Five Concept Albums Based On Books

I’m a bit of a sucker for Lists. I mean reading lists – not creating them. I don’t even write a shopping list.( C’mon people, how hard is it ?)

Because I have relied heavily on music to ease me through these past seven months of Covid I’ve been reading more than my share of Lists. In no way mind expanding and generally in one ear and out the other, which sums up all I can deal with during these times…..

I’m borrowing this information from Steven G from Weekend Notes who is a listophile extraordinaire as well as ad libbing.

War Of The Worlds by Jeff Wayne (1978), based on War Of The Worlds by HG Wells (1898)

The two-disc album remains a bestseller, having sold 15 million copies worldwide. It has spawned multiple versions including video games, DVDs, and live tours. You’de have to be living under a rock not to be aware of this album.

Journey To The Centre Of The Earth by Rick Wakeman (1974), based on Journey To The Centre Of The Earth by Jules Verne (1871; English)

Can’t say too much about this one : it evokes memories of Saturday nights spent in beanbags drinking Blackberry Nip.

Diamond Dogs by David Bowie (1974), based on Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell (1949)

This album includes the hit song 1984, originally intended for a stage musical based on the novel, which was never produced because permission was refused by Orwell’s widow Sonia.

Animals by Pink Floyd (1977), based on Animal Farm by George Orwell (1945)

The album’s lyrics describe various classes in society as different kinds of animals: the predatory dogs, the despotic ruthless pigs, and the “mindless and unquestioning herd” of sheep. Described as “ the apparent social and moral decay of society, likening the human condition to that of mere animals”. Has there ever been a Pink Floyd concert which did not feature a flying pink pig?

Leviathan by Mastodon (2004), based on Moby Dick by Herman Melville (1851)

Songs  from this album, “Iron Tusk”, “Blood and Thunder”, “I Am Ahab” and “Seabeast”, were released as singles. Three magazines awarded the album Album of the Year in 2004 and in 2009 and 2015 MetalSucks named Leviathan the best metal album of the 21st century.

Might be time to listen to a little Dean Martin…………………..