I never thought I'd hear something like this album again, I'd given up the thought that this sort of music would ever see the light of day again. It's a gift for people like me.
Yeah, I've really grow to love the album. I'm a big Yes fan and not been impressed with the official Yes output for quite a few years. It seems to have captured the spirit of Yes with a lot of drive, so really impressed.
I was listening to True last night with Heaphones and when it got to once Upon a Dream I felt like I did back in 1972 listening to Closed to the Edge when I was 12 years old, I lost it, i actually cried, here I am a 64 year old man and a Jon Anderson and Band Geek song makes me cry, feeling the same emotions i had when I was 12 in 1972. It is that good!
@Yes_Jorge_Yes me as well. It's weird I quit listening to them in the mid-80s because all the experts said they were done with the Buggles coming in I look at it a lot different today I don't think I appreciated the musicianship back then. Had the opportunity to see John on the 18th of June with the band geeks. Took my 30 year old daughter it was 1971 all over
@@artmccartan4911 Hi... I'm looking for some people to come on to the channel (a small group) who have been to the Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks doing their Yes Classics & Epics live gif, and tell us about their experience.. Would you be interested in coming on and talking about it? If so let me know 😎
A great album. Ultimately it strikes me as more of a loving tribute than a continuation of classic Yes. The Band Geeks understood their assignment and they nailed it. Jon's voice is still sweet and amazing at 80! His unique sense of melody is on full display surrounded by musicians that clearly adore him.
I've also known about the Band Geeks for a few years, and always wondered if and when Jon would take notice. He finally did. And Jon is no fool. These guys are students of Yes music, and Jon had all these songs that he knew they could help him realize his vision for them. They absolutely knocked the ball out of the park with this remarkable album. I have seen both tours and was so happy to see them solidify this great union with this album. If Jon records nothing else, he has left a major artistic statement, and has the Band Geeks to thank for it.
So right, the great thing about The Band Geeks is they actually get it.. They understand the job at hand and relish it. It must have been a dream come true (no pun intended) when Richie Castallano got the call.. 😎
@@ProgAxia Yea, imagine driving home from a BOC rehearsal and getting a call from Jon Anderson, totally out of the blue. Kudos to Rudy Sarzo for helping Richie establish a You Tube channel.
Great video. And a really good review of the album. I'm new to the vinyl community. I posted my first video about 3 weeks ago. Since then I've been like a kid in a candy store boppin' around discovering all these great channels. I really like your channel. I just subbed to it and I look forward to your next post. meanwhile I'm going to dive into some of your older ones. I saw one about Van Der Graaf Generator's "Aerosol Grey Machine" box set. I love that album. Cheers
Got this last week and really enjoying it.. It's amazing that a group of musicians out there are that good and not just that but sound so compfortable playing this wonderful music..
I saw them live in Phoenix August this year 2024. I was in tears. I had to get up and leave my seat and dance in the aisle and people were looking at me I was so blown away by how awesomely filled with the true Spirit of authentic yes this is it this is the real thing
50 yr YES-head here. 1st tour Relayer '75. JON ANDERSON AND THE BAND GEEKS are my official YES. I saw Jon and the band geeks live in Phoenix August 14 2024. SEVERE PSYCHEDELIC PROGRESSIVE ROCK AUTHENTIC THIS IS THE ...... REAL.... TRUE .... NATURAL SPIRITUAL YES. this does not sound like Jon solo. This is YES.
I've been hearing lots of good things about Jon's live tour with The Band Geeks, and the album True really captures the spirit of Yes.. I'm a jealous of you seeing Yes on the Relayer tour, must have been incredible.. I didn't see Yes until 77.. 😎
Hi... I'm looking for some people to come on to the channel (a small group) who have been to the Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks doing their Yes Classics & Epics live gif, and tell us about their experience.. Would you be interested in coming on and talking about it? If so let me know 😎
Terrific album to add into my Yes rotation. I'm enjoying it very much. Really glad to see the glowing reviews for it as well. At 80 years old Jon is sounding every bit as good as he ever had and this band is a perfect fit for him. Hope they do another
YES - the Geeks are a very tight band, as I said in your other post, I was very lucky to see Jon & the band last Friday in a great small theater, right near my hometown. Love the new album & such a great story of Jon & the band getting together. The set list is fantastic.
