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On paper, the meeting between Chicago frontman Peter Cetera and a symphony orchestra would raise eyebrows. In reality, it scored big time. On this 2004 live set, Cetera nails some of his and Chicago's greatest hits, including "If You Leave Me Now," "You're The Inspiration," "Hard To Say I'm Sorry," "25 Or 6 To 4," and 17 more. Liner Note Author: Neil Kellas. To say this is "The Essential Collection" -- the definitive and most thorough overview of Cetera's brilliant career as a soft rock craftsman of the highest order -- is a highly misleading suggestion, especially as this disc was recorded live in Salt Lake City. True, many of the anthems he created are here in full force, including "Glory of Love," "Restless Heart," and "Next Time I Fall." Yes, there are many of the moments that made Chicago skyrocket to the top of the charts in the '70s, including "If You Leave Me Now," "Baby What a Big Surprise," "You're the Inspiration," and "25 or 6 to 4." But it's a live disc recorded in 2005, and doesn't capture the splendidly polished production values, orchestration, and musicianship the original recordings had to offer. That said, if you're a fan who didn't catch him on tour, this might be a nice document to hear what you've been missing. Cetera's voice is still in fine form and his backing band is more than up to the task of re-creating the classics. But for those looking for a greatest-hits compilation, it's best to search elsewhere. ~ Rob Theakston
