Chain (The Family Stand album)

Chain is the second studio album by the American soul/funk group The Family Stand, released in 1990. It marked a departure from their debut album, Hea, embracing a more rock-influenced sound while still retaining elements of their signature eclectic style.

The album is notable for its blend of genres, incorporating funk, soul, rock, and jazz influences. Lyrically, Chain explores themes of social justice, personal relationships, and spiritual growth. Critically, the album received positive reviews, with many praising its innovative sound and insightful lyrics. However, it was not as commercially successful as their previous album, although it did generate some moderate airplay.

Key tracks on Chain include "Ghetto Heaven," which garnered significant attention for its socially conscious message, and "Plantation Radio," a funk-rock infused track. The album's production featured a mix of live instrumentation and sampling, showcasing the band's musicianship and their willingness to experiment with different sounds.

Following the release of Chain, The Family Stand continued to tour and perform, eventually releasing a third album, Moon in Scorpio, in 1991, before disbanding. Despite a relatively short career, Chain and their overall discography remain influential and are recognized for their unique contribution to the neo-soul movement.