Can the Flawed ‘Chicago VIII’ Be Saved by Its Deep Cuts?
Released 45 years ago today, ‘Chicago VIII’ found the band at a low creative ebb. But these five lesser-known songs make it worth a return visit.
Post Tagged with: "Chicago VIII"
Chicago, “Bright Eyes” from Chicago VIII (2002 reissue): Saturdays in the Park
A hidden gem, Robert Lamm’s Rhodes-driven “Bright Eyes” finally made it onto ‘Chicago VIII’ – but it took 27 years.
Chicago, “Sixth Sense” from Chicago VIII (2002 reissue): Saturdays in the Park
At times, it felt like subtraction by addition when Rhino re-released Chicago’s catalog with bonus tracks. “Sixth Sense” was one of the exceptions.
Chicago, “Old Days” from Chicago VIII (1975): Saturdays in the Park
Chicago closes out the nostalgia-concept second side of 1975’s ‘Chicago VIII’ with this upbeat, enjoyable catalog of “boyhood memories” that “seem like yesterday.”
Chicago, “Ain’t It Blue?” from Chicago VIII (1975): Saturdays in the Park
“Ain’t It Blue” was written in the spirit of Chicago’s early work and would easily fit on any of their classic, pre-Caribou Ranch records.
Chicago, “Long Time No See” from Chicago VIII (1975): Saturdays in the Park
Not traditionally Chicago in any way, “Long Time No See” proves that Robert Lamm could still come up with something unique when he was motivated.
Chicago, “Oh Thank You Great Spirit” from Chicago VIII (1975): Saturdays in the Park
Chicago is typically associated with horns, but “Oh Thank You Great Spirit” makes it clear that the rhythm section was the band’s heart and soul.
Chicago, “Harry Truman” from Chicago VIII (1975): Saturdays in the Park
One of the more unusual things Chicago ever recorded, “Harry Truman” could be considered a novelty song – but that doesn’t take away any of my enjoyment.
Chicago, “Till We Meet Again” from Chicago VIII (1975): Saturdays in the Park
Chicago’s “Till We Meet Again” is barely over two minutes long, and kindly labeled “filler.” Well-arranged filler, but filler nevertheless.
Chicago, “Hideaway” from Chicago VIII (1975): Saturdays in the Park
As Chicago’s “Hideaway” illustrates, Peter Cetera could and did rock. But was this the beginning of the end?
