am a big fan of Saga (as well as HUGE fan of Moodies). That being said, I cannot seem to develop an appreciation for the other guy from the Southern Rock band. If you're a Hayward fan - pick this one up. The Rock Symphony is a nice touch on some excellent Moodies tunes.

I must say that ALL the songs sung by Justin are EXCELLENT. So teh four satrs go all to him! However, the other people who are singing on teh CD are terrible. Buy the CD for Justin. Rumor has it that Justin himself has NEVER gotten paid for this CD. But it is OK.

I have the 'other' CD that another reviewer has, the red & black cover CD. This one has four more tracks than the other one, but yes.. Justin's singing on the CD takes the cake, the other two are just horrible. If you're an avid Moody Blues fan, you should buy it anyway, Justin's on it. :)