Customer Reviews

Reconstructions Reconstructed

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Being an owner of the original "Reconstructions" LP from 1986, I found this re-release to be a much more enjoyable listening experience, as much of the music is more "fleshed out" in this reconstructed released. This album was done on the heals of the highly recommended "Art of the State" by AD (the best album you've never heard), but unfortunately, this album turned out to be for the most part a two-man project between Kerry Livgren and Michael Gleason, as lead-vocalist and woodwind artist Warren Ham had left the band after the "Art of the State" world tour. Gleason handles all of the vocal duties on this release, including the three additional songs: All in Time (originally recorded during the Reconstructions studio sessions in 1986 but never released until now), Free Fire Zone, and Bright Star (both originally released on the now out-of-print Livgren release "Decade"). Dennis Holt, the drummer for AD, appears on a handful of songs, with the remaining percussion performed, re-done and remixed by Kerry, and Dave Hope plays bass on about half of the songs, with the remainder falling to Kerry. The contrast between the original 1986 released and this reconstructed version is noticeable, with better percussion, drums, and in the case of two songs, new introductions. While the vocals remain untouched, Kerry has re-mastered the album for an overall "tighter" band sound. If you are an AD fan or Kerry Livgren fan, you will want to own this CD. On a sidenote, all of the album art was also "reconstructed" for this release.

Being a Kerry Livgren fan, this is a great recording while his band AD was up and running; and this particular CD is a remastering of the original. The changes are subtle on some songs, but on others it is much brighter and clearer (great work guys!). Of course, my favorite song on this CD is "No Standing". It is one of the more noticeable "reconstructions"... very bright and clear... and even seems louder. The style of the song is reminiscent of "Dust in the Wind" when Kerry was with Kansas. "Exiles" has a very unique sound in the intro and throughout the song (reminds me of Chinese music... LOL). It isn't, of course; in fact it is a catchy rock song. "One Golden Thread" and "Highway to the Heart" have very catchy guitar rifts and Kerry, of course, shines in the guitar solos. Love the flute on "Free Fire Zone"! And, last, but not least is "Bright Star" which has a moving melody and fantastic lyrics. If you are a progressive rock fan, I recommend this one as a good sample of AD's sound!

This album would be destined to be a staple of your lsitening diet if you love solid Christian rock. It contains what I believe is the best song Livgren ever wrote: "We Draw The Line." If you can get a hold of a copy you will enjoy this work.

'Reconstructions' (1986) was a great original release, in some ways better than it's predecessor, 'Art of the State' (which sounded to me like someone working in his home studio for the first time - terrible drum sound for a great drummer). the tunes overall were stronger and the production had more 'bite' to it.

it seems that in more recent years, livgren has had a penchant for going back to his older works and 'reworking' them. in some cases, this is warranted ('Prime Mover') and the results have been an improvement. but in the case of 'Reconstructions' something has been lost in the reworking...namely, the amazing drumming from Dennis Holt on the original. i still hear some of it in places, but most of it has been re-recorded by livgren himself on a sampled drum kit which sounds considerably worse (even if the original had some digital drumming, at least it was done by a real drummer!).

the additional tracks are great and could have simply been added onto the original, re-mastered, and it would have made for a fine re-release.

also, the re-ordering of tracks was unnecessary. the original running order was stronger ('all fall down' is a much stronger opener, for example, than 'one golden thread' (the original closing number).

i guess that unless that kind of re-release happens, i will be taking very good care of my vinyl version and listening to that.

for my money, and for the future, leave well enough alone, kerry! your work is great as it is - just keep making great music!

This is a remake of "Reconstructions" by the band AD,
that Kerry Livgren (former Kansas bandmate and major
writer/keyboardist/guitarist) was leader of. IF you are
a big fan of Kerry Livgren's work or that of Kansas, then
you will surely appreciate this CD ... one of 3 major
albums that AD released: Timeline, Art of the State and
Reconstructions. There are also 2 other releases known
as "Prime Mover" and AD Live, which may be available
at Kerry's website. This particular release is a digitally
remastered and updated and edited improvement from
the original. For more information on the band AD, their
lineup and longevity, please visit this URL:
[...]

I am a long time fan of mr. Livgren, from Kansas to AD to all the solo productions. Reconstructions and When things get Electric are my two favorite. One Golden Thread, We draw the Line, and No Standing are always on the lineup for my KL CD mix.

Having seen Kansas twice and listening to their catalog I already knew of Kerry Livgren. I saw him in my hometown with them and he totally blew me away. Great in the studio, inspired by God live! Anyway, this is my third A.D. cd and I love all three. Even if you are not a "Christian" you will love the meaningful lyrics and incredible music. Why Warren Ham is not a household name escapes me. He is every bit as powerful a vocalist as Steve Walsh, or John Elefante. Please buy this cd and support Kerry Livgren's music. He has reached down deep and connected with the Creator to make memorable music. In fact, buy everything he puts out. You won't be disappointed I assure you.