Time Horizon Interview with Leading Man Ralph Otteson

Time Horizon’s leading man Ralph Otteson opens up during a recent interview about the birth of a band, Pandoras Box, the upcoming 3rd album, and everything in-between.

PoP: 
Hello, Ralph thank you for doing this interview with us.

Ralph: 
Absolutely! I am so glad to talk to you Thank you!

PoP: 
You’re the founding member of Time Horizon a California-based Christian, Progressive Crossover AOR band How long have you been a professional musician, and what professional training have you had if any? 

Ralph: 
Well, first I wouldn’t consider myself “pro” because I support my family by working a day job in the high tech industry, but as far as my involvement with music, I would say I have a lot of years working part-time and I have been able to do a lot with limited time. I hope to do more than I have in the past.

PoP: 
What is your role in Time Horizon and what instruments do you play?

Ralph: 
I am the keyboardist and principal writer. I also sing background vocals. I think I am the driving force behind the band because I take on most of the responsibilities, so in a sense, I am the leader.

PoP: 
Tell us about the birth of Time Horizon, how did that come about, and what does this band mean to you? 

Ralph: 
Time Horizon started because I had recorded an album with a band I was playing with. we wrote original music. The band was called Iron Clay Poets. We disbanded before finishing the album, but I wanted to finish it. The problem was I had recorded on ADAT digital tape system and could only do 16 tracks at a time for mixdown. I had about 30 tracks of music, so our then drummer knew another drummer that was also an engineer and had a computer system that I could mix it down with. That drummer ended up being the drummer for Time Horizon. He dug the music and after the mix, he wanted to jam on some of the songs….well, we ended up writing the first album.

PoP: 
What was the defining moment in your life that sparked the eternal flames to become a musician, and was it a particular band or individual? 

Ralph: 
Well, my family are all musicians, we had an upright piano that I would mess around with it but never had any lessons. In 1977 I saw ELP – the Works Tour. The year before a friend played their record and I loved the sound of the synth. When I saw Keith do his thing, I said that’s what I want to do! mind you, I had not yet started playing. I took lessons in my Senior year and sold my car to by a Fender Rhodes piano so I could play in a band. I learned covers but found writing songs was what I enjoyed most.

PoP: 
Your first release was released through your label Angelic Noise Records, what was the publics’ perception of the debut Living Water?

Ralph: 
It was well-received. I started my label because there were a few labels interested in wanting to sign us, but things kind of went weird so I decided to form my label.

PoP: 
Was Living Water a charity album?

Ralph: 
I recorded the album with some friends,  Bruce was the drummer and we recorded it at his studio. We had all but one song mixed and for several reasons, it sat for a year. it looked like the same thing was happening again with this band. Like before, I took it soon myself to finish it. I had gone to a Christian Men’s conference and saw an organization called Living Water International (LWI). I had lost my job and was feeling worried about how I was going to get by. I sold stock I had from my previous employer funded the album with the intent to give 100% of the sale from physical CDs to LWI to help people in the world that do not have even the most basic need….water. What do I have to complain about? So in a sense yes it was a charity album. I have not financially benefited from it. I considered it a MinistryThe album sales were okay and we were able to help a village in Ghana, Africa install a well, so I would call that a success.

PoP: 
Tell us about the concept/meaning behind the name of Living Water?

Ralph:
Well, the meaning of Living Water is what Jesus is to Christians. He said he can give living water that in us is welling into eternal life. So, along with the purpose behind the album project, it made sense to name the album that. 

PoP: 
What was the most defining moment of Living Water?  

Ralph:
I think after we wrote the song Life Fantastic. The bass player at the time was Steve Gorley, an amazing musician that studied jazz and I wrote the riff that he just latched onto and would complement the line with some nice runs on the bass which I doubled on the synth. Bruce came up with a great melody and killer drums. after mixing that I sent it off to Randy George as he was putting together a compilation CD for Cprog or Christian Prog Rock. we released it as a single for the CPR3 album. That was great because we made friends which I still hold dear today. If you get a chance to hear it, it’s fantastic! Unitopia, Ted Leonard, and Phil Keaggy are just a few of the artists on that CD.

PoP: 
Your sophomore album Transitions was released four years later in 2015, how was this different than your debut?  

Ralph:
That album was called Transitions because it’s just that. Steve Gorley the original bassist traveled back to Cambodia to continue his humanitarian work there. He could have stayed here and rocked out with us, but he had a deeper calling and love for the oppressed and poor. He helped the street kids there, preventing child slave labor and trafficking. I found a replacement in Allen White who I played in a band within the ‘80s early ’90s. He fit right in. The original guitar player left and we got help in that area with Dave Miller. Bruce got about 1/2 way through and had to leave for personal reasons…Now I was down a drummer and a singer, so I recruited help from friends David Walliman,  Lang Bliss, and a singer from the band Allen and I played with Rich Reif. I had Billy Sherwood mixing and helping me on post-production. So it is the transition to what Time Horizon is now. That album has a lot of great tunes on it. slightly different, but still maintaining a signature sound.

