2nd Incarnation of Chicago
Lonnie E. Holder | Columbus, Indiana, United States | 10/30/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Rating this CD requires one to rate it on the basis that this was the 2nd incarnation of Chicago that musically was very different from the first Chicago. So, let's say that this is the greatest hits from Chicago II, and rate it on that basis.
Great ballads, lots of Peter Cetera, and occasionally horns to remind you of Chicago I. Truly these songs are greatest hits. Truly these songs are very mainstream, middle-of-the-road pop/rock.
You will recognize nearly all if not all songs on this CD. Most of them got a lot of airplay and were top 40 or top 10 and even #1 songs. The fact that all these songs are classified as adult contemporary music (read pop) should tell you everything you need to know about these songs.
These songs are highly polished, well produced, well sung. These songs represent the best of Chicago II's output. You could go purchase the albums from which these songs came, but you might also be disappointed. Save your money and stick with this album. My recommendation is that if you like pop, and you like ballads, go buy this CD and do not read beyond this point.
Now that I've rated the CD, I can make a comment regarding Chicago I and Chicago II. The group that made this album is not the same group that created "Chicago Transit Authority" and Chicago II, III, IV, ad infinitum. The original Chicago had a killer horn section that gave a jazz flavor to Chicago's rock. Chicago had some progressive rock, some tunes that were very jazzy, and some plain old rock. This group loved to experiment and while perhaps hoping for commercial success, wasn't falling all over itself to obtain it. They did their own thing. So if you liked the old Chicago, and aren't into George Michael and Peter Cetera and others that sing that type of music, this is the wrong CD for you!
This particular CD is a reissue. The original is still being sold. Before you buy this particular version you may want to see what other versions are available, the features they have and their current price.
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