August 19, 2019

1976 - January - Styx - Equinox

40 minutes

This week, Wayne brings us Equinox, the fifth studio album by Styx. This would be their first album for A&M Records and their last album with guitarist John Curulewski. He would be replaced by guitarist and singer Tommy Shaw on their next release, “The Grand Illusion,” at which point Styx would take the form which most of us remember as one of the groups that make up the soundtrack of our childhood. Equinox would only go to #58 on the album charts, but would see a resurgence with the release of The Grand Illusion in 1977.

Midnight Ride

James "JY" Young takes the vocal duties on this track, also written by Young. It is a fast, rocking song about a one-night stand with a groupie.

Lorelai

This track is the biggest hit from the album and features the vocals of both James Young and the distinctive sound of Dennis DeYoung. The name of the album was from a brainstorming session, and “Equinox” was the only name that everyone didn't hate. Lorelai was the name of a water fairy.

Prelude 12

This song is performed and written by John Curulewski. This instrumental on a 12-string guitar is the prelude to Suite Madame Blue, and is often missed when that song is played on the radio or Spotify.

Suite Madame Blue

This well-known epic was written for the US Bicentennial. Wistful yet positive despite its minor key, the song calls for reflection and responsibility. The song was done in one day.

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:

Theme from "Laverne and Shirley"

This television series spin-off from "Happy Days" would debut in January on ABC.

STAFF PICKS:

“Dream On” by Aerosmith

There is no mistaking the opening riff from this epic pick by Brian. It was originally released in 1973, but had its album re-release in December 1975 and was marching up the charts in January. Steven Tyler was not originally comfortable singing in the higher octaves, but fortunately overcame that fear.

“Island Girl” by Elton Jon

Rob's staff pick was #1 for three weeks, and was the first single from the album "Rock of the Westies." Kiki Dee is on background vocals on this Caribbean-influenced hit.

“50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” by Paul Simon

Bruce's staff pick is the second single off Simon's album "Still Crazy After All These Years." This is Simon's sole #1 hit as a solo artist.

“Tower” by Angel

Wayne cranks things back up with his staff pick from a group discovered by Gene Simmons of Kiss. Angel had a prog rock vibe and dressed in all white during their performances. "Tower" is a medieval themed track.

LAUGH TRACK:

“Convoy” CW McCall

We finish off this episode with this ode to the CB radio. Citizens Band was pretty much the social media app of the 70's.

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By Rob Marbury, Wayne Rowan, Bruce Fricks, John Lynch

4.9

4747 ratings