Billy's bass playing

[Enlighten]

I just wanted to give major kudos to Billy Sherwood for bringing the bass guitar back to the forefront in the recent Circa releases and his new solo album. It's so great to hear the bass featured so prominently in this music. His tone and his use of effects is stellar and his playing is superb.

I'll never forget the first time I heard Roundabout, Chris's playing just captured me, I thought, this is what I've wanted to hear all along and now I'm hearing it. It just contributed so much to the overall dynamism of the music, it took it to another level. By doing so, it inspired me to become a bass player myself.

I think any young person listening to Billy's music for the first time would be inspired in the same way.

[Kathi]

right on enlighten!
i'll be happy to chime in here on the kudos for Billy.
[havent had time to do so in any of the other sherwood/circa/headsets threads..]
i've got the circa dvd [Thanx Earl & Lisa] and also have given headsets ll [Thanx Pam!] quite a few listens and i find BOTH Very VERY Good!
embarrassed to admit, but i cant really AFFORD to like another band [and i like both circa AND the jim ladd collaboration] but BOTH of these gigs are Truly enjoyable and very much in the prog vein we all know & love.
i am looking VERY forward to loaning these to my kid who has just borrowed brents bass to learn. why not emulate the Best? [he is already hip to squire and his style-his first yesshow was at five years old and he's been to at least 8 yesshows by now so he has witnessed mr squire and his Grandiose style on many occasions]
if the kid wants to learn he mnight as well listen/study up with the best..
and that'd be squire & sherwood in my opinion.
[cant wait to see his face while watching/listening now that he considers himself a 'musician']
i HOPE he will not have duty when the st louis yesshow show is happening and he'll get off the wallet and go see this gig! if only to get some lessons on bass..

[Billy Sherwood HQ]

Thank you kindly :-) Honored indeed !! :rightG:

[Mostly Harmless]

I just wanted to give major kudos to Billy Sherwood for bringing the bass guitar back to the forefront in the recent Circa releases and his new solo album. It's so great to hear the bass featured so prominently in this music. His tone and his use of effects is stellar and his playing is superb.

I'll never forget the first time I heard Roundabout, Chris's playing just captured me, I thought, this is what I've wanted to hear all along and now I'm hearing it. It just contributed so much to the overall dynamism of the music, it took it to another level. By doing so, it inspired me to become a bass player myself.

I think any young person listening to Billy's music for the first time would be inspired in the same way.

....and goodness is he fast!

[ANTIOCH]

When you see 'Circa' in 'live' performance, you'd better have strong teeth !! Billy's sound will dislodge your fillings !
Clear, cutting, thick, full . . that's Billy's sound.
Oh yeah, the man can play !!!
And he's singing lead vox as well . . . geez, I'd love to have a speck of this guy's talents.

[Enlighten]

And he's singing lead vox as well . . . geez, I'd love to have a speck of this guy's talents.

Thank you so much for bringing this up, I meant to include it in my initial post. To be able to sing and play the kind of syncopated bass lines that Billy does is a true gift. He's in good company with the likes of Chris Squire and Geddy Lee.

[Malcolm Birkett]

Now...I am liking this thread...no!!...I am LOVING this thread.

Sir Billy Sherwood...genius, sheer genius...the Professor!!!

Hey Prof'...these kind of accolades are so surely, surely warranted...there's no doubt, no doubt, no dou-oubt!!!

Now 'enlighten'....what about his guitar playing, both acoustic and electric, his keys playing, his drumming, his mandolin playing...his compositional ability...musically and vocally...his arranging ability...musically and vocally...his on-stage charisma and dynamism...his work ethic...his taste..his whole demeanour and attitude to fellow musicians...and wow...his whole demeanour and attitude towards fans...the man has class with a capital 'C' coarsing through his veins...

The Prof'...the man...simply the man!!!

[Scottie]

Now...I am liking this thread...no!!...I am LOVING this thread.

Sir Billy Sherwood...genius, sheer genius...the Professor!!!

Hey Prof'...these kind of accolades are so surely, surely warranted...there's no doubt, no doubt, no dou-oubt!!!

Now 'enlighten'....what about his guitar playing, both acoustic and electric, his keys playing, his drumming, his mandolin playing...his compositional ability...musically and vocally...his arranging ability...musically and vocally...his on-stage charisma and dynamism...his work ethic...his taste..his whole demeanour and attitude to fellow musicians...and wow...his whole demeanour and attitude towards fans...the man has class with a capital 'C' coarsing through his veins...

The Prof'...the man...simply the man!!!
Be careful Billy, soon he's going to say he wants to have your babies. :winknudge

Although who can disagree with the sentiment in this thread?

:cheers:

[SouthSideGuy]

Billy, is the $hit!!! I wanna see him play drums!!! I'll bet he smokes!!!!

[True Believer]

Billy totally rawks! On any instrument!

[SouthSideGuy]

RRRrrraawks!! rawks! rawks!!!

And he rocks too!:bncy:

[TNyesfan]

I saw Billy the first time when Circa: played RoSfest. He was unbelieveably good.
For sure from the Chris Squire school of lead Bass playing, but with his own unique style.
Well, he knows what I think of his playing...I was standing on the back of my chair, screaming, pointing at him after their encore...
Good times, goooood times!

Rock on, Billy!

[yesanneyes]

That is some fine bass playing.........

I never appreciated the bass enough when I was younger. Now, I always listen for the bass, and the song is a richer experience for me. Billy is seriously smokin'.

