Kansas - Masque (1975) | CLOCKWORK PEACH

Label: Kirshner
Country: US
Released: 1975
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Overview of Masque

Released in October 1975, "Masque" is the third studio album by the American progressive rock band Kansas. It came out under Kirshner Records, catalog number PZ 33806. The album was recorded at Studio in the Country in Bogalusa, Louisiana, from July to September of that year. Jeff Glixman served as the producer, while Lee Peterzell and Jimmy Stroud handled the engineering duties. Denny Purcell was responsible for mastering the album.

Musical Composition

The core lineup of Kansas during this period included Steve Walsh on lead vocals and keyboards, Kerry Livgren on guitars and keyboards, Robby Steinhardt playing violin and vocals, Rich Williams on guitars, Dave Hope on bass, and Phil Ehart on drums and Moog drum. The album is characterized by its blend of rock, art rock, and progressive rock elements. A guest saxophone performance by Lon Price opens the album.

Track Highlights

Among the tracks, "Icarus - Borne on Wings of Steel" stands out as a mythological epic that showcases the band’s signature complexity and lyrical depth. Another significant piece is "The Pinnacle," which spans nine minutes and features multiple movements, demonstrating Kansas's ability to weave intricate musical narratives. Other noteworthy tracks include "All the World" and "Child of Innocence," which further highlight the band’s diverse sound and thematic range.

Cover Art

The cover art for "Masque" is notable for its use of Giuseppe Arcimboldo's 1566 painting "Water." This artwork creatively depicts a face made up of various sea creatures, aligning with the album's thematic explorations. The visual representation complements the complex musical compositions found within the vinyl.

Production Details

The album's production process involved advanced studio techniques for the time, enhancing the overall listening experience. The combination of instruments, including the Moog drum and violin, contributed to the rich soundscape that Kansas is known for. Each member played a crucial role in crafting the album's unique blend of rock genres.

Masque was recorded at Studio in the Country in Bogalusa, Louisiana, between July and September 1975.

Tracklist

A1	It Takes A Woman's Love (To Make A Man) Saxophone [s] – Lon PriceWritten-By – S. Walsh*	3:06
A2	Two Cents Worth Written-By – K. LivgrenWritten-By – S. Walsh	3:07
A3	Icarus - Borne On Wings Of Steel Written-By – K. Livgren*	6:02
A4	All The World Written-By – R. SteinhardtWritten-By – S. Walsh	7:08
B1	Child Of Innocence Written-By – K. Livgren*	4:33
B2	It's You Written-By – S. Walsh*	2:32
B3	Mysteries And Mayhem Written-By – K. LivgrenWritten-By – S. Walsh	4:19
B4	The Pinnacle Written-By – K. Livgren*	9:34

Credits

Arranged By – Kansas
Artwork – Giuseppe Arcimboldo
Bass Guitar – Dave Hope
Crew [Road] – Jerry Gilleland
Crew [Road] – Merle McLain
Design – James Flournoy Holmes
Drums, Drum [Moog], Percussion – Phil Ehart
Engineer – Lee Peterzell
Engineer [Assistant] – James Stroud
Lacquer Cut By – DNP*
Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar – Rich Williams
Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Piano, Clavinet, Synthesizer [ARP], Synthesizer [Moog] – Kerry Livgren
Management [Direction] – Budd Carr
Management [Direction] – Elliot Abbott
Mastered By – Denny Purcell
Organ, Piano, Clavinet, Synthesizer [Moog], Congas, Vocals – Steve Walsh
Photography By – David Gahr
Photography By – Mark Lawhon
Producer – Jeff Glixman
Violin, Vocals – Robby Steinhardt