LEFTOVERTURE

Like most people I became aware of KANSAS through their massive hit "Carry On Wayward Son" a track that made them famous world-wide. Unfortunately like a lot of great tunes from the seventies i've heard it hundreds of times over the last 30 some years.There is definetly a mid-west American feel to this record, except for the song just mentioned along with "Cheyenne Anthem" and "Magnum Opus" which are not coincidently my top three tracks. The rest of the songs inbetween really don't do anything for me, in fact I dislike them quite a bit.

"Carry On Wayward Son" is larger than life with it's thoughtful and emotional lyrics and Walsh's powerful vocals that are accompanied with amazing guitar, piano and organ playing. I like when the heavy sound first comes in with organ.Then the guitar lights it up. Oh and that line "My charade is the event of the season" has always been a favourite. I'm just so tired of it.

"The Wall" has a nice guitar melody and well done lyrics. I personally feel that "What's On My Mind" and "Questions Of My Childhood" both sound a little dated. Love the violin on "Miracles Out Of Nowhere" though. "Opus Insert" is catchy. "Cheyenne Anthem" is a cool song (and my favourite) that doesn't sound like the others.The children's choir is a nice touch as well. The best parts are the beginning and ending. "Magnum Opus" is the proggiest tune which gives each member of the band a chance to show off their skills.

Just not a fan of this one.