MASQUE

KANSAS' third album is very much a mixed bag. Half the album is really good while the other half is poor at best. Even the band members were trying to understand what their identity was as a band at this point.

"It Takes A Woman's Love (To Make A Man)" starts off well instrumentally but when the vocals come in things go down hill. The chorus is especially cringe-worthy. "Two Cents Worth" is catchy with vocals but not much better than the first tune. "Icarus (Born On Wings Of Steel)" is a huge improvement over the first two songs in every way.The violin, guitar and vocals impress. Nice bass a minute in. Great sound 2 1/2 minutes in. "All Over The World" is ballad- like to start with piano and vocals. Violin joins in. It turns fuller before 1 1/2 minutes then really kicks in after 3 minute. Nice. Back to the ballad-like soundscape as contrasts continue.

"Child Of Innocence" is a great tune with some steller guitar. Love how it sounds on this one. "It's You" is back to the poopy sound of pop music. Uptempo with piano, organ and vocals leading. "Mysterious And Mayhem" is a good driving tune where the guitar and bass shine. "The Pinnacle" has a very Symphonic intro. Vocals before 3 minutes. Nice instrumental section from 5 1/2 to 6 1/2 minutes. Vocals with chunky bass after 7 minutes then the guitar rips it up.

3 stars.