Proto-Kaw started out as the name Kerry Livgren used to release archival recordings by his old band Kansas from before they hit the big time. For contractual reasons, the name Kansas could not be used, even though the band that recorded the music went by that name at the time the demos were cut (1971-73). In place of the violin that gave the later incarnation of Kansas its distinctive sound, the early band featured multiple saxes and keyboards, sometimes resembling Van Der Graaf Generator.