Showing posts with label Peter Banks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Peter Banks. Show all posts

7/07/2022

Prog Legends FLASH Featuring Peter Banks “In The USA Live 1972-73” 3-CD Set Available Sept, 9, 2022

Available on Sept. 9th, restored live recordings from 1970ʼs classic prog rock group FLASH featuring ex-YES guitarist Peter Banks. Twenty-two tracks from seven shows across 3 discs; a majority of them previously unavailable. Best known thanks to their YES connections, the band nevertheless held their own across three Billboard charting albums, and the top 30 single hit “Small Beginnings.” Includes 32-page booklet with exclusive band interviews, unpublished photos and tour itinerary. A true time capsule back to the golden age of US rock concerts.

• Carefully restored and previously unreleased recordings
• For fans of progressive rock, guitar heroes & YES
• Previously unpublished photos & essay including detailed US tour history with exclusive band interviews and memorabilia

Capturing the collective during seven of their American shows of 1972-1973, one of those preserved for posterity in its entirety, the digipack will allow the listener to savor most of the three LPs in rather different performances than those laid down in the studio and the uninitiated will have the opportunity to see how brilliant these musicians were. Colin and Ray worked for a while under the old name relatively recently, but it’s the old recordings their followers are after, so there’s something to look forward to.” – Dmitry Epstein https://dmme.net

Says Ray Bennett: “What ‘Think Like A Key Music’ set out to do here, on this multi-disc set, is to gather together whatever was left out there of live FLASH stuff regardless of quality and present it in the best possible way. Whatever improvements could be made to the audio were done. Quite a bit of it is rough sounding, but I found that even with the poor sound issues there was something coming across from the live experience. Some surprisingly good moments. A fair bit of this material was fan-recorded, probably on cassettes, some possibly from rough mixing board recordings; some is much better studio type quality, and some has been online for years on obscure websites, but in the worst possible form – awful sound, complete with extraneous noise and talking in the recordings. So all that has been cleaned up and the sound mastered as well as possible. Overall, I think this is a worthy project for the historical record at the very least. Other than the ‘In Public’ CD which is already available, this new set is it as far as we know. Pretty much all that there is of live FLASH performance.”

Watch the promotional video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqi8AVksm7c

FLASH “In The USA” Tracklist:

CD 1:
Roslyn, NY, August 1st, 1972:
1. Black And White
2. There No More
3. Monday Morning Eyes
4. Small Beginnings
5. Children Of The Universe
6. Lifetime

CD 2:
Hempstead, NY, July 18th, 1972:
7. Small Beginnings
8. There No More
9. Children Of The Universe
10. Dreams Of Heaven
Passaic, NJ, December 16th, 1972:
11. Small Beginnings
12. Black And White
13. Children Of The Universe

CD 3:
Indianapolis, IN, December 27th, 1972:
14. Small Beginnings
15. Black And White
16. Children Of The Universe
Burbank, CA, October 9, 1973:
17. Dead Ahead
18. Psychosync
Miami, FL, October 26th, 1973:
19. Children Of The Universe
20. Black And White
Cape Cod, MA, August 24th, 1973:
21. The Bishop
22. Manhattan Morning (Christmas ’72)

To purchase: https://flash.biglink.to/intheusa

For more information: https://www.thinklikeakey.com

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

11/18/2021

YES Original Founding Guitarist Peter Banks Showcased in Two Separate Compilations – 'The Best of Empire' and 'The Best of Harmony in Diversity'. OUT NOW!

Two very different aspects to the career accomplishments of original YES guitarist Peter Banks are being celebrated in the release of two separate compilations. Peter Banks passed away in 2013 but his repertoire has been carefully curated so it can be appreciated for generations to come.

The Best of Empire

Peter Banks co-founded Empire with co-writer and lead vocalist, Sydney Foxx, and the band recorded three albums of material in the 1970s, however, it all remained unreleased until the 1990s.

This hard-to-find material was collected together into a 3 disc set, The Complete Recordings in 2017, and The Best of Empire draws on that material. These recordings showcase Peter in a rock band setting and include their best-known song, “Sky at Night”.

Empire was very much a collaborative band between Banks and Foxx and this compilation was overseen by Foxx who recalls, “Working with Peter was a wonderful experience. Although he was the 'leader of the band' and the 'producer', he allowed me total freedom to write the melodies and lyrics that I wanted to. We never had any disagreements about the music we worked on. We split everything 50/50 and got on with it. He was inspiring, fun, and always creative. Never running out of ideas! I enjoyed the long rehearsals getting everything perfect, and our many 'all night' mixing sessions in the studio. I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to work with him. And so proud of the work we did together.”

The Best of Empire is available on CD here: https://geni.us/BestEmpCD

Empire’s The Complete Recordings 3 CD set is still available here: https://geni.us/PBME1

Empire can be found on Apple Music (https://geni.us/EmpireA) and Spotify (https://geni.us/EmpireSP).

The Best of Harmony in Diversity

Peter Banks co-founded Harmony in Diversity in 2004 with the band also featuring Andrew Booker and Nick Cottam. The musical style of this trio significantly differed from Empire with a repertoire of improvised instrumentals.

The music of Harmony in Diversity was collected together into a 6 disc set, also called The Complete Recordings, so this compilation gives fans a selective taster.