PoP: 
You formed a partnership with Melodic Revolution Records for the second release, how did that come about and why was it so important for the follow up of Living Water?

Ralph:
I wrote a majority of the album, did the leg work in getting it finished, but realized I need help with promotion. I knew Nick Katona and noticed that he did a lot of albums for great causes. I felt we would work well together as I think we share that desire to help bless others through music in a real tangible way. I am a principal writer for the band, a dad and husband, I appreciate MRR and everything they do to help promote. I am not good at that, it’s difficult for me.

PoP: 
What influences your songwriting lyrically and musically? 

Ralph:
Great question. I have always loved prog music. Odd time Signatures, blending genres, and of course melody. The first bands for me were in the ‘70s really. ELP was what got me into prog, followed by Yes, then Genesis. I also loved rock like Toto, Queen, Boston, and the like. The ’80s brought me Saga which is a huge influence. Lyrically, I think Saga’s style but the Beatles and Rush. I know that’s all over the place, but my faith is something that is from my inner core, so it is expressed in lyrics. Sometimes more overtly, sometimes more subtle.

PoP:  
You brought in some big guns for the production portion of the album, I am speaking of Billy Sherwood (Yes, Circa, World Trade) and Major Appelbaum (Nektar, Angra, Lana Lane) how did that come about and why was this essential to this releases?

Ralph:
Yeah, with Transitions album I wanted to raise the bar. I had contacted Billy Sherwood as I know he has worked with other bands. I sent him a demo of the song “Prisoner” which was a song written when I was on a band 180 with Allen W. Billy liked the tune and so I started a correspondence with him. because he worked with Tony Kaye in Circa, I asked if he could get Tony to play on it. You have no idea how cool it was for me to hear a Hammond organ from him. I had the Yes album on my turntable for weeks. I still can’t believe he is on Transitions. a huge thrill for me. Billy also played as we decided to do a cover of a World Trade song ” The Moment is Here” We changed some of the lyrics to fit our Christian world view and he was Ok with it. He also plays the lead guitar on the track so another cool thing.

Billy Sherwood

PoP:  
Billy Sherwood also guested on the album along with David Wallimann, Lang Bliss, Tony Kaye, and Jake Livgren. What was it like to work with these musicians?

Ralph: 
David Walliman is fantastic to work with, he would pump out these amazing guitar tracks in really fast. I used him first for the song Prisoner but found I kept turning to him for the next tune. It was hard not to. He does quality stuff in record time! Lang and I go back a long time. I knew him in the 80s. We had mutual musician friends and hung out jamming at times. He moved to Nashville and got on with a Christian record label there. He is quite the pro. He toured with Michael W. Smith who is a well-known gospel artist. He met his wife Renee who was a backup singer for Amy Grant. Together they write and produce talent. They released some songs that made the Billboard Top 10 last year. I finally met Tonybackstage after a Yes concert. He was super nice and remembered the song which I was glad! I got Jake to sing the last song after Rich was no longer available. It was on the suggestion of the artist Ken Westphal who did our album artwork. I originally was talking to John Elefante and asked him, but he declined, so Ken mentioned Jake while he sang in Proto-KawJake was great, I paid for a studio session in Topeka, Kansas and Jake said he would play on the album, his uncle Kerry Livgren (Proto-Kaw, Kansas) gave him the thumbs up so that’s good.

PoP: 
From what we understand the long-awaited 3rd album is 99% complete, why has it taken so long to do another album?

Ralph: 
Oh, man. We’ll all I can say is first….it’s worth the wait. When Bruce joined back with the band to tour the 2nd album, I said we need a frontman/vocalist. We spent time looking for and auditioning a singer. We were also down a guitar player/utility guy. It took a long time to find people that are up to playing this style of music. If they are good enough, it usually means they are not available. We got a call from a Sacramento-based singer David Mau who heard about us and thought he would be a great fit. He works with Brad Gillis from Night Ranger and Ozzy. He also worked with Derek Sherinian and loves prog! We started rehearsing and did a few shows, but again, had someone leave because of work. back to Square one. It is difficult to find people that want to do original music because there is not much money in it. It seems musicians have to play in Tribute bands to survive, which is kind of sad. All that said, we got some material from our new singer David Mau, once we got into writing mode, we just kept going. we did a lot of music and half of the next album is already done, so the fourth one should not be so long a wait. Could have done a double album, but…

PoP:  
What’s the album called and why?

Ralph: 
The new album is still having names considered. We just started the process of getting the artwork started so that might have an impact on the final name. We first thought about a song title, but then the concept of the album something in “3” for the third album. Time Horizon  “cubed” maybe…I think it will be a surprise.

PoP: 
Do you have the same line-up as Transitions?

Ralph: 
The same lineup for the most part. Bruce G.  on drums Bruce sings lead on one song, but Dave is the main guy for that role now. Myself on keys and vocals, Allen White on Bass again, Dave Miller on acoustic and rhythm electric. We had David Walliman do lead but guitar for a song, but that song is one we have decided to release on the next album. Both Bruce and Dave Mau had worked with a guitarist from Sacramento, Michael GregoryBruce played with him in the ’80s and Dave most recently.  Michael G. was a sought after session musician in Nashville and was approached by Neal Morse to play with him. He was in the middle of finishing a degree so couldn’t do it, but that shows what his abilities are. The tracks by him have been Stellar! Overall this is the best line up to date. I am really excited about it.

