SOMEWHERE TO ELSEWHERE

Long-time art-rock Kansas fans must have been pleased to see their group was coming back with the album that marks new period in group's history. Instead of simple or arena rock approach, Kansas returned to where we had wished.

Comparing to the old albums, songs are slightly slower though they don't lack energy. Kansas can still write beautiful melodies and there is often at least one rock ballad on their albums. This time - The Coming of Dawn. The classic progressive piece is Myriad, all instruments make a great atmosphere! The song is filled with invention.

Vocals are recognizable, sung with eagerness. However, the best part of the album is the good and tasteful keyboards. Soloing or accompanying, its sound is carefully planned.

To sum it up, Somewhere to Elsewhere is not a crucial album to pick if you want to hear Kansas' best albums. For that reason, I thoroughly recommend LPs from 74-77 period. If the group continues making albums in that vein they can certainly draw many new supporters.