Andrew Booker said, “This is a terrific selection of HiD pieces that pushed the needle uppermost on our 'ooooh, I really like that bit' detectors. It’s a surprisingly multi-directional mixture too, from bare-faced live improvisations, to the highly structured latter-day arrangements, with some oddball fun here and there, and Peter’s sublime and searing guitar coursing through the whole lot.”

Nick Cottam added, "It is great that the eclectic elements of HiD will now be available on a more easily digestible one CD format."

The Best of Harmony in Diversity is available on CD here: https://geni.us/BestHiDCD

Harmony in Diversity’s The Complete Recordings 6 CD set is still available here: https://geni.us/PBME4

All of the Harmony in Diversity albums are available alongside Peter’s solo albums on Apple Music (https://geni.us/PBapple) and Spotify (https://geni.us/PBspotify).

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, Billy James, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

1/24/2020

YES and KING CRIMSON Members Collaborate on the New Album by Peter Banks and David Cross – Crossover is OUT NOW!


David Cross was a member of King Crimson during the 1970s and the late Peter Banks was the original guitarist in YES.

The guitar and violin parts for this NEW STUDIO ALBUM were recorded on the 10th August 2010 in an afternoon of improvisation.

Of the release David Cross said “The response from the guest musicians was truly wonderful in the way that they gave their time and talent to this project and I would like to thank them on behalf of Pete and myself. They were asked to ‘interpret the music as freely and creatively as you wish’ and they have turned in incredibly skilled and inspiring performances which were not easy given the improvised nature of the starting material and the spontaneity of the structures.”

The resultant album was produced by Tony Lowe and David Cross and the guest appearances were recorded during 2018 and 2019 and Crossover features:
Pat Mastelotto
Tony Kaye
Billy Sherwood
Randy Raine-Reusch
Andy Jackson
Oliver Wakeman
Jay Schellen
Jeremy Stacey
Geoff Downes

David Cross added: “When I recall the original recording session with Pete I remember his fresh almost naïve approach, his positive energy and his constant and restless search for something new. It was a joy to know Pete Banks and an honour and a privilege to play with him: I think he would be pleased with the way our album turned out.”

This is the last new album of material from the late Peter Banks, who passed away in 2013, and had wanted to see this material released.

CD Edition: https://geni.us/DCPBcrossover

iTunes: https://geni.us/DCPBcrossoveriTunes

GooglePlay: https://geni.us/DCPBcrossoverGP

Spotify: https://geni.us/DCPBcrossoverSpotify

A YouTube trailer can be seen here:


Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

YES and KING CRIMSON Members Collaborate on the New Album by Peter Banks and David Cross – Crossover is OUT NOW!


David Cross was a member of King Crimson during the 1970s and the late Peter Banks was the original guitarist in YES.

The guitar and violin parts for this NEW STUDIO ALBUM were recorded on the 10th August 2010 in an afternoon of improvisation.

Of the release David Cross said “The response from the guest musicians was truly wonderful in the way that they gave their time and talent to this project and I would like to thank them on behalf of Pete and myself. They were asked to ‘interpret the music as freely and creatively as you wish’ and they have turned in incredibly skilled and inspiring performances which were not easy given the improvised nature of the starting material and the spontaneity of the structures.”

The resultant album was produced by Tony Lowe and David Cross and the guest appearances were recorded during 2018 and 2019 and Crossover features:
Pat Mastelotto
Tony Kaye
Billy Sherwood
Randy Raine-Reusch
Andy Jackson
Oliver Wakeman
Jay Schellen
Jeremy Stacey
Geoff Downes

David Cross added: “When I recall the original recording session with Pete I remember his fresh almost naïve approach, his positive energy and his constant and restless search for something new. It was a joy to know Pete Banks and an honour and a privilege to play with him: I think he would be pleased with the way our album turned out.”

This is the last new album of material from the late Peter Banks, who passed away in 2013, and had wanted to see this material released.

CD Edition: https://geni.us/DCPBcrossover

iTunes: https://geni.us/DCPBcrossoveriTunes

GooglePlay: https://geni.us/DCPBcrossoverGP

Spotify: https://geni.us/DCPBcrossoverSpotify

A YouTube trailer can be seen here:


Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 1-828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

9/15/2018

Guitar Legend Peter Banks's Harmony In Diversity "The Complete Recordings" Now Available!


London - Peter Banks was one of the original members of YES and an accomplished guitarist, but sadly passed away in 2013. This set is being released in his memory, by his Estate, during the 5th anniversary of his passing and the 50th Anniversary of YES.

This is the FIRST EVER mainstream release of the “Harmony in Diversity” recordings.

The set features ALL the recordings of the band and has been overseen and mixed by Andrew Booker and Nick Cottam with the additional approval of Dave “Jick” Speight who appeared on the final disc of the set.

The set also features new artwork, an extensive booklet and the audio has received a 2018 remaster. The albums are also available in their original individual form digitally.

