CD: "LEFTOVERTURE," KANSAS (SONY)

Kansas is one of those timeless bands that will be cherished long into the future, and "Leftoverture" is clearly its masterpiece. Since the album's release in 1976, none of its glory has faded. Widely celebrated as one of the greatest rock-'n'-roll albums of all time, its influences are obvious in many bands to this day.

Long before Eddie Vedder picked up a guitar or Kurt Cobain began expressing angst, these guys were revolutionizing the world of music. On this album, Kansas recorded its major radio hit "Carry On Wayward Son," and the public was exposed to the musical genius of six incredibly talented musicians.

With Kerry Livgren's soaring vocals and an array of drums, guitars, keyboards and even a violin, the album takes on several moods and styles. From the rambunctious "What's On My Mind" to the meandering experimental "Magnum Opus," Kansas attempted to bring together all sorts of conflicting musical ideas, and the result is a well-balanced, well-produced album.

Although many instruments are blended, Richard Williams and Dave Hope's guitar parts are unforgettable. The riffs in "Carry On Wayward Son" are catchy and infectious; they remain a modern guitar player's staple, and mind-blowing, finger-hammering solos are present in nearly every song on the album.

It is very rare that true musical greatness is recognized and accepted by the public at the time of its release. Many classical composers didn't become famous until long after their deaths, but the remaining members of Kansas (yes, they're still alive) bask in the glory of their musical accomplishments.

Now "Leftoverture" has been remastered and released as a CD for the latest generation's listening enjoyment. If you are a fan of good rock, pick this one up and give it a try. Even if you don't grasp the full power of the album, to quote the final lyrics, "It's really all we've got to share, 'cause rockin' and rollin', it's only howlin' at the moon."

-- By Paul Bowers, 16, a sophomore at Summerville High School. Contact him at Soccerdewd88 @sc.rr.com.