[JL]

Check out the Rosfest show circulating in the Trading Room if you haven't already done so. Billy's bass playing on that show is expert in its execution and, perhaps more importantly, spirited and inspired.

[Relayer_KC]

AND he's a sweetheart! ;)

kc

[ANTIOCH]

Aside from all the talents he possesses, Billy is considered a nice looking gentleman and is over 6'0" tall . . . . now I really hate him !!!
Kidding . . just kidding.

[Enlighten]

Now 'enlighten'....what about his guitar playing, both acoustic and electric, his keys playing, his drumming, his mandolin playing...his compositional ability...musically and vocally...his arranging ability...musically and vocally...his on-stage charisma and dynamism...his work ethic...his taste..his whole demeanour and attitude to fellow musicians...and wow...his whole demeanour and attitude towards fans...the man has class with a capital 'C' coarsing through his veins...



He's a very talented musician Malcolm and yet your right, it's his humility and class that make him special. With all the ego that is present in the rock world it's really refreshing to see someone like Billy getting his music out there and being appreciated.

All the best.

Jay

[somissound]

Really digging Billy's new solo album... Great bass tones, and playing of coarse!:headset:

Cheers to the great lead bassists: Entwistle, Sherwood, Lee, Squire & co.:beerchugr:

An album I also dig the bass tone and performance, that seems under-rated, is Syndestructable...imo :aaa[1]:

[MikeYESfan]

He's a very talented musician Malcolm and yet your right, it's his humility and class that make him special. With all the ego that is present in the rock world it's really refreshing to see someone like Billy getting his music out there and being appreciated.

All the best.

Jay

Billy's got the whole package ;)

It starts with his Personality, that make him 1st Class.

He has great genes cause he had Great Parents....
I'll bet he's a GREAT DAD TOO!


It takes One to Know ONE!!!!

[Soul Dreamer]

I saw Circa at The Coach House when they played and he was easily approachable, tall-dark & handsome and he is the spark that ignites the band.
I remember seeing him with Yes and thinking, who is this young man that can do so many things well.

[Malcolm Birkett]

I absolutely adore all of this genius, sheer genius's work but if you want to really and truly hit those highspots first off then I recommend: (every track on every album is amazing but these are instant bloody mindblowers...trust me!)

Headsets: 'We are Sailors'

The Big Peace: 'Self Made Word' and for sure 'The Big Peace'

At The Speed Of Life: 'Face The Dawn' and 'Seeing Through The Walls'

CIRCA:...every frickin' track!!!

Hey...ignore me..do your own thing and play the whole kit and kaboodle...it is all bloody amazing!!

[90125yes]

nope -

don't particulary like his style

sorry

[Malcolm Birkett]

nope -

don't particulary like his style

sorry

Of course...each to their own and everyone is entitled to their own view.

However, although there are differences between Prof' Sherwood's bass playing and HRB Squire's...I think it is fair to say that the essential elements are very similar indeed...the speed, the power, the attack, the dexterity, the subtlety, the finesse, the taste, the fluidity, some of the tones and textures, the MELODICISM, knowing when to absolutely rip it and knowing when to hold back - rein it in a bit...sublime stuff, just sublime.

I therefore assume you are not that keen on CS's style either then.

[yesanneyes]

I'm listening a lot lately to Billy's latest CD. He definitely has his own voice, but I do see Squire elements. That's a good thing! Who were some of Billy's influences as he developed his own voice?

I really like his style!

[Malcolm Birkett]

I'm listening a lot lately to Billy's latest CD. He definitely has his own voice, but I do see Squire elements. That's a good thing! Who were some of Billy's influences as he developed his own voice?

I really like his style!

His singing style you mean? Voice as in singing not as in bass?

Vocally he certainly has something. I love the tone and timbre of his singing voice...very distinctive. I love even more what he does in terms of harmonies and vocal arrangements...jeez...just one of the reasons why he is the Prof'

I absolutely adored what he did in the brief Endless Dream vocal section during CIRCA:'s YES chronological journey...very, very moving...wow...hairs on the back of the neck job!! Great range.

I think a couple of people have commented about the Prof's voice occasionally being reminiscent of Gabriel's and he was quite honoured by that. I don't quite see/hear that so much myself.

Quite naturally, it comes very much from his speaking voice and he has a great speaking voice...just listen to the little snippets at the start of Headsets...great stuff!! Ignition sequence start!...or any interview!

I also love his big brother's voice too...Michael...again very distinctive, it has a lovely quality with lots of feeling and emotion...totally different type of material but it all has that Sherwood magic.

Yup...those Sherwood boys sure were at the very front of the queue when the Almighty was bestowing talent and creativity upon us mortals....but then just take a gander at their genes/heritage. Yup...Bobby and Phyllis!! Now ya' really talkin' baybee!!!

[edarnold]

I got to hand it to Billy Sherwood. His playing at RoSFest was fabulous. I got to know him through Yes though. When he played with Yes he was very respectful of Steve and the music that fans wanted to hear. I regret missing Billy on the Talk tour but I had a brand new baby boy to marvel at and just couldn't make it. :) The Open Your Eyes tour was great! The NYC VH1 taping was short but sweet for 10:20 in the morning. Billy had what I called at the time a "Pepsi Syndrome moment" when his pedal board went haywire on him during the 1st recording of Owner of a Lonely Heart. Billy takes more of a larger role, "to my memory," in the first recording of it. Steve seemed to come out of his shell a bit for this song when they recorded it the second time which was at the end of the 5 or 6 song set. Everybody was drenched with sweat after being under all those lights. I think it was taped in early 1998.