“It was tragic that few realised just what an incredible guitarist Peter was, his approach was off the wall yet so beautifully emotive. A truly expressive musician” - Nick Cottam

“It was surprisingly rewarding going back over old recordings and finding good things everywhere. It was pleasure to rediscover music I had long neglected and forgotten, and turn it into pieces that I now enjoy listening to again and again. I can still hear Peter cackling at his effects unit as yet again he turns single sustained guitar note into one of those old ambulance sirens. I can still see Nick jutting his head backwards and forwards as he cheerfully pounds out his bass riff over and over. Meanwhile, drowned out by the other two, I'm reaching for the volume control on my electronic kit, and realising it won't go any further. A lot of effort at the time, and a lot of effort recently too, but in the end, effort that was well worth it.” - Andrew Booker

Released on the 14th September 2018 via Cherry Red Records.

To Purchase on Amazon: http://geni.us/PBME4
To Purchase on iTunes: http://geni.us/PeterBanksiTunes

For more information: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/peter-bankss-harmony-in-diversity-the-complete-recordings/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Guitar Legend Peter Banks's Harmony In Diversity "The Complete Recordings" Now Available!


London - Peter Banks was one of the original members of YES and an accomplished guitarist, but sadly passed away in 2013. This set is being released in his memory, by his Estate, during the 5th anniversary of his passing and the 50th Anniversary of YES.

This is the FIRST EVER mainstream release of the “Harmony in Diversity” recordings.

The set features ALL the recordings of the band and has been overseen and mixed by Andrew Booker and Nick Cottam with the additional approval of Dave “Jick” Speight who appeared on the final disc of the set.

The set also features new artwork, an extensive booklet and the audio has received a 2018 remaster. The albums are also available in their original individual form digitally.

“It was tragic that few realised just what an incredible guitarist Peter was, his approach was off the wall yet so beautifully emotive. A truly expressive musician” - Nick Cottam

“It was surprisingly rewarding going back over old recordings and finding good things everywhere. It was pleasure to rediscover music I had long neglected and forgotten, and turn it into pieces that I now enjoy listening to again and again. I can still hear Peter cackling at his effects unit as yet again he turns single sustained guitar note into one of those old ambulance sirens. I can still see Nick jutting his head backwards and forwards as he cheerfully pounds out his bass riff over and over. Meanwhile, drowned out by the other two, I'm reaching for the volume control on my electronic kit, and realising it won't go any further. A lot of effort at the time, and a lot of effort recently too, but in the end, effort that was well worth it.” - Andrew Booker

Released on the 14th September 2018 via Cherry Red Records.

To Purchase on Amazon: http://geni.us/PBME4
To Purchase on iTunes: http://geni.us/PeterBanksiTunes

For more information: https://www.cherryred.co.uk/product/peter-bankss-harmony-in-diversity-the-complete-recordings/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

3/12/2018

YES Guitar Legend Peter Banks's Anthology Be Well, Be Safe, Be Lucky... 2CD & The Self-Contained Trilogy 3CD – OUT NOW!


YES and Flash guitar legend Peter Banks's Be Well, Be Safe, Be Lucky...The Anthology 2CD & The Self-Contained Trilogy 3CD are now available!

PETER BANKS: BE WELL, BE SAFE, BE LUCKY… THE ANTHOLOGY



Peter Banks was one of the original members of YES and an accomplished guitarist, but sadly passed away in 2013. Be Well, Be Safe, Be Lucky...The Anthology is the FIRST EVER compilation of his solo career.

This set is being released in his memory, by his Estate via Cherry Red worldwide, during the 5th anniversary of his passing and the 50th Anniversary of YES. The 2CD set includes “Knights (Reprise)” which features Phil Collins, Steve Hackett and the late John Wetton. Also included is the first release of the short instrumental “Knights (Revisited)” which features Billy Sherwood, Jay Schellen and Tony Kaye of YES.

The second disc features numerous rarities, (including two previously unreleased extended tracks) collected together from 7 different compilations… a “catch all” of Peter Banks tracks that fans may not have heard before. The second disc includes the astonishing guitar led instrumental re-record of YES’s “Astral Traveller.”

The booklet features an original poem by Bill Ward of Black Sabbath, included with kind permission. The set also features new artwork and the audio has received a 2018 remaster.

To purchase NOW from Amazon: http://geni.us/PBME3
Also available on the Cleopatra Records US webstore from 13th April: http://geni.us/CleoPB

PETER BANKS: THE SELF-CONTAINED TRILOGY 3CD



The Self-Contained Trilogy 3CD set includes all three of Peter Banks’s solo studio albums from the 1990's in one place: Instinct (1994), Self-Contained (1995) and Reduction (1997)

The booklet features the original album artwork, liner notes and credits. The set also features new artwork and the audio has received a 2018 remaster.

To purchase NOW from Amazon: http://geni.us/PBME2

Remembering Peter Banks Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/Remembering-Peter-Banks-165355266955155/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

YES Guitar Legend Peter Banks's Anthology Be Well, Be Safe, Be Lucky... 2CD & The Self-Contained Trilogy 3CD – OUT NOW!


YES and Flash guitar legend Peter Banks's Be Well, Be Safe, Be Lucky...The Anthology 2CD & The Self-Contained Trilogy 3CD are now available!

PETER BANKS: BE WELL, BE SAFE, BE LUCKY… THE ANTHOLOGY



Peter Banks was one of the original members of YES and an accomplished guitarist, but sadly passed away in 2013. Be Well, Be Safe, Be Lucky...The Anthology is the FIRST EVER compilation of his solo career.

