The Chi-Lites: Eugene Record (lead), Robert "Squirrel" Lester (tenor), Marshall Thompson (baritone), Creadel "Red" Jones (bass).
Additional personnel: T.C. Anderson (bass).
Liner notes by Robert Pruter.
The Chi-Lites: Eugene Record, Creadel Jones, Robert Lester, Marshall Thompson (vocals).
Additional personnel: T.C. Anderson (vocals).
Engineers: Bruce Swedien, Craig Barksdale, William Bradley.
Includes liner notes by Nate Wilson and Kevin Goins.
One of Chicago's finest, the Chi-Lites blazed bright during the late '60s and early '70s, with several soul and pop hits that have retained their luster through the years. Amidst a sea of slick Philly International smashes and late gold from Stax, Hi, and Motown, the Chi-Lites found their niche with the smooth grit of singer and frontman Eugene Record's nicely layered charts. Showing their wide-ranging touch, the band ably handles a mix of quiet storm ballads ("Have You Seen Her," "Oh, Girl"), topical funk ("(For God's Sake) Give More Power to the People"), and summery convertible classics ("Stoned out of My Mind"). With Rhino's 18-track hits collection taking in these and several other of the group's Brunswick label highlights, there's plenty of rich harmonies, tasty instrumental work, and vintage beats to go around. An essential soul package. ~ Stephen Cook
