Toto, “Home of the Brave” from The Seventh One (1988): Toto Tuesdays
Toto’s “Home of the Brave” isn’t just a song. It’s the storming crescendo of 1988’s ‘The Seventh One.’
Toto’s “Home of the Brave” isn’t just a song. It’s the storming crescendo of 1988’s ‘The Seventh One.’
Musically, Chicago’s “Song of the Evergreens” is brilliant. Where the disconnect occurs are the vocals.
Sometimes, favorites jump out and grab you – and other times, as with Toto’s “These Chains,” they sneak up and catch you unaware.
Part of the appeal of Chicago’s “Lifesaver” is that it’s fun – a stark contrast to the pretentious seriousness of 1973’s ‘Chicago VI.’
Chicago’s “Hanky Panky” shows a versatility at Peter Cetera’s instrument for which he never truly receives due credit.
“Mushanga” isn’t merely a great Toto song; it’s a veritable drum clinic from the late Jeff Porcaro.
Over time I’ve grown to love other Toto songs more, but “Stop Loving You” from 1988’s ‘The Seventh One’ remains a sentimental favorite.
Other than the hits, 1973’s ‘Chicago VI’ often feels like bologna: lots of filling but the real meat is questionable at best. This deep cut is an exception.
If ‘Chicago VI’ had opened with “Jenny” instead of “Critic’s Choice,” the album might be held in higher regard than it is today.
“Could This Be Love” introduced Joseph Williams as Toto’s new lead vocalist, even as it laid the foundation for a return to greatness on ‘The Seventh One.’