Hi... I'm looking for some people to come on to the channel (a small group) who have been to the Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks doing their Yes Classics & Epics live gif, and tell us about their experience.. Would you be interested in coming on and talking about it? If so let me know 😎
Excellent review! I've always found Jon's solo albums very hit and miss. Olias was a classic for me. I enjoyed seeing him live at De Montfort, Leicester promoting Song Of Seven (great title track!). But he has recorded stuff that has frankly left me baffled! This is definitely one I'll investigate. Cheers.
This is real Yes music and it is fantastic. Soaring, jamming, fantastic stuff. Jon Anderson was the soul of Yes, in my opinion. So glad to see him do this record with the Geeks. This was why he was put on the planet. The music is pure joy.
100% agree Luke.. I'm amazed and delighted that it took a group of Yes fans [coz that's really what The Band Geeks are] to bring the true spirit of Yes back to us 😎
haha..had it not been for the album cover I think I would have already bought this record but your review has pushed me into getting the album next pay day. 👍🏽
Very good analysis, I agree with your sentiments. I have had the album for a week now and played it twice so far. I plan to give it another listen, shortly. It's a bit like trying to get into Relayer, fragile or Going for the One. when they first came out originally. I wondered what the hell I bought as I did not get it! Until I sat down and absorbed...... Hopefully they tour in the UK and to endorse other comments - the Cover....... not great to say the least
Great review. My wife and I had recently seen John Anderson and the Band Geeks and thought the concert was incredible. One thing that you did not mention was the quality and power of John Anderson’s vocals. He sounds almost as good as he has ever has. I actually ordered or pre-- ordered the album during the intermission. I think that you were spot on, Yes finance should love this album.
Yeah, his vocals are still magical. Not bad for an 80 year old... Such a rock star. I've seen video of the gigs and they look great. I really happy Jon has found The Band Geeks, they really get the music and perform and produce it so well.. I'm hoping they come over to the UK real soon 😎
Hi... I'm looking for some people to come on to the channel (a small group) who have been to the Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks doing their Yes Classics & Epics live gif, and tell us about their experience.. Would you be interested in coming on and talking about it? If so let me know 😎
They are by far the best option for 70s YES listeners. Saw them last year saw them in June. As with YES, I will drive a couple hundred miles to see them. They are a wonderful representation. Their renditions of YES works are highly detailed and spot on. The best part of all is, all 6 musicians sing, the the intricate harmonies can be faithfully replicated live where previous iterations could not do that.
Hi... I'm looking for some people to come on to the channel (a small group) who have been to the Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks doing their Yes Classics & Epics live gif, and tell us about their experience.. Would you be interested in coming on and talking about it? If so let me know 😎
@@ProgAxia Sure, Why not? I am very upbeat about them. A 54 year YES fan. My last live YES was 2015, shortly after Chris passing and will no longer go to that version anymore. Jon and geeks are a much better represention. My friends and I went to our first YES show on 9/22/1972. I saw various iterations (over 40 times) but mostly the Tales lineup. ABWH, and the Rabin days were great as well.
They practice in Richie's parents basement as far as I know. Don't forget Richie is a 5th generation musicians and his father is a kick-ass guitarist. Also, owning a music store (Castellano's House of Music) on Staten Island helps a bit.
I'm not usually a fan of Jon Anderson solo efforts--I always thought he needed Squire to provide grounding. But to my amazement, Richie Castellano was able to fill that role and the end product was outstanding. As an aside, the last track "Thank God" was apparently written for Jon's wife, but listening to it I also wonder if it isn't also a little bit directed at Jon's fans, as he recognizes that there may not be many more chances to thank them. Regardless, a remarkable album, haven't liked one this much in over a decade.
Hi and thanks for the comment. It surprised me too. Because I'd been follow The Bank Geeks for about 5 years and watching them play live with Jon on his Classics & Epics tour, I knew they were good musicians, but a lot of this the material was written by Richie and others in The Bank Geeks. What they have created is an album with drive and energy as well as an obvious love for the classic version of Yes. I think they had a ball putting it together and it's come out as a really good Yes like album with the one and only true voice of yes, the now 80 year old Jon Anderson, and his voice is just amazing... 😎
@@ProgAxia Thanks for the reply--yes, I've been watching the Band Geeks for a long time and was very curious about the album (preordered it ages ago), but what I'd seen of the Geek's originals didn't really inspire me that much. This combo came out better than my wildest dreams (note Patrick Moraz reference). Anyhow, I enjoyed the review, one of the most insightful I've seen of the album.
