LEFTOVERTURE

This is an album that sounds like neo-prog without being in that period. I call it neo-prog because it has a sound very similar to Spock's Beard. This album doesn't give overly beautiful moments, as Yes/Genesis could give with no effort. However, this is an easy prog-lite album that can be enjoyed.

Carry on Wayward Son is easily the best song from Kansas. The melodies are incredibly catchy and well arranged, and the guitar riffing rivals Jimmi Page's best riffs. The song also goes through many different sections under its short duration. Excellent!

Unfortunately, what follows does not reach that level. However, it is still interesting enough prog-pop. The Wall is a melodic nice tune. What's In My Mind is a hard rocker that reminds me of Gentle Giant for some reason. Miracles out of Nowhere is an organ-driven song with dynamic moments. "Opus Island" is a nice soft rock track with good keyboard playing. "Questions of My Childhood" for some reason doesn't click for me. Cheyenne Anthem is a good track that begins as a ballad, and then increases tempo and intensity. The piano work is excellent here.

The album concludes with "Magnum Opus", being the other highlight of this album. It is very dynamic, complex, virtuosic, and shall I say .. Intense!! I am sure that most, if not all, progressive rock fans will find something in this track to adore. The riffs are very memorable, the guitar solo in the beginning is brilliant, and the song goes through many phases.

While I do not agree with the high rating of the album, I consider this a fine album that could be like by almost everybody. It is very accessible, yet prog enough. It may be a good place to start if you want to start collecting American Prog and Neo-prog music (especially Spock's Beard).

1. Carry on wayward son (9.5/10) 2. The wall (7/10) 3. What's on my mind (6/10) 4. Miracles out of nowhere (6/10) 5. Opus insert (6.5/10) 6. Questions of my childhood (4/10) 7. Cheyenne anthem (7.5/10) 8. Magnum opus (8.5/10)

My Grade : C+

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