Reviewed by Anthony Longville

One of the pleasant surprises in the classic rock world in 2004 was the release of 'Before Became After' by Proto-kaw - a debut album 30 years in the making. Proto-kaw was an early line up of the classic band Kansas which split in 1974. Livgren joined up with a different band under the Kansas umbrella and the rest as they say, is history. I was delighted to hear that the follow up was not to be another 30 years in the offing! Drummer Brad Schulz has quit the band to be replaced by Mike Patrum. Another addition to the band is Livgren's nephew Jake, who adds guitar, alto sax, percussion and backing vocals. Jake steps up to the mic for lead vocals on "Melicus Gladiator" - which to me sounds so much like something by the successful Kansas line up. Elsewhere it is business as usual, with complex musical arrangements mixing rock jazz and other influences (I even hear a hint of ska on "Osvaldo's Groceries"). Like most of my favourite music, it takes some listening to to find the treasure but the set is certainly growing on me with several plays. I am not sure this quite hits the heights of its predecessor, but rock music of this quality is rare indeed and this is definitely one to give a go. Lyrically it's typically Livgren, painting word pictures rather than preaching, but to him who has ears there is, I believe, reference to the perfection of eternity in Heaven ("Nevermore", "Picture This"), End Times ("Relics Of The Tempest"), revival ("When The Rains Come"), social morality ("The Great Decline") and a "love so amazing" ("The Vigil"). With the special edition there's a short live DVD which leaves you wanting more! A classy package.

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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