Chicago - 18

Released in 1986

Lead vocalist Peter Cetera was largely responsible for some of the most memorable tracks on Chicago's prior album, 17, so when he left the band shortly thereafter there was some doubts concerning Chicago's future. These doubts were quickly laid to rest when 18 was released two years later; Chicago proved that it was still a contender in the 80's music scene, and the departure of their talented former lead singer wasn't about to remove the luster from their golden career.

Cetera was replaced by new bassist/vocalist Jason Scheff, who was a great replacement choice. Of course one of Chicago's greatest strengths was that it has always shared vocal duties among the various members (i.e., Robert Lamm), so the entire burden for the new album's success wasn't placed solely on the shoulders of Scheff; though even had it been I suspect Scheff would have been more than capable.

Some of the album's highlights are:

Niagara Falls – This wasn't one of the band's best-known hits, but it was a fantastic pop-rocker that deserved more recognition than it received.
If She Would Have Been Faithful – If it's one thing Chicago could do with one hand tied behind their backs, it was craft lush ballads. This is another of Chicago's most popular songs, though it has been criticized by some as being a bit too saccharine.
Will You Still Love Me? – It should come as little surprise by now that yes, this highlight also happens to be a sentimental ballad. A darn good one at that.

Chicago's 18 is a remarkable album that should be thoroughly enjoyable for any 80's fan. Although I think 18 fell just a bit short of their previous crowning achievement, 17, I still heartily recommend it to pop-rock and power ballad fans.

Rating: 8 stars

Track List

Niagara Falls
Forever
If She Would Have Been Faithful
25 or 6 to 4
Will You Still Love Me?
Over and Over
It's Alright
Free Flight
Nothin's Gonna Stop Us Now
I Believe
One More Day

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