PoP:  
Is it true that Michael Sadler of Saga is doing vocals on a track on this album, what song and how did that come about? 

Ralph: 
Yes, it is! I am super stoked to be able to say that! I have been a long time Saga fan! I met Michael once at Calprog in LA a few years ago. We sat down at lunch break and I was thrilled to talk with him. Later, he and I had a Skype meeting after the release of Transitions. I asked him then if he would be interested in guesting on our next release. He asked me to send him something and if he feels he can do it justice he would. It took me a long time after that writing quite a few songs before I felt I had one that he would fit right in. I intentionally tried to make it Saga-ish sound. He loved it and with his vocals, It sounds like something He would do, so I think mission accomplished!

PoP: 
Do you have any other special guests appearing on this release, can you give us a hint?

Ralph: 
The only other special guest is Michael Manring who plays fretless bass on a song in tribute to our first bassist Steve who recently passed We went to see Michael in concert as he was a favorite of Steve’s. It was the last time I saw my friend who helped start Time Horizon so …It seemed fitting and Michael was happy too. I love it as it is a very emotional piece for me. It still is hard for me not to tear up listening.

PoP: 
How many tracks on the new album? Can you give us a song by song breakdown?

Ralph: 
Yes, we have seven completed songs, still working on song order, they are in no particular order.

Living for a Better daySaga like approach with a rock edge.
The Great Divide …..a hard-driving rock tune with prog influence. 
Digital Us…..kind of Rush meets Pink Floyd maybe?
Steve”s song “It’s not goodbye”….instrumental with a new-age feel.
Razors Edge…..this is to me Spocks Beard meets Mike & the Mechanics.
I Hear, I see…….kind of more Toto like, this would be the more Top 40 hit.
Time to Wonder…..a ballad that has a Phil Collins approach. really beautiful tune.

PoP: 
Who is the production team for the 3rd record?

Ralph: 
We are going to do as much as we can to self-produce. We self-produced the first one, and we have even more experience between myself, Bruce, and David Mau to do this, but I think when you self-produce, it generally takes longer.

PoP: 
Ken Westphal, who created the band-logo and the artwork for the first two albums has retired since Transitions, who will step up to the plate to continue making album art for great Time Horizon?

Ralph:
We have contacted Ed Unitsky and are in the process of starting the artwork. I think he is one of the go-to artists in the Prog community. He does really good work.

PoP: 
We hear this album will be released in many formats including vinyl, can you tell us what prompted you to press wax on this one?

Ralph: 
2 reasons. FirstVinyl is cool, I miss it! It has a vibe, and it’s becoming more popular as a medium to listen to again. We will still have CDs as well. Second, I like the shorter length. Back in the day, bands were releasing albums on a more regular basis partly because instead of having a 74-minute album every few years 45 min is a great length. I mentioned the fourth release is in the wings and about half-finished already.

PoP: 
Do you collect vinyl yourself?

Ralph: 
I have my collection from years ago still. I have a lot of original LPs. I think the millennials are discovering how great the music was years ago because of the rise in vinyl popularity again….which is very cool. I do have my wish list of albums.

PoP: 
Name 10 albums that should be part of any serious record collection?

Ralph: 
Wow, that’s a great question! Let me think hmm…I think a mix of styles and genres is important. I have Classical, Jazz, Rock some R&B and some newer Country. Works I have from, Chic Corea to The Fixx. Gino Vanelli to Jean Michel Jare, but here is a list of favorites 

1) The Yes Album…Yes
2) And then there were Three…Genesis
3) Works…ELP
4) Abbey Road…Beatles
5) Toto… .the first one
6) World’s Apart…Saga
7) V ….Spock’s Beard
8) The Vigil …Kemper Krabb (worship)
9) More Power to Ya…Petra 
10) Boston……the first one

…can I add the next Time Horizon to the list Ha, ha!

PoP: 
Describe what success means to you, as a person, not a musician?

Ralph: 
Success to me is loving what you do, knowing you are valued and matter in God’s eyes, knowing how to Love God in all things, and knowing how to love others. It’s not found in money or recognition. Maybe that sounds sappy to some, but I think it is true.

PoP: 
2020 devastated the global community in many ways, how has 2020 affected you personally and the band?

Ralph: 
Thankfully I can design circuit boards for income, I can do that remotely, so that helps. The other guys are retired or work at home as well. Bruce is an automotive mechanic so he can bring in non-music related income. Sometimes it helps to have additional skills.

PoP: 
What were your plans for 2020 before the pandemic hit and do you plan to resume these plans at some point?

Ralph: 
We had started recording before the pandemic. There had also been family emergencies that band members became unavailable for some time, so they slowed things as well. We are also trying to find a booking agent, but again it is Tribute and Top 40 bands they want. Hopefully, we can find help in that area once this pandemic subsides.

