POINT OF KNOW RETURN

So far after reading past reviews, the overall feelings towards Kansas' Point Of Know Return are pretty lopsided in its favor. There were a couple that rated it around 3-3 out of 5 stars which really raises an eyebrow. Even if you don't like Kansas, how can anyone disregard PoKR's place in rock and roll history?

I would venture to say that this is more sonically balanced than Leftoverture (I haven't spun the latter in a while; but, Point just always seems to grab me by the throat). The title track is breathtaking, triumphant, and so full of spirit. A timeless classic that sounds better than most of the music churned out today spanning many genres.

And the great thing about Point is there are so many great songs that people have never heard, besides the faithful Wheatheads. "Point Of Know Return" and "Dust In The Wind" still get played (and even appearing in car commercials), but Point Of Know Retlurn is so much more than that. The vocal interaction betwseen Steinhardt and Walsh on "Sparks Of The Tempest" is a classic example of how well they worked together. I really miss Steinhardt's vocals on Audio-Visions.

"Paradox" is up there with the title track in terms of it's balance and the band showcasing everything in its arsenal. Walsh's vocals are especially strong. "Nobody's Home" is a beautiful ballad that exhibits the softer side of Kansas.

This is just one of those albums that never sounds old. Beautiful work from top to bottom.