SOMEWHERE TO ELSEWHERE

There cannot be many bands from America who were as important in the Seventies as Kansas. Sadly known by many in the UK only for their classic "Carry On Wayward Son", they released a host of magnificent albums. It is their 1975 album 'Masque' that I am now looking at, while listening to the new CD. Why? Firstly, THE line-up is back together for the first time in far too long. Phil Ehart, Steve Walsh, Dave Hope, Rich Williams, Kerry Livgren and Robbie Steinhardt are in full flow, along with Billy Greer who also provides bass guitar (as well as Dave) and some lead vocals.

Secondly, the opening cut is a sequel to one of their classic numbers, "Icarus - Borne On Wings Of Steel", which first appeared on 'Masque'. With Kerry Livgren providing all of the songs, Kansas are a band re-born. When I first listened to this I knew that it was going to be a problem, solely because it was going to be difficult to get anything else on the player.

If anyone has never heard Kansas (musical education sadly lacking), they mixed distinctively different lead vocalists with strong use of piano and violin in a melodic rock setting. They are one of the few American bands that have an instantly recognisable sound and style. They have released so many classic numbers, but in an extensive compilation, some of the songs contained on the new CD would have to be included.

Please, please can Kansas undertake an extensive tour to promote this. Their double live album 'Two For The Show' is often a visitor to my record player, and to see them in concert playing their classics along with songs from here would be a gig made in heaven.

Feedback #59, July 2000