PoP: 
Have you ever considered releasing a solo album?

Ralph: 
Yes, actually. I have a lot of musical ideas that I want to develop. they are just phrases and pieces, but that is how all the material I have contributed starts out as. the songs take on their own life and write themselves. I would love to work with other musicians and put together something very proggy. I tend to be the more Prog head in the band. I would also like to do a worship album.

PoP:
What makes a song stand the test of time such as The Beatles’ Let It Be?

Ralph: 
Funny you mention the Beatles. That was one of my album choices. The Beatles are timeless I think because the songs have melodies that you can remember. They are creative and appear simple, but when you analyze what the cord structure is doing, it’s genius.

PoP:
Do you see value in streaming services such as Spotify and YouTube for example?  

Ralph:
Hmmm, To me, it is bittersweet. What a nice convenience it is. The problem is how it is hurting the artist financially. The royalties paid are very, very small. I mean, you have to have 100’s of thousands and maybe millions of streams per song to see actual viable income from that. The music industry has changed. I am thankful that I have sources of income to provide for my family, on the other hand, Time Horizon is on those platforms and I hope people use that as well as physical merchandise. That is still how artists keep going. Everyone said…well you just have to play concerts and sell out venues…. .um hmmm… ok, now what?

PoP:
What’s been the most memorable time in your music career thus far?

Ralph: 
The very first time I heard a song I recorded playing on the radio in my car. Back in the ’80s, I was in a band with Allen and we were featured on local F M radio shows and College radio as well. I was driving in my car and listening to the local station when I heard a song I was on….big big smile! I think the second was being able to work with musicians that I looked up to Billy and Michael Sadler and Michael Manring come to mind.

PoP: 
Let’s say I asked you to describe your musical style as if you were a painter. How would you describe your music pallet using vivid colors?

Ralph: 
I think I paint with blended colors like watercolors can bleed from blue to green to yellow. You can see those colors, but the color between them is really interesting. The music I do is different from song to song, but still maintaining a recognizable sound.

PoP:
If you could put one thing back into Pandoras Box what would it be?

Ralph: 
Nothing. I think we have to work with what we are given. I think it’s all about what we do with it.

PoP: 
If you could perform anywhere in the world, where would it be and who would be your warm-up act, or co-headliner? 

Ralph: 
I would love to tour Europe. It is where most of our album sales are, so maybe would have more people interested in seeing us play. I think we would be a good warm-up band for Neal Morse band, but he plays three-hour shows, so that isn’t gonna happen. Bands like Life Signs from England has a similar sound also Mystery from Canada. I think if we have enough material to do a 2-hour set so, a co-headliner would also be possible.

How has the music landscape changed since you have become a professional musician? 

Ralph: 
I started writing songs as I learned how to play my instrument. I was in the studio at 19 and playing clubs circuit by 21. It was a vibrant time. Original bands were found everywhere. The radio would play local bands. Now every radio station is owned by a handful of companies. the club scene is a small remnant. People were not afraid to pay to go check out bands. Usually, you heard of the headliner but often I liked the opener or support band more.

PoP: 
Did MTV or the internet kill the radio star?

Ralph:
Yes and No. Yes, it killed the radio for the most part, but the internet opened great opportunities to find new music. I still find new music from artists I never heard of. Time Horizon has fans in Europe, Asia, and South America. That is still mind-boggling to me. They would not have me without it.

PoP: 
People often say that music is dead because no good music is still being produced, is that true?

Ralph: 
Music is not dead, the bands are there, but they are crippled in some areas. I think modern pop music is cookie cutter. There are just a few songwriters providing for the stars to perform. That’s why the songs all sound alike. If you turn on the radio, you will find Country, R&B / Rap, and Gospel. The only rock is classic rock. When was the last rock song you heard on FM? I hear new rock and prog on the internet all the time.

PoP:
What is the best advice you’ve been given professionally? 

Ralph: 
As far as music composition, What you don’t play is just as or more important than what notes you choose to play. For bands, tour, tour, and tour some more. I am still trying to get the second advice into motion.

PoP: 
What advice would you give to the next generation of future musicians? 

Ralph: 
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Don’t be afraid to be different. Learn from older music and listen to all genres. There are things to learn from every style And whatever music you do, do it with conviction. Be honest with it.

PoP:
Where can people get information about the band and purchase Time Horizon’s music? 

Ralph:
Well, Time Horizon Website, and a Facebook page that gets updated more than the website ( Not as much as it should) but it is probably the best way to follow current news. The Angelic Noise record label was the band’s store, it has closed for now so our Bandcamp Store, and Melodic Revolution Records. You can find us at all the other Outlets like iTunes, Tidal, Spotify, YouTube, and the like. I think there will be another store set up from the band website in the near future.

PoP:
Have you ever thought about being something other than a musician? 

Ralph: 
Originally I thought I would be an illustrator, I studied for a couple of years in college but realized if I want to be a good illustrator, I would need to lay down the music. I couldn’t do it, so I played down my brushes, got a job to buy keyboards, and start a great original band. I did not regret that decision and still feel the same today.

