Record Reviews

CHICAGO ~ LIVE AT 55 MERCURY 602465741728 (Barcode: 602465741728) ~ USA ~ Brass Rock Recorded: 2024 Released: 2024 This is a live album by the seminal American Brass Rock band ChicagoFind albums by this artist, recorded in November 2024, celebrating the 55th Anniversary of the release of the legendary debut album by the band in 1969. The 2CD album presents thirty-one tracks, which span the band’s output created over the years, including all the memorable material. Only three founding members of the group: keyboardist Robert LammFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Lee LoughnaneFind albums by this artist and trombonist James PankowFind albums by this artist are still part of the current band’s lineup, which includes newer members as well as a huge cast of guest musicians, including guitarists Steve VaiFind albums by this artist, Robert RandolphFind albums by this artist, Chris DaughtryFind albums by this artist and others. Although some of the new arrangements and the guest appearances sound often a bit schmaltzy, parts of the magic are still there and the music is of course timeless. Chicago defined the Brass Rock idiom completely and perfectly and no other ensemble managed to create as much creative music over the years. They were also superb instrumentalists, composers and arrangers, which set them apart from other Brass Rock manifestations. Of course Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist were also awesome, but they were completely different stylistically and conceptually, although definitely Brass Rock related as well. Overall, this is a retrospective snapshot of the essential Brass Rock ensemble, somewhat spoiled by contemporary American kitsch, but with over two hours of Godly music, this is definitely worth listening to, and shedding a tear in memory of the great times.

Updated: 06/01/2025Posted: 06/01/2025

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