Jon Anderson, the iconic voice of progressive rock giants Yes, has embarked on a new musical journey with the Band of Geeks, a group of talented musicians he discovered on YouTube. Their collaborative spirit has culminated in the release of “Shine On,” the first single from their upcoming album, True, and a vibrant U.S. tour showcasing both classic Yes material and their fresh, original compositions.
The genesis of this exciting partnership began in the summer of 2018 when Anderson stumbled upon a YouTube video featuring a cover of Yes’s epic 1972 track, “Close to the Edge.” Performed by a then-unknown group, the video’s title, “Close to the Edge: A Band Geek Yes Cover with Chris Clark,” not only captured Anderson’s attention but also inadvertently provided the inspiration for their future band name. Intrigued by their musical prowess and evident passion for Yes’s music, Anderson reached out, and a remarkable collaboration began to unfold.
The Band of Geeks, featuring Richie Castellano of Blue Öyster Cult on bass and as musical director, along with keyboardists Chris Clark and Andy Ascolese, bassist Andy Graziano, and guitarist Robert Kipp, found themselves in the enviable position of working with a legendary figure they had long admired. For Castellano, the experience was surreal. “I can’t even wrap my head around all this,” he shared with Rolling Stone. “I used to go watch Jon in concert and scream at him. Getting to do something like this is just a dream.” The collaboration also presented a unique opportunity. “It’s been an opportunity as a Yes fan to go, ‘OK, we’ve been handed the keys to the kingdom. We have Jon Anderson singing for us. How do we want this to go?'”
True: A New Chapter in Progressive Rock
The upcoming album, True, set for release on August 23rd by Frontiers Records, marks the first collection of original material from Anderson and the Band of Geeks. Pre-orders are available now, promising a captivating blend of Anderson’s signature vocal style and the band’s instrumental virtuosity. The album’s creation has been a collaborative effort, with Anderson and Castellano co-producing the nine new tracks. “Shine On,” the lead single, offers a tantalizing glimpse into the album’s sonic landscape and has already become a staple in their live performances.
Yes: Epics, Classics, and More Tour Electrifies Audiences
Anderson and the Band of Geeks have been touring together for several years, delighting audiences with renditions of classic Yes songs. Their current U.S. tour, aptly titled “Yes: Epics, Classics, and More,” incorporates the new material from True alongside beloved fan favorites. The tour, which kicked off in June, has spanned numerous cities, including Chicago, St. Louis, Boston, Nashville, Denver, and Phoenix, with dates extending through September. The live performances are a testament to the band’s dynamic energy and their shared dedication to preserving the legacy of progressive rock.
The video for “Shine On” was filmed in New Jersey just before the commencement of their tour, capturing the band’s palpable excitement and the song’s infectious energy. The inclusion of “Shine On” in their setlist has added a fresh dimension to their live shows, bridging the gap between their new creative endeavors and the timeless music that has defined Anderson’s career.
A Fusion of Generations and a Shared Passion for Music
The collaboration between Jon Anderson and the Band of Geeks represents a unique fusion of generations and a shared passion for progressive rock. Anderson’s experience and iconic status combined with the Band of Geeks’ youthful energy and innovative spirit have created a dynamic musical synergy. “It felt really exciting,” Anderson recalled about their initial collaboration. “I remember thinking, ‘I don’t believe what’s happening! Everyone is just amazing. Let’s go around the world!'”
The Enduring Legacy of Progressive Rock
The “Yes: Epics, Classics, and More” tour not only celebrates the music of Yes but also underscores the enduring appeal of progressive rock. The genre, known for its complex arrangements, extended instrumental passages, and often fantastical lyrical themes, continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Anderson and the Band of Geeks are carrying the torch of this musical tradition, introducing it to new generations while simultaneously honoring its rich history.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Anderson and the Band of Geeks
With the release of True and their ongoing tour, the future looks bright for Jon Anderson and the Band of Geeks. Their collaborative journey, born from a chance encounter on YouTube, has blossomed into a vibrant musical partnership. They are not merely recreating the past but forging a new path, infused with the spirit of innovation and the enduring power of progressive rock.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Q: When was True released?
- A: True was released on August 23rd.
Q: Where can I purchase True?
- A: You can pre-order and purchase True through various online retailers and music platforms.
Q: What is the “Yes: Epics, Classics, and More” tour?
- A: It is the current tour featuring Jon Anderson and the Band of Geeks, showcasing classic Yes songs and new material from their album True.
Q: How did Jon Anderson discover the Band of Geeks?
- A: Anderson found the band on YouTube after watching their cover of “Close to the Edge.”
Do you have other burning questions about Jon Anderson, the Band of Geeks, or their upcoming projects? Share them with us in the comments below! We encourage you to join the conversation and spread the word about this exciting new chapter in progressive rock history.
