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Styx - 1977 The Grand Illusion
Background 'The Grand Illusion' could be considered Styx's commercial breakthrough album. Released in 1977, the band from Chicago had released many albums beforehand, but their best move was to bring onboard a youthful guitarist in Tommy Shaw, who had made his introduction with Styx the year before on 'Crystal Ball'. Though a commercial success, the album still contains many grandiose moments, and when compared to their 'Pieces Of Eight' album the following year, it would be considered lightweight at best. The Songs Dennis De Young's trademark keyboards are all over this album, with organ and synthesizer runs everywhere. Though there are only eight songs, they are mostly memorable. The pomp opus of 'Man In The Wilderness' is still listenable after all these years. Even the dark and brooding 'Castle Walls' would be voted as one of best songs they've written. The OTT keyboards during the middle section and the stinging Tommy Shaw guitar solo still sends shivers down the spine. They even managed to get a hit single called 'Come Sail Away', while other tracks such as the guitar driven blast of 'Miss America' and 'Foolin' Yourself' add to an already great cast. In Summary The next few years were Styx's best and successful period, going on to superstar status during the early eighties and beyond. All of the members (excluding the late John Panozzo), are still active within the melodic rock genre. The current lineup (circa 2001) contains Canadian Larry Gowan as a member of the band, replacing Dennis De Young, while New Jersey rocker Glen Burtnick is in there too. Not sure if this is the definitive lineup, but glad to see they are still going, and having fun. Related Articles Styx - 1972 Styx Styx - 1973 The Serpent Is Rising Styx - 1975 Equinox Styx - 1976 Crystal Ball Styx - 1977 The Grand Illusion Styx - 1978 Pieces Of Eight Styx - 1979 Cornerstone Styx - 1990 Edge Of The Century Styx - 2003 Cyclorama Styx - 2005 Big Bang Theory Copying of material without permission is not permitted. Posted by gdazegod
on August 13, 2003 ·
5 Comments ·
1481 Reads ·
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I love to lay my hands on those three books.Thank you very much for this review that sparked comments including link and info.
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