11 tracks · 45 min
Hot Streets is the tenth album by the American band Chicago, released in 1978. In many ways, Hot Streets marked the beginning of a new era for the band. It was also the band's first album with all-new material released since their second that didn't have a numbered title. Having worked with James William Guercio since their 1969 debut, Chicago decided to part ways with the producer following the release of Chicago XI in 1977. A bigger change for the group, however was the death of guitarist Terry Kath in January 1978, who unintentionally shot himself at a roadie's house while cleaning one of his guns. The members of the band were devastated by his death, and considered breaking up. Kath was one of the key players who most defined the rhythmic sound of the band, and could not easily be replaced. After the initial shock waned, the group decided that they still had something to offer musically, and carried on. Phil Ramone, who had mixed some of their earlier albums, was called upon to co-produce their new effort. But before Chicago could begin recording, they had to contend with the difficult process of finding a new guitarist. Accomplished guitarist Donnie Dacus was chosen, bringin…
