Power

AMG Review of Power

Bret Adams
All Music Guide

After a three-year hiatus, Kansas re-formed in 1986, signed with MCA, and released Power. The album bears virtually no resemblance to the old Kansas style; in fact, it's more hard rock and pop than prog rock, and the tough-yet-sleek opener, "Silhouettes in Disguise," immediately announces the change to listeners. "Power" was a minor hit and the simple chorus is effective. "All I Wanted" is pure pop, and this Top 20 hit single features lush keyboards and Steve Walsh's earnest, melodramatic vocals. The instrumental "Musicatto" is the album's primary link to Kansas' prog rock past. "Taking in the View" is a gentle song featuring sweet acoustic guitar and a children's chorus. "Three Pretenders" and "Tomb 19" both rely on strong ock & roll hooks and soaring choruses. "Can't Cry Anymore" is an orchestra-based allad. Power probably surprised longtime Kansas fans with its musical shift, but the addition of Steve Morse gave the band an interesting -- if ultimately short-lived -- new direction.