Summer

Zoo Freaks, get ready to vibe with the Zoo Crew as they spin "Summer" by Kansas from their 2016 album The Prelude Implicit. This track, sung by bassist Billy Greer, is a high-energy rocker that captures the nostalgic joy of past glories with its powerful guitar riffs and driving rhythm. According to a review from The Progressive Aspect, "Summer" stands out as a "great rocker with happy lyrics remembering past glory," blending the band's signature violin flourishes with a catchy, radio-friendly chorus. Some fans on ProgArchives have noted the chorus, while fun, feels slightly reminiscent of Uriah Heep’s Bernie Shaw era, adding a unique flavor to Kansas’s progressive rock sound. The song’s lively pace and musical interplay make it a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic, free-spirited airwaves.

Delving deeper into "Summer," the track reflects Kansas’s revitalized spirit after a 16-year gap since their last studio album. In a 2016 interview with Ultimate Classic Rock, guitarist Richard Williams described the album, including "Summer," as having "something for every kind of Kansas fan," highlighting its balance of prog complexity and accessible rock. Drummer Phil Ehart, a founding member, emphasized the phoenix imagery on the album’s cover, symbolizing a rebirth for the band, which resonates in the upbeat, reflective tone of "Summer." The song’s recording process was a collaborative effort, with new members like vocalist Ronnie Platt and guitarist Zak Rizvi bringing fresh energy. Platt, a lifelong Kansas fan, shared in a KMUW interview that joining the band and recording tracks like "Summer" felt like a dream, especially since he grew up playing their records "to death."

Kansas began as a "garage band" in Topeka, Kansas, in the early 1970s, formed by drummer Phil Ehart, guitarist Richard Williams, and others who shared a passion for blending progressive rock with American heartland grit. Discovered by Wally Gold, an associate of music mogul Don Kirshner, the band released their self-titled debut in 1974, which laid the groundwork for their iconic sound. Their breakthrough came with 1976’s Leftoverture, featuring "Carry On Wayward Son," followed by 1977’s Point of Know Return with "Dust in the Wind." These hits, driven by intricate instrumentation and the distinctive violin of Robby Steinhardt, propelled Kansas to sell over 30 million albums worldwide. Despite lineup changes, including the departure of founding vocalist Steve Walsh in 2014, Ehart and Williams have remained the band’s core, steering Kansas through decades of sold-out tours across North America, Europe, and Japan.

Stay connected with Kansas through their official website, where you can find tour dates, merchandise, and news. Follow them on Facebook for updates and behind-the-scenes content, or check out their Instagram for photos from the road. On X, the band shares quick updates and interacts with fans. Zoo Freaks can also join fan communities like the Kansas Band Fan Club on Facebook, where devotees discuss albums, share concert memories, and celebrate the band’s legacy. For more fan-driven content, visit ProgArchives, a hub for progressive rock enthusiasts, including detailed Kansas discographies and reviews.