Billy, do you remember what happened to your pedal board at the VH1 taping?

http://www.craftech.com/~edarnold/yespics017.jpg


http://www.craftech.com/~edarnold/yespics018.jpg


P.S. Isn't it obvious that most all of us Yesfans love you Billy! :)

[yesanneyes]

His singing style you mean? Voice as in singing not as in bass?

Vocally he certainly has something. I love the tone and timbre of his singing voice...very distinctive. I love even more what he does in terms of harmonies and vocal arrangements...jeez...just one of the reasons why he is the Prof'

Hi Malcolm, I mean "voice" as in his own instrumental style/sound; that which gives his bass playing it's own character and artistic expression.

And as far as his actual singing voice is concerned, yeah, Billy has a rich deep color, in those vocal chords.

[Malcolm Birkett]

Hi Malcolm, I mean "voice" as in his own instrumental style/sound; that which gives his bass playing it's own character and artistic expression.

And as far as his actual singing voice is concerned, yeah, Billy has a rich deep color, in those vocal chords.

Yeh, that's what I thought you must have meant, but hell's fire...any excuse to talk about ANY of this man's multitude of talents is fine by me!!

So glad you are enjoying 'At The Speed Of Life...', a truly genuine, legitimate SOLO album...amazing!
I love it all but particularly 'Face The Dawn' and 'Seeing Through The Walls'....absolutely gorgeous stuff!!!

Really hoping for some CIRCA: live dates to coincide with the forthcoming release of CIRCA: 2.

Up and alongside my desperate need to see the Howemeister, HRB and the one, the only Mr AW!!!...and with, God willing, Jon (I would have his babies) Anderson next year some time, I also have a desperate need to see the Prof' genius, sheer genius, coolster maestro Haunster, the original the legend TK, Thundersticks Schellen and hopefully brother Michael too!!

[MikeYESfan]

A Summer 2009 YES + Circa: tour would be fun ;)

[MikeYESfan]

The NYC VH1 taping was short but sweet for 10:20 in the morning. Billy had what I called at the time a "Pepsi Syndrome moment" when his pedal board went haywire on him during the 1st recording of Owner of a Lonely Heart. Billy takes more of a larger role, "to my memory," in the first recording of it. Steve seemed to come out of his shell a bit for this song when they recorded it the second time which was at the end of the 5 or 6 song set. Everybody was drenched with sweat after being under all those lights. I think it was taped in early 1998.

Billy, do you remember what happened to your pedal board at the VH1 taping?

http://www.craftech.com/~edarnold/yespics017.jpg


http://www.craftech.com/~edarnold/yespics018.jpg


P.S. Isn't it obvious that most all of us Yesfans love you Billy! :)

I just sent Billy the Video from that Sony show!

Tell us Billy...

[Scottie]

Yeh, that's what I thought you must have meant, but hell's fire...any excuse to talk about ANY of this man's multitude of talents is fine by me!!

So glad you are enjoying 'At The Speed Of Life...', a truly genuine, legitimate SOLO album...amazing!
I love it all but particularly 'Face The Dawn' and 'Seeing Through The Walls'....absolutely gorgeous stuff!!!

Really hoping for some CIRCA: live dates to coincide with the forthcoming release of CIRCA: 2.

Up and alongside my desperate need to see the Howemeister, HRB and the one, the only Mr AW!!!...and with, God willing, Jon (I would have his babies) Anderson next year some time, I also have a desperate need to see the Prof' genius, sheer genius, coolster maestro Haunster, the original the legend TK, Thundersticks Schellen and hopefully brother Michael too!!
Where the heck is Michael’s descriptive prefix?

I just sent Billy the Video from that Sony show!

Tell us Billy...
I enjoyed it, thanks Mike!

[Malcolm Birkett]

Yeh...I must rectify that soon, oh soon although, if you remember, he is known amongst clan Sherwood as 'Indoor Man'

[True Believer]

Billy's incredible bass playing blew me away at the Circa: gigs last January. His playing is so incredibly dextrous and .... full-bodied (sounds like a good red wine!).

Love all your talents, Billy!

[Malcolm Birkett]

Billy's incredible bass playing blew me away at the Circa: gigs last January. His playing is so incredibly dextrous and .... full-bodied (sounds like a good red wine!).

Love all your talents, Billy!


Yeh..totally agreed...but I would say that wouldn't I?

Hey Lady True..if you thought January in LA/Vegas/San Juan Capistrano was off the frickin' Richter scale you should have been with Scottie, Sally/Elaine/Laney, the Cassanos and moi in VA and then the Cassano clan in PA...and then all and sundry in NYC!!

I can assure you Angeleyes...those CIRCA: guys were off the bloody planet...BBKing's was the frickin' ultimate....you have been there with me..just imagine CIRCA: there...bloody Prof' genius sheer genius, coolster maestro Haunster, the original the legend TK, next time maybe Jay Thundersticks Schellen...and Indoor Man.

Whatever...bottom line...I just want to see and hear CIRCA: live...preferably with Angeleyes but also with Scottie, Mikey, Joey....

[True Believer]

Hey Lady True..if you thought January in LA/Vegas/San Juan Capistrano was off the frickin' Richter scale you should have been with Scottie, Sally/Elaine/Laney, the Cassanos and moi in VA and then the Cassano clan in PA...and then all and sundry in NYC!!

