The Chi-Lites (Live)

Album review

The ingenious creativity of Eugene Record was the driving force behind the Chi-Lites, and on this album Record maintained the same savvy. The first single was ironically the last song on the album, "Stoned Out of My Mind." This mid-tempo number is introduced with a animated string arrangement which yields to Record's colorful falsetto as he addresses the spellbinding lyric. The string arrangement re-surfaces throughout the song. The single reached the number two spot on the Billboard R&B charts after 16 weeks. The follow-up single was the rockin' "I Found Sunshine." Paced by a thick, electric guitar, Record strolls his way through this cheerful number. It cracked the top 20 at 17 after 14 weeks. The third single was "Homely Girl," which resembles a country tune accented by horn antics heard in a big top circus or carnival. The lyric and Record's delivery enhance an already impressive arrangement. It climbed all the way to number three on the Billboard R&B charts inside 17 weeks.
Record's penmanship and production skills can only be commended. Aside from the mature lyrical content on most of his work, Record was also a master at taking riddle-like lyrics and conveying a sound message as well. "Go Away Dream" is a good example. With its pretentious lyric and sprightly rhythm, Record tailors the single with a splendid string and horn arrangement (as he does with "Stoned Out of My Mind"). Record utilizes his undeviating falsetto once again on this fairytale-based single. From his harmonious vocal arrangements to his exquisitte string and horn arrangements, Record makes every selection here worthy.

© Craig Lytle /TiVo