Album Information Section

Album Title: Monolith

Artist: Kansas

Original Release Date: May 1979

Label: Kirshner

Genres: Progressive Rock, Hard Rock

Track Listing

• 1. On the Other Side (6:26)
• 2. People of the South Wind (3:41)
• 3. Angels Have Fallen (6:40)
• 4. How My Soul Cries Out for You (5:46)
• 5. A Glimpse of Home (6:37)
• 6. Away From You (4:26)
• 7. Stay Out of Trouble (4:16)
• 8. Reason to Be (3:50)

Recording Information

The album “Monolith” was recorded at the Record Plant in Los Angeles, California, a studio known for its state-of-the-art equipment and notable clientele. The recording sessions took place in 1978, reflecting a period when the band was deep into their progressive rock sound. The production was helmed by the band alongside renowned producer Jeff Glixman, who had previously worked with Kansas on their successful album “Leftoverture.” The engineering was managed by the talented team at the Record Plant, utilizing advanced recording techniques for the time, including multi-track recording and innovative mixing methods that enhanced the album’s rich textures.

An interesting production note is that “Monolith” is characterized by its orchestral arrangements, a departure from the more guitar-driven sounds of earlier Kansas albums. This shift was part of the band’s evolution as they experimented with their sound while trying to reach a broader audience.

Band Context

At the time of “Monolith,” Kansas was experiencing a significant phase in their career. Following the immense success of “Leftoverture” and the hit single “Carry On Wayward Son,” the band had established themselves as one of the leading acts in the progressive rock genre. The lineup during the recording of “Monolith” consisted of lead vocalist and violinist Robby Steinhardt, guitarist Kerry Livgren, keyboardist David Hopler, bassist Dave Hope, drummer Phil Ehart, and guitarist Richard Williams. This lineup was crucial in creating the distinctive sound that Kansas was known for.

In the lead-up to “Monolith,” the band faced challenges including pressures from the music industry, and internal dynamics as they navigated their rising fame. The late 1970s was a transformative time for the band, as they sought to balance commercial success with their artistic integrity. Their previous album had set high expectations, and “Monolith” was seen as a crucial step in maintaining their relevance in a rapidly changing musical landscape.

Track Commentary

“Monolith” opens with the ambitious track “On the Other Side,” which sets the tone for the album with its intricate arrangements and thought-provoking lyrics. The song showcases the band’s signature blend of rock and orchestral elements, establishing a foundation for the subsequent tracks. “People of the South Wind,” the album’s second track, became one of the standout songs and was released as a single, showcasing a more straightforward rock sound while still retaining the band’s complex musicality.

As the album progresses, tracks like “Angels Have Fallen” and “How My Soul Cries Out for You” delve into themes of existentialism and spirituality, reflecting the band’s lyrical depth. “A Glimpse of Home” offers a poignant moment with its reflective lyrics and haunting melodies, while “Away From You” introduces a more personal and intimate narrative. The album closes with “Reason to Be,” a track that encapsulates the overarching themes of longing and self-discovery present throughout the album.

Critical reception of “Monolith” was mixed at the time of its release, with some praising its ambitious scope and production quality, while others felt it did not quite match the heights of their previous work. However, over the years, many of the tracks have been reassessed and gained appreciation among fans and critics alike, solidifying “Monolith” as an important entry in Kansas’s discography and a testament to their evolving sound during a pivotal time in rock music.