Kansas, Icarus - Borne on Wings of Steel - A Classical Musician’s First Listen and Reaction

#kansas #virginrock
I finally listened to Kansas! I like how they used ancient mythology as a launching point for a very modern purpose.
Here’s the link to the original song by Kansas:
• Icarus - Borne on Wing...
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Amy Shafer, LRSM, FRSM, RYC, is a classical harpist, pianist, and music teacher, Director of Piano Studies and Assistant Director of Harp Studies for The Harp School, Inc., holds multiple degrees in harp and piano performance and teaching, and is active as a solo and collaborative performer. With nearly two decades of teaching experience, she teaches privately, presents masterclasses and coaching sessions, and has performed and taught in Europe and USA.
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Credits: Music written and performed by Kansas
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[@traviswoyen2243]

The violin in the beginning is being doubled by a synthesizer, and later by an organ mixed REALLY LOW, which may give a sense of notchiness between tones that a violin doesn't typically have, but it's a real violin as can be heard during the solo section. Robbie Steinhardt played violin and did the low harmony vocals on this song.

[@DropAnchor1978]

Yes, the violin is panned center, the lower synth octave is in the left channel, while the higher octave doubles the violin in the right.

[@LegoGBlok]

isnt that an electric violin?

[@DropAnchor1978]

@@LegoGBlok I am not sure if the violin was miked up or if there was a pickup on it at this time in the band's recordings. Live, there was a pickup on the violin.

[@johnkw47]

Robbie Steinhardt was awesome!

[@javiermoretti1825]

@@LegoGBlok No, Robby was classically trained and never played an electric violin.

[@everlastingarms3065]

You need to listen to the epic instrumental middle section again a couple of times in context without interruption. There's polyphony, but it's not chaotic. It has a structure and is brilliantly conceived and executed with precision.

[@stevemcfate1961]

Non Kansas fans just don't get it.

[@terdoevillaingang]

That middle section is what makes it epic

[@davidfrost-qd9me]

Love this tune but don't enjoy the fade away

[@ilionreactor1079]

It is a REAL violin.

[@letsgomets002]

No it's not

[@slonejr]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZ7Qe56GfLtjiM0si=wDoquqkfPC75LdKT For the nay sayers. Here's robbie playing the violin LIVE

[@brianmccarthy8595]

@@letsgomets002 It's a violin.

[@brianthompson9410]

Real

[@BruceWayneAnderson6685]

Kansas is the bad that the violin was used as a solo instrument. It made a great impact on how rock music could be advanced with live classical instruments.

[@nicholaswolfe4219]

A fun fact to mention is that the lead vocalist of Kansas, Steve Walsh who sings this also plays the keyboard like an absolute madman. Steve and Robby Steinhardt had a unique ability to sing in unison AND to coordinate their instrument solos as well. During the beginning of Icarus, just after the piano part you can hear the synthesizer and violin do a little intro solo before the big guitar riff. That is Rob and Steve playing in unison, with Steve doing the violin part on synthesizer that usually sat atop a Hammond organ on stage. They were easily the most talented American band of their time.

[@Incomudro1963]

This is displayed much better on the Two for the Show version of this song, than its studio version.

[@johneargle6004]

I believe Steve mainly played organ and Kerry played most of the other keys switching back and forth between guitars and keys. Steve may have been playing the synth along with the violin in the intro while Kerry played the electric piano part.

[@davidfrost-qd9me]

Kerry always played the intricate keyboard and guitar parts

[@yactabay]

Kerry Livgren was the main songwriter of the more classical music rock songs they have even where Steve Walsh is playing keyboard.

[@markgreene6349]

Yes indeed.. I remember after leftoverture came out.. I didn't know Kansas had other material and I found masque . In my brother's record collection which was off limits. You'll get your ass kicked material . . He also had the first and second album.. my mind was blown

[@edalisauskas7313]

Kerry Livgren (the main songwriter and guitar/keyboardist) had plenty of classical influences and training Being a big fan myself, may I suggest Lamplight Symphony (you’ll find the emotion here) Miracles out of Nowhere The Wall Song for America Cheyenne Anthem (a poignant message regarding the treatment of Native Americans by the Mew World settlers) Icarus II (yes, there was a sequel and this one is about WW2 fighter pilots. A modern version of the first one) Kerry was on a spiritual journey throughout his career. He eventually became a Christian Note: he just released a musical interpretation of the Book of Lazurus. Decades in the making I believe there are sections of it on KZbin Very ambitious project with orchestra and many vocalists Kerry Livgren was a highly talented composer and musician and Kansas is much more than their two radio staples that everyone mentions They are definitely worth another look. Truth be told, Icarus is a good song but they have better. See above I always enjoy your analysis, Amy. You put tremendous thought into each song Ironically, they opened for Queen early in their career and became great friends with the band

[@aactor57]

I agree with Lamplight Symphony. It has made me weep a few times.

[@crusheverything4449]

Kerry Livgren had no classical training. Also, how is it ironic that they opened for Queen and became great friends with them?

[@dhrevrogers]

I believe Kerry had informal classical music exposure through his aunt.

[@friotaiocht101]

One of my all-time favorite American rock bands for sure... i hope that Amy does some more song reviews by them .... they truly were a remarkable band in my opinion.... I love this channel ❤.... it took me awhile to get to joining this channel but I finally did & it's well worth it... thank you for all the time & effort you put into your videos Amy...

[@roccaclassico9028]

I recommend "The Wall", "Song for America", and "Miracles Out of Nowhere".

[@everlastingarms3065]

No MIDI, no sequencers. They played all of this live and it's a real violin. Synthesizers & Hammond organ are in there. Should check out their appearances on Don Kirshners Rock Concert circa 1974-75. Epic stuff.

[@leftiesoutnumbered]

I think Carry On My Wayward Son is a great choice. I also like The Point of No Return.

[@leftiesoutnumbered]

If you want emotion, Dust in the Wind is classic and probably their most well known. It’s a very different sound to this.

[@crusheverything4449]

@leftiesoutnumbered - No My, no The.

[@crusheverything4449]

No My, no The, no No. Know.

[@rccola5167]

Dust in the Wind was my favorite.

[@stevemcfate1961]

" Know" Return, play on words

[@TBA-007]

The versions of this and other Kansas songs should be listened to from the "Two for the Show" album. I'd be surprised if you feel "distant" then. Violin & synthesizer at the beginning of Magnum Opus ❤️

[@jammenhva]

So agreed. The studio versions all sound a bit strange to me. But soooo good om the live album. Almost as they finally found out what their songs should sound like.

[@nicknumber1512]

I was going to say this as well. The Two for the Show version is outstanding.

[@Krankster666]

My favorite version of this and many of their earlier songs.

[@friotaiocht101]

As much as I love their studio albums I have to agree with you that "Two For The Show" is a fantastic live album & many of the live versions of their songs are better....

[@ericporter1255]

Magnum Opus from 2 for the Show is, and has been my favorite song for many years now

[@michaelbaucom4019]

Listen to a live version...as with nearly all Kansas songs, the violin is much more dominant. Also, Kansas' primary songwriter Kerry Livgren has cited progressive rock band Gentle Giant as an influence. Their deep cuts are progressive, their radio hits(mostly) aren't. Kerry Livgren wrote a sequel in 2000 callled Icarus II, he states in his autobiography(called Seeds Of Change, he has a solo album by the same name) that both versions of Icarus lyrically are partially inspired by a relative who was a fighter pilot. The band performs both versions of Icarus live, back-to-back usually. It takes a few listens to " get " Kansas A few suggestions: Journey From Mariabronn Mysyeries And Mayhem/The Pinnacle(two songs meant to be one) Song For America The Wall Hopelessly Human Curtain Of Iron On The Other Side All very progressive, with keyboard excellence, sometimes heavy(yet melodic too) guitars, and violin riffs/solos weaved in, with spectacular vocals, and thoughtful and thought-provoking lyrics

[@yuriykorotkevych8838]

I'd definitely add Miracles Out Of Nowhere to your list. The counterpoint part in it is especially fascinating.

[@michaelbaucom4019]

@@yuriykorotkevych8838 I could have listed 30 more...

[@friotaiocht101]

I do believe that the live versions of some of their songs are actually better than the studio versions... not all but some....

[@bookhouseboy280]

Steve Hackett (Genesis) in 2023: Kansas! Great band, lovely guys... I worked with Steve Walsh and Phil Ehart. It was great to work with them. It was a different language. I'd not really worked outside Genesis professionally, and so that was the start of expanding my vocabulary... I think they were influenced by quite a lot of British stuff... They had their progressive leanings, although nobody was calling it progressive at the time. It just seemed like there was a kind of a natural kind of Anglo-American orientation to the stuff... full of detail and informed harmonic changes... There's that cross-pollination between great bands like Kansas and an English band like Genesis. They did two tracks with me on the album, "Please Don't Touch." (1978) And Steve Walsh did an extraordinary vocal on both. Lovely guy. Can't speak highly enough of both of them and I really loved the experience. A bit later on I met the whole Kansas band... Steve and Phil were great to work with and both equally talented. It was good to have the chance to work with some great artists in the USA. Phil might well be working again with me soon!

