StageSide with Kansas

The classic prog-rock band revels in its past.

When Kansas first came on the scene in 1974, there weren’t many rock bands that could boast a violin as an integral part of their sound. Then again, with its musically challenging arrangements and orchestral overtones, Kansas wasn’t your run-of-the-mill band.

The group’s latest tour, which comes to the Merriam Theater on Oct. 1, celebrates the 40th anniversary of the band’s fourth album, 1976’s Leftoverture, featuring iconic single “Carry on Wayward Son.” As Kansas tours the country, audiences will be treated to a full rendition of the album. A few of the songs have never been performed live, which gives this tour an extra element of excitement.

To round out of the two-hour show, Kansas will dig into its archives, perform fan favorites and offer a few songs from it new album, The Prelude Implicit. The band has undergone a number of personnel changes over the years, but two original members remain: guitarist Rich Williams and drummer Phil Ehart. Ronnie Platt joined the band in 2014, replacing Steve Walsh on lead vocals.

- Advertisement -

 

Merriam Theatre
250 S. Broad St., Philadelphia
Saturday, Oct. 1
Tickets start at $49

Our Best of the Main Line Elimination Ballot is open through February 22!