This set is being released in his memory, by his Estate via Cherry Red worldwide, during the 5th anniversary of his passing and the 50th Anniversary of YES. The 2CD set includes “Knights (Reprise)” which features Phil Collins, Steve Hackett and the late John Wetton. Also included is the first release of the short instrumental “Knights (Revisited)” which features Billy Sherwood, Jay Schellen and Tony Kaye of YES.

The second disc features numerous rarities, (including two previously unreleased extended tracks) collected together from 7 different compilations… a “catch all” of Peter Banks tracks that fans may not have heard before. The second disc includes the astonishing guitar led instrumental re-record of YES’s “Astral Traveller.”

The booklet features an original poem by Bill Ward of Black Sabbath, included with kind permission. The set also features new artwork and the audio has received a 2018 remaster.

To purchase NOW from Amazon: http://geni.us/PBME3
Also available on the Cleopatra Records US webstore from 13th April: http://geni.us/CleoPB

PETER BANKS: THE SELF-CONTAINED TRILOGY 3CD



The Self-Contained Trilogy 3CD set includes all three of Peter Banks’s solo studio albums from the 1990's in one place: Instinct (1994), Self-Contained (1995) and Reduction (1997)

The booklet features the original album artwork, liner notes and credits. The set also features new artwork and the audio has received a 2018 remaster.

To purchase NOW from Amazon: http://geni.us/PBME2

Remembering Peter Banks Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/Remembering-Peter-Banks-165355266955155/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

11/27/2017

Mabel Greer's Toyshop To Release New Album The Secret Featuring Guitar Legend Peter Banks - December 8, 2017


London - Prog rock pioneers, Mabel Greer's Toyshop (for without Mabel Greer, there would be no YES), are to release a new album The Secret on December 8th.

On this album, Peter Banks (former YES & Flash guitarist) can be heard playing a guitar duo with Mabel Greer's founder, guitarist and vocalist, Clive Bayley for the first time in 50 years. Clive has written a new song around guitar parts recorded by Peter Banks, who passed away in 2013. This song is a tribute to Banks and Chris Squire who both joined the band in September 1967.

Bayley explains, “I was inspired to do this because Peter's passing in 2013 was the catalyst for meeting Bob Hagger (drummer with Mabel Greer's Toyshop) again and coming up with the crazy idea of re-forming Mabel Greer. The result is that we have produced two new albums since then, and released re-mastered BBC tapes from 1967 on the EP Images”.

The Secret is an album of 9 new songs, with Max Hunt on keyboards and Hugo Barré on bass joining Bayley and Hagger. With roots back to an era when music evolved like never before and now combined with musical maturity, this album is must have for all Prog fans everywhere.

Track Listing:

1. Big Brother, Little Brother
2. Love's Fire
3. Turning To The Light
4. Angel Sent
5. More & More
6. Swan
7. Image of Existence
8. You
9. The Secret (ft. Peter Banks)

Clive and Bob first met in 1966 - a time when the London underground music scene was an impressive force for future development of a different kind of rock music. Clive was only 16 years old but had already been playing in a band since the age of 13. He was writing his own compositions and knew what kind of music he wanted to perform. Bob had previously been for an audition with THE SYN whose bassist was Chris Squire and guitarist Peter Banks. Not long after, both Squire and Banks joined Bob and Clive in Mabel Greer's Toyshop and the seeds of YES were planted. In early 1968, Jon Anderson also joined the group, followed by Bill Bruford, who replaced Bob and Tony Kaye joined on keyboards. When Clive left the band in August that year they changed name to “YES”.

Fast forward to 2013, Clive met Bob again for the first time in 45 years! Both now in their sixties. The first thing Clive said to Bob was “let's get into the studio, see if we still have the old magic”. The result became the album New Way Of Life featuring Billy Sherwood and Tony Kaye, released in 2015.

Watch the new video for the song “The Secret”: https://youtu.be/Fxqaq1T2Oro  ;

The Secret will be available on 8th December on CD and digital download from: https://mabelgreerstoyshop.bandcamp.com ;

Mabel Greer's Toyshop official website: www.mabelgreerstoyshop.com

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Mabel Greer's Toyshop To Release New Album The Secret Featuring Guitar Legend Peter Banks - December 8, 2017


London - Prog rock pioneers, Mabel Greer's Toyshop (for without Mabel Greer, there would be no YES), are to release a new album The Secret on December 8th.

On this album, Peter Banks (former YES & Flash guitarist) can be heard playing a guitar duo with Mabel Greer's founder, guitarist and vocalist, Clive Bayley for the first time in 50 years. Clive has written a new song around guitar parts recorded by Peter Banks, who passed away in 2013. This song is a tribute to Banks and Chris Squire who both joined the band in September 1967.

Bayley explains, “I was inspired to do this because Peter's passing in 2013 was the catalyst for meeting Bob Hagger (drummer with Mabel Greer's Toyshop) again and coming up with the crazy idea of re-forming Mabel Greer. The result is that we have produced two new albums since then, and released re-mastered BBC tapes from 1967 on the EP Images”.

The Secret is an album of 9 new songs, with Max Hunt on keyboards and Hugo Barré on bass joining Bayley and Hagger. With roots back to an era when music evolved like never before and now combined with musical maturity, this album is must have for all Prog fans everywhere.