[@georgasmussen9318]

You should try "The Wall" and "Song for America", these are perfectly composed from start to finish.

[@coaxguy99]

"All The World" from Masque is another great one. Two other really nice ones are "Taking In The View" from Power and "Inside of Me" from In The Spirit of Things. Their Audio Visions album is an overlooked masterpiece with one of their very best in "No One Together" and "Hold On" should have been a #1 hit, IMHO.

[@ilionreactor1079]

Kansas was also a great live act, with studio-qualty sound and performances.

[@ben_dornie]

In fact still is a great live act (kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZyckGVvm7CAicU)! 🙂

[@JamesDrumm-c2z]

That's not really a compliment.

[@jjacoby1010]

Still are!

[@mandiferrer]

@@ben_dornie Ron Platt sounds like a young Steve Walsh

[@ben_dornie]

@@mandiferrer Yes, Ronnie's an excellent vocalist but not quite a young whipper-snapper anymore! 😁

[@MultiGlennz]

I loved your Interpretation of this piece. I 'm a musician and Kansas fan from way back and I can say that you may not be able to fully appreciate the music on the first listen. Once you listen to it a few times you pick up on the brilliant intermingling of different instruments you could really fall in love. I would highly recommend you listen to "Songs For America", the title track on the Songs For America album. It is a masterpiece. Also, If you have a copy of the lyrics to read as you listen it will heighten your experience. The instrumental portions of Kansas songs are extremely instrumental (if you will) to the story. Kerry Livgren is a brilliant poet and writer. Also, your adorable.

[@davidcampbell4174]

Funny how music affects people differently. The middle section is by far the best for me. I love this song … one of my Kansas favs. Thanks for reacting to it.

[@friotaiocht101]

FINALLY.... I've been waiting for Amy to do a review on Kansas.....

[@lucasroth7922]

Masque specifically!

[@edyates79]

Quite the disappointment. She has zero appreciation.

[@friotaiocht101]

@@edyates79 No it's not that she didn't appreciate it as she said in the video it leaned more towards the "progressive rock sound" & it was different from the more classic rock bands she's been listening to & reviewing.

[@edyates79]

@@friotaiocht101 every comment she made displayed her lack of respect.

[@friotaiocht101]

@@edyates79 Lack of respect? Ok.

[@bradleykeefer8896]

Kansas is one of the best live bands I have heard in 40 years of concert going. Everything you hear on the records, they do it live. And they do it spectacularly.

[@Incomudro1963]

As a huge Kansas fan, I've got to say that production on the Masque and Song for America albums really hold them back. They sounded old even when they were new, and I understand the midi references even though these recordings were made well before midi. The live versions of these songs on Two for the Show are far superior.

[@randybaker6042]

I consider Two For The Show to be one of the best live albums. I prefer the live version. Kansas was a great live band and production really captured it on Two For The Show.

[@ericredlefsen5554]

Yes, that live version smokes this one. It is one of the best live albums ever.

[@KellenFredricksen]

Definitely a terrific live album up there with the best

[@MikeNewton-rt7yf]

Thank you for doing this song. This was all pre-computers in music. Before the midi rage. All performed by real violin and 1976 keyboards.

[@db321g]

1974,5

[@philf4086]

This is one of my absolute favorites by Kansas. The subtle tempo and meter changes add a great deal to the song. You've interpreted the meaning of the song really accurately. Great storytelling, as you mentioned! Another Kansas song for you to check out is Journey From Mariabronn. Superb!

[@danielramage6237]

Hugely underrated band. She would love some of their deeper cuts, like Journey From Mariabronn.

[@jpirard]

There was no midi in the 70s It was a violin and a synth played by 2 people

[@humbertospatafore]

Indeed, and even all the synthetic sounds instruments of this era (Analog) were very hard to mantain in tune, i think this sensation of "Midi sound" not only was intentional but very hard to obtain too.

[@King14000]

Magnus opus, the wall, Cheyenne Anthem...lots of others. Sam them twice in the late 70's/early 80's. A great band with such a great sound. The only rock band of the era with violin. I'm from the state of Kansas, so I might be a little biased.

[@TheProgCorner]

Kansas!!!! ❤❤❤

[@NubNublet]

The Prog Corner!!!!

[@eduardo221085]

En verdad no conozco en profundidad la música de Kansas, posiblemente debido a que lo pude oír de ellos en la radio (old days) no consiguió entusiasmarme. Comento en castellano pues entiendo que La Profe puede sentirse orgullosa de que su aproximación a la música llegue a audiencias más allá de los idiomas de cada uno. Como la música misma. Saludos desde Argentina

[@Nogill0]

I think some songs written around this time were designed to let people who had nice stereo systems enjoy their speakers, and show them off to others less fortunate. Ooooo! Dig that treble! Wow, that's great bass response! I confess, I did that sort of thing. I knew a guy in the dorms who had really fine speakers and he'd play Switched On Bach over and over, with the grills off the speakers and we'd stare in amazement at the woofer cones going in and out. Sigh. Those were the days...

[@paterickson9331]

Kansas became my favorite band since the first time I heard them in the 70's. Their music is classical with rock mixed in. there is so much to listen to. Put on some head phones and listen to "Miracles Out of Nowhere"

[@groujo1]

I'm a big fan of Kansas. But I tend to agree with this take. Icarus has it's moments, but it's all over the place musically and is hard to love. Kansas has many songs that are more emotionally resonant. Carry On Wayward Son is one an absolute masterpiece of classic rock and prog rock. Point of Know Return, Song for America, and Dust in the Wind are terrific. Also: The Wall, Cheyenne Anthem, and No One Together.

[@markflynn5793]

It was a real violin with a pickup wired to an amplifier. The synthesizers were old school analog synths. They are the voice of Kansas and made their sound so unique.

[@LeeKennison]

Yes, in answer to your saying maybe you should listen to "Carry On Wayward Son". It would have been my first choice. I think you would connect more emotionally and musically to this very popular song. It is less prog, while still having prog elements. Much more of a classic rock sound. You are often introduced to influential bands through their deeper cuts, rather than the ones that made them popular. This song itself is fine (I like it) and gives you a sense of their sound, it just shouldn't be your intro to the band. There is a reason "Carry On Wayward Son" is so popular, it is a great song. They have other great songs, but I would start with this. You were hearing a real violin that may have sounded synth to you mixed in with other analog synth sounds.

[@lynnbowers4722]

A thousand times this. Please stop listening to obscure songs for your introduction to bands.

[@shiva1742]

I agree totally. When you are being exposed to a band that you have never heard before, you should be listening to the material that made them famous or well regarded originally and not the deep cut obscurities. Having said that, I have often found myself discovering and loving some deeper cut material. (Of course, to use one of your favorite expressions, you are not the one making these choices since you have never listened to rock before.)

[@crusheverything4449]

I disagree. I think far too many people fixate on “the hits” and often, the worst tracks on an album were released as singles in the days of FM rock radio. Carry On Wayward Son and Dust in the Wind are all-time classics, for sure, but Kansas has better songs.

[@ukecycle298]

I’ve always thought that this song was simply about flying. My grandfather was a professional pilot, and around the time I first heard this song ( the live version from “ Two For The Show”), my father was working on getting his pilot’s license. I played it for him and he loved it. I don’t know if Kerry Livgren already had his pilot’s license at the time he wrote this, but I know he had one later at least. Honestly, I think the only connection to the mythological Icarus is just the title. Also, if you’ve ever driven across Kansas, it’s kind of amazing how many astronauts were from there. My pilot grandfather was also from Kansas. There must be something about growing up there that makes you want to get off of the ground!

[@sade111111]

I like your expression when hearing these PROGRESSIVE ROCK tunes,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,I can tell you really hear their artistic depth. A super good band great composition abilities .

[@leonardcostea4979]

My ,my, my ! What A rapid musically intellectual bite back ! And just to inform you I'm a trained musicians with a powerfully keen ear ! They were inspired by classically British Progressive band like Genesis and Yes which I'm sure you're largely aware of ! I just get touchy when people and studious musical people such as yourself dissect and relabel the musical prowess of the bands who sometimes express the deepest part of my being ! Jiva Atma

[@MisfitPhotographer]

😂😂😂

[@bryanirvine6169]

The changing speeds and time signatures is a signature move by Livgren, who wrote this song. He was and still is a musical genius. Also remember that Livgren is a progressive specialist.

[@markgreene6349]

Thank you.. all Kansas fans know this already everybody else is just missing out...

[@alanhembra2565]

You should hear their song “Journey to MariaBronn”, amazing song. Also they have also great live album for their 40th anniversary with the Topeka orchestra. They had orchestral arrangements professionally done for those concerts.

[@jjacoby1010]

One of the world's greatest prog bands!

[@trevorconway262]

There is a part two that was released years later that looks back at this song from an older perspective and is just as good.

