Then it all went soft -- well, at least the songs on this 24th volume of Rhino's Super Hits of the '70s series. Whether it was of the disco, folk-pop, bubblegum, novelty, or retro '50s variety, it did seem like most everything on the late-'70s charts bore the slick and sparkly production that would go on to dominate pop music. To wit, here David Naughton completely waters down the sounds of Studio 54 and Chuck Mangione neuters fusion into quiet storm respectability, while Jigsaw and Starbuck lose their one-hit wonder verve ...
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Then it all went soft -- well, at least the songs on this 24th volume of Rhino's Super Hits of the '70s series. Whether it was of the disco, folk-pop, bubblegum, novelty, or retro '50s variety, it did seem like most everything on the late-'70s charts bore the slick and sparkly production that would go on to dominate pop music. To wit, here David Naughton completely waters down the sounds of Studio 54 and Chuck Mangione neuters fusion into quiet storm respectability, while Jigsaw and Starbuck lose their one-hit wonder verve and Wet Willie sends doo wop straight to a Howard Johnsons lounge near you. Save for cuts by those who ride the nu lounge wave with some aplomb -- Shaun Cassidy, Andrew Gold, and Samantha Sang anyone? -- this music is best aired only after one is duly ensconced on the sectional with white wine and bonbons in hand. ~ Stephen Cook, Rovi
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