by Geoff Bailie
How do you picture your life at 80? Most of us likely don’t envision a lifestyle similar to our teenage or early adult years — yet many seasoned rock legends seem to feel no inclination to retire!
For Jon Anderson, this translated into 2024, when True, his collaboration with The Band Geeks, emerged as arguably his most celebrated work since Olias of Sunhillow back in 1976.
True came after Anderson’s first tour with these musicians in 2023, featuring a setlist that boldly highlighted Yes classics — no solo projects, no new material — simply the beloved epics and timeless tracks that define his legacy for Yes fans. And there’s absolutely nothing to apologize for there. Of course, from 2016 to 2018, the Anderson Rabin Wakeman ensemble traveled the globe, performing songs from the Yes repertoire, their setlists blending 1970s and 1980s Yes while trying to infuse their own essence into pre-Rabin classics – yet this experience is entirely unique.
With The Band Geeks, the approach appears to focus on providing Jon with a top-notch and reliable backing group to deliver a setlist rich with Yes anthems — including monumental tracks like Close to the Edge and The Gates of Delirium — which a band like ARW would likely shy away from. Hence, what you see here is a group dedicated to honoring these iconic songs, paired with a vocalist who continues to meet the vocal and emotional demands these compositions require.
If you’re already a Yes enthusiast, I won’t delve into the specifics of each song, but I will note that The Band Geeks infuse these pieces with a dynamic energy that Jon seamlessly matches. While there are minor tweaks and personal touches here and there, each musician understands the core notes — the essential sounds — required, and straying from that framework is unnecessary. I had initially drafted parts of this review based only on the audio files – but after obtaining the Blu-ray, I discovered a whole new dimension of insight. The immense joy and enthusiasm radiating from the Band Geeks during these performances are truly striking. Drummer Andy Ascolese delivers an extraordinarily lively performance, combining the flourishes of Bruford, the intensity of White, and his unique flair, appearing to revel in every moment! Christopher Clark and Robert Kipp handle the keyboard duties, with Kipp stepping in as a versatile player when additional guitar is needed – this creates a massive sonic foundation for the music alongside some breathtaking lead work. There’s a wonderfully amusing moment during the Gates battle section when Kipp, devoid of a keyboard part, enthusiastically pounds out the music’s stabs with his fist, showcasing his sheer delight! Andy Graziano on guitar faithfully captures every crucial guitar part, and like the keyboardists, he strategically uses opportunities where live Yes would venture into improvisation to impart his own mark. Finally, band leader Richie Castellano perfectly replicates the essential Squire bass tones and riffs, bouncing around the stage with exuberance, embodying the “light and shade” of Chris Squire’s style: powerful and commanding when necessary, yet gentle and supportive when the moment calls for it.
Moreover, akin to True, the vocal capabilities of the band stand shoulder to shoulder with their instrumental talents. This means that tracks like I’ve Seen All Good People and Yours Is No Disgrace boast stunning vocals in addition to the instrumental prowess.
Lastly, Jon commands the stage, singing exceptionally well, swaying and conducting while clearly soaking in the music that envelops him. His voice is robust and assured, and the vocal harmonizations have been crafted to showcase this talent at its peak. I noticed that in some group harmonies Jon opts for a slightly lower vocal part, presumably to maintain the strength and range for standout moments like the finale of Awaken, which features a breathtaking vocal display. For anyone, regardless of age, this performance earns the resounding standing ovations it garners!
By now, it should be apparent that I hold this album in high regard, but one question remains: with countless Yes studio and live albums available, why should I choose this one? Frankly, it’s a query I’ve posed to myself, yet I believe there are three compelling reasons:
1. Jon Anderson’s voice is extraordinary — hearing him perform this signature material so brilliantly is a treat, and you’ll be astonished by his delivery on this collection.
2. The Band Geeks’ arrangements effectively strike a balance between the original studio tracks and the vitality of live renditions. Hence, it’s not a verbatim reproduction of the albums, but the performances exude the excitement of a truly cohesive band.
3. There’s a Blu-ray, which is undoubtedly the best method to appreciate these performances.
With whispers of Jon & The Band Geeks 2 studio album on the horizon and more touring in store, this live release is one Yes fans definitely should not overlook!
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- Source: NEWHD MEDIA
