Kansas - Masque

Track List:
1.  It Takes a Woman's Love (To Make a Man) – 3:08
2.  Two Cents Worth - 3:08
3.  Icarus - Borne on Wings of Steel – 6:03
4.  All the World – 7:11
5.  Child of Innocence – 4:36
6.  It's You – 2:31
7.  Mysteries and Mayhem – 4:18
8.  The Pinnacle – 9:44

I was surprised to find out that the band is not particularly fond of this album! In addition to the ‘big four’ (“Icarus”, “Child of Innocence”, “Mysteries and Mayhem”, and “The Pinnacle”), I believe there is a lot to be proud of here. While the "Big Four" are staples in the regular Kansas diet, other treats should not be overlooked.

The distinct southern rock/pop sound was very popular in the mid-70s, and Masque fit right in with the opening cuts, “It Takes A Woman’s Love (to Make a Man)” and bluesy “Two Cents Worth”. “It Takes A Woman’s Love” has been vilified by many Kansas fans, but I actually like it! Normally, I’m a big critic of Steve Walsh’s love songs, but this time, the fun and funky beat seem to jibe well with the lyrics. The piano work on this song is excellent! Too bad it did not go very far as a hit single.

I like to call “All the World” the band’s ‘hippie song’. The lyrics are beautiful and reflect the politics of that era. The violin is incredible, too. While some might find it ‘mushy’ by today's standards, it's still a strong song to give us hope for world peace.

The magical genius of Kerry Livgren is so evident with the ‘big four’; I feel he truly was honing his songwriting skills on this album. “Icarus” instantly became my favorite Kansas song the moment I first heard it. Robby’s violin is fantastic, and the guitars do not disappoint. I truly loved this song at that time and still do today!

“Child of Innocence” is a powerful song, both musically and lyrically, and the hard rocking “Mysteries and Mayhem” is over the top (and a personal favorite of mine). The popularity of these two songs alone should have made this album more successful. “The Pinnacle” is a slower song, but nevertheless, sends chills up my spine with its strong, creative imagery! It is obvious that Kerry was seriously exploring Christianity at this time, but somehow, these songs are not a turn-off for most non-believers. The lyrics can speak to anybody; one of the reasons Kerry is one of my favorite all-time songwriters!

So, what’s the problem here, guys? I don’t see a problem at all! This is just another great Kansas album that rocks my socks! The ‘big four’s prog sound mixes well with the other funky, bluesy songs and balances out the whole album. Masque has a flavor that needs to be tasted more often.