Syn: Cathedral of Love

[Michele]

I heard the 'demos', I heard Cathedral Of Love: not a demo. The SYN needs no alcove nor priest... It's absolute PROG, with a capitol "P". And Steve's lyrics are amazing. Spiritual, positive, and any Yesfan worth the weight of their computer will embrace the new project. I'm still a little dazed. Light Fantastic, please pass the :bonghitte and a little understanding. url (Will have a full update soon, still writing the puppy...) url:yesbird:
Yes, Earl. Absolutely true.

I, too, have heard the complete and finished "Cathedral of Love."

As all involved have been saying: It is magnificent!

The lyrics describe finding friendship where you least expect it, when you deeply need it, when you are at your lowest point... and finding that healing friendship taking you into the Cathedral of Love. It's truly very moving, very emotional.

The song begins rather quietly, and over the course of about 10 or 11 minutes, builds a tremendous layered construct, supported and transported by Chris's bass lines and backing vocals, while Nardelli's peaceful vocal narrative floats above.

As the song builds, it ascends to this fantastic musical climax, driven and led by outstanding guitar work from Paul Stacey. This guy has great chops! Full of heart and expression!

Gerard Johnson's keyboard parts are like little sparkles and sprinkles in the structure. They support, then they lead, then they embellish... many interesting roles for the keys to play in this song. His approach to the keys is one of purpose. There is a reason for what is played, and a meaning to it. No one part of this structure fights with any other part for our attention. It all fits together perfectly, and is assembled harmoniously, to provide the architecture for the beautiful, heart-felt message.

During the closing section, the song pulls back from the strong intensity built during the climactic portion, and sort of drifts the listener into a dream. It is just a superb song!

It is, of course, impossible to do the song justice with mere words. The production work is stunning... full of layering and gorgeous detail. The message is moving. The performances are top-of-the-line.

And the band has a real cohesion... you can *feel* the good chemistry between the members as they play together... sense the likemindedness toward the song's meaning and message.

This is a work of which The Syn can be tremendously proud!

A lot of fans were impressed with "Illusion," and thought it was an interesting and very modern direction for the reformed band to take, after their 40-year hiatus.

But I have to honestly say that "Cathedral of Love" is LIGHT YEARS beyond anything that the band did in 2003/4.

If we *thought* they would be good, based on "Illusion" and "Grounded 2004," we just didn't have a clue how far and how fast they would move beyond their earlier efforts.

Only this particular group of musicians could have pulled this off. The non-egotistical interpersonal chemistry between them, the affectionate friendship that they all share together, are so openly displayed and beautifully expressed in "Cathedral of Love."

And it is sooo great to hear a performance in which is it obvious that everyone is enjoying being together and working toward a unified musical goal.

As Earl says... the act of artistic creation is not always a pretty one. But when the performers can so completely come together to express such a beautiful moment of heart in such an incredible piece of music, you know that something great has been achieved.

"Cathedral of Love" is definitely a winner. Can't wait to hear all of the new "Syndestructible" tracks!

The abbreviated, 4-minute radio-friendly version of C.O.L. should be released for radio airplay late in May, early June maybe.... that is the best guess at the moment. (Don't engrave it in stone... you know how these dates go.) And then the complete "Syndestructible" album should be (we hope) available before the summer tour begins in July.

...and the cover art is LOVELY!

For those who are judging The Syn -- for better or worse -- on the basis of their 40-year-old songs from the 60s era, or by the songs recorded last year....

You ain't heard nuthin' yet! (smiles) Fasten your seatbelts! It's gonna be a high-flying ride this summer!

Have a wonderful day! See you at the pre-show parties!

Michele

[Amy]

Wow Michele, what a great post!!
I can't wait to hear it.....and I'm truly looking forward to this summer!

[Bugeyes]

...Gerard Johnson's keyboard parts are like little sparkles and sprinkles in the structure. They support, then they lead, then they embellish... many interesting roles for the keys to play in this song. His approach to the keys is one of purpose. There is a reason for what is played, and a meaning to it. No one part of this structure fights with any other part for our attention. It all fits together perfectly, and is assembled harmoniously, to provide the architecture for the beautiful, heart-felt message....
MicheleDon't even try to hold me down on this one! :crybby:

Summertime is rapidly rounding the corner. Is there so much speed because I anticipate the merriment this crowd of musicians gathers? YES! Let us all get synchronized. ;)

:angle2:
Hi Michele!

[themike]

What a fantastic post Michele. We always suspected this would be a wonder band. Now we know. I really like Earl's appreciation too: 'the Syn needs no alcove, no confessor', it says so much! As Earl seems the only other person to have been priveleged to hear this track, can't wait to read his review. And I can't wait to hear the track for myself!!

[tommy]

This track has been called a master piece. Seems like it is!

[roberta]

Chris has described Syn as the new Yes. No more to say really, except can't wait for the tour, can't wait for the cd!

[theone]

After all the Banks stuff, Syn speak with their music as true musicians always will.
Sounds like they are really a very special band, just as we suspected they might be!

[Michele]

Chris has described Syn as the new Yes. No more to say really, except can't wait for the tour, can't wait for the cd!
Chris may have not been so wise to make that statement. (grins) And I notice he never said it again, so undoubtedly he thought better of it.

I think one should be very careful about declaring that ANY band was the "new Yes." For so many of the fans, that whole idea borders on heresy.

I personally do NOT believe that The Syn are the "new Yes." They are their own band, with their own inspiration, their own new direction, their own unique chemistry together.

What they create may have moments that remind one of Yes, simply because Chris's bass playing is inimitable, totally *him*, and reminiscent of his work with every other musician with whom he has ever played. Syn music is also very much prog, so in that respect, there will be similarities in the genre.

But in my opinion, the YES comparisons end there -- in the sense of The Syn being considered a "Yes incarnation." They are just NOT that at all.

A better comparison might be:

that The Syn have the musical chops, and the artistic inspiration, to be as technically brilliant as YES was technically brilliant, but in their own style;

that Nardelli has the sensitivity and spirituality to create lyrics that move us as deeply and personally as YES lyrics do... but without so much of the guru-ish, white-robed mysticism that is often attributed to YES;

that the prog vein in which The Syn music flows is definitely following the lead created and originally directed by Andrew Pryce Jackman, and in that respect, there may be some similarities in instrumental arrangements -- because YES itself was also influenced by Jackman's musical leadership.

There will be similarities. The two bands are inextricably linked together by both history and personnel. Those ties are forever, and they definitely have an influence.

But I would never call The Syn "the new Yes." I think to do so would be somewhat misleading to the fans who would go to a concert and expect the performance to be YES wearing a new suit of clothes. It won't be that. It isn't that.

Let The Syn make their own mark, in their own style, with their own message and their own musical voice. No other band can ever be YES. And no other band can ever be The Syn. To the extent that fans keep trying to make The Syn into a YES image, they will not succeed and will simply be frustrated.

You know how the fans can be. (grins) We've all seen this kind of thing in other contexts. You can already imagine it... fans griping because Nardelli doesn't sound like Jon... or complaining because Johnson's keyboards are not as aggrandizingly flashy as Wakeman's... or unhappy because Stacey's guitar stylings are not the same as Howe's stylings, etc., etc., etc.

Those comparisons WILL be made. You can bet even money on it. (smiles) And The Syn guys know this is coming.

But the people who "get it," will understand that the two bands are NOT the same identity or entity, that neither one "incarnates" the other, and that there are similarities to be appreciated, and differences to be celebrated.

Expect something NEW... with some familiar flavorings, in that comfortable and beautiful progressive mindset.

In short, expect the best! (smiles)

Love you folks! See you this summer!

Michele

[Vic Anderson]

this is funny cuz they wouldn't be the new yes even if they tried
amazing muzic yes new yes no!

[Michele]

this is funny cuz they wouldn't be the new yes even if they tried amazing muzic yes new yes no!
I understand what you are saying completely. (smiles)

I believe what Chris was trying to express is that the music being created now by The Syn could have been created by YES, if its members were in synch with one another about what they wanted to do, and had the motivation to do it.

And I know that some of the management big-wigs have heard Cathedral of Love and remarked about how easily it could have been a YES song, and how equally brilliant The Syn's current work is.

But YES isn't a "hap'nin' thang" these days. And may not be for some time. So, as I said, we can enjoy the similarities and celebrate the differences.

With three of the five YES guys being inspired and moved by their outside projects, one has to expect that if YES should ever come together again to create, the participants would be rejuvenated, inspired, motivated, and energetic toward the new work. Whether that ever happens again remains to be seen.

But in the meantime, if the boys are happy and excited about what they are doing, that is the highest recommendation we could receive. We know what their personal standards are.

As you say, Vic: "Amazing music, Yes. New Yes, no." (grins) But definitely a superb opportunity for something refreshing and innovative and uplifting.

...and frankly... meaning no disrespect to anyone... if I had to face yet another summer tour of YES performing the same setlist from the last three years, with nothing new and exciting to promote, the temptation would be very strong to let it pass me by. They're going to have to make some new music someday, or they're going to have to retire. The "oldies" retrospective has been gleaned for all it could give.

Time for something new. Looks like some of the guys think so, too. (smiles)

Michele

[miriam]

I agree with every word Michele. The Syn is a stand alone band that should be judged by their own music, which sounds like it is brilliant!! I've always felt since Squire got back together with Nardelli that the outcome would be spectacular. Nardelli is the new Prog Messiah in my eyes!

[tommy]

Certainly no band can be the 'new Yes'. But Chris has said in his recent interviews that his work with Nardelli and the Syn has been his most productive in 20 years.

[Vic Anderson]

key point there is as an aside from yes :)

[Vic Anderson]

new prog messiah? come on now

i

[mikepietrini]

i can't wait to hear this track - michele do you happen to know how many
tracks have been completed....for this new lineup of the syn

[Michele]

Certainly no band can be the 'new Yes'. But Chris has said in his recent interviews that his work with Nardelli and the Syn has been his most productive in 20 years.
Yes, he has made that statement repeatedly, and with great enthusiasm. And when you think about what the last 20 years have produced, that is high praise indeed.

Go back to 1985... well, actually to 1987, since YES didn't really release a new album in 1985, and you have YES from Big Generator to the present day. During those 20 years, there really weren't that many new YES albums released. There were lots of compilations, best of's, retrospective collections, re-releases, releases of live material, and so forth.

During that period, the only "pure, new Yes" stuff was Big Generator, Union, Talk, Open Your Eyes, The Ladder, KeyStudio, and Magnification. One can argue the merits (or demerits) of each of those releases. But on each new release there was at least one really great YES song... and frequently several.

The last 20 years were not YES's most productive, nor YES's most inspired. But the band was still working, creating and performing.

Looks like Chris is more than ready to take it all to the next level, and I can't think of a better group of guys to do it than The Syn! I'm ready for the ride! (smiles) See you there!

Michele

[tommy]

I'm ready for the ride too, Michele. Prog Messiah or not, I think Prog music has been waiting for the Syn for a long long time.

[Michele]

i can't wait to hear this track - michele do you happen to know how many tracks have been completed....for this new lineup of the syn
Don't know, Mike.

I know they're going back into the studio to work more on the new album late next week, and will be in the studio for at least another month... perhaps longer... plus rehearsing for the tour. So, they're gonna be busy.

If I made a guess today at how many tracks, and which tracks, would make the final cut for inclusion, that information would just change later on. After all, the title of the album has been changed at least twice, and may still end up as something else... just can't tell. (grins)

Let's give these guys some breathing room. (smiles) If we engrave anything in stone today, I can guarantee it will change between now and July. The best we can do is wait for their next official update and see how things are developing as we move into the month of May.

I know there are four more radio interviews scheduled during April, which will be broadcast during late April and early May, so there should be some new developments discussed in those interviews. In that context, we can get our information directly from the guys themselves. (smiles)

Have a great weekend! -- Michele

[roberta]

Chris describes Cathedral of Love as being one of the best 20 songs of all time, and credits Steve Nardelli as the writer. Steve will not take all the credit and says Chris and Gerard Johnson have also made an important impact in constructing the song. This shows to me how close this band is as musicians and friends, something Michele has made reference to already. They want to share the lime light, rather than dictate it. Steve is so modest, no wonder people who have met him speak sp highly about him. I hope I can get a back stage pass on the tour so I get the chance!

[mindgame]

I just found out Squire and Nardelli have their own TV channel as well! These guys are going to rule the world!!

[TRUEYOUTRUEME]

I love this. New SYNthetic Yes!!! lol.

I havent heard any of the songs (Illusion) or (Cathderal Of Love)

But I am very very excited for this!!!

I feel the synchronicity. Summer is soon.
Great opening thread post too!!!!!

[diversity]

I agree, We Have Heaven!
Earl, when are we going to get your review of the amazing Cathedral of Love track.
You know you are one of the few people who seems to have heard it. Please share the experience!

[Vic Anderson]

can ppl who heard the song post the lyrics or the chorus at least thank you

:)

[Michele]

can ppl who heard the song post the lyrics or the chorus at least thank you :)
No, I'm sorry. I don't have a copy of the lyrics. I've only *heard* the song. Seems like Scootie posted a small bit of lyrics on some other thread about month ago, when the song was still being recorded. But that is the only bit of printed lyrics I've ever seen. Gonna have to wait for the release I guess.

Michele

[Vic Anderson]

ha ha but you should remember something!!!! please!!!

[Bugeyes]

"Everybody needs a little help sometimes,
Everybody's searching for a little piece of human kindness,
Go out and seek and you will find,
Hold out your hand, give a little bit of understanding,
Hold out your light, and let it shine. "


The middle eight lyrics for "Cathedral Of Love"

Steve was nice enough to send this to me...he felt it matched the Liquor Locusts caring for our dear Scotty in her time of need...Food frenzy anyone?

[Vic Anderson]

thank you :)

[miriam]

Earl Grey: Please let us have your review of Cathedral of Love. I for one am so excited about this track.

[Scooty]

*sigh*


I was also supposed to hear this glorious track...

Time was short, distances too great....

Im sure it's wonderful!

[Bugeyes]

Vic, Scooty's the man to thank. I just know how use program searches.

Sorry about the let down Scooty. I'm sure it was a birthday wish of yours.

Now it's just character building. Don't pout! ;) Yeah, come and get me! Teach me a lesson for that comment.

[smatt]

*sigh*


I was also supposed to hear this glorious track...

Time was short, distances too great....

Im sure it's wonderful!


Oh stop the butt licking. :lmao: It might or might not be good.

[smatt]

Oh stop the butt licking. :lmao: It might or might not be good.
<a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008_ZNxdm973YYUS' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/3/3_7_9v.gif' alt='Butt Kisser' border=0></a>

[Bugeyes]

sMatt! My eyes, my eyes! My imagination, my imagination!

It's not licking anything, it's called brown nosing!

Wait a minute...what do I know? Maybe it is ...

[ELLIS]

I'm so looking forward to hearing this as is everyone else! Wonder if they'll put the short version on Syn's site?

After hearing White (on treason site) my adrenalin is already pumping with the expectation, not only for the Syn album, but the tour with White! I hope the UK tour goes ahead!

[smatt]

I'm so looking forward to hearing this as is everyone else! Wonder if they'll put the short version on Syn's site?

After hearing White (on treason site) my adrenalin is already pumping with the expectation, not only for the Syn album, but the tour with White! I hope the UK tour goes ahead!


I'm looking forward to hearing the rest of the album as well. But I'll reserve *MY* Butt licking till them..... :lol: It may be a long wait though......

[Vic Anderson]

i'm with matt

[tomas]

how do you pronounce the syn?

[Vic Anderson]

like in synchronized

[smatt]

how do you pronounce the syn?


It's pronounced the same as "sin".

[ELLIS]

Earl? Michele? Answer this for me:

Which is better? Cathedral or AYAI? Cathedral or Roundabout? Cathedral or OOALH?

And is the song just at one tempo, or does it change?

[Vic Anderson]

omg

[Vic Anderson]

no offence but no song will top AYAI ever

[smatt]

I wouldn't go quite that far Vic........ ;)

[Vic Anderson]

you don't have to, just that people who don't see this haven't seen the light yet :)

[soporjoe1]

so much for moving away from comparisons to Yes.

[Vic Anderson]

just leave yes alone it yes' cathegory

[miriam]

The Syn are a stand alone band, but comparisms will always be made with Yes because they are so closely linked. Both bands are full of great quality from top to bottom, so what we are getting is two great bands. And whereas Yes are not touring this year, the Syn are, and whereas Yes are not making new music at the moment, the Syn are. So we really have something special to look forward to this year.
Check out Earl Grey's post headed Kings and Cabbages, it gives an indication of just how good the Syn are from a guy who really knows what he's talking about. Really great posts!

[Vic Anderson]

it's amazing to me how easity you people dismiss the quality of yes and compare it with the syn as beeing as good not even listening to the new album

no offence but except for chris the rest are not half as good as yes' players :)

illusion is good but it's no ctte and steve vocals are kinda bad

[miriam]

Actually I think Steve's vocals are one of the main strengths of Illusion. He has a great voice, but I accept it's a matter of taste. Bare in mind there are a lot of people who hate Jon's voice, not Yes fans I hasten to say.
But the references I am making are for the new Syn line up and music, Earl has heard it and describes Steve's vocals as better than Peter Gabriel at his best. Chris agrees with this and can't talk too highly of him as a singer and writer. The new musicians are also said to be the quality of Yes, that's why people are so excited and I have to admit, protective of this great band.
I admit I am already a totally committed fan and mega crazy about Steve Nardelli.

[mindgame]

I agree Miriam, Nardelli is a great vocalist, fantastic voice quality. As Earl and a lot of people are saying, we will hear and see a lot of him in the future. Earl has met him and talks about his 'charismata', and listening to his interviews with Chris, he certainly has something very special about him.

[Vic Anderson]

i am not saying it's bad
but he sounded really old to me
maybe i need to get into it more

[mindgame]

Well, he is not young, but not as old as Jon.

[Vic Anderson]

no offence but jon doesn't sound old i wasn't talking about age :)

[Vic Anderson]

if anything i think steve looks older ;)

[mindgame]

I think you're being protective of Jon's position with Yes. Fair do's to you, but I think Nardelli is committed to Syn.

[Vic Anderson]

yes i am

but i love steve too i just wish people would praise jon more at times you know?

what can i say i am a jon fanatic :)

[smatt]

it's amazing to me how easity you people dismiss the quality of yes and compare it with the syn as beeing as good not even listening to the new album

no offence but except for chris the rest are not half as good as yes' players :)

illusion is good but it's no ctte and steve vocals are kinda bad


Well Vic, I agree and disagree :lol:

I wasn't all that taken aback by the Original Syn Release. Glad I didn't buy, because I would've :banghead: If I had.

But I don't think that you'll be able to comapare CoL or any of the other new songs to what was on Original, all of which is old material with the excpetion 1 song, which Chris wasn't involved in.

Sure, I'm excited to hear the new material when they actually finish the rest of it. But I'll reserve judgement till then. Hey it might turn out to be great! Or it might turn out to be Naf....

We just don't know till it does come out.....

I'm certainly one of Yes' as well s all the bands memeber biggest boosters. But I'm not going to get on MY soapbox, until the appropriate time....

[themike]

They are both great singers with very special and original voice qualities. But both very different singers, Jon of course is a one off and totally the voice Yes. Could not be replaced IMO.
I had the honor to meet Nardelli at the Yes concert in Red Rocks last summer. He is modest and couteous and a big fan of Jon and Yes.

[tomas]

kinda weird name, "the syn" anyone know the origins of the name?

i'm glad that squire is excited about new music, etc. of course. if he's happy and having fun, that's great, he deserves it. musicians often speak about their latest project as their best work ever, and if they feel that way at the time, that's as is should be. i cant count how many times i've heard members of yes (and other bands) say, this new album is, by far, yes' best ever ( i seem to remember this particularly about talk, of all albums)
its great and exciting to hear that these guys are talking about doing more progressive stuff. but for me, i'll avoid the build up and anticipation, and trying to find out details about how awesome the new song is, etc, and just let the music speak for itself whenever i end up hearing it. its probably more likely that i'll dig it if i dont build up too mnay expectations & ideas about it beforehand. besides, theres tons of great music out there in the world to discover all the time. if this new band is so great, it'll be obvious, right?

i did hear one syn song, i thought it was ok.

but as far as it being the new Yes or a substitute for Yes or something, nope. Yes music is Yes music. there's a spirit there, which is irreplaceable, in my mind & heart, even if they never again play a note as a band.

[squireman]

Good post, Tomas. To be fair to Syn, they don't compare themselves to Yes, it's everybody else that is making that comparism. I believe they will be a great band in their own right and style.

[Timmo]

I'd be just as happy if the new Syn material was in any way related to Squire's solo "Fish Out of Water" than if it's the "new Yes."

FOOW is up there with my favorite Yes albums. And I can't say that for any other solo album, even "Olias."

[theone]

I think the new Syn material will be more in the style of FOOW. The obvious reason is Chris's input on the material, but also that style is very Syn, influenced by the late, great Andrew Jackman.
I read an archive article recently that referenced a feature in the UK music paper Melody Maker in 1967 tipping the up and coming stars. They were Rod Stewart, Chris Farlowe and Steve Nardelli of the Syn.
It looks like they got it right, 35 years later!

[mindgame]

I think we are all aware that Nardelli is top drawer. Every one who's seen or heard him says so, including Chris himself!

[miriam]

I love Steve Nardelli's vocals. Fantastic voice!

[Scooty]

Scooty's Take On Cathedral Of Love:

Today I had the extreme pleasure of hearing for the first time The Syn's new song, Cathedral Of Love. Let me tell you all, its fantastic!! I had an idea formed in my head about how it would sound this whole time, but I was very surprised and elated by what The Syn has produced. Let's put it this way, at 9 minutes in length, its too short!! Cathedral of Love left me wanting more, hence why I have listened to it at least a dozen times today already.
It's not like anything I have ever heard, so there is no comparing it to another band, or sound. It's genuinely unique. Modern, yet remeniscent of music past. Proggy, but not familiar, a new sound. I almost want to say that it's very "adult", seasoned if you will. Im not sure what I mean by that, but that's all I can say.
Cathedral Of Love has a very inspiring and lovely sentiment. When an individual feels that they are at their lowest point, in the gutter and has no one in the world, there is always someone who can bring you back when you least expect it. The love and compassion of a stranger, who's maybe been where you are now and can rescue you from the brink of lonliness and dispare.

"Hold out your hand.....Hold out your light" Chris sings in incredible counterpoint with Steve's vocals~a truly amazing chill moment.

The music itself is quite beautiful. melancholy and forlorn at the beginning, rising to a middle section that really cooks. Chris' bass lines swirl, not showy, very full and smartly chosen bass runs. Paul Stacey is an amazing guitar player who, believe it or not with all of the whoohaa lately, totally reminded me of Peter banks flourishes and jazz leanings at times. He has a great sound, and is very very talented. His brother Jeremy is a tight, awesome drummer and Gerard Johnson's keyboards are very tasty. Nothing extavagant or showy, just perfectly placed flourishes here and there. Which is exactly what this song requires.

Nobody is showboating, which leads me to believe(which Ive known for quite sometime) that these guys get along very well with each other. They're having fun writing and working along side one another.

The last three minutes, the grand finale, made my heart rate speed up with Chris and Steve interlocking on some incredible counterpoint vocals. Chris' voice hasn't sounded this strong in ages. Steve's vocals are understated here, but that's what they are supposed to be. He's looking back and acknowledging the "unknown friend, his Cathedral Of Love" at wonder of this person that saved him. There's a great rising key change towards the middle of the song that tells me from first listen that Steve Nardelli is a teriffic singer. I like the roughness, the rasp almost (think of Rod Stewart or Peter Gabriel) it's very rock n' roll, and very appropriate.

As I said previously, Cathedral Of Love leaves me wanting more, and that my friends is the highest compliment I can pay these guys. I'm now officially freaking out for the album and tour. This is different, this is original and I welcome The Syn to 2005!! Bravo, guys!

Scooty

[Vic Anderson]

can you send it to me by email ? :)

[Scooty]

No can do Vic. Sorry man.

You'll hear it soon enough, Bro!

I actually only posted a review because Steve asked me to.

[Vic Anderson]

i know man i was joking :)

[roberta]

How did you get it Scooty? Can I get it somehow? How can I get it? I can't wait!

[Scooty]

How did you get it Scooty? Can I get it somehow? How can I get it? I can't wait!


Steve Nardelli was nice enough to send it to me because we didnt have the time to get together while we were in LA. He asked that I give it a listen and post reviews on the forums.

I wish you could get it Roberta, but trust me it will be worth the wait, I promise you that.

[theone]

The Syn have a history of being original thinkers musically going back to the 60's.
So it's not surprising Scooty describes COL as totally original in his amazing review of the track. We all expected this, remember this is the band that became Yes!

[Scooty]

The Syn have a history of being original thinkers musically going back to the 60's.
So it's not surprising Scooty describes COL as totally original in his amazing review of the track. We all expected this, remember this is the band that became Yes!


Thanks, it really is quite something, not what I was expecting perse...but so different and in the best way possible!

[Sheerah]

Cool beans, Scooty!

[ELLIS]

Great review Scooty. Like everyone else; I can't wait to hear this music also!

Don't forget to hear a couple of White songs from the Treason site. They're cool too. This tour is gonna be so good! And what do you think of Geoff Downes joining White, and the posibility of some Drama songs?

Yahoooooooo!!!!!!!!!!

[Scooty]

Great review Scooty. Like everyone else; I can't wait to hear this music also!

Don't forget to hear a couple of White songs from the Treason site. They're cool too. This tour is gonna be so good! And what do you think of Geoff Downes joining White, and the posibility of some Drama songs?


Yahoooooooo!!!!!!!!!!


Indeed I have checked out the Treason songs from the White site..and Im impressed!!

And you have NO idea how excited I am about Geoffery Downes joining the tour and the immense possibility of Drama material to be played!!

I just have to get a prestine copy of the Drama LP...Ill have 4 outta' 5 there for the tour to sign it...heeeheeeee

[allpurechance]

I can't wait to see the tour itinerary!

[Scooty]

Next week Frank!! That's what I hear..we'll have dates next week!

[Scooty]

bump for EG

[mindgame]

I have the strong feeling we are witnessing the birth of a great band!
The 'no comprimise' approach to the quality of the line-up, a brilliant marketing machine, tantrums from musicians who have been dropped, immaculate detail to their songs and arrangements, result: great music!! Reminds me of how another great band we all know well started!

[Malcolm Birkett]

bump for EG
Earl. Got your e-mail. Will be responding soon. So how much more limey-talk are you familiar with? I thought 'chuffed' was a very English expression. Here is a North-Eastern England(mine and Alan's birth place) expression I've shared with Scooty and some others:-..'Gan canny marra' ...You win the gold prize if you can translate that one!!!!!

[Earl Grey]

Excellent review Sir Scooty!

You captured the track spot-on Scooty, the first bit of the song IS melancholy and forelorn... The foundation of true art seems to be the process of finding where it hurts, then building from there. Cathedral builds to a crescendo. And we are released.
...Spin that karmic wheel on the turntable, would'ja buddy? ;)

Cathedral is a great track. You can't compare it to &U&I, Cathedral is it's own world. And You And I is it's own world. It's a big universe, deal with it. ;) :ele:

I'm really loving this thread.

Michele, you are a poet!

Miriam: Thank You. Hugs!

Scooty: You are The Man!

I loved your review: Eloquent, informative, heartfelt... As only YOU could say it. Inimitable.
Thank you brotha.

The Future Is Sweet!

(and there's room enough for both YES and SYN... Lucky we are!).

urlie:yesbird:

[Sheerah]

All right, I'm gonna be in Scooty's neck-o-the woods today.
I'm going to throw myself at his feet and ask him to take pity on me.

[miriam]

Me too! I'm on the first flight to California from Holland!

[Timmo]

I'm having dinner/partying at the House of Earl tonight.

Hopefully he hath a copy...

[miriam]

Did he have a copy? I'll pay what you like to buy one.

[tommy]

Lucky Scooty!

[tdonnay]

France awaits Cathedral of Love and a few tour stops please!

[tommy]

Cathedral of Love is the greatest track I've never heard. When can I get to hear it, anyone please?!

[smatt]

I'm having dinner/partying at the House of Earl tonight.

Hopefully he hath a copy...



:nono:

There are no copies to be had.


Remember folks this song isn't released yet and likely not even DONE. Those lucky folks that've heard it, Michele, Earlie, and Scooty, got to hear it at the express wishes of Chris and Steve. :crybby:

But alas we'll all have our chance soon enough...........

[tommy]

It's the most heralded track to come out for a long, long time. These amazing reviews are creating so much excitement.

[squireman]

I think the whole Syn thing is just incredible. The imergence of Steve Nardelli as a vocalist and writer working so closely with Chris on this project has captured my imagination totally. And the tour with Nardelli fronting Squire, Howe, White, Downes is really very exciting.

[Amy]

Hearing this song is becoming the highlight of the year.

[tomas]

I think the whole Syn thing is just incredible. The imergence of Steve Nardelli as a vocalist and writer working so closely with Chris on this project has captured my imagination totally. And the tour with Nardelli fronting Squire, Howe, White, Downes is really very exciting.


Is Nardelli going to front all these guys? I thought he was just front-man for the Syn. Howe has his own group, and Downes and White are playing in the band White, right?

[Michele]

Is Nardelli going to front all these guys? I thought he was just front-man for the Syn. Howe has his own group, and Downes and White are playing in the band White, right?
What we've heard is: White is supposed to open the show, with Alan, his musicians and his own vocalist. Downes will be playing with White. Then Steve Howe has his set. Then The Syn will perform, for which Nardelli is the vocalist and Squire the bassist. Rumors persist that the finale act of the concert will be Alan, Steve Howe, Geoff, Chris and Nardelli performing a couple of numbers together in the encore slot. But these are just the rumors. I'm sure we'll hear more about the performance plans around the time the tour dates are announced... which should be soon.

[tommy]

That would be a very interesting line-up. Nardelli has his own style of singing which is not at all like Jon, so we should get something very original. I wonder what songs they will do? I'm a big fan of Nardelli and I'm looking forward to see how he's approached Time and a Word, which is coming out pretty soon. His rendition of Cathedral of Love sounds fantastic judging from the reviews.

[Amy]

What we've heard is: White is supposed to open the show, with Alan, his musicians and his own vocalist. Downes will be playing with White. Then Steve Howe has his set. Then The Syn will perform, for which Nardelli is the vocalist and Squire the bassist. Rumors persist that the finale act of the concert will be Alan, Steve Howe, Geoff, Chris and Nardelli performing a couple of numbers together in the encore slot. But these are just the rumors. I'm sure we'll hear more about the performance plans around the time the tour dates are announced... which should be soon.
Excitment is building!
This sounds so cool......

[Scooty]

Hearing this song is becoming the highlight of the year.


And it's worth the wait Amy!! All of Yesfans!! It's a very special song.

[Vic Anderson]

can anybody post the full lyrics now please ?

[smatt]

Vic, nobody has them.......

[soporjoe1]

the internet, despite being an amazing tool, sure has done a number on the art of patience.

[Timmo]

OK, they played it on Delicious Agony.

Anyone hear it?

[Michele]

OK, they played it on Delicious Agony. Anyone hear it?

Some comments at:
http://www.yesfans.com/forum/showthread.php?p=489982#post489982

[Amy]

OK, they played it on Delicious Agony.

Anyone hear it?
YES!! I got here just in time. I love it! I can't believe I have to wait to get it!

[Amy]

Some comments at:
http://www.yesfans.com/forum/showthread.php?p=489982#post489982
Michele, you're just on it! LOL! You'll have to excuse my excitment...I just love it.

[True Believer]

It sounds fantastic!

[Silent_wings]

I hear it and it was fantastic
I really love it

[roberta]

I loved it too! Steve Nardelli's vocal sent chills down my spine. A beautiful song.

[sissywoods]

Great song, very lovely. Would love to hear this one live.

[Symbol]

When can we get a chance to hear this again...

for those of us that missed it.

[tdonnay]

I've said it before and I'll say it again: we will not hear a better track than this for the rest of the year. I cannot believe how good it is, amazing. I just can't get it out of my head!

[Timmo]

Some comments at:
http://www.yesfans.com/forum/showthread.php?p=489982#post489982Follow the link and scroll down for my two cents.

[Vic Anderson]

minor adjustments may be required but here are the full lyrics
may i say i am quite in love with the song at the moment :)

check the lyrics below

[theone]

I am standing in amazement at this incredible track from the Syn. Bare in mind this is only the first Squire/Nardelli collaboration, what wonders await us on the new album.
And the tour!!

[miriam]

Like so many Yes fans, I am now a Syn fan as well, particuarly Steve Nardelli. He is amazing!

[roberta]

I've been saying that for months now.

[Earl Grey]

Isn't it a great track?!!

I just love the tonality of Nardelli's voice...
I love the repeating sitar-figure (...a coral electric sitar! Now where have I seen one of those before?!).

I've only heard the track a couple of times, yet I can't get the chorus out of my head! 'Lennonesque' with a progressive heft...

Anyhow, I'm thrilling to 'Cathedral', I can't wait to hear more!

urlie:yesbird:

[Michele]

minor adjustments may be required but here are the full lyrics
Close, but not quite. (smiles) ...and that's because you're listening to the low-res radio file, not the digital final mix.

Let me make a few corrections... and then when the liner/lyric notes for the real CD are available, we'll ALL be corrected. (grins)

"Walking down the street without an end" -- should be: "Walking down a street without an end."

"I have lost my direction" -- should be: "I had lost my direction."

"It’s only going on a year" -- should be: "It's only cold when you're not here."

"When to tell you simple tehers" -- should be: "tethers"

"As we reach summer we will uncover very" -- should be: "As we reach further we will uncover" (no "very" in the phrase).

"Passages of blind and dark" -- should be: "Passages of light and dark."

"Forever twisting young resisting" -- should be: "Forever twisting, not resisting."

"Help us find that sudden spark" -- should be: "subtle spark."

"They live with joy upon simple things" -- should be: "We look with joy upon the simple things."

"Go out and seek and you will find" -- should be: "Go out and seek and you may find."

"Spring and summer locked together" -- (this time is should be): "Spring and summer love together" ***OR*** "Spring and summer laugh together."

I'll have to look at the video version and watch Chris's mouth as he sings these lines. That may help decipher the questionable word in this phrase.

"I take with me to my journey’s end" -- should be: "I'll take with me to my journey's end."

On the whole, not a bad job, Vic. But it's a good plan to make corrections as we see them, before somebody posts the wrong lyrics to a website as if they were the real thing. (grins)

Onward! -- Michele

[Earl Grey]

Like so many Yes fans, I am now a Syn fan as well, particuarly Steve Nardelli. He is amazing!

We're going to be hearing a lot from Nardelli in the future! He's an ace songwriter, his voice has a unique warmth, and a ring-of-truth sincerity which really sets him apart...

And Cathedral is only the beginning!

urlieG:yesbird:

[Vic Anderson]

lyrics update

Cathedral Of Love

I was lost, I was lonely
Walking down a street without an end
I had lost my direction
Could not find a friend
Going down I was falling
On my knees in the pouring rain
A young girl came and gave me shelter
And I didn’t even know her name
I looked in her eyes and they were smiling
Just like an angel from above
And in that moment I realized
I was standing in the cathedral of love

She came to me without taking
Asked for nothing in return
When you find human compassion
The flame in my blood will burn
I looked in her eyes and they were smiling
Just like an angel from above
And in that moment I realized
I was standing in the cathedral of love

Spring and summer love together

It's only cold when you're not here
When to tell you simple tethers
Only bind us to our fears
As we reach further we will uncover

Passages of light and dark.
Forever twisting, not resisting.
Help us find that subtle spark
People now we share adventures
We look with joy upon the simple things.
Hold me closer, leave me warmer
Make it seem so long I’ll pray

Everybody needs a little help sometimes,
Everybody's searching for a little piece of human kindness,
Go out and seek and you may find,
Hold out your hand, give a little bit of understanding,
Hold out your light, and let it shine

Spring and summer love together
Spring and summer laugh together

Well that girl thought me a lesson
I'll take with me to my journey's end
In my darkest hour
A stranger had become my closest friend
Looked in her eyes and they were smiling
Just like an angel from above
And in that moment I realized
I was standing in the cathedral of love

Spring and summer love together
I was standing in the cathedral of love
Spring and summer laugh together
I was standing in the cathedral of love
Standing in the cathedral
Standing in the cathedral
Standing in the cathedral
Standing in the cathedral
Standing in the cathedral
Of love

[Vic Anderson]

michele you lucky girl you have this song don't you
not like me with poor recordings :)

[Scooty]

I thought it was..

* She gave to me, without taking

*Where you find human compassion,
The flame of love will burn


* A friend to tell you, "simple tethers only bind us to our fears."


Dunno...and the video does help Michelle ;)

[Michele]

lyrics update
We're almost there, Vic! (smiles) The first time we hear "spring and summer" is IS "locked together" or "flock together"... or that's what it sounds like. But in the latter section, that changes. I'll ask about this the next time I can.

Fix-ups below are in all caps. Otherwise, pretty close! We're getting there. Not quite finished, but closer. The next time I talk to Nardelli, I'll ask about the lines still in question below. -- Michele

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Cathedral Of Love

I was lost, I was lonely
Walking down a street without an end
I had lost my direction
Could not find a friend
Going down I was falling
On my knees in the pouring rain
A young girl came and gave me shelter
And I didn’t even know her name
I looked in her eyes and they were smiling
Just like an angel from above
And in that moment I realized
I was standing in the cathedral of love
I WAS STANDING IN THE CATHEDRAL OF LOVE

She GAVE to me without taking
Asked for nothing in return
WHERE you find human compassion
The flame OF LOVE will burn
I looked in her eyes and they were smiling
Just like an angel from above
And in that moment I realized
I was standing in the cathedral of love
I WAS STANDING IN THE CATHEDRAL OF LOVE
I WAS STANDING IN THE CATHEDRAL OF LOVE

Spring and summer FLOCK (??) LOCKED (??) together
It's only cold when you're not here
A FRIEND TO TELL YOU, simple tethers
Only bind us to our fears
As we reach further we will uncover
Passages of light and dark
Forever twisting, not resisting
Help us find that subtle spark

EVEN NOW WE'VE SHARED ADVENTURES (??)
We look with joy upon the simple things
Hold me closer, leave me warmer
Make it seem so long I’ll pray ==> THIS DEFINITELY ISN'T RIGHT. WILL CHECK.

Everybody needs a little help sometimes,
Everybody's searching for a little piece of human kindness,
Go out and seek and you may find
Hold out your hand, AND give a little bit of understanding,
Hold out your light, and let it shine

Spring and summer love together (??)
Spring and summer laugh together (??)

Well that girl thought me a lesson
I'll take with me to my journey's end
In my darkest hour
A stranger had become my closest friend
Looked in her eyes and they were smiling
Just like an angel from above
And in that moment I realized
I was standing in the cathedral of love

Spring and summer love together

I was standing in the cathedral of love
Spring and summer love together
I was standing in the cathedral
Standing in the cathedral
Standing in the cathedral
Standing in the cathedral
Standing in the cathedral
Standing in the cathedral
Of love

[Timmo]

Dunno...and the video does help Michelle ;)Is the version they played on DA the same as the video version?

[Vic Anderson]

as long as we're makin progress

[Michele]

Is the version they played on DA the same as the video version?
No. The video was made to an earlier mix.

The version played on DA last night was the final mix, which I think is quite a bit different in balances from the video version.

And of course, DA helps protect the artists by deliberately making and broadcasting a "low res" "low fidelity" mp3 version to discourage illicit trading or selling of homebrew recorded files. (Ahem, Vic and Mike, et al.!!!)(smiles)

It won't be long now until we have the album. Then we'll know for sure what these lyrics are. (grins)

Michele

[Vic Anderson]

very funny michelle (smiles)

[Earl Grey]

Chris and Scotty played me demos of a couple of other tracks, but Chris said I couldn't post details about them, as they're still in the pre-production phase...

The other tracks were at least as good as Cathedral though... I love Nardelli's lyrics, and man oh man, I can't wait for this album!

[mikepietrini]

And of course, DA helps protect the artists by deliberately making and broadcasting a "low res" "low fidelity" mp3 version to discourage illicit trading or selling of homebrew recorded files. (Ahem, Vic and Mike, et al.!!!)(smiles)



hi michele - for the record.... you don't have to worry about me giving this mp3 out - i spoke with alan on the phone this morning & he informed me about what i needed to know about the situation & the case was closed - mp

[roberta]

How did you get the mp3 Mike? Can I get one?

[roberta]

How can I get the video? What video? I'm totally overcome by this song, I'm walking on clouds!

[1097]

Roberta:

Those who may have recorded the song have all been asked specifically not to distribute this song. I do not know the answer to this, and pehaps Michele can clarify it, but if you tune in to Delicious Agony Progressive Rock Radio (www.deliciousagony.com) on Thursday nights, 7:00 - 9:00 ET, perhaps, and that is only a perhaps, it will be played again.

Patience is a virtue, and it will be released soon.

Thanks !

Alan K

[roberta]

Of course, very sorry. I just love this song so much, I can't wait to hear it again. Don't worry, of course I will buy the album, whatever the price!

[Timmo]

Sounds like da boyz are preceeding full speed ahead on the album.

Last night in chat, Chris said we could expect it "soon."

I'm guessing they definitely want it out before they tour. If they tour only with White/Geoff Downes, Geoff isn't available until 8/1 at the earliest.

[Scooty]

I'm guessing they definitely want it out before they tour. If they tour only with White/Geoff Downes, Geoff isn't available until 8/1 at the earliest.


How much you wanna bet, Asia's tour schedule gets shuffled slightly??
I don't know how they would do it, but I can imagine a bit of rearranging.

[1097]

How much you wanna bet, Asia's tour schedule gets shuffled slightly??
I don't know how they would do it, but I can imagine a bit of rearranging.


Hmmmm, is this deck stacked?

The SCOOT MAN knoweth all...

[Earl Grey]

Of course, very sorry. I just love this song so much, I can't wait to hear it again. Don't worry, of course I will buy the album, whatever the price!

I didn't get a copy either Roberta, I got to hear Cathedral, but wasn't offered a copy... :crybby:

It'll be worth the wait though!

I noticed a thread of continuity running through 'Cathedral', as well as the demos I heard...
...How the little guy on the street becomes the true nexus-point of change in the world, how nothing in nature can hold us back, as long as love remains our aim...

It's all really positive stuff, sort-of a celebration of the power of love, and the impact one well-lived life has on the greater world.


urlie:yesbird:

[Scooty]

Hmmmm, is this deck stacked?

The SCOOT MAN knoweth all...


Nope...I don't know a thing about that....it's a hunch,.
Unless the tour gets put back to late August, I can't see how it would work :)

Im so ready for this tour though!!!

[Vic Anderson]

also it's low rez cuz hi rez is very expensive :)

[Earl Grey]

...Im so ready for this tour though!!!

Me too Scooty! I'm spoiled now-a-days, the last Yesshow wasn't even 6 months ago, and I'm going through withdrawal symptoms!

Still, August would be good in one respect: it would give me a little more time to save the $$$ required to catch multiple SYN concerts!

Hoping to travel, at least up and down the coast this time!

urlie:yesbird:

[Symbol]

Me too Scooty! I'm spoiled now-a-days, the last Yesshow wasn't even 6 months ago, and I'm going through withdrawal symptoms!

Still, August would be good in one respect: it would give me a little more time to save the $$$ required to catch multiple SYN concerts!

Hoping to travel, at least up and down the coast this time!

urlie:yesbird:

I hope we will be seeing some shows together Earl!

[Scooty]

Still, August would be good in one respect: it would give me a little more time to save the $$$ required to catch multiple SYN concerts!



urlie:yesbird:


Very, very true.

[Michele]

How much you wanna bet, Asia's tour schedule gets shuffled slightly??
Perhaps "Significantly Shuffled". (smiles)

[smatt]

I doub tthe Asia tour will be changed at all. Why you'z guys ask :lol: Becasue tickets for the July 30th show at the House of Blues in Hollywood go on sale thie Sat. I don't think it's going to be changed if tickets haven't, but will be going on sale.

As for all this talk of propagation, I really hope the folks that did record it aren't sending it out! I would imagine that if they did, they'd become "Persona non gratis" I believe I've got that right.........

[Timmo]

grata...close.

AugustSeptember makes sense to me. The Syn album isn't done, it's already May, by the time they actually get it out to stores, it'll be July.

[roberta]

They just played the single version of Cathedral of Love on technicolor web of sound radio. It's brilliant! The Syn are a fantastic band, sorry, I'm shocked, excited and overwhelmed by how good these guys are.

[mindgame]

Oh no! I missed it. What was the interview about. Any tour news?

[diversity]

I heard it, amazing good track in every way!

[themike]

There is some great new stuff on their website including the cover to CoL. Anyone got a ticket for the launch party in London?

[Timmo]

Shoot, I missed it. Some Liquor Locust I am!