To cut a long story short from the beginning, Styx can pull it off! They certainly can, meaning that I found myself (and hope you'll feel the same) grateful that some bands from the glorious 70's still have this spark, either in their own tunes or while covering memorable cuts from the past. On the other hand, a new set of songs is always a tempting procedure; don't forget that.
To chat over the band's bio would not be a smart move. Hence, on with the tunes: I Am The Walrus, Can't Find My Way Home, Summer In The City, Locomotive Breath and Wishing Well are the best among equal songs. Three singers with unstoppable force and passion, chosen cuts for various tastes (from Country Rock to 60's Pop) and a general vibe of homage to the band's likes (not only influences). You won't find any variations from the originals, something that does not give the band any credit of creation, but it's a nice move from a legendary act that certainly needs its own dozen tribute albums.
The performance: c' mon, it's Styx we 're talkin' 'bout! (Was glad to see Ricky Phillips handling the bass duties, I love his works on Bad English). As for the selection: I'd love to see something somehow epic in the tracklisting. Last note: the new version of Blue Collar Man (initially featured in 1978's Pieces Of Eight album) is kinky; in a slowest motion, it will definitely raise some objections but nothing bad after all. The band covers itself.
A Styx fan doesn't read this (or any) review of this album before purchasing it, that's for sure. Everyone else, supposing you already have eternal diamonds like Equinox (1975), Crystal Ball (1976), The Grand Illusion (1977) and Cornerstone (1979) in your collection, can surely try this one. I did, even if I miss Dennis...