The Moody Blues - Octave

Octave is the ninth studio album by British progressive rock band The Moody Blues, originally released in June 1978 via Threshold Records.

The Moody Blues first came to prominence playing rhythm and blues music, but their second album, Days of Future Passed, which was released in 1967, was a fusion of rock with classical music and established them as pioneers in the development of art rock and progressive rock. It has been described as a "landmark" and "one of the first successful concept albums". They became known internationally with singles including “Go Now”, “Nights in White Satin”, “Tuesday Afternoon” and “Question”. They have been awarded 18 platinum and gold discs. Their album sales total 70 million.

The classic band line-up settled in late 1966 with Justin Hayward (vocals, guitars), John Lodge (vocals, bass), Graeme Edge (drums, vocals), Ray Thomas (flute, harmonica, percussion, vocals) and Mike Pinder (vocals, keyboards).

Octave is their first release after a substantial hiatus following the success of the best-selling Seventh Sojourn in 1972. The album proved to be the last for the group with keyboardist Mike Pinder, who departed during the album's sessions, and declined an offer to tour with the group. Pinder would be replaced by former Yes keyboardist Patrick Moraz in time for their 1979 tour, beginning a new era in the band's history.

Octave would also be the final studio album from the band produced by Tony Clarke.

Octave was considered a departure from previous Moody Blues albums, mainly because of the group's use of lounge-style organs and synthesizers in place of a Mellotron or Chamberlin.

Real strings were used on three songs: "Under Moonshine" and "I'm Your Man" (both written by Ray Thomas), as well as "Survival" (written by John Lodge).

The album produced the hit single “Steppin' In A Slide Zone” which reached #39 on the US Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.

The album reached #6 on the UK and #13 on the US album charts, not achieving the same level of commercial success as its predecessor six years earlier. The album was released to a changed musical scene with the heavy influence of new wave, punk and disco reigning the singles charts.

This album is a 2018 reissue on 180 gram black vinyl housed in a gatefold sleeve with a printed insert, remastered audio and download code, pressed in Europe via Threshold Records.