[@manlioyllades]

Icarus was recorded in 1975 and MIDI was officially released in 1983. What made midifiles sound artificial was not only the synthesized timbres, but the rigidity of the tempo (sadly contemporary pop music is the same). Most bands in the 70's didn't record to a click track. In this piece there are many tempo changes.

[@notthistimenet]

Interesting to me, Amy says she doesn't connect with the music, but she swayed to this more than most other music.

[@astrogatorjones]

I grew up watching Kansas as a bar band. I saw them the first time they played as “Kansas.” They always take you on a journey. Contrary to what some have said, they were influenced by rock, jazz and classical. A lot of the music was written in movements. And “Carry on My Wayward Son” was written because of a threat from their record company for songs that were short enough to get radio play. It’s too bad you didn’t like it. Some of those “trite” harmonics were created by them.

[@SmokeyTreats]

Cool! Different variations of White Clover too?

[@crusheverything4449]

Someone who followed Kansas since their first show should know the song is entitled Carry On Wayward Son.

[@astrogatorjones]

@@SmokeyTreats Ya. White Clover, Saratoga…. they were sort of a local supergroup with members from several bands. Walsh was from St. Joe. The thing I remember most from that first show was that they did a cover of Smoke on the Water…. Robby sang it as Smoke on the Penis. For some reason, we thought that was funnier than it actually was. It was during a blizzard in a little bar in the middle of nowhere. Livgren lives about 20 minutes from me. I used to run across him fairly often. Robby would come back to see his mom and stop in at a local bar and buy a few rounds. The good old days.

[@astrogatorjones]

@@crusheverything4449 Read much?

[@SmokeyTreats]

@@astrogatorjones Yeah I grew up in St. Joe & got to watch Walsh in all of his early local bands. He was a senior when I was a freshman at the same hs, though I never knew him. One of my best buds was & still is very close friends of his & my sis is a close church friend of his mom's. The thing I remember most of their first show here was they had two keyboardists who faced each other from both ends of the stage. Their guitarist resembled a shorter version of Hendrix if you stood 30 feet away, & his playing reminded me a lot of Jimi too. Heard his fingers on his left hand had a bad run-in with a circular saw, which sadly ended his career, but never really learned the exact details on that accident. Yep, the good old days.

[@jeffnoel7457]

The one thing to mention about the middle section is that the tempo constantly increases until it gets to the guitar and the final verse.

[@hawkone007]

Yes, please listen to more! The album Leftoverture is a masterpiece that must be listened to multiple times to get it! I am a fan now for over 50 years, and I am still hearing new things about the genius of Kerry Livgren and Steve Walsh! If you overanalyze you might be missing somethng , and not feeling the music for what it is.

[@sondraslate1847]

i have been a kansas fan since 1975 when this album came out?.. Kansas fan's are different in many way's.......

[@deriene_rocha]

I want to suggest these songs that are incredible (music and lyrics) but get little attention, from bands that are also, in my opinion, underapreciated: Anthem - Deep Purple; Life's an Ocean - The Verve; Dear Mr President - 4 Non Blondes; Pattern - The Last Shadow Puppets.

[@DougWilliams-z1v]

I enjoy your reactions, but I wonder if you missed a couple things in this one… first it’s the flying that gives him so much to feel, not the steel. You asked why are we doing it (this meaningless flying)? Answer: some people (like me) feel exhilaration and freedom when flying. This song is a play on the story of Icarus, not a retelling, as the Icarus here is flying (borne) on wings of steel (that do not melt), so he does not have to come down anymore. Some think the steel refers to the steel strings on Kerry Livgren’s guitar which allow him to soar to great heights, others think it’s referring to the wings of an airplane, others to a spiritual journey, and others to anything that gives you a since of exhilaration and freedom like riding a motorcycle. Not everyone relates to these feelings as many actually fear flying, motorcycles, etc… I think you might like the Kansas classics “dust in the wind” & “carry on my wayward son” better. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnmVqGmFrd1jobMsi=GSdsAIZB7KlxsAJL kzbin.info/www/bejne/hma9e6ifaMaDpbMsi=Zq9xNvs9-IFqtJhD

[@SmokeyTreats]

Needed to be said.

[@Lonewolfmike]

Dust In The Wind is a classic you really need to listen to and the story behind the song is really interesting.

[@J0hnC0ltrane]

Kansas also had a southern rock leaning, too. Retro indeed. Maybe some Jethro Tull à la Thick As A Brick, which I would recommend. Great choice!.