Track Listing:

1. Big Brother, Little Brother
2. Love's Fire
3. Turning To The Light
4. Angel Sent
5. More & More
6. Swan
7. Image of Existence
8. You
9. The Secret (ft. Peter Banks)

Clive and Bob first met in 1966 - a time when the London underground music scene was an impressive force for future development of a different kind of rock music. Clive was only 16 years old but had already been playing in a band since the age of 13. He was writing his own compositions and knew what kind of music he wanted to perform. Bob had previously been for an audition with THE SYN whose bassist was Chris Squire and guitarist Peter Banks. Not long after, both Squire and Banks joined Bob and Clive in Mabel Greer's Toyshop and the seeds of YES were planted. In early 1968, Jon Anderson also joined the group, followed by Bill Bruford, who replaced Bob and Tony Kaye joined on keyboards. When Clive left the band in August that year they changed name to “YES”.

Fast forward to 2013, Clive met Bob again for the first time in 45 years! Both now in their sixties. The first thing Clive said to Bob was “let's get into the studio, see if we still have the old magic”. The result became the album New Way Of Life featuring Billy Sherwood and Tony Kaye, released in 2015.

Watch the new video for the song “The Secret”:


The Secret will be available on 8th December on CD and digital download from: https://mabelgreerstoyshop.bandcamp.com ;

Mabel Greer's Toyshop official website: www.mabelgreerstoyshop.com

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com


Mabel Greer's Toyshop To Release New Album The Secret Featuring Guitar Legend Peter Banks - December 8, 2017


London - Prog rock pioneers, Mabel Greer's Toyshop (for without Mabel Greer, there would be no YES), are to release a new album The Secret on December 8th.

On this album, Peter Banks (former YES & Flash guitarist) can be heard playing a guitar duo with Mabel Greer's founder, guitarist and vocalist, Clive Bayley for the first time in 50 years. Clive has written a new song around guitar parts recorded by Peter Banks, who passed away in 2013. This song is a tribute to Banks and Chris Squire who both joined the band in September 1967.

Bayley explains, “I was inspired to do this because Peter's passing in 2013 was the catalyst for meeting Bob Hagger (drummer with Mabel Greer's Toyshop) again and coming up with the crazy idea of re-forming Mabel Greer. The result is that we have produced two new albums since then, and released re-mastered BBC tapes from 1967 on the EP Images”.

The Secret is an album of 9 new songs, with Max Hunt on keyboards and Hugo Barré on bass joining Bayley and Hagger. With roots back to an era when music evolved like never before and now combined with musical maturity, this album is must have for all Prog fans everywhere.

Track Listing:

1. Big Brother, Little Brother
2. Love's Fire
3. Turning To The Light
4. Angel Sent
5. More & More
6. Swan
7. Image of Existence
8. You
9. The Secret (ft. Peter Banks)

Clive and Bob first met in 1966 - a time when the London underground music scene was an impressive force for future development of a different kind of rock music. Clive was only 16 years old but had already been playing in a band since the age of 13. He was writing his own compositions and knew what kind of music he wanted to perform. Bob had previously been for an audition with THE SYN whose bassist was Chris Squire and guitarist Peter Banks. Not long after, both Squire and Banks joined Bob and Clive in Mabel Greer's Toyshop and the seeds of YES were planted. In early 1968, Jon Anderson also joined the group, followed by Bill Bruford, who replaced Bob and Tony Kaye joined on keyboards. When Clive left the band in August that year they changed name to “YES”.

Fast forward to 2013, Clive met Bob again for the first time in 45 years! Both now in their sixties. The first thing Clive said to Bob was “let's get into the studio, see if we still have the old magic”. The result became the album New Way Of Life featuring Billy Sherwood and Tony Kaye, released in 2015.

Watch the new video for the song “The Secret”: https://youtu.be/Fxqaq1T2Oro  ;

The Secret will be available on 8th December on CD and digital download from: https://mabelgreerstoyshop.bandcamp.com ;

Mabel Greer's Toyshop official website: www.mabelgreerstoyshop.com

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

11/20/2017

EMPIRE FEATURING PETER BANKS & SYDNEY FOXX THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS - OUT NOW!


Featuring original YES & Flash Guitar Legend Peter Banks!


London - EMPIRE FEATURING PETER BANKS & SYDNEY FOXX – THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS is the first release by The Peter Banks Musical Estate (via Cherry Red) and is also fully endorsed by Sydney Jordan (Foxx). The set includes the songs from all three EMPIRE studio albums and The Mars Tapes together in one place. The 40 page booklet features six different sets of liner notes and extensive pictures from the personal archives of band members. The audio has received a 2017 remaster.

“Thank you to Daniel Earnshaw, QEDG Management, Cherry Red Records, Carl Glover and Mike Pietrini for the remastering, design and release of this wonderful, definitive collection of 'Empire' recordings. Peter has always said that 'Empire' and the music we created was where his heart was and that it was the closest he had come to his dream of creating another band like 'YES'.  With 'Empire' we achieved 90% of what we set out to. 10% was lost to pressure from the industry and the misfortune of being in L.A. during the 'Disco Era'. But the 90% that remains in this complete collection of 'Empire' recordings is timeless, magical and yet another valuable musical testament to one of the most innovative and greatest guitar players ever, who co-created one of the greatest bands ever!” - Sydney Foxx

Peter Banks passed away in 2013 but his musical legacy will live on with a series of official definitive album releases throughout 2018 and 2019. The Peter Banks Musical Estate is represented by Daniel Earnshaw.

