To me, Drama is a highly underappreciated Yes album. Really enjoy that album. I just this instant read of the passing of Alan White. My condolences to his family and friends and to the many Yes fans. I know Bill Bruford preceded White in Yes, but White was always Yes' drummer to me. He will be sadly missed.
Geoff has earned the right to be regarded as the Yes keyboard player, had breakfast and smoked a couple of cigarettes outside the Marriot hotel in Glasgow 2011 the day after the gig, talked about music, hi fi and life, lovely guy with no pretensions.
Geoff Downes is an excellent songwriter and musician absolutely. To me Drama by Yes is my favorite album by the band and i listen to it very often. I like it to death and the songwriting on it is ingenious. The beginning of the eighties was an amazing time and Yes and Rush did not dissapoint me. You did a great job and i especially love this upload. Thanks for that.
I hate almost everything about Drama, but really don't understand the idea of 'hating' musicians. Its not like they really had much choice, and don't know what the anger is about, 'how dare you try to make a living!'. But Horn's voice is just too different, I thought Jons was different but when I hear Chris' solo stuff or Trevor Horn then that REALLY sounds different. I always wonder if Big Generator was a Jon Anderson 'gotcha' moment for 'machine messiah'. I would never begrudge them carrying on if somebody leaves, Jon left, so thats on him. It was a good try, and it would be cool to hear some Trevor Horn trying to do Jons parts. Thats a tall order, and as Chris said, Trevor had even more stones than Geoff to go up there and sing.
@@BattManion1979 My point was they kept going and did music that was better than most bands out there. Compared to the 70's thats partly true, but I'm not a musician, while VIlla may be a great piece of music and Awaken is otherworldy, I probably listen to their 80s stuff more than their seventies. Not being as inventive musically doesn't mean 'crap'. Hold your fire is gold just for its sheer poetry. And Big Generator has some weirdly inventive tunes on it.
Geoffrey Downes is one of the nicest gents on the planet. Geoff ~ it's good to see your face my good man... We're so looking forward to seeing you the next time you tour in the US. Take Good Care of yourself and family ~~~~ Tami and Dave, Pittsburgh Pa
I was blown away by Drama when it came out having been a huge fan since the Yes Album etc I accepted it as a radical departure into their next phase. I played the heck out of that album it was new and fresh. All Bands want to grow and change to keep it interesting. Many die hard fans of early Yes seemed to give up on the band after Tormato which really was not a terrible album just different. They even got quite a bit of radio play with Dont Kill The Whales. Their career has been amazing to experience through the whole evolution. Love it all ! No Regrets-Ever ! rest in peace Chris Squires we miss you
Howe and then Downes! Have met Geoff back stage on a few occasions after Asia & YES gigs. Always approachable and polite and that came across in the interview. Never knew he worked with Kate Bush, you learn something new everyday!
Geoff Is my favorite keyboardist, and BELIEVE ME, It Is difficult in a universe along with David paich, Steve porcaro,r Rick Wakeman, Tony kaye, Tony banks, Keith Emerson, Greg rolie, even geddy lee... I mean, i love the music of this Man, no matter if yes, Asia or the buggles It Is just a question of personal taste... Geoff thank you for the music, kind regards from México
To me also,i want more of his music,can he write some tracks with another composer and new singer Marc Bonilla for future with Asia or another group name?
Another great interview Barry. Nice to hear from someone from a very underrated and somewhat forgotten Yes period. Downes is a fantastic keyboard player.
Geoff is the best! Top guy. I can't wait for the newest Downes Braide Association album to come out, and of course, always waiting and excited to go to an Asia or YES show. Even if I've heard a Geoff Downes production/song a hundred times, I continue to hear/discover something new, just about every single time.
I was galled by the animosity and impoliteness of some fans, particularly circa 1980, but the disappearance of Anderson and Wakeman at once from the band was a grievous loss. Before that, you had a blend of power and magic, but Drama relied more heavily on the power (excellent though the album was).
Love your interviews, Barry. I'm a Yes fan since the early 70's, and over the years have only been disappointed by two albums. I won't say which, I'll only say the two in question felt rushed from a production standpoint. I've always felt Yes was about the music, and not so much who was in the band at the time. Buggles, Asia, Yes- keep up the terrific work, Geoff! Here's from an older fan who greatly appreciates your efforts!
I know I'm going to get flamed for this. However, as much as I love Drama and it truly is a fantastic album, it should not have been a Yes album. Alan and Chris made one heck of a rhythm section, but Jon Anderson will always be the heart and soul of the band. Having said that, I like Geoff. I had email correspondence with him in the late 90s and briefly spoke to him backstage in 2000. I also spoke with John Payne. One heck of a nice guy. Guthrie came out very briefly, but I think he was quite shy at the time. In closing, as I am sure everyone is, I am deeply saddened by Alan's passing. As I implied above, he was one heck of a drummer. The best drummer for Yes.