[@terrywatts674]

Kansas is nice. Its a good beginning. Next, go with some Mahavishnu Orchestra and Weather Report. Move to Yes next (Close to the Edge). Then you will be ready to enter the Court of the Crimson King...

[@pilesovinyl]

I love it. It has over the years been one of my favorite Kansas tracks. It is progressive rock.

[@stevezoutman7533]

If you played the song Dust in the Wind back to back as many times it's been played on the radio, it would go on for 22 years!

[@ofness-de9pt]

Kerry was on a spiritual quest through out his career which is reflected in his song writing.j

[@astonsfan]

Saw them do this live and WOW !!!!! I think you will like Kansas.

[@smitlag]

Kerry Livgren the principle writer of early Kansas has stated that he was into Gentle Giant, not so much Yes. He found the Yes lyrics rather lacking. Realistically, given the time and technology, it was unlikely that they would have heard much from the English side anyhow. Yes's first big hit was Roundabout in America. Kansas had formed from two bands out of the same area that had been playing bar circuits for several years. Rich Williams once contrasted the heavier and rock aspect of the band to the Canterbury prog of England. He had said we loved to rock while the English style was more mood driven. Personally, I enjoy both. The sound palette of Kansas was different as well. While both sides of the ocean heavily used organs and the early monosynths being developed, Kansas used the Arp string synths in place of the Mellotrons, which were a huge part of English prog. That is an interesting story in of itself if you research it. Kansas had a "wall of sound" that is instantly recognized. Plus, the clever use of the violin as a second lead instrument was something few bands had at the time.

[@bobholtzmann]

A more accessible song on an emotional level might be "Dust In The Wind" - it was a big hit for the band, and most people really liked it.

[@mikes9305]

Early Kansas had quite an eclectic sound. The songs, like this one, that were more progressive did adopt an approach in which more "absolute" or baroque-inspired themes were placed in service of a more traditional song theme. This, along with having an actual violinist in the band, made their sound distinctive. They were also the only big progressive-style band from the United States (rather than Britain), but didn't limit themselves exclusively to that style. Some works and passages are flashy for their own sake, but this is (in my opinion) only a problem in a few songs (like Magnum Opus) while for the majority (including this one), it is a bonus, like a form of baroque ornamentation. When applying strictly romantic ideals, one does ask "does this serve the theme or mood," but this is not 19th Century Music. I find that in songs like this, the various interludes and bridges (and responses) are worthy enhancements. I don't listen to a Bach fugue for its conciseness, but for its complexity. This song is nicely balanced between a clear subject (carried by the vocalist and lyrics), livened and enhanced by supplemental passages that provide a variety of tempos and dynamics that the main themes haven't presented. I think it's a question of whether (and when) one supports a theme through traditional development methods, or through its framing with contrasting ideas and sections (and whether all of these must necessarily fit into a specific repetitive structure, or whether some are allowed to simply occur once, as a transitional passage). With most Yes music, the overarching structure is there and can readily be mapped out. With the progressive songs of Kansas, there tends to be a smaller-scale approach. I think it's just a matter of adjusting one's listening. In a hybrid song like this, Kansas tends to present the heart of the song in its lyrical vocal passages, with a variety of musical interludes in between. In most such songs, it works, but does sound rather different from other well-known bands. Kansas also did blazing hits in a more concise style, but the fact that they could draw upon diverse styles and approaches was part of what allowed most of their works to be very effective. Icarus is an early work of theirs, and as with so many 1970s bands, they were compelled to become more concise over time. (And greatly dropped in quality during the 1980s neo-pop era.)

[@fortisatquefidelis7000]

Lo escribiré en español porque transmite lo que realmente estoy pensando : Kansas es una banda en la que realmente puedes escuchar a estados unidos y la zona en que vivían ( kansas , topeka). Escribo esto,porque al parecer primero sabían que eran rockeros , de Topeka ... y a esto sumaron sus conocimientos y habilidades que dieron como resultado una banda increíble y única en su especie ( todo el peso del rock + el progresivo ). Realmente, Kansas es una banda que solo pudo haber salido durante la grandeza y la magia de los 70's

[@daveking9393]

I agree with everyone else's comments about the The live shows must be reacted to in the future. I hope you have the time and interest in pursuing this further. They have a lot you may enjoy.

[@garypullins8716]

Miracles out of no where

[@rk41gator]

I liked the Celtic-style opening. I like Kansas, but find Amy's points are well taken. An interesting perspective.

[@ilionreactor1079]

This music pre-dates MIDI. It is real, live musicians on real instruments. Even the synths are analog.

