Legendary Yes vocalist and songwriter, Jon Anderson, has embarked on an exciting musical journey with a group of devoted fans he discovered on YouTube. Together, they’re breathing new life into the prog rock epics that defined the Seventies. Let’s dive into the story behind this remarkable collaboration.
The Discovery
In the summer of 2018, Richie Castellano and his buddies posted a remarkable cover of the 1972 Yes epic, “Close to the Edge,” on their YouTube channel. The video quickly gained over half a million views, capturing the hearts of prog fans worldwide. Castellano, a multi-instrumentalist from Blue Öyster Cult, never expected that this fun project would lead to something extraordinary.
Jon Anderson’s Call
Among the half-million viewers was none other than Yes lead singer, Jon Anderson. Impressed by the band’s talent and infectious enthusiasm, Anderson reached out to Richie Castellano. His proposal? Let’s go on tour! The band, aptly named The Band Geeks, was thrilled but had to wait until 2023 due to Covid and Anderson’s other commitments.
The Tour
Under the banner “Yes – Epics & Classics Featuring Jon Anderson and The Band Geeks,” they embarked on a tour that delighted fans. They performed Seventies prog masterpieces like “Heart of the Sunrise,” “Yours Is No Disgrace,” and “Awaken” with absolute perfection. The synergy between Anderson’s iconic vocals and the band’s passion created an unforgettable experience.
The New Album: “True”
Not content with just touring, Jon Anderson and The Band Geeks channeled their energy into a new album titled “True.” This upcoming release promises to blend classic Yes tracks with fresh material, a testament to their shared love for the music.
Jon Anderson’s discovery of The Band Geeks on YouTube has led to a musical revival, bridging generations of Yes fans. As they continue to create magic together, we eagerly await the release of “True.” Stay tuned for more prog rock greatness!