THE GROOVEMAN'S COLLECTION

REVIEWS FROM MY VINYL COLLECTION

Day: September 8, 2021

CHICAGO – II

September 8, 2021 /

For those of you who are familiar with Chicago as being cheesy ballad heavy schmoozers’, you will not recognize the music played on this record. Originally called Chicago Transit Authority on their first record, that was shortened to just Chicago for this their second record in 1970.

This album is quite experimental in its execution, as the band are playing around with extended arrangements and sounds. However, there were two hit singles on the record: Make Me Smile, and the one everybody’s heard of, 25 or 6 to 4. The centrepiece for the whole album is Ballet For A Girl in Buchannon, which is split into seven pieces – a very ambitious adventure. 1970 was a very turbulent time in the US with Vietnam and segregation, and this album reflects that especially on It Better End Soon. Terry Kath was a bit of a guitar whizz of the time, and his playing is very tasteful and plays for the song, but when he let loose he sure could play.

This album is very much of its time, but it’s also great to hear how amazing this band were.

8.5/10 from The Grooveman.

THE BLACK CROWES – Shake Your Moneymaker

September 8, 2021 /

There seems to be a million and one bands playing this type of stripped back RnB style music now, but back in ’89 there were none to speak of. So when The Black Crowes burst on the scene they were somewhat a breath of fresh air. Hailing from Marietta, Georgia, this type of southern groove is imprinted in their DNA. Everyone has heard their rendition of Hard To Handle, as this was the track that blew up the band with heavy MTV rotation and constant radio play, but there is so much more to this record.

The focal point is the soulful vocal talents of Chris Robinson, and his guitar slinging brother Rich Robinson. There is also a heavy Stones influence all over this record, especially tracks like Jealous Again, which would not have been out of place on Sticky Fingers. There are two tracks I love, Strutting Blues and Mercy, Sweet Moan – these tracks are long drawn out jams when played Live.

They have only recorded eight full length albums over the 32 years they have been a recording band, and that is due to the endless feuding between the brothers. In the great scheme of things, it’s all a bit ridiculous and childish – but what do I know? The ultimate sinking rivalry. Don’t let that detract from the music though – this is a great record.

9/10 from The Grooveman.

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