@@Rickengeezer Thanks I really appreciate that. The thing with The Band Geeks videos on their channel is that it was just a bunch of musicians having a bit of fun playing and recording covers live in a rehearsal room using an electronic kit. That is really quite impressive. No fancy recording equipment, just doing things like Close To The Edge, from start to finish... It's what got them the Jon Anderson gig.. The power of UA-cam eh! 😎
It's marvelous, Counties and Countries is a real Yes track with all the ingredients that make Yes so unique. What an effort by (a not young) Jon Anderson, the other members of Yes aren't so interested in Yes any more, so Jon just found a new band to replace them all to keep the spirit alive. Nous Sommes du Soleil.
Frankly I was more a Genesis fan than Yes, but it doesn't matter I liked this. I couldn't really compare to older albums, but I liked some of their works, particularly the middle period from going for the One, Drama and also 90125, and later stuff like Union, talk and the Ladder. Of course I heard some other albums but I wasn't so moved. The song "Shine on" reminds clearly the Trevor Horn produced music from 1983, but all in all it feels like new music. The sound recording is great, energy is outstanding, with Jon's voice everywere it's really sounding YES, no doubt. Listening now. Does I heard on "Counties and Countries" at 1'00 the Chariots of fire theme just slightly modified? Just a glimpse! 😉 Well that's funny, a tribute to Vangelis? Very nice piano rundowns. The guitar solo is also really very Howe style. Sorry have to listen to the rest again, but undoubtedly it feels to be going epic. Last thought, they should have used another cover design for such a beautiful album, they really have to consider. I heard it wasn't easy collaboration with Roger Dean, but they are great visual artists out there! This is kind of a mistake, that sleeve should stay inside the book or in the back maybe.
I think you're spot on with Shine On sounding very Trevor Horn and I wouldn't put it pass them to throw in a little tribute to Vangelis, there are some cheeky throwbacks in the music throughout the album. As for the cover, I think they missed an amazing opportunity to work with a new, fresh artist. Given them a commission that would have made the cover a classic and boosted that young artists career... 😎
This is the UA-cam video I speak about in my video. This is a video of some of the guys in The Band Geeks speaking about writing and recording the album with Jon Anderson. ua-cam.com/video/03Og3bX70x0/v-deo.html well worth a watch 😎
Hi all you lovely people... I'm looking for some people to come on to the channel (a small group) who have been to the Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks doing their Yes Classics & Epics live gig, and tell us about their experience.. If you'd be interested in coming on and talking about it? please let me know 😎
Agree True is an UNAPOLOGETIC encomium to Classic Yes, but I also hear some song sections that evoke the Rabin-era stuff like Talk or even Big Generator which is cool too. Anybody else hear just a little bit of the two Trevors sprinkled in?
Great observation! I completely agree, True definitely has that Classic Yes spirit, but it's so refreshing to hear those subtle nods to the Rabin era as well. The mix of the two Trevors’ influences really gives the album a broader Yes palette, blending the symphonic grandeur with a touch of that more accessible, punchy style. It’s a testament to Jon and The Band Geeks that they can celebrate both eras while making something new and exciting. 😎
Do you think that all Jon's singing parts have been recorded recently or some could come from older takes ? His voice seems to me slightly different on the different tracks, sometimes more "old", sometimes more "young". I haven't heard anything about this in Jon's or Ritchie's recent interviews and I can understand why. What's your opinion ?
Okay, I am not just a Yes fan I am a Yes interpreter. I think sincerely that Yes, Rush, Genesis, and other bands like Kansas...picked up the thought process of thousands of young free spiritual thinkers around the world in the 60's. who were having conversations and rituals and active meditations created groups like YES. And when we heard them on the radio, we knew exactly what the were singing about while the rest of the world were lost in the fog, And free millions of fan mail and letters Yes knew that we knew while others in societies especially western societies didn't know about the spiritual insights or journeys or revelations, So, it doesn't surprise me about the split of Steve Howe and his Yes band which I saw in 10/26/21, which was an excellent concert and probably the last Yes concert that I will ever see. Steve Howe and his team of musicians are Excellent musicians but not like the musicians of the 70's. I saw live concerts of Jon Anderson & the Bands Geeks on You Tube are good but I was not impressed ...there were things left out in songs like "Close To The Edge, Siberian Khatru & others" So, I did not pay much attention to the album of Jon /Anderson or Steve Howe. I will listen to both albums and determine which song inspire me. Thank you for your info.
