David Foster designed 1986’s Chicago 18 to be our introduction to Jason Scheff, but Bill Champlin continued his emergence as a force to be reckoned with.
Champlin’s two writing contributions fit Chicago, with “It’s Alright” providing a path away from the middle-of-the-road malaise the band found itself in. “I Believe” isn’t as strong as Champlin’s contributions on 1984’s Chicago 17 (“Please Hold On” should have been a single) or his songs on 1991’s Twenty 1, but it’s better than “Come In From the Night” from 1988’s Chicago 19.
“I Believe” also supports my premise that Bill Champlin and Jason Scheff were a better vocal pairing than Champlin and Mr. Glory of Love. When Champlin is allowed to flex his vocal arranging muscles, magic results. Such is the case in “I Believe.”
The harmonies are gorgeous, as Scheff’s verses and chorus sparring with Champlin creates goosebumps. The song soars, despite the synth bass. Danny Seraphine’s drum program builds in power as the track continues, making it one of his best on Chicago 18.
Michael Landau provides the melodic guitar phrases and power chords that dance with the Jeremy Lubbock string arrangement. The Chicago horns? Robert Lamm’s keyboards and vocals? They were given the day off. But Bill Champlin’s songcraft and David Foster’s production, along with Humberto Gatica’s mix, go on to win the day. I do believe.
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