Always Never the Same

Album overview

"Always Never the Same" is the 1998 studio album by the American rock band Kansas, released under the label CMC International. This album marked a significant moment in the band's evolution, showcasing a blend of progressive rock and hard rock elements that Kansas is known for. The recording process took place at studios in the United States, with the band collaborating closely with producer John Elefante, who had previously worked with Kansas on earlier albums. The album features a lineup that includes original members Phil Ehart, Rich Williams, and Billy Greer, alongside contributions from other musicians like David Ragsdale on violin, a distinctive feature of their sound. The album contains notable tracks such as "I Can Fly," "All I Wanted," and "The Coming Dawn," which reflect themes of hope and introspection, characteristic of Kansas's lyrical style. Despite the changing musical landscape of the late 90s, "Always Never the Same" managed to capture the essence of Kansas's sound while also attempting to appeal to a new generation of listeners. The album received mixed reviews upon release but has since gained recognition for its rich instrumentation and poignant lyrics. The singles released from the album, particularly "I Can Fly," helped to establish Kansas's presence on radio stations during its time, contributing to the band's enduring legacy in the rock genre.

Review

Kansas's "Always Never the Same" is a testament to the band's ability to meld their signature sound with contemporary influences. The album opens with "I Can Fly," a soaring anthem that encapsulates the band's knack for marrying powerful melodies with introspective lyrics. The production is polished yet retains an organic feel, allowing the musicianship to shine through, particularly the intricate guitar work and Ragsdale's emotive violin. Lyrically, the album explores themes of resilience and the human experience, with tracks like "The Coming Dawn" offering a hopeful outlook amidst the struggles of life. However, some critics argue that certain songs might come off as formulaic, lacking the innovative spark that characterized Kansas's earlier works. Despite this, the album's overall artistic vision remains intact, showcasing the band's evolution while honoring their roots. The musicianship is impressive, with tight arrangements and a cohesive sound that rewards attentive listening. Each member contributes to the album's depth, creating an experience that resonates on both emotional and musical levels.

Highlights

• Strong musicianship with intricate arrangements.
• Compelling lyrical themes that resonate with listeners.
• Production quality that enhances the band's signature sound.

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel formulaic compared to earlier works.
• Not all songs achieve the same emotional impact.
• Limited commercial success in a changing musical landscape.

Overall evaluation

"Always Never the Same" stands as a commendable entry in Kansas's discography, showcasing their enduring talent while navigating the nuances of a new musical era. While it may not reach the heights of classic albums like "Leftoverture," it still offers a rich listening experience for fans and newcomers alike.