Song For America

About

Song for America is the second album by American rock band Kansa, released in 1975 (see 1975 in music). Endless touring had given Kansas a small following of loyal fan, some of whom would follow the group from one show to another. Despite the minor success of their debut album, they were still, for the most part, a struggling bar band. While Song for America did little to change that, it is regarded by many as their most progressive work. Like the first album, the writing duties were divided between Kerry Livgren and the former members of White Clover, most notably vocalist / keyboardist Steve Walsh. Musically, Song for America is a complex wall of sound containing six lengthy tracks full of wailing guitar, violin and generous portions of organ and Mellotron. Lyrically, Kansas had begun to take a dark turn. Walsh’s songs reflected life on the street ("Lonely Street"), drug dealing ("Down the Road"), and a run-in with the Devil. Livgren’s world included a haunting ghost story ("Lamplight Symphony"), a Hymn to the Atman, and the album’s sweeping title track, which is regarded by violinist Robby Steinhardt as the band’s signature tune. Track listing "Down the Road" – 3:43 "Song for America" - 10:03 "Lamplight Symphony" – 8:17 "Lonely Street" – 5:43 "The Devil Game" – 5:04 "Incomudro - Hymn to the Atman" – 12:11 2004 CD reissue bonus tracks "Song for America " - 3:02 "Down the Road " - 3:48 Personnel Phil Ehart - drums Dave Hope - bass Kerry Livgren - guitar, keyboard Robby Steinhardt - violin, vocals Steve Walsh - keyboard, vocals Rich Williams - guitar Production Producers: Jeff Glixman, Wally Gold Engineer: Peter Granet Mastering: Tom Rabstenek Preparation: Don Meehan Arranger: Kansas Art direction: Ed Lee Paintings: Peter Lloyd Charts Album - Billboard (North America) Year Chart Position 1975 Pop Albums 57 .

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