PoP: 
Do you have a mailing list where fans and voyeurs of information can sign up too? 

Ralph: 
I had a mailing list with angelicnoise.com, but that website is debunked at the moment. I am okay for people to reach out to me personally. I will be looking over the mailing list I have to let those that have ordered past albums can get involved with this new project. Give a like to the Time Horizon fan page and follow us there and at MRR.

PoP:  

In closing I want to thank you for taking the time to do this interview with us, do you have anything that you would like people to know that we did not talk about? 

Ralph: 

Well, yeah I just want people to know that I appreciate the support we have received and, I am doing my best to fulfill the expectations of an artist. I hope that I can do more and more. I hope you see improvement as I am always striving to be better at this. I do fall short in the promotion area, I have never been one to point attention to myself, which when you are a music artist you have to do. I feel uncomfortable saying….hey look at me!.. But, please hang in there as I will be trying to update more and all I have to say is I am excited as to what Time Horizon is doing.

PoP:  
Thank you again for taking time out of your busy schedule for this interview.

Ralph: 
It was truly my pleasure and I enjoyed answering these questions, which I might add were brilliant! You are for sure gifted in this area.

Time Horizon Band
Ralph Otteson: Keyboards, background vocals
Bruce Gaetke: Drums, lead and background vocals
Allen White: Electric and acoustic bass
David Miller: Electric and acoustic guitars
David Mau: Lead Vocals and support keys

Contributing musician Michael Gregory: Lead electric guitar 

Time Horizon Online
Website: http://www.timehorizonmusic.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeHorizon/
MRR Profile: https://mrrmusic.com/project/time-horizon/

Time Horizon Bandcamp Store
https://timehorizon.bandcamp.com


KANSAS – LAUNCH VIDEO FOR ‘MEMORIES DOWN THE LINE’; THE SECOND SINGLE FROM ‘THE ABSENCE OF PRESENCE’

Photo Credit – EMily Butler Photography

Photo Credit – EMily Butler Photography

KANSAS, America’s legendary progressive rock band, has released a new song and music video for their song “Memories Down the Line” taken from the band’s highly anticipated new studio album “The Absence of Presence” out June 26, 2020, through Inside Out Music. 

Listen and watch the music video here

“‘Memories Down the Line’ starts out as a piano-based rock ballad; It builds dynamically to a more powerful sound that still has a sense of longing to it,” comments KANSAS keyboardist Tom Brislin. “Lyrically, I was intrigued by the concept of not only passing down one’s physical traits from generation to generation, but also the experiences that shape us. As with a number of coincidences occurring with this album, I had no idea we would be living through unforgettable times, when the song would be released.”

“We are living during a time when people are doing a lot of reflecting – reflecting on past memories, or the memories they are making right now,” adds KANSAS Lead vocalist Ronnie Platt. “‘Memories Down the Line’ really makes one consider the importance of sharing our experiences with those who come after us. I love the sincerity of the song.”

The band gave fans a sneak preview of what they can expect to hear on the album with this sampler video: https://bit.ly/KSTAOPprev

Last month they released the song and music video for “Throwing Mountains”, which can be seen here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMOX5rSFb18

“We are really excited for our fans to be able to get a taste of what is to come from ‘The Absence of Presence,’” says KANSAS lead vocalist Ronnie Platt. “I think people will really be surprised by the album. ‘The Absence of Presence’ shows the band firing on all cylinders.”
Billboard.com first announced the new album during an exclusive interview with KANSAS drummer and “The Absence of Presence” co-producer Phil Ehart: http://bit.ly/KansasBillboardTAoP

“The Absence of Presence” follows-up 2016’s “The Prelude Implicit,” which debuted at #14 on Billboard’s Top 200 Albums chart. KANSAS has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, and is famous for classic hits such as ‘Carry On Wayward Son’ and ‘Dust in the Wind’ to the progressive epic ‘Song for America.’

“The Absence of Presence,” released by Inside Out Music, features nine all new tracks written by the band, produced by Zak Rizvi, and co-produced by Phil Ehart and Richard Williams. KANSAS’s signature sound is unmistakable throughout. The album showcases Ronnie Platt’s towering vocals, David Ragsdale’s searing violin, Tom Brislin’s dazzling keyboards, Williams and Rizvi’s electrifying guitar riffs, Ehart’s powerful drums, and Billy Greer’s rocking bass.

“The Absence of Presence” will be released 26th June 2020, on Inside Out Music. The album will be available on CD, Double LP 180 Gram Vinyl, Limited Edition Deluxe CD + 5.1 Blu-Ray Artbook, and digitally on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and all other streaming services.