I always liked when YES made bold moves. Drama, 90125, Fly From Here and ABWH. They could’ve easily went off the tracks and disintegrated. Seems when they face adversity, they really surprise you. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying that the above records listed are better than the classics. They’re just really strong records made at a tenuous time.
And Asia in the future with the new singer Marc Bonilla,is there a preview album for the new Asia ? or Asia will live just to memories past of this track and creative work is finished ,it's the end ?
Regarding Geoff's comparion to Trevor Horn replacing Jon Anderson: I think Bobby Charlton, 84, would have improved Man United's performance this season...
You mean aa opposed the Rinaldo by any chance that swipes fans mobile phones? My favorite Charlton goal televised was the one he scored against spurs in the charity shield match in the mid 60,s.It was more artilary fire that a strike on goal from along way out with a " proper" leather ball.
Was surprised to hear nothing of the newest Asia incarnation with what I hope will be a more suitable lead singer in the very talented Marc Bonilla- is that still on?
I agree.....but life continue,there a new singer in the group Marc Bonilla,he can find another songwritter,to do new track with Howe and Palmer why not? we can't live just with memories past,they songs exist for éternity, présent is a book to be written
Downes is known to be pretty reactionary in his politics, so I'm not surprised to hear Sky News in the background. Downes is also annoying in interview - crackle crackle..
I have nothing against Downes personally but he could never replace Wakeman nor Moraz. I heard him lay Gates of Delirium live recently and wish I hadn't. A different league - and not in a good way.
I've Met Geoff Downes Twice And On " Both Occasions He Was Very Polite " !! And His " Musical Prowess " Goes Without Saying " !!! From Adrian Browne 1965
I must lament but seeing Lemmy interviewed with a glass of JD and a ciggy was more enticing somehow to hear.I must confess after seeing so many bands live Motorhead and The Ramones pretty much at cosy venues left the rest for dead between them.Anything else just didnt raise the adrenaline on a night out with a few drinks anywhere close.Some bands like prog were meant to stay in the studio and leave the stage and banks of amps and speakers for others.?
For me Fly From Here is a superb album but since then i think the music has deteriorated. Downes seems like a nice chap with interesting insights despite appearing to have just risen from his bed.
I saw Asia in the '90s in a small club in Naples Florida. Downs stop the show to scream and cuss at a lighting technician. The band was just weak and his keyboard playing was not on par. He is the weakest keyboard player yes has ever had.
To me, Drama is a highly underappreciated Yes album. Really enjoy that album. I just this instant read of the passing of Alan White. My condolences to his family and friends and to the many Yes fans. I know Bill Bruford preceded White in Yes, but White was always Yes' drummer to me. He will be sadly missed.
Geoff has earned the right to be regarded as the Yes keyboard player, had breakfast and smoked a couple of cigarettes outside the Marriot hotel in Glasgow 2011 the day after the gig, talked about music, hi fi and life, lovely guy with no pretensions.
He stinks
Simply not as good as Wakeman nor Moraz. Both virtuosos and Downes simply is not.
Geoff Downes is an excellent songwriter and musician absolutely. To me Drama by Yes is my favorite album by the band and i listen to it very often. I like it to death and the songwriting on it is ingenious. The beginning of the eighties was an amazing time and Yes and Rush did not dissapoint me. You did a great job and i especially love this upload. Thanks for that.
All Spot on. As a Keyboard player, this guy is just amazing. I cannot imagine a better voice than Greg's (RIP) even I love John Wetton (RIP).
I hate almost everything about Drama, but really don't understand the idea of 'hating' musicians. Its not like they really had much choice, and don't know what the anger is about, 'how dare you try to make a living!'. But Horn's voice is just too different, I thought Jons was different but when I hear Chris' solo stuff or Trevor Horn then that REALLY sounds different. I always wonder if Big Generator was a Jon Anderson 'gotcha' moment for 'machine messiah'. I would never begrudge them carrying on if somebody leaves, Jon left, so thats on him. It was a good try, and it would be cool to hear some Trevor Horn trying to do Jons parts. Thats a tall order, and as Chris said, Trevor had even more stones than Geoff to go up there and sing.
@@mikearchibald744 all that but without the hate haha just verskillend he Gday😊👍
The 80s for yes and Rush was crap
@@BattManion1979 My point was they kept going and did music that was better than most bands out there. Compared to the 70's thats partly true, but I'm not a musician, while VIlla may be a great piece of music and Awaken is otherworldy, I probably listen to their 80s stuff more than their seventies. Not being as inventive musically doesn't mean 'crap'. Hold your fire is gold just for its sheer poetry. And Big Generator has some weirdly inventive tunes on it.
