If you do a Google search on this album you'll quickly find out that it has had something of a "chequered history." Indeed it was actually made way back in 1993 and intended for a release in '94.

The album was rejected by the band's then label Warner Bros who claimed that is was not commercial enough and thus could not be released. That's record companies for you! Needless to say the band split from the label. Various bootlegs have made their way into the hands of the fans but it is only now, through Rhino, that 'Chicago XXXII: Stone Of Sisyphus' finally gets an official release.

The album also comes with detailed liner notes which give the full back history of the finished piece. It's an eclectic album, full of imagination and lots of great melodies. Only the rap song 'Sleeping In The Middle Of The Bed' doesn't work for me. The pomp rocker that is the title-track is great.

There are four bonus tracks so there's something extra to justify the wait. If you love AOR and melodic rock, this will be a treat for you. Recommended.

****

Review by Neil Daniels

www.neildaniels.com