Roy Wood wrote a letter which was printed in the Melody Maker in 1974 and is reproduced as follows:-

'EXCITING ELO' - BY ROY WOOD.

After reading MM’s review on the Electric Light Orchestra at Drury Lane Theatre. I can honestly say I’ve never read such a load of self indulgent cocky reporter’s s--- in all my life.

I took some time off from recording to go to the concert and feel that I can probably look at it with more of an objective view than anyone else, having once played with this band. When they are quoted as being a “singles band” obviously you haven’t heard the “Eldorado” album which, in my eyes, could be the most exciting work since “Sgt Pepper”.

And to say also that they are pretentious, with no spirit of adventure, makes me feel that this bloke must have gone to the wrong theatre. The criticism of the string section was grossly unfair. It seemed to enlarge on the fact that they were “whirling celli over their heads” (which incidentally they only did towards the end of the show), rather than explaining that they are actually fine musicians.

The unbelievable violin solo by Mik Kaminski, wasn’t once mentioned. He ended up playing “Orange Blossom Special” at 100 miles per hour, while leaping round the stage on one leg like a raving loony. Well that’s entertainment, folks.

And how about telling everybody what nice songs Jeff Lynne is writing now, and how well he, and new bass player Kelly, sang them? Oh yes - Richard Tandy’s name was once mentioned, but you forgot to tell everybody that he was actually playing intricate chorus and orchestral parts simultaneously, which for want of another word, could only be described as absolutely breathtaking.

What a shame the reviewer has bad ears. It was the best show I’d seen by any group for ages, whih plently of excitement and good humour. Reporters beware - don’t wait until they become the biggest band in the land, and write nice things about them just because it’s the “IN” thing to do. Clean yer bloody ears out and listen to “Eldorado”.

ROY WOOD.