[@williamdecker1175]

I understand that you're put off by the almost overly done exactness of some of the music, but please bear in mind, MIDI, as a language and as a sequencing tool, were not invented yet when this music came out. This is just quite precise musicianship. Please give credit due...

[@jpirard]

It is very connected, I played this in a band and you cannot play this haphazardly. Very dynamic. Very controlled actually.

[@SmokeyTreats]

I think 'mechanical' was what she also said.

[@jvburnes]

Its a synthesizer / violin unison in the beginning. Steve Walsh's voice then comes in doubled and chorused / flanged. Though its classic Rock, it's heavily influenced by classical compositions. Paginini in some sort of minor mode?

[@ian12262]

If you want to return to Genesis some time, I'd heartily recommend keeping the Greek mythology theme and listening to 'The Fountain of Salmacis'.

[@TennisOnion]

Progressive rock can feel detached emotionally, but I thought Kansas did some really incredible work as craftsmen. This isn't gonna hit you like Great Gig, Brothers in Arms, etc... but when you love music and arrangement you are affected emotionally by the beauty of the creation itself. I suppose when you see a carved mantlepiece in a Victorian home, you could also ask "what for?" Yet, you can be moved by the work, craft, and vision in the creation.

[@gradypatterson1948]

It isn't an association that one would normally make, but I see in this song an early cautionary tale giving the same warning that character Ian Malcolm gave in "Jurassic Park": “your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should.” From the life-produced wax and feathers of the Greek Icarus, we now have the technological/artificial steel wings - immune to the sun, or nearly any other restraining influence! With no perceived need to consider consequences or mortality (not to mention morality), we leap at the chance to create what CS Lewis called "men without chests", and TS Eliot called "Hollow Men" intellects with as little passion and heart as possible! We see the results of this in the line "Earth still far below me - I'm here alone - and I won't come down no more!" This led, I believe, to the choice to double Robbie Steinhardt's violin with the clearly synthesized violin - blurring the natural with the artificial.

[@johnprice6066]

Kansas has such a great catalog of albums... Some other great songs to check out are "Portrait (He Knew)", "Point of Know Return", "Dust In the Wind", "Carry On Wayward Son", etc...

[@netuno60]

I knew Kansas but never heard them a lot. I remember "Dust in the Wind" only. I liked parts of this music, but it didn't get me. Of course, they are great musicians.

[@EddieReischl]

For me, "Leftoverture" and "Point of Know Return" are both perfect albums. The hits suggested in the comments are all good. Musically I really like "Paradox" as a busier song that's busyness makes sense, and "The Wall" is one of the rare times for me where I think the lyrics are exceptionally good, and it's set to some great music.

[@AudioAtmos]

Someone show this lady Kansas playing this song live perfectly like the recording. No midi!! It didn’t exist at this time. The violin is real. The very beginning the violin is doubled with a synth. Probably an ARP Quadra or Moog. I suppose it’s fun watching someone take a peak from their isolated musical experiences to be exposed to 20th century mastery. Much of the album Masque is meant to be listened to as bit of a concept. This is 1975 and Kansas was just starting to get their footing and this album in particular shows some of the struggles at the time. They were under a lot of financial pressure from the record label to produce hits when their main writer at the time was becoming very prolific and searching for something much larger. Listen to song “The Wall” form the album Leftoverture. It’s a perfect masterpiece.

[@RPKraul]

This was the first band I loved. They have a sound that could be described as Kansas to the bone . . . hard southern rock with a whole lot of prog layering. They do have a precision about them that sounds mechanical, but that speaks to the big chops to band members had, often on multiple instruments. While the band’s hits are well known, Kansas’ best record for me is Song for America, which really displays the band’s prog side. Kerry Livgren was indeed one of rock’s all-time-greatest songwriters.

[@MrYouDougTube]

I think you would enjoy The Wall or Song for America better (or even Dust in the Wind).

[@BlackCatLover]

The violin played by the late great Robby Steinhardt ! ❤️ He and Kansas were phenomenal live back in the 70s.

[@Chris_P_Bacon]

You should listen to more Radiohead, Nude from In Rainbows is one of their best! Absolute perfection

[@johnkw47]

Amy, please please Do a review of Miracles Out of Nowhere, their best song. Oh, and Carry on Wayward Son. Both from Leftoverture, which has a much more completed production sound than Masque, which this song was from.

[@michaellambert5223]

Anxious to see Kansas in the near future in Peoria!!! I saw them in 81 and again 86. I know it won’t be all original members but yeah!

[@lylelong9530]

May I suggest listening to Steve Morse's band - The Dixie Dregs. Steve was also a member of Kansas at one point.

