Album Info
| Artist: | Chicago |
| Album: | Hot Streets |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | Australia, 1978 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Alive Again | 4:17 |
| A2 | The Greatest Love On Earth | 3:43 |
| A3 | Little Miss Lovin' | 4:32 |
| A4 | Hot Streets | 5:12 |
| A5 | Take A Chance | 4:35 |
| B1 | Gone Long Gone | 3:55 |
| B2 | Ain't It Time | 4:08 |
| B3 | Love Was New | 3:32 |
| B4 | No Tell Lover | 4:15 |
| B5 | Show Me The Way | 3:18 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
"Hot Streets," released in 1978, marks a significant chapter in the discography of the band Chicago. This album is notable for being the first release after the tragic death of guitarist and vocalist Terry Kath, a founding member whose influence had been pivotal in shaping the band's sound. The album also represents a shift in the band's lineup and musical direction, as it was the first to feature guitarist Donnie Dacus.
Produced by Phil Ramone, "Hot Streets" diverges from the jazz-rock fusion that characterized Chicago's earlier work, leaning more towards a pop-rock sound. This change was partly a response to the evolving musical landscape of the late 1970s, as well as the band's desire to explore new creative avenues. The album's production is polished, with Ramone's influence evident in the crisp arrangements and radio-friendly sound.
One of the standout tracks on "Hot Streets" is "Alive Again," which served as a declaration of the band's resilience and ability to move forward after Kath's passing. The song's upbeat tempo and optimistic lyrics resonated with fans, and it became a Top 20 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Another notable track is "No Tell Lover," a smooth, romantic ballad that showcases the band's signature horn section and vocal harmonies. This song also achieved commercial success, reaching the Top 40.
The title track, "Hot Streets," is an energetic number that highlights the band's instrumental prowess, particularly the brass section, which had always been a defining feature of Chicago's sound. Donnie Dacus's contributions on guitar and vocals are prominent throughout the album, adding a fresh dynamic to the band's established style.
Critically, "Hot Streets" received mixed reviews. Some critics appreciated the band's willingness to evolve and experiment with a more mainstream pop-rock sound, while others lamented the departure from the complex, jazz-infused compositions of their earlier work. Despite the mixed critical reception, the album was a commercial success, reaching No. 12 on the Billboard 200 chart and eventually achieving platinum status.
"Hot Streets" holds cultural significance as it represents a period of transition and resilience for Chicago. The album's release demonstrated the band's determination to continue making music despite the loss of a key member. It also reflects the broader trends in the music industry during the late 1970s, as many bands were adapting to the changing tastes of audiences and the rise of pop and rock as dominant genres.
In terms of awards, "Hot Streets" did not garner any major accolades, but its commercial performance and the success of singles like "Alive Again" and "No Tell Lover" helped maintain Chicago's presence in the music scene during a challenging time.
Overall, "Hot Streets" is a testament to Chicago's adaptability and enduring appeal. While it may not have the same level of critical acclaim as some of their earlier albums, it remains an important part of their catalog, capturing a moment of transformation and perseverance. The album's blend of pop sensibilities with the band's trademark horn arrangements continues to resonate with listeners, making it a noteworthy entry in the history of Chicago's music.