MONOLITH

This album is I think underrated. It's obvious here that Kansas took different approach in their composition after their last studio album "Point Of Know Return" so some people who got used to their early work like "Leftoverture" or "Song For America" were disappointed with this change. Change. Change. Change. Yeah, that's why they are progressive band because they tried to take another path which was unclear. Actually they did not take the new approach radically as their main ingredients like unique guitar riffs and stunning violin by Robby were still there with this album. But, song like "How My Souls Cries Out For You" with weird rocker style and heavy composition made their early fans were disappointed. But actually if you listen to this album and have an open mind, you might agree with me that this is an excellent.

"On the other side" sounded like a pop tune but the more I listened to it, it grew on me. The Kansas sound is still around - that's why it makes me happy. "A Glimpse of Home" is really a great track which has quite complex structure with tight composition showing the collaborative work of guitar, violin and keyboard has made this song is engaging the min. And the sound is truly the early Kansas sound. Great! "Away From You" is also a very good track with rocking style blended with powerful Walsh voice. It's hard to deny - at least for me - the high standard of music Kansas plays. An excellent addition to any prog music collection. Keep on proggin' ..!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW