PROTO-KAW - Forth (2011)

Kerry Livgren, best known as the creative force behind the band Kansas, has released a new album with his pre-Kansas band, PROTO-KAW.

The story goes that Livgren was in a band called Kansas but was taken away from them when the band that become Kansas (the famous, well-known Kansas) procured a record deal.

Years later, Livgren put his old band back together. The name is literally translated to mean “Pre-Kansas” (PROTO: first formed; primitive; original - KAW: Native American, n. pl. Kansa or Kan·sas In both senses also called Kaw).



Proto-Kaw's first CD, 'Before Came After' (2004), went well, so the group stayed together and Livgren penned a second release, 'The Wait Of Glory' (2006).

Now they're back with a new album entitled "Forth", much more commercial and accessible than the previous efforts.

The music has heavy Kansas leanings as heard in songs like the modern soft-sympho “Daylight” and the intricate “Things We Are Breaking” which features a tasteful guitar job.

On “Pilgrim’s Wake” the band sounds on parts as the slick '80s - '90s Pink Floyd mixed with modern Jethro Tull, and features a former Kansas and current Deep Purple guitarist Steve Morse, playing a blistering outro guitar solo.

“Greek Structure Sunbeam” is an old song written by Livgren 30 years ago. This track has a bright aura and a lovely calm melody.



But the absolute higlight on this album is "On The Air (Again)", another old Livgren's penned track, magnificently re-arranged. This is an extremely classy rocking tune with the 'classic rock' seal stamped over it. In my opinion, this one of greatest songs composed by Kerry Livgren ever. The vocal counterpoint (3 vocalists) is awesome, helped by a terrific mix and production.

The band's commercial approach is clear again in “Sleeping Giant”, a stunning midtempo ballad with terrific vocal harmonies and a horn section as earlier Chicago.

The classic ol' Kansas sound returns with “Things We Are Breaking” including beautiful instrumental passages and a hot guitar riff and solo.





This new disc, as all Proto-Kaw albums, is a labor of love for Livgren and company.

On "Forth", they have rolled up their sleeves and released the best album in their catalog.

The music ranges from Kansas-esque tunes to Jethro Tull prog or the most commercial modern Pink Floyd, but there are so much more. Many tracks are calm and melodic, however, there is plenty of hard rocking guitar to keep this one cranked up loud.

Great harmonies in both the vocals and instruments are all over on this stupendous disc.

It is hard to believe but Kerry Livgren at this stage of his career is getting better as a soloist and composer. Craig Kew's bass playing influenced by Jaco Pastorius is stellar, fitting comfortably with Mike Partum's first class drumming. Dan Wright is a solid keyboardist playing nice solos and wonderful organ layers.

Lynn Meredith is one of brightest stars on this recording. His velvety, sometimes confident voice is a pleasure to all senses, but gets stronger and authoritative when needed. The vocal arrangements created by him, Jake and Craig are some of the best harmonies I have heard in a long time.

The band itself is maturing right before your ears. This isn't just a fun little project of old friends, this is a serious statement that they can compete with any band on any level.

Production is top notch, crisp and clear, and the mix is superb. For best results this CD should be listened to using headphones. You'll love it.

First Class Music.





01 - Daylight

02 - Pilgrim's Wake

03 - Pollex

04 - Cold And Clear

05 - Lay Down

06 - Greek Structure Sunbeam

07 - On The Air (Again)

08 - One To Follow

09 - Sleeping Giant

10 - Things We Are Breaking

11 - Utopian Dream





Kerry Livgren - Guitar, Vocals, Keyboards, Percussion

Lynn Meredith - Lead Vocals

John Bolton - Woodwinds

Dan Wright - Keyboards

Jake Livgren - Guitar, Sax, Vocals

Craig Kew - Bass, Vocals

Mike Patrum - Drums, Percussion

Steve Morse (Deep Purple) - Guitar solo in "Pilgrim’s Wake"

















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