I can assure you Angeleyes...those CIRCA: guys were off the bloody planet...BBKing's was the frickin' ultimate....you have been there with me..just imagine CIRCA: there...bloody Prof' genius sheer genius, coolster maestro Haunster, the original the legend TK, next time maybe Jay Thundersticks Schellen...and Indoor Man.

Whatever...bottom line...I just want to see and hear CIRCA: live...preferably with Angeleyes but also with Scottie, Mikey, Joey....
Rub it in, why dontcha, Malcolm? :lmao:

[Malcolm Birkett]

Whoosh...'rub it in'?

OK where do you want me to start sweetness?...the lotion is already well and truly rubbed into my hands.

OK..reality..just off to listen to the Prof's work...The Big Peace and At The Speed Of Life...amazing frickin' stuff guys and gals...get it..play it!!

[Enlighten]

His singing style you mean? Voice as in singing not as in bass?

Vocally he certainly has something. I love the tone and timbre of his singing voice...very distinctive. I love even more what he does in terms of harmonies and vocal arrangements...jeez...just one of the reasons why he is the Prof'

I absolutely adored what he did in the brief Endless Dream vocal section during CIRCA:'s YES chronological journey...very, very moving...wow...hairs on the back of the neck job!! Great range.

I think a couple of people have commented about the Prof's voice occasionally being reminiscent of Gabriel's and he was quite honoured by that. I don't quite see/hear that so much myself.

Quite naturally, it comes very much from his speaking voice and he has a great speaking voice...just listen to the little snippets at the start of Headsets...great stuff!! Ignition sequence start!...or any interview!

I also love his big brother's voice too...Michael...again very distinctive, it has a lovely quality with lots of feeling and emotion...totally different type of material but it all has that Sherwood magic.

Yup...those Sherwood boys sure were at the very front of the queue when the Almighty was bestowing talent and creativity upon us mortals....but then just take a gander at their genes/heritage. Yup...Bobby and Phyllis!! Now ya' really talkin' baybee!!!

Malcolm, would you please stop holding back and tell us how you really feel?

[Malcolm Birkett]

Malcolm, would you please stop holding back and tell us how you really feel?

So sorry. I am completely aware of my gushiness, my completely over the topness...but I don't care. I am at an age now where I just say...bugger it, bugger everyone...carpe diem...I am what I am...I love what I love and I ain't holding back. I couldn't give a monkey's uncle about appearances. If I ain't cool, then I ain't cool. To hell with it. If I appear to be utterly OTT...who cares. I don't for sure! If I want to open up, if I want to reveal my innermost emotions and feelings...I don't give a toss...if I want to let go, then I will. If I appear to be a besotted sycophant, then OK, ...if I appear to be such an outright upfront hero-worshipper, then OK and bloody AMEN to that...it is all genuine. Not everyone's cup of tea but, hey, it's mine right enough.

Apart from the obvious (family and all that), I have three absolute unconditional loves of my life...worship and adore every little thing they have done or will do...together or apart and irrespective of their foibles and occasional lapses...who? what?
Easy-peasy...

The Beatles.

Yes and everyone who has ever 'served' with them.

and more recently CIRCA: which quite naturally includes Prof' Sherwood post-Yes.

Oh...more you say? There must be more you say? OK then...

The Cassanos
Scottie, sex on legs Suzy Sue and sweet adorable Princess Madeline

More you say? OK then...

Lady True...Angeleyes

More you say? OK then...

The UK Yesettes.

OK back on thread.

Bloody Billy Sherwood...maaan, that guy's NEW music has kept me going throughout these barren Yes years...his offerings solo and 'with band' have blown me away.

I am such a vocals addict...and Sherwood?...I say again...Professor Brian Wilson eat your heart out. Billy?...genius, sheer genius...the Prof'!!!

Oh, and really back on thread...bass playing?...for me, there is only one other who rocks my boat as much, even in the remotest of ways....er, it's a no-brainer...HRB of course.

Christopher bloody Squire...maaan...I am peeing my pants knowing that in less than three weeks I will be seeing him strutting his stuff on stage again...bring on those earth shattering bass pedals Chrissy boy...my heart is yearning for a bloody good old rumble!...pound me sir...just pound me!!

[Enlighten]

So sorry. I am completely aware of my gushiness, my completely over the topness...but I don't care. I am at an age now where I just say...bugger it, bugger everyone...carpe diem...I am what I am...I love what I love and I ain't holding back. I couldn't give a monkey's uncle about appearances. If I ain't cool, then I ain't cool. To hell with it. If I appear to be utterly OTT...who cares. I don't for sure! If I want to open up, if I want to reveal my innermost emotions and feelings...I don't give a toss...if I want to let go, then I will. If I appear to be a besotted sycophant, then OK, ...if I appear to be such an outright upfront hero-worshipper, then OK and bloody AMEN to that...it is all genuine. Not everyone's cup of tea but, hey, it's mine right enough.



Bravo, it's clear that your love for all things Yes is genuine and more importantly, it's clear that you are genuine in who you are.

[shortexchanges]

I think with the two musicians asked to tour with Alan, Chris, and Steve that these young musicians could form the nucleus of YES version 2.0. I still cling to the idea that Yes will continue beyond the current baby boomer roster when they fully retire or pass away.

[Malcolm Birkett]

Just spent the afternoon watching the whole of the CIRCA: live DVD again.

Maaaan...wowser...knock me down with a feather clever Trevor!...amazing.

Never mind my excitement at seeing HRB, the Howemeister and the one the only Mr AW in three weeks...I want and need to see The Prof' genius sheer genius, coolster maestro Haunster, the original the legend TK (Earl: "Tony Kaye!!!"...Billy: "That's what I'm saying!"...a magical moment for sure) and Jay thundersticks Schellen.

Come on CIRCA:...live dates soon, oh soon...pretty please.

I know it won't happen on the West Coast in January or February whilst Yes are out there...hey, economics and the same potential audience but...OK I will admit it...the only band in the universe I have ever travelled for...and I mean across Europe and over the pond...has been Yes...apart from, this year, CIRCA:

Took the big silver-winged bird twice so far this last year just to see the Prof' and his crew. January...LA, Viva Las V and San Juan Capistrano (with Angeleyes True Believer..whoosh!) and then Springfield VA, Glenside PA and BBKing's NYC bay-bee!! (with Scottie, Sally/Elaine/Laney, the Cassanos et al) and they remain the only bands I would travel for.

I know this may be shallow and nonsensical to a very sophisticated bunch of folks like you lot out there but...in addition to the music...the quality of the music and musicianship...I have to admit that personality, persona and image does enter the equation for me...I know it is totally irrational in musical terms but hey...sorry...I like to be star-struck and in awe...

Albeit a minorish factor in the whole scheme of things...I love McCartney more because of the way he looks, acts on stage...I love George that little bit more because of the way he just stood there and lay down those incredibly underrated licks...John...leaning back...guitar strapped high on his chest...Ringo...a-swinging that mop-top.

Jon...ah, God Jon...on your tip-toes Jon...Stevie Howe...kick that leg out boy!...Ricardo...close dem eyes...HRB...skip and jump!...Alan...let me see those facial expressions!

And now, CIRCA:...the original the legend TK...turn to the audience, mouthe what you are playing...bloody hammer those keys good and proper!...coolster maestro Haunster...maaan...COOLSTER...he just plays like a bloody dream...OK, the occasional skip, the occasional hunch over the Strat...but coolness personified...he just makes that guitar sing and soar...such a laid back geezer...and the Prof'...hell's fire, how the hell does he manage to sing lead vocal like he does and play like he plays...I am transfixed watching him...yup, he has moves reminiscent of HRB...but...my favorito is when he occasionally raises his right hand and index finger whilst singing a particularly poignant lyric...magic!

I enjoy the music more because I am in awe of the way they all are on stage...to watch them is such a joy...amazing talents...

They all make the earth move for me. Just watching that CIRCA: DVD again this afternoon has made my day...maaan...those guys are GOOD...REAL GOOD...bloody marvellous...up there right enough with 'my' Beatles and 'my' Yes.

Voice from the crowd: "Billy Sherwood!"
Billy Sherwood: "Hey, what can I do for you?"

What a moment, moment, moment. Hey Prof'...you have done more than enough for me sir! (I have 'We Are Sailors' playing in my ears at the moment, moment, moment...I rest my case...a masterpiece sir...jeez...those are some mighty lead guitar breaks...wonderful)

[Malcolm Birkett]

I think with the two musicians asked to tour with Alan, Chris, and Steve that these young musicians could form the nucleus of YES version 2.0. I still cling to the idea that Yes will continue beyond the current baby boomer roster when they fully retire or pass away.

???? Billy's bass playing???

[Scottie]

Thanks for the clear and present warning in your telephone message Malcolm. ;)

OK, so I'll never tire of your enthusiasm, what does that make me?

[rmig68]

Prominent, driving bass in the mix has always been a hallmark of good prog. Especially Yes and like, for instance, "The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway" from Genesis.

It's one of those things that's been missing in Yes' later work and I'm glad that Billy has brought that out in Circa: It really adds a nice dynamic and some spine.

[Enlighten]

Prominent, driving bass in the mix has always been a hallmark of good prog. Especially Yes and like, for instance, "The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway" from Genesis.

It's one of those things that's been missing in Yes' later work and I'm glad that Billy has brought that out in Circa: It really adds a nice dynamic and some spine.

Right on as usual rmig, I couldn't have said it better. I've really missed Chris coming to the forefront in a consistent manner. Drama was really the last time Chris was so dominant in this way.

[rmig68]

Right on as usual rmig, I couldn't have said it better. I've really missed Chris coming to the forefront in a consistent manner. Drama was really the last time Chris was so dominant in this way.

Thanks. I think we all know that Yes had to experiment with different sounds and production, so that was fine for me for a while, but when I heard Circa: there were a lot of elements that reminded me of why I like Yes so much. The bass certainly being one major reason.

[marklovesyes]

I dig Billy's bass playing. It was pretty cool during the Talk Tour to watch him and Squire duel it out on 'Endless Dream'.

Anyway, the first Circa: album is superb and much of that has to do with Billy's bass lines.

I find Billy to be an excellent songwriter as well.

[erik_1099]

Well said. And I have to echo what others have said; in person he is very approachable and easy-going, not always an easy thing!

I dig Billy's bass playing.

Anyway, the first Circa: album is superb and much of that has to do with Billy's bass lines.

I find Billy to be an excellent songwriter as well.

[90125yes]

billys bass playing is billys bass playing

he is multi talented but you can't compare him to chris squire

i have to say that i bought the circa cd but can't get into it

the harmonies and music style is odd - just odd

probably why OYE is a bit of a miss for me - although i do like the ladder with billy on - but then again steve howe is more prominemt

[Clankbass]

I've really missed Chris coming to the forefront in a consistent manner. Drama was really the last time Chris was so dominant in this way.

I thought some of the best stuff on The Ladder (Homeworld, New Languages) had the old driving Squire sound on it. But I agree it had been missing for too long. There's a lot of it on Syndestructible as well.

Billy's construction of his bass lines seems pretty different than Squire's to me--busier, maybe more the Geddy Lee type of thing. A lot of what I like about the prime CS basslines involves, shall we say, "the space between the notes." I do think they have one clear thing in common, in that they're both better at it than I!

[Scottie]

Perhaps this should be posted in another thread, however this one has an ongoing discussion.


I’ve read some years ago that John (as in Lennon) asked his producer to use some ‘effects’ on his vocals. The insecurity that John may have felt was unjustified, just as if Billy were using any technique that may alter or distort his honest true tone and flow of his voice. Particularly apparent in the songs In The Maze Of The Garden & At The Speed Of Life, although it is used elsewhere on the album.

It goes against my grain when I criticize Billy simply because not only do I love and respect his work but also because of the person he has become in my fandom.

I’ll never forget May of ‘08! Billy might remember when we had crisscrossed in the hall at the hotel at RoS I said, “I’ve always loved your voice!” ……….Man, I meant that!

Be proud of your voice ~ Straight & forward ~ pure & easy ~ as it is…

It’s my own fault that I haven’t previously expressed this opinion. Basically; I’m pretty much one of the ‘shee people’ (thanks Scoot) that love everything that Billy has done.

Seeing Through The Walls is an epic of massive proportions! Love it from the first note ‘till the end!

Oh, and another reason why I have immense love for this album is that I can relate when you must do everything on your own. However my own results are never this accomplished.

[YesCarolinita]

Perhaps this should be posted in another thread, however this one has an ongoing discussion.


I’ve read some years ago that John (as in Lennon) asked his producer to use some ‘effects’ on his vocals. The insecurity that John may have felt was unjustified, just as if Billy were using any technique that may alter or distort his honest true tone and flow of his voice. Particularly apparent in the songs In The Maze Of The Garden & At The Speed Of Life, although it is used elsewhere on the album.

It goes against my grain when I criticize Billy simply because not only do I love and respect his work but also because of the person he has become in my fandom.

I’ll never forget May of ‘08! Billy might remember when we had crisscrossed in the hall at the hotel at RoS I said, “I’ve always loved your voice!” ……….Man, I meant that!

Be proud of your voice ~ Straight & forward ~ pure & easy ~ as it is…

It’s my own fault that I haven’t previously expressed this opinion. Basically; I’m pretty much one of the ‘shee people’ (thanks Scoot) that love everything that Billy has done.

Seeing Through The Walls is an epic of massive proportions! Love it from the first note ‘till the end!

Oh, and another reason why I have immense love for this album is that I can relate when you must do everything on your own. However my own results are never this accomplished.

Hi Scottie-
This is a really good review, one may say.
You are giving credit where credit is way due!
Thanks for sharing.
See ya in 7 days!
Wooo hooo

[Malcolm Birkett]

Perhaps this should be posted in another thread, however this one has an ongoing discussion.


I’ve read some years ago that John (as in Lennon) asked his producer to use some ‘effects’ on his vocals. The insecurity that John may have felt was unjustified, just as if Billy were using any technique that may alter or distort his honest true tone and flow of his voice. Particularly apparent in the songs In The Maze Of The Garden & At The Speed Of Life, although it is used elsewhere on the album.

It goes against my grain when I criticize Billy simply because not only do I love and respect his work but also because of the person he has become in my fandom.

I’ll never forget May of ‘08! Billy might remember when we had crisscrossed in the hall at the hotel at RoS I said, “I’ve always loved your voice!” ……….Man, I meant that!

Be proud of your voice ~ Straight & forward ~ pure & easy ~ as it is…

It’s my own fault that I haven’t previously expressed this opinion. Basically; I’m pretty much one of the ‘shee people’ (thanks Scoot) that love everything that Billy has done.

Seeing Through The Walls is an epic of massive proportions! Love it from the first note ‘till the end!

Oh, and another reason why I have immense love for this album is that I can relate when you must do everything on your own. However my own results are never this accomplished.

Hey Scottie...I am not altogether sure I follow all of this..but I sense a love for Prof Sherwood, genius, sheer genius...so...it is all tickity-boo by me mate!

Hey, I happen to be listening through my headphones to 'Seeing Through The Walls'..yup mate...of epic proportions!!

I loves ya' and in two weeks I will be with you and sex on legs Suzy Sue and sweet adorable Princess Madeline...but daddy!!...Malcolm is kissing mommy FOR REAL!!

(Don't tell Lady True)

[Scottie]

Hey Scottie...I am not altogether sure I follow all of this..but I sense a love for Prof Sherwood, genius, sheer genius...so...it is all tickity-boo by me mate!

Hey, I happen to be listening through my headphones to 'Seeing Through The Walls'..yup mate...of epic proportions!!

I loves ya' and in two weeks I will be with you and sex on legs Suzy Sue and sweet adorable Princess Madeline...but daddy!!...Malcolm is kissing mommy FOR REAL!!

(Don't tell Lady True)
You just did!

Yes sheer love..., I'll point to what I'm talking about as we rock out to the album together.

[miguelbass]

Be proud of your voice ~ Straight & forward ~ pure & easy ~ as it is…


I second that, Billy's voice is unique and beautiful. And I love his singing and harmonies.
I can understand his choice of processing with fx it it's the case that he is not comfortable or shy of singing. But for instance, back in the World Trade albums, which I adore, the voice is not so processed.

