Despite the fact that KANSAS went relatively unheard of in Europe, they were one of America’s most successful rock bands during the mid-to-late ’70s. Their brand of progressive pomp rock had spawned several multi platinum albums and hit singles, including the ubiquitous radio staples “Carry On Wayward Son” and “Dust In The Wind”. However, by the early 80s all was not well within the KANSAS camp. Singer Steve Walsh had elected to leave the band, paving way for the appointment of a new vocalist, the previously unknown John Elefante.
Recorded in Los Angeles at Chateau Recorders with producer Ken Scott (SUPERTRAMP, JEFF BECK) and featuring Roger Taylor (QUEEN) on backing vocals, the band crafted a winning slice of melodic rock with all the twists and turns that you might expect from such masterful musicians. Vinyl Confessions, originally released in 1982, manages to remain true to the roots of KANSAS, while at the same time noticeably moving from the band’s traditional sound of the ’70s into the more AOR-friendly ’80s. The impact of spiritualism on this version of KANSAS can certainly be heard in the lyrics, too, but it would be wrong to define this album as a Christian record. It doesn’t attempt to bludgeon you to death with its message and, above all, it doesn’t neglect the most important thing of all, which is, of course, the music.
24-bit re-mastering from original source tapes, 3,000 word essay about the making of the album, interview with John Elefante and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full color booklet.
Vinyl Confessions track listing:
1. “Play The Game Tonight”
2. “Right Away”
3. “Fair Exchange”
4. “Chasing Shadows”
5. “Diamonds And Pearls”
6. “Face It”
7. “Windows”
8. “Borderline”
9. “Play On”
10. “Crossfire”
They say nine lives, cat’s eyes. Amazingly the same can be said for KANSAS. Drastic Measures was the band’s ninth and final studio offering before hanging up their instruments. As the prime purveyors of progressive pomp rock, KANSAS ruled the roost during the ’70s accruing the sort of multi platinum success that they could only have dreamed of at the start of their career back in their hometown of Topeka, Kansas. But it wasn’t just album sales that won them an immense following. Against all odds they actually scored hit singles, taking their music into the hearts and minds of a new and expansive audience. ‘
Drastic Measures, originally released in 1983, was the band’s second album to feature new vocalist John Elefante- an appointment made necessary after the departure of Steve Walsh. Not surprisingly, the band’s sound was evolving, moving with the times and displaying a more accessible timbre. Sure, the progressive rock element was still entirely audible but the songs and delivery fitted into the jet stream of men on a mission. AOR for sure but with an edge and urgency that leaves little room for debate. Produced by Neil Kernon (QUEENSRYCHE, DOKKEN) the sound is both contemporary and sophisticated, allowing the band to fully embrace their past yet utilize the latest technology. Contains the top five rock hit single “Fight Fire With Fire”.
24-bit re-mastering from original source tapes, 3,000 word essay about the making of the album, interview with John Elefante and additional photos spread out over a 12 page full color booklet.
Drastic Measures track listing:
1. “Fight Fire With Fire”
2. “Everybody’s My Friend”
3. “Mainstream”
4. “Andi”
5. “Going Through The Motions”
6. “Get Rich”
7. “Don’t Take Your Love Away”
8. “End Of The Age”
9. “Incident On A Bridge”
