THE BEST OF KANSAS

During these meagre years for Kansas, the only way to boost up sales was to release a compilation effort. Surprinsingly enough, it is the first one of the band after almost ten years. The last two studio albums were not really jewels. Some legendary members had left the bands (Walsh, Steinhart) and more changes in the personnel will take place (Livgren will leave as well, while Morse will join).

It is a "Best Of" in its commercial acceptation. Several hits of the band are included which is fine if you like this side of Kansas. The prog side of the band (which I like the most) is only featured by "Song For America" (from my preferred Kansas album).

Lots of numbers shouldn't have sit on a "Best Of" effort. I am not sure who could be interested in such compilation, except if you are new to the band and you are keen to listen to AOR music.

Of course, the great "Carry On" is here as well as as "Dust In The Wind". But having skipped all (but one) prog songs only shows that the record firm wanted to capitalize as much as possible on Kansas most commercial aspect. Prog was not really in the mood in the mid-eighties so I guess that this approach makes sense (business wise at least).

If you are looking to the prog side of the band, buy their first two albums and "Leftoverture". This will be a more valuable investment than this compilation work. Two stars.