Anyway I think this must be common when you are not a singer as main "instrument", I for one am extremely shy about my voice and usually hate hearing myself singing... and never dared to record something with my own voice.

Bearing in mind that we are just supposing and that in the end it's up to the the artist's taste, yes I would really like to listen to Billy's voice "pure and easy" as Scottie said.

Miguel

[Malcolm Birkett]

I second that, Billy's voice is unique and beautiful. And I love his singing and harmonies.
I can understand his choice of processing with fx it it's the case that he is not comfortable or shy of singing. But for instance, back in the World Trade albums, which I adore, the voice is not so processed.

Anyway I think this must be common when you are not a singer as main "instrument", I for one am extremely shy about my voice and usually hate hearing myself singing... and never dared to record something with my own voice.

Bearing in mind that we are just supposing and that in the end it's up to the the artist's taste, yes I would really like to listen to Billy's voice "pure and easy" as Scottie said.

Miguel

Hey...acquire the live DVD...

In actual fact, I love his voice more live!!!...how the hell he sings like that and plays bass like that all at the same time just bemuses me...but I ain't going to waste my time analysing it...I just step back in amazement and bloody well enjoy it!

Genius, sheer genius!

[Enlighten]

It goes against my grain when I criticize Billy simply because not only do I love and respect his work but also because of the person he has become in my fandom.

I’ll never forget May of ‘08! Billy might remember when we had crisscrossed in the hall at the hotel at RoS I said, “I’ve always loved your voice!” ……….Man, I meant that!

Be proud of your voice ~ Straight & forward ~ pure & easy ~ as it is…

.

Billy can of course shed light on this but my guess is that he was creatively playing with the effects to give his voice a different musical shape and color. The voice is an instrument and it sounds like he was tweaking that instrument to lend itself to the musical landscapes that he was creating through the songs mentioned.

The reality is that effects are used on almost all recorded vocals that we hear in modern music. We're use to hearing various kinds of reverbs and delays on vocal tracks and may not necessarily regard them as effects but they are and the music would sound very different if those effects were not present. (For example, on the studio version of "Awaken", when Jon launches into "High vibration go on....." there is a massive amount of reverb and a wonderfully creative use of delay on his voice which help to create the cosmic quality of that piece of music. Of course, the piece itself and Jon as the singer, are vital elements in creating a work that sends us into the stratosphere. Yet all these elements are essential to the end result).

The vocoder-like effects that Billy uses on his latest solo album are not as typical as the reverb and delay effects but once again, my bet is that Billy was using them as a musical color which figured into the overall canvas of those pieces they were utilized in.

[Scottie]

Billy can of course shed light on this but my guess is that he was creatively playing with the effects to give his voice a different musical shape and color. The voice is an instrument and it sounds like he was tweaking that instrument to lend itself to the musical landscapes that he was creating through the songs mentioned.

The reality is that effects are used on almost all recorded vocals that we hear in modern music. We're use to hearing various kinds of reverbs and delays on vocal tracks and may not necessarily regard them as effects but they are and the music would sound very different if those effects were not present. (For example, on the studio version of "Awaken", when Jon launches into "High vibration go on....." there is a massive amount of reverb and a wonderfully creative use of delay on his voice which help to create the cosmic quality of that piece of music. Of course, the piece itself and Jon as the singer, are vital elements in creating a work that sends us into the stratosphere. Yet all these elements are essential to the end result).

The vocoder-like effects that Billy uses on his latest solo album are not as typical as the reverb and delay effects but once again, my bet is that Billy was using them as a musical color which figured into the overall canvas of those pieces they were utilized in.
There is absolutely no disagreement from me. You have stated in clear and concise terms many considerations I had although I am incapable of expressing them because of my own ignorance about some of the particulars.

While I can completely understand and support the artists own choices regarding any particular effects used, it is my opinion that it isn’t necessary.

I was merely offering my own opinion with regard to personal preference.

[Billy Sherwood HQ]

I thought some of the best stuff on The Ladder (Homeworld, New Languages) had the old driving Squire sound on it. But I agree it had been missing for too long. There's a lot of it on Syndestructible as well.

Billy's construction of his bass lines seems pretty different than Squire's to me--busier, maybe more the Geddy Lee type of thing. A lot of what I like about the prime CS basslines involves, shall we say, "the space between the notes." I do think they have one clear thing in common, in that they're both better at it than I!

I love Squires playing, I wouldn't say "space between notes" is accurate though lol... You want space between notes listen to Jaco. Think of Relayer, Tales, Tormato... there's no space between anything :) And i love it like that... http://www.yesfans.com/images/icons/icon10.gif Also having played every Squire Bass riff in a 40 minute medley called the "Chronological Journey" from the Live CIRCA: DVD, I can tell you there is no rest for the wicked anywhere along the way lol... if you don't believe me just watch it.

[Billy Sherwood HQ]

I second that, Billy's voice is unique and beautiful. And I love his singing and harmonies.
I can understand his choice of processing with fx it it's the case that he is not comfortable or shy of singing. But for instance, back in the World Trade albums, which I adore, the voice is not so processed.

Anyway I think this must be common when you are not a singer as main "instrument", I for one am extremely shy about my voice and usually hate hearing myself singing... and never dared to record something with my own voice.

Bearing in mind that we are just supposing and that in the end it's up to the the artist's taste, yes I would really like to listen to Billy's voice "pure and easy" as Scottie said.

