KANSAS rare demo tape for “Benny” 1977 (includes portion of “Point of Know Return”) by Steve Walsh

Steve Walsh presented this to Kansas as a possible song for the “Point of Know Return” album. It was written about a childhood friend of his growing up in Missouri. The beginning portion of the instrumental break became the bridge for the song “Point of Know Return” later in the writing sessions, and the rest of this composition was abandoned.

It opens with a Kerry Livgren guitar lead that melds into the driving rhythm featuring an impassioned lead vocal by Steve, and some harmonizing guitar work by Kerry and Rich Williams. The syncopated instrumental break is quite fun, allowing Robby Steinhardt to do some fancy fiddlin’ over the top, and then a short guitar lead by Rich Williams before launching back into the meat of the song. The band vamps at the end with no apparent ending worked out at the time of this recording.

The line-up of Kansas at this time was still: Steve Walsh on lead vocal/keyboards/vibes; Kerry Livgren on electric and acoustic guitar, keyboards; Robby Steinhardt on lead vocals, violin, and percussion; Phil Ehart on drums and percussion; Dave Hope on bass; and Rich Williams on electric and acoustic guitars.

This rarity is shared to help honor Kansas on their 50th Anniversary, and was edited by Mark Hollingsworth and Grace Jester

Timestamps:
00:00 Start
01:59 "Point of Know Return" section
02:18 Cool Instrumental section begins