Search - Chicago :: V

The beginning of the end of that unique "Chicago sound"

Don O. | Canada | 12/28/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"From their first three studio recordings, it was evident that Chicago had broken ground with its unique sound of brass and rock guitar. "Chicago V" continues with the style that features well-written and tightly-played arrangements by trombonist James Pankow. The brass choruses are complemented by guitar solos from the late Terry Kath and the driving rhythm of drummer Daniel Seraphine. The songs remain true to the anti-establishment 'protest' spirit that characterized their earlier works. Just listen to the lyrics of "Dialogue," "State Of The Union" and "While The City Sleeps." The mood is broken only by "All Is Well" and the commercially successful "Saturday In The Park."After "Chicago V," the group's songs would take a more commercial, "mellow rock" mood and strings would be added to the strong brass section. The shift was business-driven, not artistically motivated. Later albums would no longer have that exciting "Chicago sound." Peter Cetera would pen many of the group's later commercial hits, but none would come close to their earlier output, either artistically or musically. Interestingly enough, the group's songs from the first three albums always get the most enthusiastic response from audiences during their concerts.The sound quality on this CD is very good.Get "Chicago V" only if you want to ensure their original sound for posterity (the fourth one is a "live" album recorded at Carnegie Hall)."

A Strong Effort from Top to Bottom

R. Angeloni | Northern California, USA | 05/16/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"By the time Chicago V came out in 1972, Chicago had already put out three double albums, as well as the live "Carnegie Hall" set. While most groups would be taxed out creatively, Chicago, with Chicago V, shows that it still had much to offer.
There really isn't a weak song on this CD, with songs such as "A Hit By Varese," which allows each band member to take an extended solo (great rock/jazz fusion) and a good selection of politically-charged music, "Dialogue," which features Peter Cetera and Terry Kath, "While the City Sleeps," and "State of the Union." Of course, the mega-hit, "Saturday in the Park," is also included.
Chicago V is one of Chicago's better efforts. The album is a testament to the fact that these guys were truly great musicians, and, while they repeatedly get trashed for being too "commercial," they really did put out some wonderful music."

Hits in all Ways

Slo Basting | Memphis, TN USA | 07/27/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD represents the band's last album before being tamed into the pop band reputation that collared them. Saturday in the Part and Dialogue respresent the only releases you might hear on the air. Hit By Verese is along the lines of Introduction from the CTA CD. The piece allows each brass member to demonstrate their talents and permits some unconventional guitar riffs from Terry Kath."All is Well" represents a smooth ballet that forshadows the soothing tones of some works the band released on later CDs and provides a nice transition to "Now that You're Gone""Now That You're Gone" provides a strong driving force with the excellent sax improvs from Walt Parazaider. Releasing tracks like this would have provided the band more diversity in its following."Dialogue" is a timeless song about social justice. A recurring theme in much of the band's work..especially Robert Lamm's (listen to his solo efforts)."While the City Sleeps" has a mean, cruel, real sound to it and provides the perfect contrast to the ensuring "Saturday in he Park", which has a "free and easily" aura.State of the Union, again is a song about speaking out about social problems. The brass section has some very impressive licks here.The last two songs, Good Bye and AlmaMater, wind down the CD in a peaceful manner.This CD is Chicago at their best. The music has the raw edge that gave them their distinction and is blended well with the soft melodies that gave them airtime."