Yes, the legendary prog-rock band, have announced their 24th studio album, Aurora, set for release on June 12th via InsideOut and Sony Music. This highly anticipated album marks the band's second studio release with the current lineup, which includes Steve Howe on guitar, Geoff Downes on keyboards, Jon Davidson on vocals, Billy Sherwood on bass, and Jay Schellen on drums. The album's title track, 'Aurora', has been unveiled along with an accompanying music video, offering a glimpse into the album's vibrant and innovative sound.
The current lineup of Yes has been together since 2015 and 2023, respectively, with Billy Sherwood and Jay Schellen joining after the passing of founding members Chris Squire and Alan White. Steve Howe, a key figure in the band's evolution, emphasizes the collaborative nature of the album's creation, stating, 'It’s always been about collaboration... We’re not trying to echo the past; we’re carrying the spirit of Yes forward and turning it into something new.'
The title track, 'Aurora', is a standout piece, showcasing symphonic elements reminiscent of the band's earlier work, such as 2001's Magnification. Jon Davidson explains the significance of the title, 'The title immediately resonated with Steve Howe and sparked visual inspiration for artist Roger Dean, setting a conceptual tone that would guide the project.'
Despite the excitement surrounding the album's release, a recent setback has occurred. Yes were set to embark on a UK tour later this month, but it has been postponed due to Steve Howe's upcoming medical operation. Meanwhile, former Yes members have been keeping busy, with Jon Anderson embarking on a tour with the Band Geeks and Rick Wakeman releasing a new solo album, Melancholia.
The album artwork and tracklist for Aurora have been revealed, offering fans a glimpse into the album's diverse and captivating content. The tracklist includes songs like 'Turnaround Situation', 'Love Lies Dreaming', and 'Outside the Box', each promising a unique and captivating listening experience. Pre-orders for the album are now available, allowing fans to secure their copy and immerse themselves in the world of Yes once again.
