Masque cover

Masque

Kansas · 1975

40 min · 8 tracks · hard rock · progressive rock · art rock

A collage of intricate melodies and soaring harmonies that blend rock with progressive elements.

Why this album works

'Masque' is notable for its ambitious musicality and lyrical themes, continuing the band's trend of charting in the Billboard Top 40. The album showcases Kansas's evolution into a major force in the progressive rock scene of the 1970s, influencing subsequent artists with its blend of rock and orchestral arrangements.
Best for
dynamic journey with emotional peaks wave-like pacing invites reflection intricate melodies for detail-focused listeners
Context
Released on September 20, 1975, 'Masque' was Kansas's fourth studio album, following their breakthrough record 'Leftoverture.' At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their reputation for complex compositions and lyrical depth, building on the commercial success they had achieved with previous albums.
Stylistic neighbors
Survivor· Ann Wilson· Queen

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 It Takes a Woman’s Love (to Make a Man) 3:06
  • 2 Two Cents Worth 3:07
  • 3 Icarus—Borne on Wings of Steel Standout 6:02
  • 4 All the World 7:08
  • 5 Child of Innocence Standout 4:33
  • 6 It’s You 2:32
  • 7 Mysteries and Mayhem 4:19
  • 8 The Pinnacle Standout 9:34

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata