Chicago - 16

Released in 1982

Chicago's album, 16, marked a decided transition away from their eclectic jazz/pop/rock of the 70's and towards their 80's ballad mastery. The band also underwent a restructuring behind the scenes, changing their record label (who they blamed for the failure of their last lackluster album) and bringing on a new producer. These two changes (among others) were essential, for the band sparked a new life and became a radio favorite once more, thanks largely to their timeless hit Hard To Say I'm Sorry.

On 16, Chicago removed the gospel influence that permeated throughout their last album and updated their jazzy light rock sound into the 80's. Although I've never been a fan of jazzy rock, and prefer Chicago's power ballads to their older work, the band performs with such zest and harmony on this album that I can't help but enjoy it.

Of course THE highlight of the album is:

• Hard To Say I'm Sorry – A smashing success in its time that still maintains steady rotation on many radio stations today. This lush ballad introduced us to the 80's Chicago that would place their emphasis on harmonic vocals, pleasing and rich melodies and sentimental lyrics.

Due to the strength of their hit Hard To Say I'm Sorry, Chicago rose back to relevancy and scored a Top Ten album. Their later albums would move further away from their jazzy light rock and place an even stronger emphasis on their power ballad mastery, but 16 remains an album that fans of the 80's Chicago can easily enjoy.

Rating: 6 stars

Track List What You're Missing Waiting for You to Decide Bad Advice Chains Hard to Say I'm Sorry/Get Away Follow Me Sonny Think Twice What Can I Say Rescue You Love Me Tomorrow

Additional Resources:

• XIV Review
• 17 Review
• 18 Review
• 19 Review

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