CHICAGO [AKA: CHICAGO II]

Though there are definite signs of the band moving toward a more pop-oriented audience, the internal resistance is on full display with the inclusion of many experimental instrumental pieces and sections--the greatest of which is, of course, the side-long "rock symphony," "It Better End Soon." To be able to keep convincing their label company--which was the market-leaders, Columbia, and who had a big budget for experimentalist artists and albums--to release another double album--especially in light of all of the instrumental material they had--and three multi-movement suites!!!--is nothing short of remarkable. Though not a fan of Side One, I have always loved the "Make Me Smile" suite that is (and, to me, always will be) Side Two. And then, of course, there is the classic, "25 or 6 to 4" which is, IMHO, one of the greatest pop-rock songs ever despite harboring one of the greatest extended guitar solos of all time. And I love the classical "Memories of Love" suite that follows. As for Side Four's rock symphony--which I love--it actually makes for great background music for parties--in the same way that Sly & The Family Stone, War, and The Isley Brothers do. All in all, this album is a crowning achievement of the full expression of the ultimate potential of a rock band. Would that all bands were as broadly curious and intrepidly courageous.