Fahrenheit

Fahrenheit is a work on which TOTO, while keeping its precise playing, placed at its center the bright, soaring vocals of newly joined Joseph Williams. Lukather’s guitar, the Porcaro brothers’ rhythm, and the fine placement of keyboards give firm depth even to pop songs. With the change of vocalist, the band’s sound heads in a brighter, more refined direction. The smooth melody of “I'll Be Over You” and the heat of the title track “Fahrenheit” show the band’s breadth. Songs like “Till the End,” “Without Your Love” and “Could This Be Love” breathe a refined pop sense too. The guest appearance of jazz master Miles Davis on “Don't Stop Me Now” also drew attention. Rather than showing off session-musician skill, it carves the TOTO trait of using that skill fully in service of the songs — a flavorful record.