“The Absence of Presence” Track Listing:
1.) The Absence of Presence
2.) Throwing Mountains
3.) Jets Overhead
4.) Propulsion 1
5.) Memories Down the Line
6.) Circus of Illusion
7.) Animals on the Roof
8.) Never
9.) The Song the River Sang

To pre-order ‘The Absence of Presence’, visit: https://kansas.lnk.to/TheAbsenceofPresence

Songs from the new album will be performed during this fall’s Point of Know Return Anniversary European Tour. For more information on KANSAS, “The Absence of Presence,” The Point of Know Return Anniversary European Tour: www.kansasband.com

Point of Know Return Anniversary European Tour Dates
October 18 – London, England – Palladium
October 20 – Frankfurt, Germany – Jahrhunderthalle
October 21 – Hamburg, Germany – Docks
October 23 – Tampere, Finland – Tamperetalo
October 24 – Helsinki, Finland – Culture House
October 26 – Stockholm, Sweden – Cirkus
October 27 – Oslo, Norway – Sentrum Scene
October 29 – Berlin, Germany – Tempodrom
October 31 – Brussels, Belgium – Cirque Royal
November 3 – Munich, Germany – Circus Krone
November 5 – Heilbronn, Germany – Harmonie
November 9 – Bochum, Germany – RuhrCongress
November 10 – Amsterdam, Holland – Carre Theatre

KANSAS online:
www.kansasband.com
www.facebook.com/kansasband
www.twitter.com/kansasband

INSIDEOUTMUSIC online:
www.insideoutmusic.com
www.youtube.com/InsideOutMusicTV
www.facebook.com/InsideOutMusic

KANSAS release The Absence Of Presence (Trailer) from the upcoming album

“We are really excited for our fans to be able to get a taste of what is to come from ‘The Absence of Presence,'” says KANSAS lead vocalist Ronnie Platt. “I think people will really be surprised by the album. ‘The Absence of Presence’ shows the band firing on all cylinders.”

March 30, 2020 – KANSAS, America’s legendary progressive rock band, will release their highly anticipated new studio album “The Absence of Presence” on June 26, 2020.

The Absence of Presence Track Listing:
1.)   The Absence of Presence2.)   Throwing Mountains3.)   Jets Overhead4.)   Propulsion 15.)   Memories Down the Line6.)   Circus of Illusion7.)   Animals on the Roof8.)   Never9.)   The Song the River Sang

Billboard.com first announced the new album during an exclusive interview with KANSAS drummer and “The Absence of Presence” co-producer Phil Ehart: http://bit.ly/KansasBillboardTAoP. “The Absence of Presence” will be available for pre-order on April 17.

“The Absence of Presence” follows-up 2016’s “The Prelude Implicit,” which debuted at #14 on Billboard’s Top 200 Albums chart. KANSAS has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, and is famous for classic hits such as ‘Carry On Wayward Son’ and ‘Dust in the Wind’ to the progressive epic ‘Song for America.’

“The Absence of Presence,” released by Inside Out Music, features nine all new tracks written by the band, produced by Zak Rizvi, and co-produced by Phil Ehart and Richard Williams. KANSAS’s signature sound is unmistakable throughout. The album showcases Ronnie Platt’s towering vocals, David Ragsdale’s searing violin, Tom Brislin’s dazzling keyboards, Williams and Rizvi’s electrifying guitar riffs, Ehart’s powerful drums, and Billy Greer’s rocking bass.

“We are really proud of the album ‘The Absence of Presence,'” comments KANSAS guitarist, producer, and songwriter Zak Rizvi. “Making a new KANSAS album sets a very high musical standard that is expected from our fans. From rockers, to progressive epics, to ballads, there is something on this recording for everybody.”

“The Absence of Presence” will be released June 26, 2020, on Inside Out Music and is distributed by The Orchard. The album will be available on CD, Double LP 180 Gram Vinyl, Limited Edition Deluxe CD + 5.1 Blu-Ray Artbook, and digitally on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and all other streaming services. Pre-order opportunities will be available starting later this spring at KansasBand.com  and Amazon.com

KANSAS will debut a song off “The Absence of Presence” this summer during Foreigner’s Juke Box Heroes 2020 Tour. More songs off the album will be performed during this fall’s Point of Know Return Anniversary European Tour. For more information on KANSAS, “The Absence of Presence,” The Point of Know Return Anniversary European Tour, The Point of Know Return Anniversary Tour, or the Juke Box Heroes 2020 tour, please visit: www.kansasband.com

Kansas Announce NEW ALBUM “THE ABSENCE OF PRESENCE” AVAILABLE JUNE 26th

KANSAS, America’s legendary progressive rock band, will release their highly anticipated new studio album “The Absence of Presence” on June 26, 2020. The album follows-up 2016’s “The Prelude Implicit,” which debuted at #14 on Billboard’s Top 200 Albums chart. KANSAS has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, and is famous for classic hits such as ‘Carry On Wayward Son’ and ‘Dust in the Wind’ to progressive epics like ‘Song for America.’

“The Absence of Presence,” released by Inside Out Music, features nine all-new tracks written by the band, produced by Zak Rizvi, and co-produced by Phil Ehart and Richard Williams. KANSAS’s signature sound is unmistakable throughout. The album showcases Ronnie Platt’s towering vocals, David Ragsdale’s searing violin, Tom Brislin’s dazzling keyboards, Williams and Rizvi’s electrifying guitar riffs, Ehart’s powerful drums, and Billy Greer’s rocking bass.