Miguel

Favorite Beatles Song "Tomorrow Never Knows". That song would not be the same with a dry vocal. It adds to the vibe. I use fx to add to the vibe of my music they same way my heros did/still do. For some it's over the top for others it's not. That is just one example of influences that drive me to love fx, the list is very long... Geneisis "Counting Out Time" {tons of modulating chorus on Peter's voice} comes to mind and then theres.... "I get up I get down" saturated in plate reverb or "Awaken" bathed in emt plate verb which makes it heavenly, or for an extreme case listen to Take 6 and tell me they don't like the reverb lol {and they are an accapella band}. Singers Unlimited use the same trick, sustaining chords with voices in tons of wet verb to create a sound. There is a long list my friends. I am not the 1st, middle, or last one to use fx on vocals. I've always felt a "dry" vocal seems un natural to hear, after all in this life there is "ambience", speak in any hall or corridor or room or shower... and you will be generating reverb on your voice.

It's not because I'm shy lol, anyone who knows me knows that I am far from shy hehe...

I actually reserved "Tomorow Never Knows" from this Beatles Tribute for myself and just finished dialing in the FX on my voice lol... Creature of habbit !!

[Clankbass]

I love Squires playing, I wouldn't say "space between notes" is accurate though lol... You want space between notes listen to Jaco. Think of Relayer, Tales, Tormato... there's no space between anything :) And i love it like that... http://www.yesfans.com/images/icons/icon10.gif Also having played every Squire Bass riff in a 40 minute medley called the "Chronological Journey" from the Live CIRCA: DVD, I can tell you there is no rest for the wicked anywhere along the way lol... if you don't believe me just watch it.

From what I've seen of it you did an amazing job, too! (Although I would've used a Rick for a good chunk of it, myself). Actually what really blows my mind about the vids I've seen for the CIRCA tunes is that you play those "busy" lines while SINGING at the same time. After three decades of trying I still have to simplify the line if I'm singing lead live, maybe because too many neurons are being used struggling to remember the lyrics.

Anyhow, by "space" I don't mean he's another Jamerson, I mean there tends to be times he doesn't play when I expect him to (e.g., with the kick, although with Bruford who knew when the hell that might be?)...things that aren't difficult to play but strike me as uniquely inventive. Such as the classic slow line from HOTS, or To Be Over, or the Silent Wings intro. A really good example of what I mean is on "Some Time Some Way" from Syndestructible, starting at 4:36. If I were asked to play bass for that passage, there is no way I would have ever come up with that phrasing. He has a real knack for making the unexpected sound just right...which for a bass player is dangerous territory!

Anyhow, keep up the good work and keep the tunes coming from CIRCA!

[miguelbass]

Hello Billy :)

I understood your point, music is fun, creativity, devotion and freedom... and many other things :)

I really thought that you were shy of your own voice :) that can happen even to a very extroverted person! I love playing with effects too.
Although I was just indirectly addressing you with my opinion.. i wanted to say you have a beautiful singing voice that sometimes I thought would be too pleasant to hear in a more "direct" way.

By the way I am a Beatles fan too, grew up with my parents Beatles vinyls.... and I agree completely with your view on the use of fx they did... Nice to know that "tomorrow never knows" is your favourite tune (or one of your favourites from them).

Miguel

[Malcolm Birkett]

Wow...firstly, great news! I was aware that 'Tomorrow Never Knows' was going to be included on the Beatles tribute but wasn't aware the Prof' himself would be singing it. Whoosh...now I have got my knickers in a real twist (English expression for being er, rather excited!)

Boy, oh boy that promises to be something really, really special indeed....especially in view of his amazing ability with vocal effects and vocal arrangements.

I have no quarrel whatsoever with enhancing the studio vocal at all...I love all the effects and enhancements...wonderful stuff...and not many, if any, do it better than this genius, sheer genius. I wouldn't have the records any other way.

However, I did say earlier that I prefer his voice live...and I do.

Why?

Well, for starters it means that I will have him and the CIRCA: guys slap bang right there in front of me strutting their unbelievable stuff! I just love watching him and them perform...the excitement, the energy, the virtuosity.

Secondly...the emotion of the performance and delivery of the lyrics is right there for me to clearly witness and absorb.

Thirdly, I do absolutely adore the Prof's straight and 'raw' singing voice. Yes, there is still use of the odd effect during the live performances and they work brilliantly but what floated my boat more than anything else were the acapella sequences...those with no enhancement or with just the merest hint of an added effect...most notably at the beginning of 'Life Goes By'...a truly beautiful song and then, as I have mentioned on numerous occasions...the Endless Dream vocal segment during the chronological journey...spellbinding and very moving....it don't get much better than that folks!

(November 10th on Monday...whoopee...mastering day)

[90125yes]

if billy is the whole package why is he not still in YES ???

[Malcolm Birkett]

if billy is the whole package why is he not still in YES ???

Respectfully...Oh puhlease!!!!

Dear me...dear me.

[Billy Sherwood HQ]

if billy is the whole package why is he not still in YES ???

Because I decided to leave when I felt I could no longer push the YES stone any further up the hill... I took my package with me lol

[soulsearcher]

Because I decided to leave when I felt I could no longer push the YES stone any further up the hill... I took my package with me lol

LOL!

[CybrKhatru]

Because I decided to leave when I felt I could no longer push the YES stone any further up the hill... I took my package with me lol

LOL...and the world is a rich place for that! :D

[True Believer]

Because I decided to leave when I felt I could no longer push the YES stone any further up the hill... I took my package with me lol
And it's a pretty cute package too! ;)