Track List:

DISC ONE: THE BEST OF EMPIRE
1. OUT OF OUR HANDS
2. DESTINY
3. FARAWAY
4. FOUNDATION
5. SKY AT NIGHT (Featuring Phil Collins)
6. WHERE YES MEANS NO
7. OFF WITH THE KING’S HEAD
8. MORE THAN WORDS
9. SHOOTING STAR
PART 1 – FROM THE TOP
PART 2 – COMMON GROUND
PART 3 – ICELAND ON THE ROCKS
PART 4 – SHOOTING STAR
10. FOR A LIFETIME
11. DO WHAT YOU WANT

DISC TWO: THE MARS TAPES
1. OUT OF OUR HANDS
2. FOUNDATION/DESTINY/FARAWAY
3. SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW BAR AND GRILL
4. DO WHAT YOU WANT
5. DANCING MAN
6. SOMETHING’S COMING
7. THE FALL OF THE EMPIRE
8. WHEN THE BANKS OVERFLOW
9. ASCENDING TO THE PLANET MARS
10. AS SILENCE PREVAILS

DISC THREE: THE REST OF EMPIRE
1. EVERYTHING CHANGES
2. SKY AT NIGHT (MARK II VERSION)
3. STILL OUT OF OUR HANDS
4. GOODBYE
5. DESTINY (MARK II VERSION)
6. SOMEONE WHO CARES
7. AIN’T THAT PECULIAR
8. DANCING MAN
9. HEAR MY VOICE ON THE RADIO
10. WHO (Featuring Ray Bennett)

To purchase EMPIRE FEATURING PETER BANKS & SYDNEY FOXX – THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS:
AMAZON CD: http://geni.us/PBME1
iTUNES: http://geni.us/PBME1dig

For more information: https://www.facebook.com/Remembering-Peter-Banks-165355266955155/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

EMPIRE FEATURING PETER BANKS & SYDNEY FOXX THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS - OUT NOW!


Featuring original YES & Flash Guitar Legend Peter Banks!


London - EMPIRE FEATURING PETER BANKS & SYDNEY FOXX – THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS is the first release by The Peter Banks Musical Estate (via Cherry Red) and is also fully endorsed by Sydney Jordan (Foxx). The set includes the songs from all three EMPIRE studio albums and The Mars Tapes together in one place. The 40 page booklet features six different sets of liner notes and extensive pictures from the personal archives of band members. The audio has received a 2017 remaster.

“Thank you to Daniel Earnshaw, QEDG Management, Cherry Red Records, Carl Glover and Mike Pietrini for the remastering, design and release of this wonderful, definitive collection of 'Empire' recordings. Peter has always said that 'Empire' and the music we created was where his heart was and that it was the closest he had come to his dream of creating another band like 'YES'.  With 'Empire' we achieved 90% of what we set out to. 10% was lost to pressure from the industry and the misfortune of being in L.A. during the 'Disco Era'. But the 90% that remains in this complete collection of 'Empire' recordings is timeless, magical and yet another valuable musical testament to one of the most innovative and greatest guitar players ever, who co-created one of the greatest bands ever!” - Sydney Foxx

Peter Banks passed away in 2013 but his musical legacy will live on with a series of official definitive album releases throughout 2018 and 2019. The Peter Banks Musical Estate is represented by Daniel Earnshaw.

Track List:

DISC ONE: THE BEST OF EMPIRE
1. OUT OF OUR HANDS
2. DESTINY
3. FARAWAY
4. FOUNDATION
5. SKY AT NIGHT (Featuring Phil Collins)
6. WHERE YES MEANS NO
7. OFF WITH THE KING’S HEAD
8. MORE THAN WORDS
9. SHOOTING STAR
PART 1 – FROM THE TOP
PART 2 – COMMON GROUND
PART 3 – ICELAND ON THE ROCKS
PART 4 – SHOOTING STAR
10. FOR A LIFETIME
11. DO WHAT YOU WANT

DISC TWO: THE MARS TAPES
1. OUT OF OUR HANDS
2. FOUNDATION/DESTINY/FARAWAY
3. SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW BAR AND GRILL
4. DO WHAT YOU WANT
5. DANCING MAN
6. SOMETHING’S COMING
7. THE FALL OF THE EMPIRE
8. WHEN THE BANKS OVERFLOW
9. ASCENDING TO THE PLANET MARS
10. AS SILENCE PREVAILS

DISC THREE: THE REST OF EMPIRE
1. EVERYTHING CHANGES
2. SKY AT NIGHT (MARK II VERSION)
3. STILL OUT OF OUR HANDS
4. GOODBYE
5. DESTINY (MARK II VERSION)
6. SOMEONE WHO CARES
7. AIN’T THAT PECULIAR
8. DANCING MAN
9. HEAR MY VOICE ON THE RADIO
10. WHO (Featuring Ray Bennett)

To purchase EMPIRE FEATURING PETER BANKS & SYDNEY FOXX – THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS:
AMAZON CD: http://geni.us/PBME1
iTUNES: http://geni.us/PBME1dig

For more information: https://www.facebook.com/Remembering-Peter-Banks-165355266955155/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

10/11/2017

Former Yes Guitarist Peter Banks Posthumously Rejoins Mabel Greer's Toyshop For The Last Song On New Album "The Secret"


Mabel Greer’s Toyshop: The Secret Is Out… A new song written to celebrate 50 years of Peter Banks and Chris Squire joining the group in 1967.

