Reviewed by Aaron Herbison

A legacy is the only way to describe the music of Kerry Livgren. From playing in the American progressive rock band Kansas in the '70s and '80s to AD in the late '80s, Kerry is without doubt one of the most deep and enlightened songwriters the rock world has ever known (remember "Carry On Wayward Son"?). Forget shallow, forget straight ahead, 'When Things Get Electric' is no less a work of lyrical and musical genius than any of this man's preceding albums. 13 tracks of strong, meaty substance from the opening acoustic "Prelude" to the mighty harmonies of "Two Thousand Down" (an anthem anticipating the second coming), the variety is plain to be seen with tinges of Queen in the track "Turn On The Lights" and reminiscences of Mastedon, Kansas and Survivor. David Ragsdale, current Kansas violinist, plays on a few tracks with Kerry himself playing pretty much everything else. Vocals are supplied by two new kids on the rocks, Darren Rogers and Jason Beddoe. Other tracks to look out for are "A Hero's Canticle", "Racing Away" and "No Holds Barred". If you are a fan of highly orchestrated music and lyrics you can base your faith on, then prepare to be electrified.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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