I don’t know why people make such a big deal out of the cover! It’s a picture of Jon singing into an old fashioned mic, and his daughter took the picture! So? I’m happy that he didn’t go with a “Dean-like “ cover. Then critics would have accused him of being a copy cat of the Steve Howe-led Yes covers!
I get where you're coming from, however the vinyl artwork is a great place to extend the art of the music. When you pick up something like Olias of Sunhillow or Tales From Topographic Ocean it evokes a vibe that supports the musical vision.. The True cover just feels like a missed opportunity which is why people were disappointed.. In the grand scheme of things it may not be a big deal, but I would have liked to have seen some work from a new artist that reflected the music in an new imaginative way. 😎
While the music has stepped it up, jon sounds like hes fighting melody and is doing more talk singing or one note yelling like he did in the 2000’s than developing consistent melodies and verses and choruses. I can attribute that to he has to probably gel with them more so maybe 1 or 2 more albums maybe they will develop a sound.
I have everything that Jon Anderson has put out, been a YES fan since 1971, I am an old man, same age as Jon. Will not be buying this, if however it’s announced that he is going to tour in the UK with the Geeks then yes I will get it,but seeing how he has turned his back on his own country, then no. Prove me wrong Jon, come to the UK. Never going to happen.
Not a great cover, I said in another comment that the vinyl artwork is a great place to extend the art of the music. When you pick up something like Olias of Sunhillow or Tales From Topographic Ocean it evokes a vibe that supports the musical vision.. The True cover just feels like a missed opportunity which is why people were disappointed.. In the grand scheme of things it may not be a big deal, but I would have liked to have seen some work from a new artist that reflected the music in an new imaginative way.
@@ProgAxia its just completely incompetent.. no artistic talent whatsoever. How do you get s job that you have zero skill in? This had been true in the music biz for a long time now.. especially with older artists.. no thought at all is put in..
Yes fans will love it of course. The band is really good but the songs are full of Yes clichés that really irrated me. And Jon Anderson voice is always in the high picth and after awhile it is really annoying. But the worst are the lyrics, you are me we are one, it is so boring and full new age craps clichés. How can you listen to those lyrics without wanting to tell Jon to shut up.
I agree with you. But, despite all the clichés, the new age lyrics, the ugly cover, what makes me so happy with this album is to hear someone I've always loved still singing so well à 79, and to hear a band of fantastic musicians and Jon's and Yes fans composing and playing with such power and love. Maybe it's Jon's last album, so thanks to him for all he gave us and thanks so much to the Geeks.
I never thought I'd hear something like this album again, I'd given up the thought that this sort of music would ever see the light of day again. It's a gift for people like me.
Yeah, I've really grow to love the album. I'm a big Yes fan and not been impressed with the official Yes output for quite a few years. It seems to have captured the spirit of Yes with a lot of drive, so really impressed.
I was listening to True last night with Heaphones and when it got to once Upon a Dream I felt like I did back in 1972 listening to Closed to the Edge when I was 12 years old, I lost it, i actually cried, here I am a 64 year old man and a Jon Anderson and Band Geek song makes me cry, feeling the same emotions i had when I was 12 in 1972. It is that good!
Me2
Yes, it's an amazing thing! I love music that moves me. Love the comment an I'm 64 too, so we probably had a similar Yes journey 😎
@@ProgAxia discovered Yes in 1971 at age 11 my older brother brought in the Yes album and that was it for me
@Yes_Jorge_Yes me as well. It's weird I quit listening to them in the mid-80s because all the experts said they were done with the Buggles coming in I look at it a lot different today I don't think I appreciated the musicianship back then. Had the opportunity to see John on the 18th of June with the band geeks. Took my 30 year old daughter it was 1971 all over
@@artmccartan4911 Hi... I'm looking for some people to come on to the channel (a small group) who have been to the Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks doing their Yes Classics & Epics live gif, and tell us about their experience.. Would you be interested in coming on and talking about it? If so let me know 😎
I have been really happy listening to TRUE these past few weeks. Your review nails it -- if you love classic YES....... 🔥
It's, perhaps, the best Yes album since The Ladder
A great album. Ultimately it strikes me as more of a loving tribute than a continuation of classic Yes. The Band Geeks understood their assignment and they nailed it. Jon's voice is still sweet and amazing at 80! His unique sense of melody is on full display surrounded by musicians that clearly adore him.