London- On a new Mabel Greer’s Toyshop album “The Secret” to be released by December 15, and for the first time in 50 years, Peter Banks and Clive Bayley are heard playing a guitar duo. Clive has written a new song around previously recorded guitar parts by Peter Banks. The song is included in the album as a tribute to Peter Banks and Chris Squire joining Mabel Greer in September 1967. “I did it because reading of Peter’s passing in 2013 was the catalyst for meeting Bob Hagger again and coming up with the crazy idea of re-forming Mabel Greer. The result is that we have produced two new albums since then, and released re-mastered BBC tapes from 1967 on the EP ‘Images’”, said Clive.

Clive and Bob first met in 1966 - a time when the London underground music scene was an impressive force for future development of a different kind of rock music. Clive at sixteen years old, had already been playing music in a band since the age of 13, he was writing his own compositions and already had an idea of what kind of music he wanted to perform. Bob had previously been for an audition in the band ‘The Syn’. The bass player happened to be Chris Squire and the guitarist Peter Banks, it wasn’t long before they both joined Bob and Clive in Mabel Greer’s Toyshop and the seeds of ‘Yes’ were planted. In early 1968, Jon Anderson also joined the group, in June Bill Bruford replaced Bob and Tony Kaye joined on keyboards. But in August of that year Clive left the band and they changed name to ‘Yes’.

Fast forward to 2013, Clive met Bob again for the first time in 45 years! Both now in their sixties. The first thing Clive said to Bob was “let’s get into the studio, see if we still have the old magic”. The result became the album “New Way Of Life” featuring Billy Sherwood and Tony Kaye, released in 2015.

This new album of 9 songs “The Secret” with Max Hunt on keyboards and Hugo Barré on bass will be available on or before December 15, 2017 on CD and digital download at: https://mabelgreerstoyshop.bandcamp.com

A special thanks to Daniel Earnshaw of QEDG Management for providing the Peter Banks recordings.

Enquiries: Emily at: mabelgreerstoyshop@gmail.com
Mabel Greer’s Toyshop official website: www.mabelgreerstoyshop.com

Press Inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Former Yes Guitarist Peter Banks Posthumously Rejoins Mabel Greer's Toyshop For The Last Song On New Album "The Secret"


Mabel Greer’s Toyshop: The Secret Is Out… A new song written to celebrate 50 years of Peter Banks and Chris Squire joining the group in 1967.

London- On a new Mabel Greer’s Toyshop album “The Secret” to be released by December 15, and for the first time in 50 years, Peter Banks and Clive Bayley are heard playing a guitar duo. Clive has written a new song around previously recorded guitar parts by Peter Banks. The song is included in the album as a tribute to Peter Banks and Chris Squire joining Mabel Greer in September 1967. “I did it because reading of Peter’s passing in 2013 was the catalyst for meeting Bob Hagger again and coming up with the crazy idea of re-forming Mabel Greer. The result is that we have produced two new albums since then, and released re-mastered BBC tapes from 1967 on the EP ‘Images’”, said Clive.

Clive and Bob first met in 1966 - a time when the London underground music scene was an impressive force for future development of a different kind of rock music. Clive at sixteen years old, had already been playing music in a band since the age of 13, he was writing his own compositions and already had an idea of what kind of music he wanted to perform. Bob had previously been for an audition in the band ‘The Syn’. The bass player happened to be Chris Squire and the guitarist Peter Banks, it wasn’t long before they both joined Bob and Clive in Mabel Greer’s Toyshop and the seeds of ‘Yes’ were planted. In early 1968, Jon Anderson also joined the group, in June Bill Bruford replaced Bob and Tony Kaye joined on keyboards. But in August of that year Clive left the band and they changed name to ‘Yes’.

Fast forward to 2013, Clive met Bob again for the first time in 45 years! Both now in their sixties. The first thing Clive said to Bob was “let’s get into the studio, see if we still have the old magic”. The result became the album “New Way Of Life” featuring Billy Sherwood and Tony Kaye, released in 2015.

This new album of 9 songs “The Secret” with Max Hunt on keyboards and Hugo Barré on bass will be available on or before December 15, 2017 on CD and digital download at: https://mabelgreerstoyshop.bandcamp.com

A special thanks to Daniel Earnshaw of QEDG Management for providing the Peter Banks recordings.

Enquiries: Emily at: mabelgreerstoyshop@gmail.com
Mabel Greer’s Toyshop official website: www.mabelgreerstoyshop.com

Press Inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (US), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

11/11/2014

Rare Recordings By Guitar Legend Peter Banks 'The Mars Tapes' Now Available!


