Articles by: Bob Helme

Chicago, "Loneliness Is Just a Word" from Chicago III (1971): Saturdays in the Park

Chicago, “Loneliness Is Just a Word” from Chicago III (1971): Saturdays in the Park

Robert Lamm’s sophisticated deep cut recalls a period when Chicago was one of the preeminent jazz-rock ensembles – not just a rock band with horns.

Chicago, "Memories of Love" from 'Chicago II' (1970): Saturdays in the Park

Chicago, “Memories of Love” from ‘Chicago II’ (1970): Saturdays in the Park

“Memories of Love” is both an oddity and a perfect fit for ‘Chicago II.’

Chicago, “Poem for the People” from 'Chicago II' (1970): Saturdays in the Park

Chicago, “Poem for the People” from ‘Chicago II’ (1970): Saturdays in the Park

Chicago will be excellent throughout the Terry Kath years, but rarely, if ever better than this deep cut. “Poem for the People” is the sound of a band that can do anything and do it well.

Chicago, "South California Purples" from Chicago Transit Authority (1969): Saturday in the Park

Chicago, “South California Purples” from Chicago Transit Authority (1969): Saturday in the Park

In the ’70s, Chicago came very close to their original goal of becoming the ‘American Beatles.’ It all starts here.

Chicago, "Listen" from Chicago Transit Authority (1969): Saturdays in the Park

Chicago, “Listen” from Chicago Transit Authority (1969): Saturdays in the Park

I love the horn section’s raw sound on ‘Chicago Transit Authority.’ As time went by, Chicago smoothed that sound out – but not here.