Containing as it does a curiously redundant version of the Move gem "Do Ya" (which Jeff Lynne wrote four years ago) along with a package of songs that rather reechoes ELO's material from the last couple of years, the cynic might regard A New World Record as the work of a creative person (Lynne) in the process of stealing from himself. A more generous observer (myself for instance) might view this gentle treading of the creative waters as merely temporary—the workings of a band, now peaking in popularity, that is attempting to supply audiences with exactly the sound they want to hear. Whatever your personal disposition, if you liked Face the Music and Eldorado, you'll like this one just as much. Lynne has always been rather deft with the melodic hook, and both "Livin' Thing" and "So Fine" are irresistible additions to his list of catchiest tunes. Numbers like "Mission (A World Record)" and "Shangri-la" continue the history of classy orchestral stylings that really rock, and Lynne's dominant vocals are as effectively foggy as ever. As expected, the production is lavish and the musicianship more than adequate to fulfill Lynne's Procol Harum-ish visions. By Christmas, A New World Record should be a staple in a million homes. (RS 228)

ALAN NIESTER