Geoffrey Downes is one of the nicest gents on the planet. Geoff ~ it's good to see your face my good man... We're so looking forward to seeing you the next time you tour in the US. Take Good Care of yourself and family ~~~~ Tami and Dave, Pittsburgh Pa
I was blown away by Drama when it came out having been a huge fan since the Yes Album etc I accepted it as a radical departure into their next phase. I played the heck out of that album it was new and fresh. All Bands want to grow and change to keep it interesting. Many die hard fans of early Yes seemed to give up on the band after Tormato which really was not a terrible album just different. They even got quite a bit of radio play with Dont Kill The Whales. Their career has been amazing to experience through the whole evolution. Love it all ! No Regrets-Ever ! rest in peace Chris Squires we miss you
Howe and then Downes! Have met Geoff back stage on a few occasions after Asia & YES gigs. Always approachable and polite and that came across in the interview. Never knew he worked with Kate Bush, you learn something new everyday!
Another great interview Barry.... you're on a roll!!!
Rick Wakeman soon
@@classicalbum If you're interviewing Rick, I do have a slightly niche question
Love Drama and the first Asia album.
Geoff's right; Greg Lake did a marvellous job.
It almost begs the question: when did Greg Lake not do a marvellous job?
True, can you think of some one else replacing John Wetton? Although a different voice and register, Greg played and sang perfectly.
John Payne did a great job as Wetton’s replacement.
@@joshcreasey Couldn't agree more. Excellent voice.
Enjoyed the chat. Geoff ROCKS! Condolences to Mr. Downes regarding the death of Yes' long-time drummer, Alan White.
Geoff Is my favorite keyboardist, and BELIEVE ME, It Is difficult in a universe along with David paich, Steve porcaro,r Rick Wakeman, Tony kaye, Tony banks, Keith Emerson, Greg rolie, even geddy lee... I mean, i love the music of this Man, no matter if yes, Asia or the buggles
It Is just a question of personal taste...
Geoff thank you for the music, kind regards from México
You’re missing Jon Lord!
@@stormbringercoming8105 A different kind of rock, but yeah... A gifted musician, actually a wakeman's close friend
To me also,i want more of his music,can he write some tracks with another composer and new singer Marc Bonilla for future with Asia or another group name?
Another great interview Barry. Nice to hear from someone from a very underrated and somewhat forgotten Yes period. Downes is a fantastic keyboard player.
Downes absolutely shines as a keyboard orchestrator - one of the best there is.
Watch him bludgeon 'The Gates of Delerium' on youtube from 2019 concerts
Geoff is the best! Top guy.
I can't wait for the newest Downes Braide Association album to come out, and of course, always waiting and excited to go to an Asia or YES show.
Even if I've heard a Geoff Downes production/song a hundred times, I continue to hear/discover something new, just about every single time.
I was galled by the animosity and impoliteness of some fans, particularly circa 1980, but the disappearance of Anderson and Wakeman at once from the band was a grievous loss. Before that, you had a blend of power and magic, but Drama relied more heavily on the power (excellent though the album was).
Love your interviews, Barry. I'm a Yes fan since the early 70's, and over the years have only been disappointed by two albums. I won't say which, I'll only say the two in question felt rushed from a production standpoint. I've always felt Yes was about the music, and not so much who was in the band at the time. Buggles, Asia, Yes- keep up the terrific work, Geoff! Here's from an older fan who greatly appreciates your efforts!
Jeff is really cool...easy going and the chemistry that he has with Steve Howe has come through in the great music that they have written!
This man in my opinion is the best keyboardist ever.
I know I'm going to get flamed for this. However, as much as I love Drama and it truly is a fantastic album, it should not have been a Yes album. Alan and Chris made one heck of a rhythm section, but Jon Anderson will always be the heart and soul of the band.
Having said that, I like Geoff. I had email correspondence with him in the late 90s and briefly spoke to him backstage in 2000. I also spoke with John Payne. One heck of a nice guy. Guthrie came out very briefly, but I think he was quite shy at the time.
In closing, as I am sure everyone is, I am deeply saddened by Alan's passing. As I implied above, he was one heck of a drummer. The best drummer for Yes.
Lol he looks like Trevor Horn now
He's turning into Trevor Horn!
Drama is my favorite yes album...
Doesn't Geoff is look like Trevor Horn here!?
I always liked when YES made bold moves. Drama, 90125, Fly From Here and ABWH. They could’ve easily went off the tracks and disintegrated. Seems when they face adversity, they really surprise you. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying that the above records listed are better than the classics. They’re just really strong records made at a tenuous time.
And Asia in the future with the new singer Marc Bonilla,is there a preview album for the new Asia ? or Asia will live just to memories past of this track and creative work is finished ,it's the end ?
