Since their self-titled 1974 debut album, Kansas has gained and retained their reputation as a fore-runner as one of the remaining prominent acts from the early days of the progressive rock era. Nay-sayers deride the band as musical dinosaurs specializing in overblown boredom while the faithful insist that Kansas’ still shining character and musicianship make them a band not to miss. Neither can dismiss their commercial success.
Originally based in Topeka, Kansas brought their show to The Labatt Canal Concert Series stage in Lockport, New York on Friday July 12, 2013. Following a recorded “I Can Fly,” which they used as their opening number, “Paradox,” was listless. “Point of Know Return” that followed was even more troubling. “Song For America” served as a desperately needed icebreaker. Its grand introduction remains one of the most inspiring openings in progressive rock. The combination of David Ragsdale’s violin and Steve Walsh’s keyboards filled the air a sense of majesty, which ultimately still fell short of the abilities of these polished professionals. Rich Williams’ guitar during a vocally absent “Dust In The Wind”, the band’s biggest hit, was marred by main vocalist Steve Walsh’s overdramatic effort. What’s happened to these guys ?? Walsh, the voice of Kansas’ most familiar songs, overcompensated for his slightly diminished singing with unnecessary histrionics during what appeared to be a well scripted and rehearsed stage show that left even the visually impaired asking if these guys are just going through the motions and have suffered a diminished appreciation for the songs that took them to fame.
The most positive point of the evening was in the accomplished playing of drummer Phil Ehart who held the entire show together. Along with Walsh and Williams, he’s one of the three current members of Kansas who were with the band during its hit-making period. An inspired reading of “Miracles Out of Nowhere” finally roused the majority of the audience who were still paying attention. They remained engaged for a hearty take on “Portrait” (he knew more than me and you) and an admirably precise “Carry On Wayward Son”, which wrapped up the show.
What can a person say about a group of guys who once were at the pinnacle of performance musicianship and now are playing parking lot festivals behind the public library. this was as disappointing as the group also appeared to be. Carry on.
Set List:
I Can Fly
Paradox
Point of Know Return
Song For America
Hold On
Dust In The Wind
Belexes
Can I tell You
Icarus II
Icarus – Borne on Wings of Steel
Miracles Out Of Nowhere
Portrait
Fire
Wayward Son
We would like to thank the Caronia Media Group for the credentials to review the show.