This fall, KANSAS will be taking its very popular Point of Know Return Anniversary Tour to Europe for 13 dates in October and November. The Point of Know Return Anniversary European Tour will include songs from “The Absence of Presence,” classic hits and deep cuts, and will culminate with the iconic album “Point of Know Return” performed in its entirety.

“We are really proud of the album ‘The Absence of Presence,’” comments KANSAS guitarist, producer, and songwriter Zak Rizvi. “Making a new KANSAS album sets a very high musical standard that is expected from our fans. From rockers to progressive epics, to ballads, there is something on this recording for everybody.”

“It’s been a while since the band has been able to perform in Europe, where we have some very passionate fans,” adds KANSAS guitarist Richard Williams. “We are excited to take the Point of Know Return Anniversary Tour across Europe. Not only will they hear us perform that album in its entirety, along with other hits and deep cuts, but they will be the first fans to hear some of the songs from ‘The Absence of Presence’ performed live.”

After wrapping-up current U.S. dates for the Point of Know Return Anniversary Tour this spring, KANSAS will debut a track from “The Absence of Presence” live, this summer, during the Juke Box Heroes 2020 Tour when the band will be touring with Foreigner and Europe.

“The Absence of Presence” will be released on June 26, 2020, on Inside Out Music and is distributed by The Orchard. Pre-order opportunities will be available starting later this spring at KansasBand.com and Amazon.com.

Tickets for the KANSAS Point of Know Return Anniversary European Tour will go on sale this week. Ticket and VIP Package information is available at KansasBand.com

Tickets for the U.S. Point of Know Return Anniversary Tour, Juke Box Heroes 2020 Tour, and KANSAS Classics dates are on sale now with ticket and VIP package information available at KansasBand.com

FOREIGNER launch JUKE BOX HEROES 2020 TOUR with special guest KANSAS, and EUROPE

AMPHITHEATER TOUR KICKS OFF JULY 9th IN ALBUQUERQUE, NM 

TICKETS GO ON SALE JANUARY 17th AT LIVENATION.COM

(LOS ANGELES, CA – January 13, 2020) – “I Want To Know What Love Is.” “Cold As Ice.” “Hot Blooded.” “Juke Box Hero.” “Urgent.” “Dust In The Wind.” “Carry on Wayward Son.” “Point of Know Return.” “The Final Countdown.”  “Carrie.” 

These are some of the iconic songs of summer by rock’s ultimate Juke Box Heroes. Legendary band FOREIGNER, special guest KANSAS, and featuring EUROPE will bring these hits to your city this summer with the Juke Box Heroes 2020 tour.
 
Set to launch in Albuquerque, NM on July 9th, presented by Live Nation, FOREIGNER will be joined by fellow acclaimed artists, special guest KANSAS, and featuring EUROPE for an unforgettable night of night of rock ’n’ roll. Tickets go on sale on January 17, 2020, at 10 am local time at www.livenation.com. The full routing can be found below. 

With 10 multi-platinum albums and 16 Top 30 hits, FOREIGNER is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world with a formidable musical arsenal that continues to propel sold-out tours and album sales, now exceeding 80 million. Responsible for some of rock and roll’s most enduring anthems including “Juke Box Hero,” “Cold As Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Waiting For A Girl Like You,” “Feels Like The First Time,” “Urgent,” “Head Games,” “Say You Will,” “Dirty White Boy,” “Long, Long Way From Home” and the worldwide #1 hit, “I Want To Know What Love Is,” 

FOREIGNER still rocks the charts more than 40 years into the game with massive airplay and continued Billboard Top 200 album success. FOREIGNER’s November 2019 release of Double Vision, Then & Now Is a DVD/CD package that celebrates the 40th anniversary of FOREIGNER’s iconic album.  It features a stunning reunion concert that brings together the current and original band members playing all the hits at the top of their game. 2020 will kick off with a three-day run at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center with the Nashville Symphony Orchestra in mid-January.  Another highlight forthcoming is a residency at The Venetian, Las Vegas which kicks off on January 24, 2020. 

“We can’t wait to hit the road with our good friends KANSAS and EUROPE and bring all our biggest hits to cities across the country,” says FOREIGNER founding member, songwriter and lead guitarist Mick Jones. “We always have such a good time together and combined we share some of the greatest songs in rock and roll. We are so excited to see our fans from coast to coast, and plan to make this summer our most epic tour yet!”  

With a legendary career spanning more than four decades, KANSAS has firmly established itself as one of America’s iconic classic rock bands. This “garage band” from Topeka released their debut album in 1974 after being discovered by Wally Gold, who worked for Don Kirshner and have gone on to sell more than 30 million albums worldwide. Composing a catalog that includes fifteen studio albums and five live albums, KANSAS has produced eight gold albums, three sextuple-Platinum albums (Leftoverture, Point of Know Return, Best of KANSAS), one platinum live album (Two for the Show), and two one million-selling gold singles, ‘Carry On Wayward Son’ and ‘Dust in the Wind.’ KANSAS appeared on the Billboard charts for over 200 weeks throughout the ’70s and ’80s and played to sold-out arenas and stadiums throughout North America, Europe, and Japan. ‘Carry On Wayward Son’ continues to be one of the top five most played songs on classic rock radio, and ‘Dust In the Wind’ has been played on the radio more than three million times. Last month “Carry On Wayward Son” was certified as a 4x Platinum-selling single, and “Dust in the Wind” was certified as a 3x Platinum-selling single by RIAA.

