Up until ‘Toto IV,’ the vast majority of Toto ballads had been written by David Paich. Steve Lukather’s “I Won’t Hold You Back” changed the paradigm.

“Make Believe” is one of the reasons I’m still longing for the day that Toto and Chicago tour together.

Toto’s fourth album represented a major investment for Columbia Records after ‘Hydra’ and ‘Turn Back’ failed to reach the heights of the band’s debut.

Toto’s “If It’s the last Night” doesn’t hit the heights of “A Million Miles Away,” but it’s an effective ballad. Unfortunately, it’s not an effective album closer.

“Turn Back” stands the test of time well on its own, and elevates Toto’s third album – even though it was miscast.

Of David Paich’s four songs on Toto’s ‘Turn Back,’ the Steve Lukather-sung “I Think I Could Stand You Forever” is the most varied. But does it work?

Nick DeRiso also recognizes Steve Hackett, Bob Dylan, Neal Schon, Ringo Starr and others in this Best of 2015 list focusing on pop and rock.

Preston Frazier’s Non-Jazz Best of 2015 list also includes Shemekia Copeland, Grupo Fantasma, Luke Reynolds, Public Service Broadcasting, the Westies and others.

“Goodbye Elenore,” the Side 2 opener and first single, reaches an intensity not seen again on Toto’s ‘Turn Back.’

Steve Lukather was typically Toto’s go-to guy for ballads, but this David Paich gem shows he’s not the only one who can handle more emotional fare.