If you're looking for more of an original continuation of 70s style Yes-like Prog, nobody does it better than Wobbler right now.
Yep, I'm a big Wobbler fan. I have all their albums and find myself absorbed in their music.. Great band!
Been listening to Yes and Jon Anderson since 1971. This album is a winner. Great review.
I've also known about the Band Geeks for a few years, and always wondered if and when Jon would take notice.
He finally did. And Jon is no fool. These guys are students of Yes music, and Jon had all these songs that he knew they could help him realize his vision for them.
They absolutely knocked the ball out of the park with this remarkable album.
I have seen both tours and was so happy to see them solidify this great union with this album.
If Jon records nothing else, he has left a major artistic statement, and has the Band Geeks to thank for it.
So right, the great thing about The Band Geeks is they actually get it.. They understand the job at hand and relish it. It must have been a dream come true (no pun intended) when Richie Castallano got the call.. 😎
@@ProgAxia Yea, imagine driving home from a BOC rehearsal and getting a call from Jon Anderson, totally out of the blue. Kudos to Rudy Sarzo for helping Richie establish a You Tube channel.
Great video. And a really good review of the album. I'm new to the vinyl community. I posted my first video about 3 weeks ago. Since then I've been like a kid in a candy store boppin' around discovering all these great channels. I really like your channel. I just subbed to it and I look forward to your next post. meanwhile I'm going to dive into some of your older ones. I saw one about Van Der Graaf Generator's "Aerosol Grey Machine" box set. I love that album. Cheers
Great record! Thanks for the review. Counties and Countries is a masterpiece! Continued great success to Jon & The Band Geeks!
Couldn't agree more! 😎
@@ProgAxia Thanks for your great content!
@@bélalugrisi No.. Thank you. It's always great to get support 😎
Got this last week and really enjoying it.. It's amazing that a group of musicians out there are that good and not just that but sound so compfortable playing this wonderful music..
Yeah, I'm really very impressed with The Band Geeks, and you're right, they are so natural.
@@ProgAxia What's the T.Shirt behind you?
@@drivenbeyondbelief It's a Pantera, Far Beyond Driven tshirt, very old ha ha
Thanks for the review! I saw them a few months ago... amazing concert! Jon is going strong! Thanks!
Yeah, I'm hoping they come over to the UK soon 😎
I saw them live in Phoenix August this year 2024. I was in tears. I had to get up and leave my seat and dance in the aisle and people were looking at me I was so blown away by how awesomely filled with the true Spirit of authentic yes this is it this is the real thing
YES fans will love it because its full of Jon Anderson !!!!!!
Not only that, but I think Richie Castellano and The Band Geeks did an amazing job. 😎
Best 'solo' album by Jon since Olias of Sunhillow. Once upon a Dream is stone cold classic.
You're not wrong there Julian 😎
@@ProgAxia I dont disagree but give some love to Animation, another great album by Jon when he was not in Yes. ua-cam.com/video/h6E0utor4G0/v-deo.html
I love The Promise Ring though which is very different Irish music.
50 yr YES-head here. 1st tour Relayer '75. JON ANDERSON AND THE BAND GEEKS are my official YES.
I saw Jon and the band geeks live in Phoenix August 14 2024. SEVERE PSYCHEDELIC PROGRESSIVE ROCK AUTHENTIC THIS IS THE ...... REAL.... TRUE .... NATURAL SPIRITUAL YES.
this does not sound like Jon solo. This is YES.
I've been hearing lots of good things about Jon's live tour with The Band Geeks, and the album True really captures the spirit of Yes.. I'm a jealous of you seeing Yes on the Relayer tour, must have been incredible.. I didn't see Yes until 77.. 😎
Hi... I'm looking for some people to come on to the channel (a small group) who have been to the Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks doing their Yes Classics & Epics live gif, and tell us about their experience.. Would you be interested in coming on and talking about it? If so let me know 😎
Terrific album to add into my Yes rotation. I'm enjoying it very much. Really glad to see the glowing reviews for it as well. At 80 years old Jon is sounding every bit as good as he ever had and this band is a perfect fit for him. Hope they do another
YES - the Geeks are a very tight band, as I said in your other post, I was very lucky to see Jon & the band last Friday in a great small theater, right near my hometown. Love the new album & such a great story of Jon & the band getting together. The set list is fantastic.
