Always Never the Same cover

Always Never the Same

Kansas · 1998

71 min · 13 tracks · hard rock

Melodic harmonies intertwine with intricate instrumentation, showcasing Kansas's signature blend of art rock and progressive themes.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Eleanor Rigby Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Dust in the Wind — This track reinterprets the classic acoustic ballad with fresh arrangements, emphasizing its enduring themes of mortality and introspection.
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    Cheyenne Anthem — An epic piece that showcases the band's progressive rock roots, blending rich storytelling with complex musical structures that highlight their artistic ambitions.
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    In Your Eyes — This song features lush harmonies and heartfelt lyrics that reflect personal connections, exemplifying the softer side of Kansas's evolving sound.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic flow with reflective moments
  • wave-like pacing with peaks
  • immersive journey through emotions
  • thoughtful listening during quiet times

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification tracks
  • prefer short, standalone songs

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Marks a strong return after a decade, showcasing continued musical ambition.
Themes
mortality reflections· American storytelling· progressive rock evolution
Career context
By the time 'Always Never the Same' was released in 1998, Kansas had experienced significant lineup changes that reshaped their sound. This album marked their first studio release in over a decade, following the band's 1988 album 'Power.' The period was crucial as it represented their attempt to reconnect with both longtime fans and a new generation of listeners.
Stylistic neighbors
Boston· Styx· Yes

Tracklist

  • 1 Eleanor Rigby Start here 3:22
  • 2 Dust in the Wind 4:01
  • 3 Preamble 3:25
  • 4 Song for America 9:17
  • 5 In Your Eyes 4:31
  • 6 Miracles out of Nowhere 6:28
  • 7 Hold On 4:18
  • 8 The Sky Is Falling 7:51
  • 9 Cheyenne Anthem 7:31
  • 10 Prelude & Introduction 4:53
  • 11 The Wall 5:29
  • 12 Need to Know 3:59
  • 13 Nobody’s Home 6:01

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata