What is Peter Banks up to these days?

[YepMan]

I noticed that his logo was used on the latest reissues, and wondered just what he might be up to right now. Does anyone know?

[bondegezou]

He's recently joined a London band called Pulse Engine, http://www.pulse-engine.com , with Nick Cottam (bass guitar, vocals) and Andrew Booker (drums, vocals). Together, they have formed a new band, called Trio, and North American live dates have been mooted. He was involved with the Syn reunion and doing some session work for some artists produced by Syn lead singer Stephen Nardelli, but isn't currently in touch with the band. He also has plans for various Flash re-releases/archival releases.

I try to keep http://www.bondegezou.demon.co.uk/wnalum.htm#banks up-to-date with news about Peter.

Henry

(Edited because I'd messed up how to give the URLs.)

[ELLIS]

Sounds like "past tense". Is he in Syn or not?
I hope he still is as this band will profit greatly by his guitar skills.

[bondegezou]

Sounds like "past tense". Is he in Syn or not?
I hope he still is as this band will profit greatly by his guitar skills.

As I understand it, in corporate terms, Syn Music Ltd. consists of Nardelli, Adelman and Squire, but not Banks. Peter opted to be contracted on a session basis. In practical terms, as far as I know, Banks is not currently working with Syn, although that does not preclude the possibility that he might do more with them in the future. Syn is certainly not his main focus at present.

Henry

[tdonnay]

Peter is a very good guitarist and sounds really good on the Illusion track on their great Original Syn new release. But the Syn for me is all about Chris Squire and Steve Nardelli getting back together again. I'd like to hear Peter with them, but he is certainly not the key player. I think they are going to be a huge band with or without him.

[roberta]

Yes, Syn is Chris and Steve. Peter Banks is not important to the band.

[bondegezou]

Yes, Syn is Chris and Steve. Peter Banks is not important to the band.

If anyone, Syn was Andrew Jackman, who is sadly no longer with us. However, I think it's odd to say Syn is this or Syn is that. Syn was a band that evolved over time, but which ended over 35 years ago. Syn now is what the various people involved make it.

It's great to have this release of archival material and I look forward to new music. I like Chris, Steve, Peter, Martyn and Gerard and I'm interested in whatever they do, within or outwith Syn. Let's see where the Syn story goes next.

Henry

[theone]

I would say that the mainstay of the original Syn were Jackman, Squire and Nardelli.
Nardelli wrote their great song Grounded and worked closely with Jackman on writing all their original material. Jackman and Squire had links going back to the church choir and gave Syn that great backing vocal sound, not to mention Squires' bass! Banks was a late comer to the band, and yes,he is a good guitarist.
But the roots of the band lie in Jackman,Squire and Nardelli and clearly the current Syn is now being built around Squire and Nardelli. It is not clear if Banks will play or not, but in my opinion, he is not an important player in the game.
I think the interesting question is who will play guitar for them if it isn't Banks.

[kmcpro615]

I noticed that his logo was used on the latest reissues, and wondered just what he might be up to right now. Does anyone know?

For cash? I'm thinking he might be working at the same McDonalds as Igor.

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[diversity]

He must be mad if he's not sticking with the Syn. Or is it that they've unstuck him?
I've heard this story before somewhere. Band gets big, Peter leaves! Band gets very big!!

[kmcpro615]

He must be mad if he's not sticking with the Syn. Or is it that they've unstuck him?
I've heard this story before somewhere. Band gets big, Peter leaves! Band gets very big!!

Do you *really* think the Syn is gonna get "very big" just because Chris shows up for a cup of coffee?

KMCc:) ?????????????
www.kurtmichaels.com

[diversity]

The news is Chris is writing with Steve Nardelli and recording a new album with the band. Check their site and you'll see he's already in the studios with them. Hardly just a cup of coffee! I'll bet you the Syn make a big impact in 2005!

[kmcpro615]

The news is Chris is writing with Steve Nardelli and recording a new album with the band. Check their site and you'll see he's already in the studios with them. Hardly just a cup of coffee! I'll bet you the Syn make a big impact in 2005!

How much do you want to bet, and what is your definition of a "big impact"?

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[diversity]

Kurt: Well, I'll bet you 2 tickets of choice to a Yes gig. I think 'big impact' can be defined by a successful album and tour. How would you gauge it?

[kmcpro615]

Kurt: Well, I'll bet you 2 tickets of choice to a Yes gig. I think 'big impact' can be defined by a successful album and tour. How would you gauge it?

Well I can tell you that I wont consider a successful tour to be ten night clubs and a Borders store. If Yes can't make money on record sales anymore, why would the Syn stuff be expected to make any money? Yes' bread and butter these days is the exhorbitant fee that they charge promoters to do a show. I'm thinking the Syn won't be able to justify comparable fees or interest. You tell me what you would consider a successful album and tour to be, and I will likely take that bet. I think Chris is having some fun with some old friends for good times sake, and is at best just testing the waters. This current compilation in release is for completists only as far as I'm concerned.

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[diversity]

Kurt: All good points. I don't think you can judge success in just money terms though.
I would say if the band is still recording and touring with Chris as a member this time next year, that would be a gauge to their being a success. 'Big success' will be determined by how well their albums sell and the rest follows.
I think Original Syn is more than a release for completists. It has been very well put together and covers the period from Chris and the Selfs up to a newly recorded excellent track called Illusion. They have presented themselves very well and a lot of people are already very interested and talking about them, you and me included!
They clearly are a very good band with good management behind them.

[kmcpro615]

Diversity: All good points. I don't think you can judge success in just money terms though.

KMC: Well....for the purposes of this wager, I will be considering it.

Diversity: I would say if the band is still recording and touring with Chris as a member this time next year, that would be a gauge to their being a success.

KMC: I would expect next year around this time that Chris would be dragging himself around the world with Yes. I'm thinking if Chris is recording & touring with the Syn next year, it would be more indicative of a Yes failure, than of a Syn success.

Diversity: 'Big success' will be determined by how well their albums sell and the rest follows.

KMC: How many records sold determines "Big Success"?

Diversity: I think Original Syn is more than a release for completists. It has been very well put together and covers the period from Chris and the Selfs up to a newly recorded excellent track called Illusion. They have presented themselves very well and a lot of people are already very interested and talking about them, you and me included!

KMC: If they are interested in the way that I am interested and talking the way that I am, it doesn't bode well, now does it? Are you somehow connected to this project. The amount of Syn Kool-aid you have served up here suggests that you might have more than a casual interest.

Diversity: They clearly are a very good band with good management behind them.

Yeah sure....they just blow Yes away. I'm sure that Chris will put all his eggs in the Syn basket.......NOT !!!!

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[diversity]

No ones suggesting Chris will ever leave Yes. Are you joking! It's his band, he started it with Jon and he has always perpetuated it.
I just like the sound of the way the Syn thing is coming together and the mainly positive interest in them suggests they will do well, particuarly with Chris involved.
But between us, we've brought up an interesting topic: how do you gauge a bands' success. For example, how successful are Yes at the moment. They have just completed a very successful world tour, but that doesn't seem to have a significant impact on record sales.
What does anyone think is the most successful period of Yes' history? For me, I would say the 70's, when they also produced their greatest musical work.

[diversity]

Kurt: Oh, I forgot. What about the wager?

[kmcpro615]

Diversity: No ones suggesting Chris will ever leave Yes. Are you joking! It's his band, he started it with Jon and he has always perpetuated it.
I just like the sound of the way the Syn thing is coming together and the mainly positive interest in them suggests they will do well, particuarly with Chris involved.

KMC: I'm thinking that you won't find too much negative interest on a Yes page except for the rare curmudgeon like me speaking out.

Diversity: But between us, we've brought up an interesting topic: how do you gauge a bands' success. For example, how successful are Yes at the moment. They have just completed a very successful world tour, but that doesn't seem to have a significant impact on record sales.

KMC: I would say that being able to make a living off of the band would be a good indicator for starters. Yes has been HUGELY successful. Record sales are down for just about everyone. These days it's more of a promotional tool to help give fans an excuse to come out to the concerts.

Diversity: What does anyone think is the most successful period of Yes' history? For me, I would say the 70's, when they also produced their greatest musical work.

KMC: Artistically, the 70s....financially, the 80s.

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[kmcpro615]

Kurt: Oh, I forgot. What about the wager?

We'll talk about the wager after you go back and answer *all* the questions that I have asked you in this thread.

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[Bo Locks]

Peter Banks is not important to the band.!!!??? He's on the only new Syn track in 35 years, that makes him at least 20% important to the band and THE most important guitar player in the band!

[kmcpro615]

!!!??? He's on the only new Syn track in 35 years, that makes him at least 20% important to the band and THE most important guitar player in the band!

Right on Bo...give em hell my brother !!!

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[Michele]

!!!??? He's on the only new Syn track in 35 years, that makes him at least 20% important to the band and THE most important guitar player in the band!
As previously stated, Peter is committed to a new project with "Trio." His appearance on the new Syn song "Illusion" was in the capacity as a hired player. He was happy to accept that contractual agreement, was generously compensated for his work, and has now moved on to other things.

The Syn will have a new CD release early next year ("Synchronised"), (with Chris on one track, "Cathedral of Love"), on which Peter features again as a hired player.

But for the second new CD release, which Chris and Stephen are writing together now, a new guitarist will be in the band personnel, and The Syn will announce this and name the guy within the next six to eight weeks.

A rather interesting tour is being discussed and we'll have more information about that next month.

You have to understand... for The Syn, it's not about the money. Most of these guys, who didn't spend their productive young-adult years in the music industry, have already made their fortunes in other fields. Nardelli bought his first Rolls Royce at the age of 21, after the first incarnation of The Syn had ended its run. He is a hugely astute businessman who has managed his career wisely and well. The other guys are also well settled and comfortable. They have real businesses with which to finance their fun, and they're all incredibly down-to-earth.

At this stage of their lives, it's a much more relaxed thing, about the music, about having some fun together, and just seeing where it goes, without the stress of *having* to be "successful" to survive (by any definition of success you care to use). If the fans enjoy the music they make, that's great. If they don't, these guys are still having a marvelous time together.

They are extremely fortunate to not be at the mercy of the music industry, and are doing a fine job of calling their own shots and organizing their own plans. They can afford to hire the people they respect, to finance their own projects, to enjoy their time together, and to choose their own direction and method of doing it. Whether they "succeed" or "fail" financially isn't really a huge concern. These guys just want to have some creative fun together, and maybe they'll do some really fine and notable work. They can certainly afford it, so why not?

Right now, the chemistry between Nardelli, Squire, Adelman and Johnson (the current Syn members) is really good, and the creative juices are flowing. These guys don't *need* to be doing this project to ensure their survival or finance their retirement. So let's just let 'em have some fun, and enjoy it with them! (smiles)

Chris is so happy right now, you just know he is doing some superb work in the studio. While YES is sorting out its issues, I can't think of a better place for Chris to be. More power to 'em! (smiles)

Michele

[kmcpro615]

As previously stated, Peter is committed to a new project with "Trio." His appearance on the new Syn song "Illusion" was in the capacity as a hired player. He was happy to accept that contractual agreement, was generously compensated for his work, and has now moved on to other things.

The Syn will have a new CD release early next year ("Synchronised"), (with Chris on one track, "Cathedral of Love"), on which Peter features again as a hired player.

But for the second new CD release, which Chris and Stephen are writing together now, a new guitarist will be in the band personnel, and The Syn will announce this and name the guy within the next six to eight weeks.

A rather interesting tour is being discussed and we'll have more information about that next month.

You have to understand... for The Syn, it's not about the money. Most of these guys, who didn't spend their productive young-adult years in the music industry, have already made their fortunes in other fields. Nardelli bought his first Rolls Royce at the age of 21, after the first incarnation of The Syn had ended its run. He is a hugely astute businessman who has managed his career wisely and well. The other guys are also well settled and comfortable. They have real businesses with which to finance their fun, and they're all incredibly down-to-earth.

At this stage of their lives, it's a much more relaxed thing, about the music, about having some fun together, and just seeing where it goes, without the stress of *having* to be "successful" to survive (by any definition of success you care to use). If the fans enjoy the music they make, that's great. If they don't, these guys are still having a marvelous time together.

They are extremely fortunate to not be at the mercy of the music industry, and are doing a fine job of calling their own shots and organizing their own plans. They can afford to hire the people they respect, to finance their own projects, to enjoy their time together, and to choose their own direction and method of doing it. Whether they "succeed" or "fail" financially isn't really a huge concern. These guys just want to have some creative fun together, and maybe they'll do some really fine and notable work. They can certainly afford it, so why not?

Right now, the chemistry between Nardelli, Squire, Adelman and Johnson (the current Syn members) is really good, and the creative juices are flowing. These guys don't *need* to be doing this project to ensure their survival or finance their retirement. So let's just let 'em have some fun, and enjoy it with them! (smiles)

Chris is so happy right now, you just know he is doing some superb work in the studio. While YES is sorting out its issues, I can't think of a better place for Chris to be. More power to 'em! (smiles)

Michele

Well Michele...this is all good information. Since all Syns involved here are so well to do, I'm sure they are paying you handsomely for your public relations and record distributional efforts to facilitate their enjoyment <VBG> If this is missionary work, I'm sure I can find a worthy up and coming artist that really needs your help, for real. You can purchase his cd at the link below.

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[Michele]

Well Michele...this is all good information. Since all Syns involved here are so well to do, I'm sure they are paying you handsomely for your public relations and record distributional efforts to facilitate their enjoyment <VBG> If this is missionary work, I'm sure I can find a worthy up and coming artist that really needs your help, for real. You can purchase his cd at the link below. [/url]
You're funny, Kurt! (smiles)

Their wealth does not make me wealthy. (grins) I run a *service*, remember?

The point was that all of this talk about whether or not they will be "successful" in terms of album sales or well-attended concerts is really pretty irrelevant. Of course they want to do well and please the fans, and they're certainly behaving themselves with a lot more visibility, accessibility, and transparency than some bands we know. (grins) But if it all comes to nothing, it will still have been a wonderful time for all of them. They're a pretty happy and well-settled bunch.

As for your lovely music:

I've always freely promoted your material when you send me a press release to post to the newsletter. Just keep me updated by direct email, and I'll give you all the publicity I can within my limited sphere of exposure. Please send with as much lead-time as possible, because the newsletter has to have four days with the translation teams before it can be emailed to the fans. We don't handle last-minute deadlines very well. (smiles)

Have a wonderful day! Big hugs!

Michele

[diversity]

I think you're all underestimating this band. No band with Chris Squire and Steve Nardelli in it is going to anything less than someting special. You're right to say selling cd's etc is not the bottom line, just putting it all together on the level they have is a success on its own. I still have a really good feeling about them and think they will be 'big'. The wager is still on the table. Kurt: what questions I havn't I answered?

[roberta]

I am certainly not underestimating the Syn. I love them! There Original Syn cd shows what a good band they were and the new track called Illusion shows what a great band they are now. Have you heard them yet, Kurt? If you do, you may not want to bet against them.

[Michele]

I think you're all underestimating this band. No band with Chris Squire and Steve Nardelli in it is going to anything less than someting special. You're right to say selling cd's etc is not the bottom line, just putting it all together on the level they have is a success on its own. I still have a really good feeling about them and think they will be 'big'. The wager is still on the table. Kurt: what questions I havn't I answered?
I'm not underestimating them for a second! (grins)

This is an extremely special convergence of talents, inspiration, and motivation. I think the work in progress is going to be remarkable! And frankly, I'm sure that *I'm* going to love it. But like YES, I know that this prog-influenced stuff will never have a universal commercial appeal, or be everyone's personal cup of tea. There will be some people who will really love it, and some who won't. But all of the ingredients are there for this to be something very special indeed.

I'm just delighted that Chris is in a place where he is happy, productive, inspired, creative, and surrounded by people who care about him and with whom he has an affectionate rapport. Like you, I anticipate greatness. But I know that lots of people have lots of definitions for that term, and may measure "greatness" by criteria that don't play much of a role in this current endeavor.

If the fan reaction to "Illusion" is any indication of how they may respond to the new material, it will be very well received. We'll see. (smiles) For now, we wait.

Have a great day!

Michele

[roberta]

Well said Michele! Excactly my thoughts. I think this is a band that most Yes fans will embrace and enjoy. That's a 'big' success in my book, whatever else.

[kmcpro615]

Michele: You're funny, Kurt! (smiles) Their wealth does not make me wealthy. (grins) I run a *service*, remember?

KMC: Funny...funny how? As for me, I myself always make it a point to donate my services to the well to do, who feel the need to hang out together and carpetbag on the fame of a band like Yes. I'm just that kind of a guy......

Michele: As for your lovely music: I've always freely promoted your material when you send me a press release to post to the newsletter.

KMC: Cool...lets get the purchase link up and running for Inner Worlds placed right next to Original Syn's on your site. I'm sure we can work out a nice commission schedule. Seems appropriate to me. I think I like that idea.........

Michele: Have a wonderful day! Big hugs!

KMC: You too !!!

Diversity: What questions I havn't I answered?

KMC: Please clearly define your definition of a "big impact" in sales numbers as it relates to the record and concert tour.

Roberta: Have you heard them yet, Kurt?

KMC: Yes. They played a bunch of tracks on Delicious Agony last Thursday. Am I motivated to purchase......no. The one cut that I heard off of the 2nd Conspiracy cd though was quite good, and yes, I am motivated to purchase that cd.

So many questions...so little time.

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[roberta]

Well, I think Chris is the greatest bass player, but I don't like the Conspiracy cds. On the other hand, I bought Original Syn and love it. Most of the tracks are from the 60's, but they are still great recordings. Syn was the beginnings of Yes, so it's not surprising they are so linked and that Yes fans are so interested in them. We are all entitled to our own opinions.

[kmcpro615]

Well, I think Chris is the greatest bass player, but I don't like the Conspiracy cds. On the other hand, I bought Original Syn and love it. Most of the tracks are from the 60's, but they are still great recordings. Syn was the beginnings of Yes, so it's not surprising they are so linked and that Yes fans are so interested in them. We are all entitled to our own opinions.

Peace to you Roberta....I would not deny you your opinion.....nor would I deny you *mine*!!! I gave you some rep for putting up with me today. Thanks for playing !!!

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[Michele]

KMC: Cool...lets get the purchase link up and running for Inner Worlds placed right next to Original Syn's on your site. I'm sure we can work out a nice commission schedule. Seems appropriate to me. I think I like that idea.........
As YesServices resides under the YesWorld "umbrella," the site is subject to the rules and regs of that particular entity. YES merchandise, and merchandise in which YES members have a role, can have "main page" advertising and promotion. There are some YES items over which YesWorld prefers to have exclusive mention, and we abide by those rulings. Those are just the rules of the road, over which I have no control.

Fan-created merchandise is handled differently.

The FanShop area of YesServices -- which is linked to the homepage but resides in an interior section -- is specifically set aside for art (of all kinds) created by YES fans, for YES fans, and influenced in some way by YES.

That is the section in which Inner Worlds could be placed. If you are interested in setting up a sale site within the FanShop, which can link back to your homesite, please contact Tim Ellsworth the webmaster (webmaster@yesservices.com). He'll be happy to help you. YesServices is now enjoying about 2 million hits per year, so there could be some significant exposure to the fanbase that might be of benefit to you and your projects.

For a long time, Tim the webmaster constructed the sale sites at no fee. But after he build a few that took weeks to properly construct, while sacrificing time he should have spent on his income-producing job, he decided to charge a one-time, one-sale-item construction fee of $25 for his time. This has worked out well for everyone who has been involved, and it is a fair exchange for the labor expended. The site may include graphics, or photographs, or mp3 excerpts, or all three, as well as descriptive text, site links, payment links, etc. -- whatever is needed to make the site as effective as possible, and whatever meets with the approval of the person asking for the sale site.

Other than that one-time set-up fee, there are no commissions, or percentages, or fee of any kind paid to YesServices for sales that happen as a result of the existence of the sale site. There are also no time limits placed on how long the site can reside at YesServices. Once it's online, it remains online until you ask for it to be removed or revised or whatever. ...natural disaster, war, untimely demise of one of the YesServices personnel, problems with the legality of the merchandise, etc. ...those could take it down. But it's a pretty low-risk venture for a great deal of potential business.

You and Inner Visions would be more than welcome in the FanShop. If you are interested, please contact Tim for more information.

And as for newsletter publicity, that is always available to you at any time if you just give me enough notice to get it into the letter and to the translators. There will be a new newsletter going to the translators at the end of this week, so if you have an announcement you'd like to make about Inner Visions or your performances, etc., just send me an email!

Michele
believers@unplugusa.com

[kmcpro615]

The FanShop area of YesServices -- which is linked to the homepage but resides in an interior section -- is specifically set aside for art (of all kinds) created by YES fans, for YES fans, and influenced in some way by YES.

That is the section in which Inner Worlds could be placed. If you are interested in setting up a sale site within the FanShop, which can link back to your homesite, please contact Tim Ellsworth the webmaster (webmaster@yesservices.com). He'll be happy to help you. YesServices is now enjoying about 2 million hits per year, so there could be some significant exposure to the fanbase that might be of benefit to you and your projects.
Michele
believers@unplugusa.com

Thanks for hanging in with me and not losing your patience with me on this Michele..........this is good information which I am sure will be of interest to some of the other "artists in residence" on the site as well. Tim and I are on each others "Buddy List" so I'm sure something will get done. I'll shut up now for a while and give Roberta a vacation from my opinion !!!

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[bondegezou]

Diversity: What does anyone think is the most successful period of Yes' history? For me, I would say the 70's, when they also produced their greatest musical work.

KMC: Artistically, the 70s....financially, the 80s.

While _90125_ was very successful, as a whole, I would have thought that the '70s were more financially successful for the band. In the 1970s, Yes had six top ten albums in the US and eight (including two #1s) in the UK. In the 1980s, Yes had only one top ten album in each market (_90125_ in the US and _Drama_ in the UK). In the US, Yes's '70s albums have accumulated six Platinum awards (two for _Fragile_ and one each for _The Yes Album_, _Close to the Edge_, _Yessongs_ and _Tormato_). Yes's '80s albums have accumulated only five Platinum awards (three for _90125_ and one each for _Big Generator_ and _Classic Yes_).

Henry

[kmcpro615]

While _90125_ was very successful, as a whole, I would have thought that the '70s were more financially successful for the band. In the 1970s, Yes had six top ten albums in the US and eight (including two #1s) in the UK. In the 1980s, Yes had only one top ten album in each market (_90125_ in the US and _Drama_ in the UK). In the US, Yes's '70s albums have accumulated six Platinum awards (two for _Fragile_ and one each for _The Yes Album_, _Close to the Edge_, _Yessongs_ and _Tormato_). Yes's '80s albums have accumulated only five Platinum awards (three for _90125_ and one each for _Big Generator_ and _Classic Yes_).

Henry

My line of thinking on this is that in the 70s, Yes were probably saddled with a much $hittier record and publishing deal then they were when they regrouped and renegotiated. I also think that (like every other bunch of kids in history that got together and made a record), they probably got ripped off blind by their accountants and managers in the salad days. I have worked with a lot of big names over the years, some much bigger than Yes, and for the most part their stories are all the same. I do think over the years the guys in Yes have grown extremely savvy, and at this point likely know how every dime is spent. They don't have to turn the kind of numbers that they used to in order to make out well.

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com


KMCc:)

[themike]

I am in the 'Syn to be Big' in 2005 camp. Squire and Nardelli are a winning team. I advise everyone to listen to Illusion and make their own assessment. Amazing track from a band that hasn't played for 35 years.

[bondegezou]

I am in the 'Syn to be Big' in 2005 camp. Squire and Nardelli are a winning team. I advise everyone to listen to Illusion and make their own assessment. Amazing track from a band that hasn't played for 35 years.

"Illusion" (which of course doesn't feature Squire) sounds representative of the sort of work that Banks and Johnson have been doing lately, both together and apart. So, it strikes me as being a great track from a duo that has played together very recently.

However, I really like Martyn's drumming and it's pretty amazing for someone who hasn't played at all for over 35 years!

Henry

[themike]

What makes Illusion is that it is a great song to start with written by Nardelli/Banks.
It is very well constructed and good musical performances from all concerned led by some pretty awesome Banks guitar work throughout.
Then for me Nardelli's vocals take it to another level. I know it's well thought, but he really is a good vocalist and no wonder people talk about him as the only guy who could replace Jon in Yes.
He's not on this track, but how I'd love to have heard Squire's bass runs across it.
I guess that's to look forward to in the future.

[squireman]

New Syn photo up on the Syn website and Pete Banks nowhere to be seen. I suppose that answers any queries as to his being part of the band or not. I wonder who they've got lined up to replace him. You just know it will be someone very, very good!
Your fans are waiting guys!

[bondegezou]

As previously stated, Peter is committed to a new project with "Trio." His appearance on the new Syn song "Illusion" was in the capacity as a hired player. He was happy to accept that contractual agreement, was generously compensated for his work, and has now moved on to other things.

As Peter tells it, he was asked to join Syn Music Ltd., but did not like the contract offered and chose to take part on a session fee basis, a hired player as Michele says. We can discuss the extent to which the contractual relationships determines people's roles. There are clear cases: consider Julian Colbeck on the ABWH tour, who was contracted on a session basis and was clearly there as a sessioner, an extra hand, not a member of the band. However, consider Igor Khoroshev: he was (AFAIK) always paid on a session basis and was never contractually a member of the band in terms of someone who shared in the profits. But I, as I think most fans, would consider Khoroshev to have been a member of Yes because he played in the band as an equal and had an equal role in contributing to the writing of The Ladder.

Or there's Trey Gunn of King Crimson. He was a member of that band in contractual terms until his final tour with the band. For the final tour, he was paid as a hired player. Now, I don't think the audiences saw Gunn any differently on that tour, I don't think he played any differently, yet his contractual arrangements were different. So, the contractual arrangements are obviously hugely important to how people are paid and so on, but from the perspective of someone in the audience, they aren't necessarily representative of people's roles in the music.

Perhaps most interesting is Wakeman's current position. As I understand it, in a corporate sense, Yes nowadays is Yes '97 LLC, which comprises Anderson, Squire, Howe and White, but not Wakeman. I don't know how Wakeman is paid - does he receive a session fee or does he share in band profits? - but at least in some sense, he appears contractually to be in a different situation to the other four. Yet when we saw Wakeman on stage in Yes this year, we saw a band of five equal players.

So, the point I'm making is that how someone is contracted doesn't tell the whole story. Peter was contracted as a session player, but he felt he was - morally as a former Syn member and in terms of musical contributions - an equal member of the reunited band. In musical terms, I think Peter felt that he and Gerard Johnson (also presumably contracted on a session basis) were key to the band's sound in 2004, which I feel is reflected in the finished product of "Illusion".

Peter was unhappy about decisions made and the direction the band took, but, as Michele says, he was paid and he's moved on. While disappointed, I don't think he questions the contractual right of the others to continue with Syn as they are, but I think he'd like to be considered as having been more than just a hired player on the 2004 recording sessions.

Henry

[mindgame]

Peter is in great evidence on the fantastic Illusion track and hired or not, he plays great guitar throughout and wrote the song with Steve Nardelli.
I just wonder how he can possibly be unhappy with 'the direction the band took'. They are a revelation! Let's face it, they are going to make a big impact in 05, they already have!
I am sorry to say, I think he's made another major bloomer.
Do you know any more details, Henry? Who is the replacement?

[tommy]

Henry makes a good point as to what constitutes being a band member as opposed to a session player. It seems to me that the Syn have always presented Banks as a band member in relation to the work he has done with them. Confusing, but does it really matter as long as the music's good?

[themike]

As long as Squire and Nardelli are in the band, you just know the music will be good!
I've read well informed posts here describe Cathedral of Love as a masterpiece.

[bondegezou]

Peter is in great evidence on the fantastic Illusion track and hired or not, he plays great guitar throughout and wrote the song with Steve Nardelli.
I just wonder how he can possibly be unhappy with 'the direction the band took'. They are a revelation! Let's face it, they are going to make a big impact in 05, they already have!
I am sorry to say, I think he's made another major bloomer.
Do you know any more details, Henry? Who is the replacement?

I've no idea who the new guitarist is.

As for Peter's views... I don't know, but I think it was more about how the band was working and the personal relationships than about the direction of the music as such. Banks is a thoughtful musician, something of a perfectionist, with strong ideas about how to do things, but he seemed happy with the new Syn's musical output. Interpersonal dynamics within a band are a funny thing... as Yes always reminds us.

Having strong ideas about how to do things has both good and bad aspects. Banks is no longer involved with either the current Syn or Flash reunions, but he remains a great performer. I don't want to take sides: I am thrilled by Syn's continuing development and Squire's return to the band and I'm excited by Peter's work within the new band Trio.

Henry

[diversity]

I think the best thing for Pete Banks to do is play solo. It seems no one wants to play with him, look at his history with Yes and then Flash. He seems too quick to bad mouth people he has worked with. I guess that's why they don't want to work with him again. He's not the only good guitarist in the world.

[themike]

Whatever he's doing, Peter obviously doesn't figure in the Syn. Shame that he's out of another fantastic band. They may be something in what diversity says, but he wouldn't be the only difficult musician around, far from it! Anyway, good luck to him.

[pixiedave]

the syn was a footnote of a footnote, and chris or no chris, there will be no huge sucess coming, all just wishfull thinking of a concept 35 years gone.

[themike]

I think we need to hear what's coming up before anyone can make a true judgement. From what we've seen and heard so far, it looks very promising, even amazing! To come out of nowhere after 35 years and sound and look this good is amazing in itself.
Nardelli is an unknown master writer and singer, who will create a huge wave of interest in the New Year. He's already got a big fanbase, check the forums. Nardelli and Squire is the dream ticket in my book, we'll see.

[roberta]

The Syn were one of the most important underground bands of the 60's and credited more than any other with influencing the early development of Yes. It included Chris Squire and Pete Banks. If you don't know them yet Pixiedave, you sure will next year!

[diversity]

Not a lot, it would seem.

[pixiedave]

The Syn were one of the most important underground bands of the 60's and credited more than any other with influencing the early development of Yes. It included Chris Squire and Pete Banks. If you don't know them yet Pixiedave, you sure will next year!i know exactly who they were, and how they sounded. If I hear of them next year, it will only be on sites like this! No one other than fantical yes fans will buy, listen or talk about it. And if Yes keeps it together, the syn will remain in obscurity, even if Yes disbands forever, the Syn will remain onscured. Petr Banks by all accounts seems to be a wanker who no one works with for long, and I postulate that Yes became Yes despite the early contributions to the band, not because of them. Secondly, this nardelli guy, made a few recordings in the sixities, and could not maintain a carrer in music. Now 35 years later, he reforms a band, that is again a footnote in music history, and is never talked about except in referance to Yes! I'm glad you are enthusiastic, but too think that the syn is goint to storm through the music world next year, is either fantasy or severe hearing loss. And as you are obviously a syn advocate and feverush defender as your posts indicate, I do not think you are speaking from an objective position. Cheers.

here is a google seaarch of "The SYN"
Nothing on your band in the first four pages.
http://www.google.com/search?q=The+Syn&sourceid=mozilla-search&start=0&start=0&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official

[Michele]

i know exactly who they were, and how they sounded. If I hear of them next year, it will only be on sites like this!.....
Etc., etc., etc. (smiles)

Is there something wrong or bad about being mentioned in reference to YES? (biggest of grins)

Is it undesirable to be a recognized "footnote" from a period in popular music that had *thousands* of short-lived bands, notable in their day, that never achieved even a minimal "footnote status"?

It all seems pretty good to me. (smiles)

You know, it really is OKAY for The Syn to be enjoyed on sites like this, and to have a relatively select and small fanbase. Their fans are clearly comprised of some YES fans and the much more strange "freakbeat" retro-boys, still devoted to the psychedlia scene. That is nothing to be ashamed of, and is, rather, something to be celebrated! They're living, they're active, they're happy, they're healthy! Let it happen!

I don't believe that anyone in The Syn intends to "storm through" the music world. They are just enjoying themselves together, and we have the pleasure of listening to what they do. Nothing wrong with that.

As for Nardelli, he left The Syn because he had a very profitable business going that intrigued him more than the music industry did. Amazingly enough, he never *wanted* to "maintain a career in music" ...which is why he moved on to other things. It just wasn't his primary interest at the time. So what?

There is no point in speculating about what might, or might not have been 35 years ago. And if those guys want to play some music together now, why not? I say more power to 'em! Let 'em have some fun together!

Having a lifelong career in "popular" music doesn't seem to be a terribly healthy thing for most who achieve it, and the vast majority who try, end up struggling with unfulfilled ambitions for the rest of their lives. The big fame is afforded only to the few. And even YES never really had the "big fame."

This Syn thing is not about the search for fame, or trying to make their fortune, or "becoming somebody," or any of the other typical "assumed motivations" that some will try to read into this adventure. Chris already has his own variation of fame and accomplishment. Nardelli is already comfortable and very successful in business. Adelman is already well settled and an extremely talented photographer. Etc. These guys have their heads in a different place... probably because they're not teenagers any more, nor are they inexperienced in the ways of the world, nor are they at the mercy of the music industry.

The primary motivating events which spurred the Syn reunion were the death of Andrew Pryce Jackman in 2003, and Henry Potts taking the initiative to find the Syn guys and interview them about their past. The retrospective CD was produced specifically to honor and remember Andrew Jackman, not to launch a big new splashy career.

The fact that Chris Squire was reunited with Nardelli and was interested in making some new music with the group is really a very happy thing for him, after several stressful years of intense touring.

It's really rather immaterial whether they "splash" or not... as such things are judged in the industry. The fans who like their music will be blessed to hear it. Those that don't, won't listen. It's not a matter of life and death either way.

What we are observing here is a group of old friends who rediscovered each other in mid-life, and found that they still have a close and affectionate musical and social compatibility that seems to be resulting in some lovely material that can be appreciated by those are moved by it.

The Syn are all enjoying themselves immensely at the moment, experiencing a hugely creative and productive period together, and couldn't be happier. At this stage of life, that sort of thing is far more valuable and offers much greater personal fulfillment than the more frenetic ambitions of inexperienced youth.

Seems to me the best way to approach this is to just relax and let it happen. *They* are! Some people will love their music, other's won't. That is the way of the world. Nobody is going to lose any sleep over it. (smiles)

There will always be nay-sayers, no matter what is going on. And there always will be those who just "don't get it" or dont want to get it. That's okay, too. We love and care about each other because of who we are, not because of what music we like or support.

I think there will be plenty to be happy about in the coming year musically. What happens, will happen. There is a lot to be blessed about in all of this, for everyone. Those that view it differently are certainly entitled to their perspective, but they're not going to rain on anyone else's parade. (smiles)

Hugs all 'round! -- Michele

[pixiedave]

Etc., etc., etc. (smiles)

Is there something wrong or bad about being mentioned in reference to YES? (biggest of grins)

Is it undesirable to be a recognized "footnote" from a period in popular music that had *thousands* of short-lived bands, notable in their day, that never achieved even a minimal "footnote status"?

It all seems pretty good to me. (smiles)

You know, it really is OKAY for The Syn to be enjoyed on sites like this, and to have a relatively select and small fanbase. Their fans are clearly comprised of some YES fans and the much more strange "freakbeat" retro-boys, still devoted to the psychedlia scene. That is nothing to be ashamed of, and is, rather, something to be celebrated! They're living, they're active, they're happy, they're healthy! Let it happen!

I don't believe that anyone in The Syn intends to "storm through" the music world. They are just enjoying themselves together, and we have the pleasure of listening to what they do. Nothing wrong with that.

As for Nardelli, he left The Syn because he had a very profitable business going that intrigued him more than the music industry did. Amazingly enough, he never *wanted* to "maintain a career in music" ...which is why he moved on to other things. It just wasn't his primary interest at the time. So what?

There is no point in speculating about what might, or might not have been 35 years ago. And if those guys want to play some music together now, why not? I say more power to 'em! Let 'em have some fun together!

Having a lifelong career in "popular" music doesn't seem to be a terribly healthy thing for most who achieve it, and the vast majority who try, end up struggling with unfulfilled ambitions for the rest of their lives. The big fame is afforded only to the few. And even YES never really had the "big fame."

This Syn thing is not about the search for fame, or trying to make their fortune, or "becoming somebody," or any of the other typical "assumed motivations" that some will try to read into this adventure. Chris already has his own variation of fame and accomplishment. Nardelli is already comfortable and very successful in business. Adelman is already well settled and an extremely talented photographer. Etc. These guys have their heads in a different place... probably because they're not teenagers any more, nor are they inexperienced in the ways of the world, nor are they at the mercy of the music industry.

The primary motivating events which spurred the Syn reunion were the death of Andrew Pryce Jackman in 2003, and Henry Potts taking the initiative to find the Syn guys and interview them about their past. The retrospective CD was produced specifically to honor and remember Andrew Jackman, not to launch a big new splashy career.

The fact that Chris Squire was reunited with Nardelli and was interested in making some new music with the group is really a very happy thing for him, after several stressful years of intense touring.

It's really rather immaterial whether they "splash" or not... as such things are judged in the industry. The fans who like their music will be blessed to hear it. Those that don't, won't listen. It's not a matter of life and death either way.

What we are observing here is a group of old friends who rediscovered each other in mid-life, and found that they still have a close and affectionate musical and social compatibility that seems to be resulting in some lovely material that can be appreciated by those are moved by it.

The Syn are all enjoying themselves immensely at the moment, experiencing a hugely creative and productive period together, and couldn't be happier. At this stage of life, that sort of thing is far more valuable and offers much greater personal fulfillment than the more frenetic ambitions of inexperienced youth.

Seems to me the best way to approach this is to just relax and let it happen. *They* are! Some people will love their music, other's won't. That is the way of the world. Nobody is going to lose any sleep over it. (smiles)

There will always be nay-sayers, no matter what is going on. And there always will be those who just "don't get it" or dont want to get it. That's okay, too. We love and care about each other because of who we are, not because of what music we like or support.

I think there will be plenty to be happy about in the coming year musically. What happens, will happen. There is a lot to be blessed about in all of this, for everyone. Those that view it differently are certainly entitled to their perspective, but they're not going to rain on anyone else's parade. (smiles)

Hugs all 'round! -- Michele
I was only refering to the way enthusiastic posts in this thread, I was not putting down the band, or their playing together. Just expressing my opinion, Like I said I am glad for the enthusuastic, I just think they are looking through rose colored glasses as to the sucess of this project. It does not matter if a life in the music buiseness was wanted or not, a drummer and a guitarest that have not played in 35 years sais it all.

I can hear the promotions for ticket sales,"The Syn featuring Chris Squire of Yes" If not promoted that way, just as the syn, they will sell 5 tickets per venue, of what 150-200 seat venues?

[mindgame]

I think both Michele and PixieDave put interesting points from different and diverse angles. The Syn is considered one of the biggest freak beat bands of the 60's, and 2 of their tracks, Grounded and 14 hour Technicolor Dream, are classics of that era. Of course they are most remembered as a pre-Yes band by the Yes fanbase, but they have a surprisingly strong fanbase in their own right. I am personally a big fan of Nardelli as both a writer and a singer and I look forward to his new work very much.
Particuarly with Squire now in the band, this will be worth listening to, I'm sure.
If you want to see the interest on Google, put up Squire Syn or Nardelli Syn, there's pages. Just The Syn gets mixed up with 'synthesisers'.
Whatever we say about them, at least we're talking about them!

[roberta]

Yes PixieDave, I am a fan of the band (particuarly Nardelli) and I admit to looking at them through rose tinted glasses. But don't all fans do that? Don't you do it where Yes is concerned? I do!
The pages of Syn posts on Yesfans and elsewhere shows there is a lot of real interest in the Syn and I read that the Original Syn cd was regarded in the British press as the biggest archive album of 2004.
Hope to see you at a Syn gig next year!

[bondegezou]

The primary motivating events which spurred the Syn reunion were the death of Andrew Pryce Jackman in 2003, and Henry Potts taking the initiative to find the Syn guys and interview them about their past.

That makes me sound somewhat more proactive than I am! It was Martyn Adelman who found me rather than the other way around. He e-mailed me having seen my Yes site and I then asked if I could interview him. Martyn kindly agreed, we did that, the interview went live... and Steve Nardelli then contacted me having seen Martyn's interview.

Henry

[bondegezou]

I think we need to hear what's coming up before anyone can make a true judgement. From what we've seen and heard so far, it looks very promising, even amazing! To come out of nowhere after 35 years and sound and look this good is amazing in itself.

What I've heard of the reunited Syn sounds great to me too, but sadly sounding good has never been a guarantee of popular success. I wish it was.

And, as I said before, they didn't all "come out of nowhere after 35 years": Peter Banks and Gerard Johnson are full-time musicians, as is the session bassist on "Illusion", Steve Gee. Nardelli and Adelman had more of a jump to make, coming back to performing after so long, so kudos to them certainly.

Henry

[Michele]

I was only refering to the way enthusiastic posts in this thread, I was not putting down the band, or their playing together. Just expressing my opinion, Like I said I am glad for the enthusuastic, I just think they are looking through rose colored glasses as to the sucess of this project.
I see nothing wrong with enthusiasm, and there is nothing wrong with hoping for a good public reception of the band's new music. It's just a manifestation of happy anticipation. I would wish for the band success rather than failure. But until one or the other happens, a positive, rose-colored perspective is no better or worse than anticipating disaster. It's all future anyway. People choose how they want to speculate about it.

It's just a reflection of how people think individually. Some folks are just naturally bubbly and supportive. Others are more cautious. If I criticize the cautious perspective just because I am more "rosy", that isn't going to change that person's opinion any. And those who are cautious like to think that they are being realistic and others are perhaps a bit silly. (smiles) It's all okay. We're all just guessing anyway. The proof will be in the pudding, as they say, and when the new material is released, or live performances commence, then we'll all know.
I can hear the promotions for ticket sales,"The Syn featuring Chris Squire of Yes" If not promoted that way, just as the syn, they will sell 5 tickets per venue, of what 150-200 seat venues?
I see nothing wrong with being promoted that way. All promoters look to the biggest draw element to introduce something new, in the hope of inspiring public support. That's just the way it is done.

There is no question that Chris Squire is the biggest draw for The Syn within the YES fanbase ... as he is also for Conspiracy, as Alan is for the new White band. It is the same principle that is employed when booking opening acts. Use a bigger name to help create an audience for the lessor. The obverse is used when a big name needs an infusion of new fans, and management wants to build a new audience by tapping into the audience of a complimentary band... as was done with Dream Theater opening for YES.

I am certain that you are quite correct in your assessment of how The Syn may be promoted during their first series of performances. In the freakbeat crowd, where YES is often viewed with intolerance and disdain, Nardelli is the bigger name. So whatever promotion technique is employed when the time comes, it will be calculated to draw popular support from several different and diverse fan groups, and whatever "speaks to them" most effectively will be what is advertised.

I see nothing bad in any of this. It makes perfect sense from a business perspective. The White Band hasn't played in public ever under that moniker. The Syn hasn't performed live since 1968. Conspiracy has had public performances that were if-y, and the most recent CD release was received with very mixed reactions from the fans. All three groups could benefit immensely from association with the others, and all three groups will definitely benefit, in terms of publicity, by the presence of Chris Squire.

I think we'll see White promoted using both Alan's and Chris's names, and Conspiracy promoted using Chris's name, and The Syn promoted using Chris's and Stephen's names. And in my opinion, that is a good thing. (smiles) It will help all of the bands.

Onward! Have a wonderful day!

Michele

[Michele]

That makes me sound somewhat more proactive than I am! It was Martyn Adelman who found me rather than the other way around. He e-mailed me having seen my Yes site and I then asked if I could interview him. Martyn kindly agreed, we did that, the interview went live... and Steve Nardelli then contacted me having seen Martyn's interview. Henry
Dearest Henry, you are far too modest! (smiles) I just repeated the story as it was told to me. It matters not that Martyn contacted you, rather than you him... although I do apologize for misspeaking in that regard.

The point is that you were immensely instrumental in helping facilitate the reunion... even if it was unknowingly at the time. (smiles) A lot of people played different roles in bringing it about, but it was the posted Bondegezou interview with Martyn that really opened the door and got things rolling. What happened after that is a story that would take far too long to tell and space limitations are a factor. (grins) Regardless of whom contacted who, when, The Syn view your participation as one of the single most influential contributing factors to the reunion. And it is! (smiles)

Happy days, Henry! -- Michele

[tommy]

This is all great! Is Banks in the Syn, has he been thrown out, will they be big, won't they be big, this ones a 'professional musician', that one hasn't played for years, who will replace Banks, Squire and Nardelli are an amazing team(actually,they are!), etc., etc.,??!!
The Syn must be loving this, they get more interest here than Yes do!
You can just smell that this band is going places, and good luck to them!

[diversity]

I've said it from the very start, The Syn are my tip for success next year!
Any band with Squire and Nardelli in it can't fail IMHO.

[roberta]

Looking through my rose tinted glasses, I can only see great things for the Syn next year. Funny, when I take them off, I see exactly the same thing. Actually I don't need rose tinted glasses to recognise talent and quality.
There is a rumour about Syn touring with Alan White and Conspiracy. Any one know any more on this. Michele? What has DA radio got to do with it?

[themike]

I believe the Squire/Nardelli fusion makes the Syn the most important and potentially brilliant band project undertaken by any Yes musician outside of Yes, ever.
I think Banks would have done a good job for them and he's great on Illusion, but no doubt his replacement will be of very high calibre. This tour talk is very exciting.

[kmcpro615]

I believe the Squire/Nardelli fusion makes the Syn the most important and potentially brilliant band project undertaken by any Yes musician outside of Yes, ever.


I agree. Asia's importance and potential brilliance, along with millions of records sold pale significantly in comparison to the prospects for Chris' reunion with his highschool band of buddies or even the band Jon assembled for Animation and the subsequent tours. Wakeman's millions of records sold probably shouldn't count either....nor should Moraz's output with the Moody Blues (even if he didn't put that band together). That Plastic Ono Band that Alan played in really sucked, too. Who ever heard of any of the guys in *that* band? How could anyone possibly reach a different conclusion than you?

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[themike]

Fair comment Kurt, but that's not quite what I meant. I'm talking about side projects from band members while they were/are still members of Yes. Not bands they joined prior or after they were with Yes. For me, nothing beats Alan drumming on Imagine, probably most peoples pick as the greatest record of all time.

[mindgame]

I notice Kurt is quick to critisise Syn for promoting their strong association with Yes.
Meanwhile, he uses this Yes forum to promote his own website at every post.
What exactly is your connection with Yes, Kurt?


People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones!

[kmcpro615]

I notice Kurt is quick to critisise Syn for promoting their strong association with Yes.
Meanwhile, he uses this Yes forum to promote his own website at every post.
What exactly is your connection with Yes, Kurt?


People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones!

There is no doubt about it. I am shameless in my self promoting. My only excuse is that since I don't have someone to do it for me, so I *have* to do it for myself. You got me dead to rights there. So did you like any of the mp3s on my site? (VBG)

On the other hand, as a fan who has shelled out thousands of dollars on Yes over the years, I feel I have paid my dues and earned the right to my opinions. And furthermore, I don't think that what I offered was criticism, so much as an interpretation of what I thought was going down.

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[kmcpro615]

Fair comment Kurt, but that's not quite what I meant. I'm talking about side projects from band members while they were/are still members of Yes. Not bands they joined prior or after they were with Yes. For me, nothing beats Alan drumming on Imagine, probably most peoples pick as the greatest record of all time.

Nice save buddy !!!

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[mindgame]

All power to you Kurt for holding your hand up. I'll do better than listen to the mp3's, I'll buy your album.
We're all entitled to our opinions and this forum is all about expressing them honestly as Yes fans, and we can always agree to disagree.
Happy Holidays!

[kmcpro615]

All power to you Kurt for holding your hand up. I'll do better than listen to the mp3's, I'll buy your album.
We're all entitled to our opinions and this forum is all about expressing them honestly as Yes fans, and we can always agree to disagree.
Happy Holidays!

Thanks MG !!! When you're order comes through, I'll see that you get a little something extra in your package !!!

KMCc:)
www.kurtmichaels.com

[ELLIS]

Peter's new band Trio have a new website under construction: www.triosounds.com.