Hi... I'm looking for some people to come on to the channel (a small group) who have been to the Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks doing their Yes Classics & Epics live gif, and tell us about their experience.. Would you be interested in coming on and talking about it? If so let me know 😎
Excellent review!
I've always found Jon's solo albums very hit and miss. Olias was a classic for me. I enjoyed seeing him live at De Montfort, Leicester promoting Song Of Seven (great title track!). But he has recorded stuff that has frankly left me baffled!
This is definitely one I'll investigate.
Cheers.
Thanks Mark... Olias has always been a favorite. I really think The Band Geeks have sussed what Jon wants and delivered it brilliantly
This is real Yes music and it is fantastic. Soaring, jamming, fantastic stuff. Jon Anderson was the soul of Yes, in my opinion. So glad to see him do this record with the Geeks. This was why he was put on the planet. The music is pure joy.
100% agree Luke.. I'm amazed and delighted that it took a group of Yes fans [coz that's really what The Band Geeks are] to bring the true spirit of Yes back to us 😎
Apart from the shoddy cover, this is a classic album! Top flight.
FYI the picture was taken by Jon’s daughter, I believe it was taken by Deborah?
@@BarrySanchez Oops...well, that changes things a bit. Thanks.
@@BarrySanchezit would still probably been better left in the family album, unfortunately it really doesn't make a very good album cover
Thx..just got the cd and already getting pulled in..especially track 8 the 16 min epic..just subscribed
Yeah some great tracks on there.. 😎
haha..had it not been for the album cover I think I would have already bought this record but your review has pushed me into getting the album next pay day. 👍🏽
Hope you enjoy it! Let me know. I don't want to be held responsible if you don't like it ha ha
Awesome album that grows on you every time you listen to it. I give it a solid 10.
It is really good, hat's off the The Band Geeks..
Very good analysis, I agree with your sentiments. I have had the album for a week now and played it twice so far. I plan to give it another listen, shortly. It's a bit like trying to get into Relayer, fragile or Going for the One. when they first came out originally. I wondered what the hell I bought as I did not get it! Until I sat down and absorbed...... Hopefully they tour in the UK and to endorse other comments - the Cover....... not great to say the least
Yeah the cover is not great at all, and it would be great if they play the UK.. 😎
Great review. My wife and I had recently seen John Anderson and the Band Geeks and thought the concert was incredible. One thing that you did not mention was the quality and power of John Anderson’s vocals. He sounds almost as good as he has ever has. I actually ordered or pre-- ordered the album during the intermission. I think that you were spot on, Yes finance should love this album.
Yeah, his vocals are still magical. Not bad for an 80 year old... Such a rock star. I've seen video of the gigs and they look great. I really happy Jon has found The Band Geeks, they really get the music and perform and produce it so well.. I'm hoping they come over to the UK real soon 😎
Hi... I'm looking for some people to come on to the channel (a small group) who have been to the Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks doing their Yes Classics & Epics live gif, and tell us about their experience.. Would you be interested in coming on and talking about it? If so let me know 😎
They are by far the best option for 70s YES listeners. Saw them last year saw them in June. As with YES, I will drive a couple hundred miles to see them. They are a wonderful representation. Their renditions of YES works are highly detailed and spot on. The best part of all is, all 6 musicians sing, the the intricate harmonies can be faithfully replicated live where previous iterations could not do that.
Well said! I've seen loads of video, I'm just hoping they come over to the UK! 😎
Hi... I'm looking for some people to come on to the channel (a small group) who have been to the Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks doing their Yes Classics & Epics live gif, and tell us about their experience.. Would you be interested in coming on and talking about it? If so let me know 😎
@@ProgAxia Sure, Why not? I am very upbeat about them. A 54 year YES fan. My last live YES was 2015, shortly after Chris passing and will no longer go to that version anymore. Jon and geeks are a much better represention. My friends and I went to our first YES show on 9/22/1972. I saw various iterations (over 40 times) but mostly the Tales lineup. ABWH, and the Rabin days were great as well.
@@Magnetron33 That's great, if you could email me so I can things set up. My email is andy@digitalcascade.com 😎
They practice in Richie's parents basement as far as I know. Don't forget Richie is a 5th generation musicians and his father is a kick-ass guitarist. Also, owning a music store (Castellano's House of Music) on Staten Island helps a bit.
