Kansas is the self-titled, debut album for the band who would later become famous for songs such as “Carry On Wayward Son,” “Dust In The Wind,” and several others. This “garage band” from Topeka was discovered by Wally Gold, who worked for Don Kirshner.
This is actually not the first Kansas album I owned - that honor would go to their third album, Masque. However, soon after, I bought this to see where it all began. This album obviously showcases the talents and expressions of a band that has yet to have been guided commercially - therefore, it is a refreshing glimpse into their true feelings and passions.
Below is a song listing from the album, and my personal take on each one:
1. Can I Tell You(R. Williams, P. Ehart, D. Hope)
An upbeat song which says all that needs to be said about freedom in the four lines quoted below (actually, the only lyrics in the song), interspersed with a rather long instrumental bridge, showcasing Robby Steinhardt’s violin talents, along with the guitar and keyboard work which defines Kansas.
Can I tell you something, got to tell you one thing
If you expect the freedom that you say is yours
Prove that you deserve it, help us to preserve it
Or being free will just be words and nothing more
2. Bringing It Back(J. J. Cale)
One of few Kansas songs written by someone outside of the band, this rather jazzy song by the legendary songwriter J. J. Cale tells the story of someone who obviously paid the price for importing an “illegal substance” across the border. (You might also remember another “illegal substance” song written by Cale - “Cocaine,” covered by Eric Clapton.)
Well, I got caught with too much soul
I was bringing it back from Mexico
3. Lonely Wind(S. Walsh)
This is the song on which my Epinions name is based. It is the first Kansas song I remember hearing on the radio, and its words have deep personal meaning for me. Sadly, I have never heard this song performed live (other than the excerpt included on the album, “Two For The Show“). A slow and beautiful number, it tells the story of someone very lonely, comforted only by the wind.
Cry for me, sigh for me, sad my breezes flow
Stay for me, play for me, the song my friends will know
My lonely wind must blow
4. Belexes(K. Livgren)
A very up-tempo song which speaks of man’s control over his own destiny, this song is best heard live, even today, 30-some years later.
So much relies on the course that you take
The fool and the wise man both burn at the stake
5. Journey From Mariabronn(K. Livgren, S. Walsh)
A song about two people whose life takes them in two different directions (possibly two different manifestations of the same person), only to meet at the end. Another concert staple.
To each other they will soon return
Destiny fulfilled, their words will burn an eternal flame
6. The Pilgrimage(K. Livgren, S. Walsh)
An atypical, almost joyful, upbeat song about people coming together.
Hands are joined in energy
All approaching ecstasy
Harnessing the power in the air
7. Apercu(K. Livgren, S. Walsh)
A song of “deja vu,” basically. Very beautiful lyrically, with many time changes.
Yet I saw it all inside me, for a moment were you with me?
Have we done it all before, is there really so much more?
8. Death Of Mother Nature Suite(K. Livgren)
The first of many Kansas songs to bemoan man’s detrimental effect on our land, this is a somber song, very strong musically and lyrically.
The blood is on your hands, the time has come
And now she‘s gonna die
PERSONNEL:
Phil Ehart - Drums
Dave Hope - Bass Guitar, Vocals
Kerry Livgren - Lead and Rhythm Guitar, Piano, Organ, Moog Synthesizer, Vocals
Robby Steinhardt - Violin, Lead Vocals and Harmony
Steve Walsh - Organ, Piano, Congas, Lead Vocal and Harmony
Rich Williams - Guitar
Epinions.com periodically updates pricing and product information from third-party sources, so some information may be slightly out-of-date. You should confirm all information before relying on it.
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.