WHAT IF

As others have noted this record has a lot of variety on it. The constants are the violin, guitar and drums that all stand out so well. The violin play did bring KANSAS to mind at times, even though the music here is quite different from KANSAS' for the most part. Ironically Steve Morse did end up joining KANSAS later on though.

I really like the first three songs."Take It Off The Top" has such a great groove to it, a real rocker with the drums and guitar leading the way. "Odysey" is simply an amazing song ! Opening with violin followed by a very uptempo melody of drums, keys and guitar. The violin comes back and so does more great drumming and guitar, on this the most progressive tune on this record.

"What If" the title track is a beautiful slow paced song with lots of violin and a nice guitar melody. Not a big fan of "Travel Tunes" especially the toy-sounding keyboards half way through. "Ice Cakes" has some great sounding instrumental work on it. "Little Kids" features Steve playing classical guitar accompanied with violin. It's okay. "Gina Lola Breakdown" is a get down, hoe down, country song. Not a fan at all. "Night Meets Light" is a very good way to end the album. A beautiful tune with synth guitar and violin.

I have to take my hat off to Rod Morgenstein who does an incredible job on this record. I'm not big on that KANSAS or country vibe that pops up at times, but there's no denying that these guys are amazing musicians. 3.5 stars.