I agree with this. I have no problem with them touring under the Yes banner - more power to them, I hope they have continued success and people enjoy the music. I'm just personally not going to go anymore, because to me some of those personalities
are integral - it IS more than just the notes being played in the right order (for ME). When I saw them in 2002, it was Anderson/Squire/Howe/Wakeman/White. Seeing them play "Revealing Science" and "Awaken", with Squire stealing the show, and Wakeman playing his moog solo, Jon lost in his cosmic space (but nailing every song)... it was a concert I'll never forget. Simply majestic, and that's not exaggeration. Now, though, it's Howe... and four completely different guys rounding out the band. Rick & Jon were gone, then Chris sadly... and now, not even Alan is there (temporarily, I know). I know it wouldn't be the same for me. I might come away thinking "They were pretty good, actually" - but that's hardly the same tingly experience I had last time. I wouldn't care if Keith Richards took four completely different musicians on the road and called it The Rolling Stones, but I wouldn't go to that either.
This is
not meant as harsh criticism, it's just how I feel. I like Downes, I like Sherwood, and I think Jon D. is great... but it just ain't the same. I do, however, continue to buy the live releases and at least check them out from the comfort of my living room sofa with a cold beverage.
I'll always love them - I'm just not going to be in the audience anymore... I hope my seat is filled by someone who maybe never got to see them before!
Bookmarks