KANSAS- "Absence of presence"

KANSAS- "Absence of presence"

Who would expect KANSAS to return in the coronavirus year with an album made of the best material ever. The melodies are astonishing, the violin just elevates the songs to small musical suites and the band is at excellent form. A progressive rock album, faithful to the 70s meaning of the word,  a true artifact. The songs, even the lengthy ones, are based on the combination of melody and powerful vocal lines. For all of you who enjoyed albums like "Somewhere to elsewhere" and " The Prelude  implicit".

The members' changes have rejuvenated KANSAS, "Absence of presence"  is their second album with lead vocalist and keyboardist Ronnie Platt and guitarist Zak Rizvi. It is  also the first album with keyboard player Tom Brislin, who replaced former keyboardist David Manion. The new album features songwriting contributions from the newest members Zak Rivzi and Tom Brislin and it is in the vein of the late KANSAS efforts, melodic yet progressive, with a small FM touch. 

The first single 'Throwing mountains' is a great song ,yet deceiving due to its long duration. Contrary to the current musical trends, KANSAS have returned to the over 5 min duration  songs  and trust me you wont get bored or disappointed. The only throwback for the younger listeners, is they need to listen to the album as an entity and not as YouTube isolated parts. But this is the magic of music and progressive rock in particular. 

By the end of the album, you'll push play again and enjoy a waterfall of musical colors and sounds. Like an Impressionist painting, "Absence of presence" works in various levels, melody, technicality, brain stimulation, FM radio catchy tunes, lengthy songs, are all blending in a mystifying result. Put the cd on and let yourself get carried away.

7,5