Get Too Far

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Get Too Far" by Steve Walsh from his 1980 solo album Schemer-Dreamer, a track that’s got the Zoo Freaks vibing with its gritty rock energy. This song, a straightforward rocker with lyrics tackling blue-collar struggles and societal frustrations, features a catchy riff that’s been noted as a standout, even if it’s one of the less-remembered cuts from the album. According to a review on Rate Your Music, the track’s guitar work, likely courtesy of Steve Morse, gives it a punchy edge, though some fans felt it leaned into the era’s mainstream stadium-rock clichés. The lyrics, as shared on Genius, paint a picture of economic hardship, with lines about “bankers stealin’ with the runaway inflation” and “union men strikin’,” reflecting the working-class angst of the time. Interestingly, the album’s production, handled by Walsh alongside Brad Aaron and Davy Moire, mirrors the polished yet raw sound of Kansas’ Monolith and Audio-Visions era, which makes sense since bandmates like Kerry Livgren, Phil Ehart, and Rich Williams also contributed to the record.

Despite its historical value, "Get Too Far" didn’t become a breakout hit, and Schemer-Dreamer itself got mixed reactions. A Prog Archives review called it a “big disappointment” for Kansas fans expecting progressive rock, noting its shift to rockabilly and southern rock vibes. Still, the song’s raw energy and Walsh’s powerful vocals—described as “great” and expressive—carry it. A fun tidbit from the TC’s Old & New Music Review blog suggests that Walsh’s high-energy stage antics, like doing handstands on keyboards during Kansas shows, shaped the album’s lively feel, with “Get Too Far” fitting right into that dynamic vibe. Fans on social platforms like Facebook have occasionally reminisced about the album, with some calling it an underrated gem that captures Walsh’s raw vocal prowess outside Kansas’ prog framework.

Steve Walsh, born June 15, 1951, in St. Louis, Missouri, kicked off his musical journey in the local Topeka, Kansas scene, playing in various bands before hitting the big time. His early career was rooted in groups like White Clover, a band that eventually morphed into the third lineup of Kansas after signing with Don Kirshner’s label. Walsh’s powerful voice and stage presence became central to Kansas’ sound, propelling hits like “Carry On Wayward Son” and “Dust in the Wind” to classic rock stardom. His bio on AllMusic highlights how his “strong and certain delivery” made him a defining force in the band’s 1970s success, with albums like Leftoverture (1976) and Point of Know Return (1977) cementing their legacy. Before Kansas, Walsh honed his craft in Topeka’s bar scene, playing covers and originals, which built his reputation as a commanding frontman.

Walsh’s solo venture with Schemer-Dreamer came after creative tensions with Kansas’ Kerry Livgren, leading to his brief departure from the band in 1980. He later formed the rock band Streets, releasing albums in 1983 and 1985, and continued collaborating with artists like Steve Hackett and Radioactive. His official website, stevewalshrocks.com, showcases his discography and career highlights, while his Facebook page keeps fans updated on recent projects like his 2017 album Black Butterfly. You can also find him on Instagram and X, where he shares occasional posts about music and performances. For fan communities, check out the Steve Walsh Fans Facebook group, where Zoo Freaks and other devotees swap stories, rare photos, and love for his work. Another fan site, steve-walsh.de, offers detailed discographies and news for German-speaking fans.