[@rickmumm9336]

The Wall and Song for America are my two favorite Kansas songs. Great band!

[@wfly0001]

Need to hear the sequel, Icarus II

[@teemusid]

Kansas was my favorite band from age 15 into my 20's. Now, over 40 years later, I find their songs to be wildly inconsistent, from track to track. Some of their songs I consider to be among my favorites, while some I wish I hadn't heard. I scrolled through some of the comments, and I haven't seen anyone mention "Journey From Mariabronn." I like the song so much, I had to read the book it was based on, Herman Hesse's, "Narcissus and Goldmund."

[@Incomudro1963]

Journey from Mariabron is their best song as far as I'm concerned. The live version from Two for the Show though, not the studio version.

[@stevesilsby5288]

"Carry On, Wayward Son" "Cheyenne Anthem" "Nobody's Home" "Dust in the Wind" Just a few of my favorite Kansas song. Beautiful music, beautiful messages. Better compositions than "Icarus." Do listen.

[@leddygee1896]

The Pride Of America. Kansas!! A fan since their beginning... Isn't the point of music to progress? I would have to say yes.

[@sootikins]

The "robotic" or, as you called it, "midi" character of the music can probably be explained by the state of tech when this was recorded. Kansas uses a LOT of synths and this was 1975. Velocity sensing keyboards were very uncommon and niceties like aftertouch were unheard of. Those features were developed later to put some human expression capabilities into electronic keyboards. In '75 you were lucky if you had a pitch/modulation wheel or a volume pedal on your synth.

[@Incomudro1963]

The production on this album and Song for America is poor. I never liked the way either album sounded, and I always listen to the versions of the songs featured on Two for the Show instead.

[@sootikins]

@@Incomudro1963 Can't argue with that! Can't think of a good adjective to describe my take on production. Could say the mix sounds "thin" or "hollow" but that's not exactly it.

[@DaKidd62]

Their song Pinnacle is exactly that

[@stevegirardmedia2255]

First, real violin. Second, think jet fighters/wings of steel... as I remember an interview with composer K.Livgren in which he said he was inspired by a relative who fought in the skies during wartime. I think that might help in understanding the chaos... and the joy that a pilot feels about being in the air. So any ambition/pursuit you felt during the listen really pertains more to a life/death battle, and the ambition is to stay alive and of course, victory. For something more 'easy'... try "Lamplight Symphony", or Song for America (which really fits the analysis you felt about this song).

[@Asriazh]

The original Icaruses issue was, that he flew too high and his wings melted. This Icaruses issue is, that his wings didnt melt and he never returned down to earth and probably died, flying high up in the sky. A "better" song with real emotions, that don't feel flat, I'd think, is "Lamplight Symphony" Why not try that? Have fun and I hope You'll find something in Kansas that speaks to you ^_^

[@4lfr3d0]

I think of Jeff Buckley's Grace... And the whole word of sound and textures in it. And of course his inmortal voice. Something to analyze by Virgin Rock

[@ben_dornie]

Great to see you do a reaction to Kansas! Although you weren't immediately enthused by this song (I don't think the guitar sound on this album helped), I hope you'll try them out again. For more atmosphere, I'd urge you to listen to Lamplight Symphony next with its haunting theme and glorious piano.

[@johneargle6004]

Song For America would be the best tune from Kansas to listen to. It is to Kansas what "Firth Of Fifth" is to Genesis and what "Close To the Edge" is to Yes. I think you'll like it better.

[@everlastingarms3065]

The next Kansas you should try is "Song For America". It's more of symphonic type of work.

[@TheMister123]

I hope you also get to listen to "Icarus II" from Kansas's *Somewhere To Elsewhere* album. 🙂

[@richsalm7474]

You should listen to "Lamplight Symphony" - one of thier more symphonic tracks with an amazing ghost story! Also, Wings Of Steel is a reference to a wartime fighter plane- Icarus is the pilot. This is more evident in the song Icarus II that came later.

[@steveg297]

How can a classical musician not know the difference of a violin and an synth? Very disappointed.

[@boldfella8199]

You should listen to “The Wall” from the Leftoverture album. That’s Kansas’ pinnacle imho

[@sveinreinr4606]

The only rock band with a violin player :)

[@felderup]

you can feed nearly any sound into a synthesiser, depending on type, it'll make a mixed tambral thingermerjigger. a popular thing is playing guitar or singing through one, controlled with an 'envelope follower'.

[@keithbk]

For additional songs that may engage you from Kansas' catalog, try "Song for America" or "Incomudru: Hymn to the Atman."