London, UK – Much to the excitement of prog fans worldwide, rare recordings of guitar legend Peter Banks, best known for his work with YES and FLASH, is now available on GONZO Multimedia! Peter Banks Empire 'The Mars Tapes' (2-CD set) represents Empire lll in rehearsal at Mars Studios in Los Angeles in 1979. The band had set up camp at Mars Studios for six months rehearsing and showcasing their music, much of which has been unheard until this release. The band basically recorded every thing they did off the board, tape hiss and all.

Peter Banks (RIP 2013) and Sidonie Jordan, who not only co-wrote, but fronted the band with her powerful vocals, founded Empire in the early to mid-seventies after Peter’s FLASH endeavors and attracted artists such as Phil Collins. Peter and Phil had joined forces in a band called 'Zok And The Radar Boys' which was pre-Empire for Peter, and pre-Brand X for Phil. “Sky At Night” (bonus track) features Phil Collins on drums and backing vocals and Jon Giblin on bass and is testimony of their collaboration.

Sidonie Jordan, who has an extensive list of music credentials to her name, including a diversified solo career as a staff writer/recording artist for A&M Records, and has recorded for other labels such as Capital Records, Electra Records and Trojan Records. (Her song and recording of ‘All God’s Mornings’ was produced by Peter Townshend and featured on his ‘With Love’ album. Sidonie is currently producing and writing with Lez Larder owner of Skyline Studios in Sunbury- On-Thames UK, and Empire lll drummer, Mark Murdock, more recently known for his 'Cymbalic Encounters’ release featuring members from Brand X, agreed to release these recordings as a dedication to the memory of Peter Banks and his great contribution to progressive rock music.

Says Sidonie, “ 'The Mars Tapes' were recorded live at Mars Studios in Los Angles during the summer of 1979! And include a few tracks that never appeared on any Empire albums. As with all the Empire incarnations this album features the amazing talent and skill of Peter Banks, who has been called the Architect of Progressive Rock.”

Drummer Mark Murdock explains, “The Peter Banks Empire ship set sail against the ever-changing music world, and was uncompromising in producing a range of material with Peter Banks' 'Signature Guitar Sound and Style,' while incorporating themes of the time period in which the band existed and also reliving the past by playing songs from the early Empire catalog and even a YES version of  ‘Something’s Coming.’ There are various tracks on ‘The Mars Tapes’ that also represented a ‘Work In Progress,’ which were both instrumental and vocal orientated. Empire was anticipating to make some big waves in the music scene, but the waves never reached the shore- until now!”

For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.com/product_details/15718

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Rare Recordings By Guitar Legend Peter Banks 'The Mars Tapes' Now Available!


London, UK – Much to the excitement of prog fans worldwide, rare recordings of guitar legend Peter Banks, best known for his work with YES and FLASH, is now available on GONZO Multimedia! Peter Banks Empire 'The Mars Tapes' (2-CD set) represents Empire lll in rehearsal at Mars Studios in Los Angeles in 1979. The band had set up camp at Mars Studios for six months rehearsing and showcasing their music, much of which has been unheard until this release. The band basically recorded every thing they did off the board, tape hiss and all.

Peter Banks (RIP 2013) and Sidonie Jordan, who not only co-wrote, but fronted the band with her powerful vocals, founded Empire in the early to mid-seventies after Peter’s FLASH endeavors and attracted artists such as Phil Collins. Peter and Phil had joined forces in a band called 'Zok And The Radar Boys' which was pre-Empire for Peter, and pre-Brand X for Phil. “Sky At Night” (bonus track) features Phil Collins on drums and backing vocals and Jon Giblin on bass and is testimony of their collaboration.

Sidonie Jordan, who has an extensive list of music credentials to her name, including a diversified solo career as a staff writer/recording artist for A&M Records, and has recorded for other labels such as Capital Records, Electra Records and Trojan Records. (Her song and recording of ‘All God’s Mornings’ was produced by Peter Townshend and featured on his ‘With Love’ album. Sidonie is currently producing and writing with Lez Larder owner of Skyline Studios in Sunbury- On-Thames UK, and Empire lll drummer, Mark Murdock, more recently known for his 'Cymbalic Encounters’ release featuring members from Brand X, agreed to release these recordings as a dedication to the memory of Peter Banks and his great contribution to progressive rock music.

Says Sidonie, “ 'The Mars Tapes' were recorded live at Mars Studios in Los Angles during the summer of 1979! And include a few tracks that never appeared on any Empire albums. As with all the Empire incarnations this album features the amazing talent and skill of Peter Banks, who has been called the Architect of Progressive Rock.”

Drummer Mark Murdock explains, “The Peter Banks Empire ship set sail against the ever-changing music world, and was uncompromising in producing a range of material with Peter Banks' 'Signature Guitar Sound and Style,' while incorporating themes of the time period in which the band existed and also reliving the past by playing songs from the early Empire catalog and even a YES version of  ‘Something’s Coming.’ There are various tracks on ‘The Mars Tapes’ that also represented a ‘Work In Progress,’ which were both instrumental and vocal orientated. Empire was anticipating to make some big waves in the music scene, but the waves never reached the shore- until now!”

For more information:
http://www.gonzomultimedia.com/product_details/15718

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158 (USA), glassonyonpr@gmail.com