Geoff Downes, Yes (Redux)

Geoff Downes returns for his second appearance on the show, having originally joined us back on Episode 38. While his extensive history with Yes is well documented, this time around we focus specifically on the band’s latest album, Aurora. Geoff covers a lot of ground in this interview, and we take the opportunity to delve into his current approach to songwriting and his performance on the new record. To listen / watch: Audio-only: click on the play button in the audio player above, or: Video: watch the embedded video below or check it and previous episodes out on our YouTube Channel Discussion topics covered during the show (links will open in new tab):   The release of the album Aurora by Yes Thoughts on being in the longest period of time in Yes without personnel changes, and the central role Steve Howe plays in ensuring the Yes sound Yes – Countermovement Paying due respect to the legacy of previous Yes keyboard players  The keyboard sounds that are the essence of the Yes sound The more challenging aspects of a Yes live set Geoff’s (still huge) keyboard rig with Yes and the contrast with his rig with AsiaProposed approach to recreating the Aurora tracks live, in a band that doesn’t use backing tracks The importance in Yes of interplay between keyboards and guitar. Geoff’s collaborative relationships with Steve Howe and Jon Davison. Preparing for, and surviving a long tour. Geoff’s pick of artists living or dead, that’d he’d love to work with. Geoff’s admiration of Benny Andersson Band T-Shirt Pimp: Punch Drunk Cabaret Thumbnail picture via Yes official social media, taken by Ellis Larch Key links: Become a member of our YouTube channel and receive extra content Buy some keyboard related merchandise Drop us a line via the website, Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, Threads, BlueSky, TikTok or LinkedIn Complete our audience survey to help us improve! Check out our podcast guest playlist on Spotify to get a taste of each guest’s creations.The post Geoff Downes, Yes (Redux) appeared first on The Keyboard Chronicles.