CHICAGO VIII

Taking a much more lightweight approach, this release feels like a breeze of air, relaxing music. The compositions are catchy and quite good although only 10% can be classified as jazz-rock or fusion. This is mostly a melodic soft rock with elements of funk, jazz soul, pop and even hard rock (Hideaway) with great guitar. Another standout is the promisingly titled "Brand new love affair pt.1 & 2" clocking at only 4 minutes but showing a great variety between jazz-rock to swinging rock. "Oh thank you good spirit" has a more focused songwriting.

Other tracks are OK but not developed/extended to the scope to keep the lasting impression. It was my first CD by Chicago I bought while still a teenager and I was quite impressed at that time. Nowadays I consider it an average Chicago album. 2.5 stars