I'm not usually a fan of Jon Anderson solo efforts--I always thought he needed Squire to provide grounding. But to my amazement, Richie Castellano was able to fill that role and the end product was outstanding. As an aside, the last track "Thank God" was apparently written for Jon's wife, but listening to it I also wonder if it isn't also a little bit directed at Jon's fans, as he recognizes that there may not be many more chances to thank them. Regardless, a remarkable album, haven't liked one this much in over a decade.
Hi and thanks for the comment. It surprised me too. Because I'd been follow The Bank Geeks for about 5 years and watching them play live with Jon on his Classics & Epics tour, I knew they were good musicians, but a lot of this the material was written by Richie and others in The Bank Geeks. What they have created is an album with drive and energy as well as an obvious love for the classic version of Yes. I think they had a ball putting it together and it's come out as a really good Yes like album with the one and only true voice of yes, the now 80 year old Jon Anderson, and his voice is just amazing... 😎
@@ProgAxia Thanks for the reply--yes, I've been watching the Band Geeks for a long time and was very curious about the album (preordered it ages ago), but what I'd seen of the Geek's originals didn't really inspire me that much. This combo came out better than my wildest dreams (note Patrick Moraz reference). Anyhow, I enjoyed the review, one of the most insightful I've seen of the album.
@@Rickengeezer Thanks I really appreciate that. The thing with The Band Geeks videos on their channel is that it was just a bunch of musicians having a bit of fun playing and recording covers live in a rehearsal room using an electronic kit. That is really quite impressive. No fancy recording equipment, just doing things like Close To The Edge, from start to finish... It's what got them the Jon Anderson gig.. The power of UA-cam eh! 😎
It's marvelous, Counties and Countries is a real Yes track with all the ingredients that make Yes so unique.
What an effort by (a not young) Jon Anderson, the other members of Yes aren't so interested in Yes any more, so Jon just found a new band to replace them all to keep the spirit alive.
Nous Sommes du Soleil.
Yes, Counties and Countries is a great track.. The musicianship is so driven and dynamic... people loving what they are creating. 😎
Frankly I was more a Genesis fan than Yes, but it doesn't matter I liked this. I couldn't really compare to older albums, but I liked some of their works, particularly the middle period from going for the One, Drama and also 90125, and later stuff like Union, talk and the Ladder. Of course I heard some other albums but I wasn't so moved. The song "Shine on" reminds clearly the Trevor Horn produced music from 1983, but all in all it feels like new music. The sound recording is great, energy is outstanding, with Jon's voice everywere it's really sounding YES, no doubt. Listening now. Does I heard on "Counties and Countries" at 1'00 the Chariots of fire theme just slightly modified? Just a glimpse! 😉 Well that's funny, a tribute to Vangelis? Very nice piano rundowns. The guitar solo is also really very Howe style. Sorry have to listen to the rest again, but undoubtedly it feels to be going epic. Last thought, they should have used another cover design for such a beautiful album, they really have to consider. I heard it wasn't easy collaboration with Roger Dean, but they are great visual artists out there! This is kind of a mistake, that sleeve should stay inside the book or in the back maybe.
I think you're spot on with Shine On sounding very Trevor Horn and I wouldn't put it pass them to throw in a little tribute to Vangelis, there are some cheeky throwbacks in the music throughout the album. As for the cover, I think they missed an amazing opportunity to work with a new, fresh artist. Given them a commission that would have made the cover a classic and boosted that young artists career... 😎
This is the UA-cam video I speak about in my video. This is a video of some of the guys in The Band Geeks speaking about writing and recording the album with Jon Anderson. ua-cam.com/video/03Og3bX70x0/v-deo.html well worth a watch 😎
It is also rather hilarious!
Hi all you lovely people... I'm looking for some people to come on to the channel (a small group) who have been to the Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks doing their Yes Classics & Epics live gig, and tell us about their experience.. If you'd be interested in coming on and talking about it? please let me know 😎
Agree True is an UNAPOLOGETIC encomium to Classic Yes, but I also hear some song sections that evoke the Rabin-era stuff like Talk or even Big Generator which is cool too. Anybody else hear just a little bit of the two Trevors sprinkled in?
Great observation! I completely agree, True definitely has that Classic Yes spirit, but it's so refreshing to hear those subtle nods to the Rabin era as well. The mix of the two Trevors’ influences really gives the album a broader Yes palette, blending the symphonic grandeur with a touch of that more accessible, punchy style. It’s a testament to Jon and The Band Geeks that they can celebrate both eras while making something new and exciting. 😎
It's a really great album to my ears.....
