Search - Kansas :: Device Voice Drum

Kansas Is Still At Their Best!!

Louie Bourland | Garden Grove CA | 08/10/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Kansas is one of America's premier progressive rock bands. Throughout their 30+ years, they have always displayed strong musicianship, thought provoking lyrics and dynamic composition. With their 2000 studio release, "Somewhere To Elsewhere", Kansas came full circle with the original line-up reuniting for the first time in 20 years. Their latest live CD "Device Voice Drum" brings the band to an even fuller circle.
Recorded in June 2002, "Device Voice Drum" captures a revitalized Kansas performing music mostly from the bands heyday in the 1970's. Classics such as "Belexes", "Song For America", "The Wall" and "Icarus" areplayed with the same intensity and vigor as they were back in the day. The Kansas standards "Carry On Wayward Son", "Dust In The Wind" and "Point Of Know Return" still haven't lost their cutting edge and are still among the band's best work.
Musically, the band sounds like they have come back to life in a big way. Singer/keyboardist Steve Walsh's voice has changed considerably since the early years of the band. His commanding forceful tone comes across now as being more strained and roughend. He still knows how to belt these songs out though. Violinist Robby Steinhardt still soars musically and vocally and can still harmonize effortlessly. Guitarist Richard Williams and the rhythm section of Bassist Billy Greer and drummer Phil Ehart are still solid aces on their instruments.
"Device Voice Drum" is an excellent live set from this legendary band. There is only one element missing out of this enitre concert, the presence of founder and band leader Kerry Livgren. Had he been on stage with the band during this concert, this would have been beyond description. However, the five-piece Kansas line-up does a fine job of displaying Livgren's music without him. I'm sure Kerry is proud of them.
This double-live-CD is definitely a piece of nostalgia and truly is a trip down memory lane. I can only hope that Kansas will continue their musical path in the direction they have been carrying it over the last five years.
This is classic Kansas for the 21st Century. In the words of Kansas member Robby Steinhardt, this CD is proof that you can "still rock when you're 52 years old"."

Kansas at their current peak

John G. Miller | 08/27/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"First of all, for the fans who have made negative personal comments about Robbie's look (hey guy, Robbie looks the same as he did in 1974, save the clothes, where you been? Obviously NOT a fan otherwise you would have known that), Richard's weight (he has been the size he is for the last 8 years, where you been?), Steve's voice (his voice has been in its current state for the last 15 years, though a lot better sounding now than in a long time, so I ask again, where you been?). My question at the end of all those "where have you been" speaks to why you are negative. You have not bothered to keep up with THIS Kansas for the last 15 years. You picked up Device Voice Drum thinking it was Kansas from 1978 and guess what? It isn't and you should go back to your old records and not bother with Kansas. This DVD is for the fans like myself who have bothered to hang around the whole time, who have supported the band and embrace every thing about it. In that light, it comes through like a champ. Sorry for my digression. It just really gets me upset when people come out here who are obviously fans from days long ago and rip on a band they haven't bothered to keep up with. My only complaints with Device Voice Drum is that there should have been lots more discussion from the band. A commentary track should have been added, along with longer interviews. This band has been around for 30 years. There is a lot more to talk about than what is given to us on the DVD. Last complaint, and a petty one, not all the albums were covered, especially my favorite, Freaks Of Nature. I still feel that album, even against Somewhere, is their best album since POKR. Still, with its faults, I love this DVD and accept it faults and all."

The Music's Forever

Warren Motter | York, PA usa | 09/12/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Every incarnation of this country's premeire Prog-Rock band, Kansas, has a musical life of its own. This version focuses on providing its diverse fan base with a musical style that is tasteful and timeless. Gone are the days of the trademark Steve Walsh dancing, jumping and gyrating to the infecteous rock beat of this unique and, ever evolving, band. Now, Steve focuses his energy and attention upon playing keyboard parts (originally meant for two keyboardists) while belting out his vocals better than at any time period since the 1970s. This is a must have for every fan of good, solid, rock music. And, for every Kansas fan, it's a dire necessity. Keep On Rockin,' Wayward Sons!"