With each album this five-piece group continues to refine its act. Grand Illuson is its most mature creation, as this concept LP is an existentialist commentary on the human condition. Crafty synthesized orchestrations give the instrumentals a polished feel while the lyrics and story line maintain continuity. The luxury of having three capable yet distinct vocalists and writers aids in making the LP diverse and imaginative. Best cuts: "The Grand Illusion," "Fooling Yourself," "Miss America," "Castle Walls," "Superstars."

- Billboard, 1977.

Bonus Reviews!

Further reading on Super Seventies RockSite!: Single Review: "Babe"

With The Grand Illusion, Styx catapulted to Top Ten and multi-platinum status, thanks to the hit single, "Come Sail Away." Although the group's sound was still based in art-rock, the best moments on the record occur when they fit majestic pomp into the constraints of a pop song like "Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)" or "Come Sail Away." * * * *

- Stephen Thomas Erlewine, The All-Music Guide to Rock, 1995.

It was The Grand Illusion that put Styx over the top and began a string of commercial successes that didn't stop until Styx splintered in 1984. * * *

- Gary Graff, Musichound Rock: The Essential Album Guide, 1996.

The keyboards! The synthesizers! The hair! -- gather round, kids, this is what arena rock used to sound and look like. The first of four platinum albums from the Chicago band, featuring new guitarist/vocalist Tommy Shaw, this texturally rich, theatrical effort lives up to its grand billing. But cynics throw styx suggesting this "pompous work of bombast" be called The Grand Delusion. * * * *

- Zagat Survey Music Guide - 1,000 Top Albums of All Time, 2003.

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