Mine too 😎
Do you think that all Jon's singing parts have been recorded recently or some could come from older takes ? His voice seems to me slightly different on the different tracks, sometimes more "old", sometimes more "young". I haven't heard anything about this in Jon's or Ritchie's recent interviews and I can understand why. What's your opinion ?
Hi, from what I understand it was all recorded fresh for the album, but done over time which may account for differences in vocal performance. 😎
Okay, I am not just a Yes fan I am a Yes interpreter. I think sincerely that Yes, Rush, Genesis, and other bands like Kansas...picked up the thought process of thousands of young free spiritual thinkers around the world in the 60's. who were having conversations and rituals and active meditations created groups like YES. And when we heard them on the radio, we knew exactly what the were singing about while the rest of the world were lost in the fog, And free millions of fan mail and letters Yes knew that we knew while others in societies especially western societies didn't know about the spiritual insights or journeys or revelations, So, it doesn't surprise me about the split of Steve Howe and his Yes band which I saw in 10/26/21, which was an excellent concert and probably the last Yes concert that I will ever see. Steve Howe and his team of musicians are Excellent musicians but not like the musicians of the 70's. I saw live concerts of Jon Anderson & the Bands Geeks on You Tube are good but I was not impressed ...there were things left out in songs like "Close To The Edge, Siberian Khatru & others" So, I did not pay much attention to the album of Jon /Anderson or Steve Howe. I will listen to both albums and determine which song inspire me. Thank you for your info.
The album is really good. Excellent in fact. Well worth buying. However, the cover…..🤦🏻♂️
I don’t know why people make such a big deal out of the cover! It’s a picture of Jon singing into an old fashioned mic, and his daughter took the picture! So? I’m happy that he didn’t go with a “Dean-like “ cover. Then critics would have accused him of being a copy cat of the Steve Howe-led Yes covers!
I get where you're coming from, however the vinyl artwork is a great place to extend the art of the music. When you pick up something like Olias of Sunhillow or Tales From Topographic Ocean it evokes a vibe that supports the musical vision.. The True cover just feels like a missed opportunity which is why people were disappointed.. In the grand scheme of things it may not be a big deal, but I would have liked to have seen some work from a new artist that reflected the music in an new imaginative way. 😎
While the music has stepped it up, jon sounds like hes fighting melody and is doing more talk singing or one note yelling like he did in the 2000’s than developing consistent melodies and verses and choruses. I can attribute that to he has to probably gel with them more so maybe 1 or 2 more albums maybe they will develop a sound.
Kind of Yes real energy again. Surprise.
JON has MORE talent in his little finger then 100% of most bands today
I have everything that Jon Anderson has put out, been a YES fan since 1971, I am an old man, same age as Jon.
Will not be buying this, if however it’s announced that he is going to tour in the UK with the Geeks then yes I will get it,but seeing how he has turned his back on his own country, then no.
Prove me wrong Jon, come to the UK.
Never going to happen.
It would be a shame if he doesn't tour here. I for one would like to see him perform with The Band Geeks 😎
Bland, bland, bland . . .
Album cover couldn't be worse..
Not a great cover, I said in another comment that the vinyl artwork is a great place to extend the art of the music. When you pick up something like Olias of Sunhillow or Tales From Topographic Ocean it evokes a vibe that supports the musical vision.. The True cover just feels like a missed opportunity which is why people were disappointed.. In the grand scheme of things it may not be a big deal, but I would have liked to have seen some work from a new artist that reflected the music in an new imaginative way.
@@ProgAxia its just completely incompetent.. no artistic talent whatsoever. How do you get s job that you have zero skill in? This had been true in the music biz for a long time now.. especially with older artists.. no thought at all is put in..
@@Almarigold yeah, very lazy and as I say a real lost opportunity 😎
It's ok .no masterpiece
Yes fans will love it of course. The band is really good but the songs are full of Yes clichés that really irrated me. And Jon Anderson voice is always in the high picth and after awhile it is really annoying. But the worst are the lyrics, you are me we are one, it is so boring and full new age craps clichés. How can you listen to those lyrics without wanting to tell Jon to shut up.
I agree with you. But, despite all the clichés, the new age lyrics, the ugly cover, what makes me so happy with this album is to hear someone I've always loved still singing so well à 79, and to hear a band of fantastic musicians and Jon's and Yes fans composing and playing with such power and love. Maybe it's Jon's last album, so thanks to him for all he gave us and thanks so much to the Geeks.