Says KANSAS, “We look forward to touring with FOREIGNER. It has been nearly ten years since both bands have done a full tour together. That run was a blast, and we are excited to get started this summer. The bands and the crews get along great, and we’ll all be working tougher to perform an exceptional show for the fans.” 

With over three decades and dozens of millions albums sold, including a number one hit in 25 countries, EUROPE’s Joey Tempest (vocals), John Norum (guitars), Mic Michaeli (keyboards), John Leven (bass) and Ian Haugland (drums) are as hardworking as ever, annually performing concerts worldwide and producing new albums that are critically acclaimed by fans and the music industry alike. Their eleventh studio album, WALK THE EARTH, was released on October 20, 2017, on Hell & Back Recordings (Silver Lining Music). It was recorded at famed Abbey Road Studios in London with Grammy® Award-winning producer Dave Cobb (Rival Sons, Shooter Jennings, Jason Isbell, Chris Stapleton) and won a Swedish Grammy for Best Album.

“The band is super thrilled that this summer, we’ll be back in the USA… the birthplace of rock and roll” says EUROPE’s Joey Tempest. “It’s been four long years and we are honored to be on the road with FOREIGNER and KANSAS for this extensive tour across North America. Strap yourself in! Europe in America once again!” 
 
Check out the tour at any of the following steps. Fans can visit livenation.com for updates on tour dates and news. 

DATECITYVENUE
Thurs July 9, 2020Albuquerque, NMIsleta Amphitheater
Fri, July 10, 2020Phoenix, AZAk-Chin Pavilion
Sat, July 11, 2020Chula Vista, CANorth Island Credit Union Amphitheatre
*Mon, July 13, 2020Irvine, CAFivePoint Amphitheatre
Tues, July 14, 2020Mountain View, CAShoreline Amphitheatre
Wed, July 15, 2020Wheatland, CAToyota Amphitheatre
*Fri, July 17, 2020Portland, ORSunlight Supply Amphitheater
Sat, July 18, 2020Auburn, WAWhite River Amphitheatre
Tues, July 21, 2020Salt Lake City, UTUSANA Amphitheatre
Wed, July 22, 2020Morrison, CORed Rocks Amphitheatre
Fri, July 24, 2020Kansas City, MOProvidence Medical Center Amphitheater
Sat, July 25, 2020Indianapolis, INRuoff Home Mortgage Music Center
Sun, July 26, 2020St. Louis, MOHollywood Casino Amphitheatre
Tues, July 28, 2020Detroit, MIDTE Energy Music Theatre
Wed, July 29, 2020Cleveland, OHBlossom Music Center
Fri, July 31, 2020Chicago, ILHollywood Casino Amphitheatre
Sat, August 1, 2020Cincinnati, OHRiverbend Music Center
Sun, August 2, 2020Pittsburgh, PAS&T Bank Music Park 
Tues, August 4, 2020Boston, MARockland Trust Bank Pavilion
Wed, August 5, 2020Syracuse, NYSt. Joseph’s Health Amphitheater at Lakeview
Fri, August 7, 2020Darien Center, NYDarien Lake Amphitheater
Sat, August 8, 2020Toronto, ONBudweiser Stage
Sun, August 9, 2020Saratoga Springs, NYSaratoga Performing Arts Center
Fri, August 21, 2020Bristow, VAJiffy Lube Live
Sat, August 22, 2020Holmdel, NYPNC Bank Arts Center
Sun, August 23, 2020Wantagh, NYNorthwell Health at Jones Beach Theater
Tues, August 25, 2020Camden, NJBB&T Pavilion
Wed, August 26, 2020Virginia Beach, VAVeterans United Home Loans Amphitheater
Fri, August 28, 2020Raleigh, NCCoastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
Sat, August 29, 2020Charlotte, NCPNC Music Pavilion
Sun, August 30, 2020Birmingham, ALOak Mountain Amphitheatre
Tues, Sep 1, 2020Alpharetta, GAAmeris Bank Amphitheatre
*Fri, Sep 4, 2020Jacksonville, FLDaily’s Place
Sat, Sep 5, 2020Tampa, FLMIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
Sun, Sep 6, 2020West Palm Beach, FLCoral Sky Amphitheatre
Tues, Sep 8, 2020Nashville, TNAscend Amphitheater
Wed, Sep 9, 2020Southaven, MSBankPlus Amphitheater at Snowden Grove
Fri, Sep 11, 2020Dallas, TXDos Equis Pavilion
Sat, Sep 12, 2020Houston, TXThe Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Sun, Sep 13, 2020Austin, TXGermania Insurance Amphitheater
*Kansas Not Performing   

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