Chicago cover

Chicago

Chicago · 1970

67 min · 23 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of rock, jazz, and orchestral elements that captures the spirit of early 70s experimentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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    Movin' In Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Make Me Smile — This track showcases Chicago's signature horns and features a memorable melody that helped define their sound, becoming a staple in live performances.
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    25 or 6 to 4 — This iconic song combines compelling lyrics about late-night creativity with an unforgettable horn arrangement, solidifying its place in rock history.
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    Colour My World — A poignant ballad that highlights the group's softer side, featuring heartfelt lyrics that resonate with themes of love and longing.
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    It Better End Soon (1st Movement) — Opening this ambitious suite, it represents the band's progressive approach by blending different musical styles into a cohesive narrative.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends rock and jazz with orchestral elements, showcasing strong compositions and arrangements.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate orchestral arrangements, particularly in the transitions between sections, creating a layered sound.
  • The final three tracks are part of a multi-movement suite that shifts in tempo and mood, providing a cohesive thematic conclusion.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • layered, dense sonic textures
  • gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album solidified Chicago's reputation with hits and a polished sound.
Themes
late-night introspection· horn-driven melodies
Career context
Released on January 26, 1970, 'Chicago' was the band's self-titled second album, following their successful debut 'Chicago Transit Authority.' This album marked a transition toward a more polished sound and broader commercial appeal, helping to establish Chicago as a leading force in rock music.
New to Chicago? Find your way in →

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Make Me Smile

    The lyrics shift from introspection about personal struggles to a triumphant declaration of hope and resilience.

    This transition captures a journey from despair to upliftment, showcasing the songwriting's emotional depth.

Tracklist

  • 1 Movin' In Start here 4:06
  • 2 The Road 3:10
  • 3 Poem for the People 5:34
  • 4 In the Country 6:36
  • 5 Wake Up Sunshine 2:33
  • 6 Make Me Smile 3:15
  • 7 So Much to Say, So Much to Give 1:11
  • 8 Anxiety's Moment 1:00
  • 9 West Virginia Fantasies 1:33
  • 10 Colour My World 2:59
  • 11 To Be Free 1:15
  • 12 Now More Than Ever 1:25
  • 13 Fancy Colours 5:12
  • 14 25 or 6 to 4 5:00
  • 15 Prelude 1:09
  • 16 A.M. Mourning 2:05
  • 17 P.M. Mourning 1:58
  • 18 Memories of Love 3:58
  • 19 It Better End Soon (1st Movement) 2:33
  • 20 It Better End Soon (2nd Movement) 3:41
  • 21 It Better End Soon (3rd Movement) 3:18
  • 22 It Better End Soon (4th Movement) 0:56
  • 23 Where Do We Go From Here 2:48

What to play next

Chicago III
Listen next

Chicago III

1971

Continues the vibrant fusion of genres with more ambitious arrangements.
The Chicago Transit Authority
Go back to

The Chicago Transit Authority

1969

Introduces the band's unique sound and sets the stage for their evolution.
Full Chicago discography Where to start with Chicago Artists like Chicago
jazz fusion pop rock soft rock

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Child Is Father to the Man

Child Is Father to the Man

Blood, Sweat & Tears

Shares a similar blend of rock and jazz with rich horn arrangements and introspective lyrics.

Can't Buy a Thrill

Can't Buy a Thrill

Steely Dan

Combines polished rock with jazz elements and intricate harmonies, for late-night listening.

Toulouse Street

Toulouse Street

The Doobie Brothers

Features lush arrangements and a mix of rock and jazz influences, capturing a vibrant late-night vibe.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata