Chicago XXX

When Chicago exploded onto the music scene with their stellar 1969 double-LP debut, Chicago Transit Authority, the band's innovative fusion of up-front horns in a rock 'n' roll context and impeccable pop sensibilities was an instant smash. Chicago rank among the all-time most successful American rock group. On their 30th album, and first new studio album in 10 years-the band's songwriting mastery and world-class musicianship shines on a collection of tracks ranging from signature ballads to funked-up grooves to solid rockers.

On their first studio album of the millennium, the horn rock progenitors continue to mine the pop ballad vein that's been their stock in trade since the '70s. The fiery, jazz-rooted brass arrangements that were their original signature continue to take a back seat to slick pop constructions (or disappear entirely on the opening single mix of the album's harmony 'n' electro-rhythm-driven "Feel"), even as they add a sense of familiar integrity throughout. Their continued focus on pop vocal riches is ably aided on the winning ballad "Love Will Come Back" by country stars Rascal Flatts and pushed in a more contemporary r&b vein via the sultry guest vocals of Shelly Fairchild on "Why Can't We." Yet Chicago still manages to conjure an impressive range of musical energy and dynamics throughout, from the spare, neo-classicism of "King of What Might Have Been" (featuring the deft harmonies of guest Joseph Williams) and pop-precious "Caroline" to the muscular energy of "90 Degrees and Freezing" and Caribbean flavored "Come to Me, Do." --Jerry McCulley