All Those Who Have " Received Geoff's " Considerable Musical Input " Will Have Been Enriched As A Result Of That " !!! From Adrian Browne 1965
Aura is the best Payne era Asia album. Love it from start to finish.
I agree. A very beautiful and well-produced album.
Do you know "Never the way" a track written to figure to "Aura" album and do not figure on it ? You can find it on you tube
thanks for asking my question Barry!
No worries!
Yes has so many great albums, but Drama is my personal favorite.
Remasters were made of both Buggles CDs
I like Howe he described 80s Yes as mainstream.
He's got no room to say that. 80s Yes is a lot more cosmic than Asia. He's bitter.
The Asia debut was the biggest-selling album in the USA in 1982.
Give me Drama over Tormato or 90125 any day.
Nice chat 🙂👍🎹
What happened to his (supposed) Stockport accent???
Seems a top bloke.
Regarding Geoff's comparion to Trevor Horn replacing Jon Anderson: I think Bobby Charlton, 84, would have improved Man United's performance this season...
You mean aa opposed the Rinaldo by any chance that swipes fans mobile phones? My favorite Charlton goal televised was the one he scored against spurs in the charity shield match in the mid 60,s.It was more artilary fire that a strike on goal from along way out with a " proper" leather ball.
I think Bobby Charlton, 84, would have improved Yes's recent performance.
@@TheWalrus999 Ouch...as a lead vocalist, drummer or just anything?
Allan r.i.p
Was surprised to hear nothing of the newest Asia incarnation with what I hope will be a more suitable lead singer in the very talented Marc Bonilla- is that still on?
"Only Time Will Tell." ;-)
Covid has reaked havok on bands, and performances, more than most. :-(
John Wetton and Geoff Downes are my favorite song writing duo ever. Miss John Wetton….
I agree.....but life continue,there a new singer in the group Marc Bonilla,he can find another songwritter,to do new track with Howe and Palmer why not? we can't live just with memories past,they songs exist for éternity, présent is a book to be written
What’s with the crackly sound and sky breaking news tune
Downes is known to be pretty reactionary in his politics, so I'm not surprised to hear Sky News in the background. Downes is also annoying in interview - crackle crackle..
It's all from his side of the fence, not mine
Geoff begins to look like half Trevor ?
Lol
Great review Barry! Geoff comes across as a really nice guy.
I have nothing against Downes personally but he could never replace Wakeman nor Moraz. I heard him lay Gates of Delirium live recently and wish I hadn't. A different league - and not in a good way.
Internet killed the video star.
I've Met Geoff Downes Twice And On " Both Occasions He Was Very Polite " !! And His " Musical Prowess " Goes Without Saying " !!! From Adrian Browne 1965
Thankyou 4 Your Support Re My Geoff Downes Post! Take Care From Adrian Browne 1965
Geoff is a "Chingón"
Great interview -- you spelled "Animosity" incorrectly for the title of the UA-cam video.
Thank you for pointing it out
He.was a Trumper wasn’t he?
And I thought those rumbling noises were from his microphone 🤣
The microphone dragging across the zipper on Geoff's jacket was very annoying.
Yes, it was
I must lament but seeing Lemmy interviewed with a glass of JD and a ciggy was more enticing somehow to hear.I must confess after seeing so many bands live Motorhead and The Ramones pretty much at cosy venues left the rest for dead between them.Anything else just didnt raise the adrenaline on a night out with a few drinks anywhere close.Some bands like prog were meant to stay in the studio and leave the stage and banks of amps and speakers for others.?
For me Fly From Here is a superb album but since then i think the music has deteriorated. Downes seems like a nice chap with interesting insights despite appearing to have just risen from his bed.
Yes, I can also hear his bowl of rice krispies snap, crackle and popping away while he speaks.
damn that was so irritating i shut it off . not funny .@@classicalbum
GD is for a commercial band, like Asia. On Yes is a disaster, especially live
The audio is horrible
That's from his side of the fence, not mine.
@@classicalbum
Good interview
Unfortunately I could only listen to 5 minutes or so due to that awful crackling in my ears. Shame really, because it looks really interesting
Yes, all that noise was from his side of the fence, not mine
YES died when Chris Squire died. End of story. I won't even acknowledge the last so called "YES" release...
And now Alan..
@@AdamLB He died in Washington state, where I reside...
Asia -- NEVER liked them . Very commercial . No comparison to early YES , & Genesis .
Aren,t they all for a great deal in it for the money?
That's just like...your opinion, man. Also, I don't think its fair to compare the two
I saw Asia in the '90s in a small club in Naples Florida. Downs stop the show to scream and cuss at a lighting technician. The band was just weak and his keyboard playing was not on par. He is the weakest keyboard player yes has ever had.
No thanks.