The Metal Files

The last time I saw Kansas was 2000 in Virginia Beach, VA when they were opening for YES.  We had lawn seats at the amphitheater and it was started raining cats and dogs during Kansas’ set.  It made the show less enjoyable.  When YES came on, they moved us in seats at the back of the covered area as the show was lightly attended.  I can’t say I enjoyed the show that much getting soaked like we did.

I got home from work yesterday around 5:30 and felt like I needed to get out and do something.  I went to the ShowListAustin website to see if there was anything to spark my interest.  The last 2 things on their list for yesterday were Weird Al and Kansas.  I’m no big fan of Weird Al so I looked up the Kansas show and there were plenty of tickets available.  I ended up in a box section all by myself which was just fine.

I’ve never been to the Long Center before and it was an average sized place with good sound.  The venue doesn’t allows bottles, cans or food inside, so they pour your drinks in a cup with a lid and a straw.  Seemed odd.

The band started promptly at 8PM with People of the South Wind and then when into Point of Know Return.  Let’s be clear, Kansas are not young folks.  Neither am I and their fan base surely isn’t young.  I was certainly in the top percentage of “younger” folks and I’m 45!

The band sounded great albeit slower than the recordings.  No surprise and no problem.  The new singer, Ronnie Platt, sounded great taking over after Steve Walsh’s 2014 retirement.

The setlist consisted mainly of songs from “The Best of Kansas” compilation with some additions.  Being in the box and not blocking any views, I stood up the whole show.

The highlights for me were Play the Game Tonight, Belexes, People of the South Wind and Hold On.  I love that song and it has always elicited an emotional response and last night’s version was no different.  Great song.  Enjoyable show over all and was over before 9:30 so us older folk can get to bed at a decent hour.  haha

Beers with straws.

The view from my box.