On the Other Side

Zoo Freaks, get ready to vibe with the cosmic sounds of Kansas as the Zoo Crew spins "On the Other Side" from the 1979 album Monolith. This track, penned by guitarist and keyboardist Kerry Livgren, is a standout for its epic riff and introspective lyrics, capturing the band’s signature progressive rock energy. In a review on Prog Archives, fans praise its “gigantic epic riff” and Steve Walsh’s soaring vocals, noting it as a potential career highlight despite some AOR clichés. The song’s lyrical depth, exploring themes of searching for meaning, resonates with lines like “Everyone needs something to believe in,” as highlighted on SongMeanings, where fans interpret it as a call to embrace truth in a confusing world. Interestingly, "On the Other Side" was released as an edited picture sleeve single in Japan during Kansas’s first tour there in January 1980, a tidbit shared on Wikipedia, making it a unique collectible for diehard fans.

The recording of Monolith, which includes "On the Other Side," marked a pivotal moment for Kansas, as it was their first self-produced album. According to Subjective Sounds, the album’s shift toward a more accessible hard rock sound influenced the 1980s hair metal era, though it divided fans at the time. Some, as noted on Rate Your Music, felt the band’s inspiration was waning, with Livgren and Walsh not collaborating on any tracks, a first for the band. Despite mixed reviews, "On the Other Side" remains a fan favorite, with Prog Archives reviewers calling it one of Livgren’s strongest contributions. The song’s inclusion on the 2005 compilation On the Other Side, as mentioned on AllMusic, underscores its enduring appeal among Kansas devotees.

Kansas formed in Topeka, Kansas, in 1973, emerging from a rich local music scene. As detailed on Wikipedia, the band was born when members of two rival groups, including Phil Ehart (drums), Dave Hope (bass), and Kerry Livgren (guitar/keyboards), merged to create a new lineup with Steve Walsh (vocals/keyboards), Robby Steinhardt (violin/vocals), and Rich Williams (guitar). Their early years were marked by relentless gigging across the Midwest, blending hard rock, southern rock, and progressive influences inspired by bands like Yes and Genesis. Livgren’s interest in mysticism and spirituality, noted on Wikipedia, shaped their early lyrical themes. After signing with Kirshner Records, their 1974 self-titled debut laid the groundwork, but it was 1976’s Leftoverture, with the hit “Carry On Wayward Son,” that catapulted them to fame, cementing their place on classic rock radio.

Stay connected with Kansas through their official website and social media: follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates on tours and releases. Fans can dive deeper into the Kansas community via fan-driven platforms like the Kansas Band Fan Club on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks can share their love for tracks like "On the Other Side." For more fan content, check out Kansas’s official fan club for exclusive news and merchandise. Keep spinning those records, Zoo Crew, and let the progressive vibes of Kansas take you to the other side!