Due October 1 and produced by guitarist Steve Howe, the project marks the band’s 22nd studio record, and their first since 2014’s “Heaven & Earth.”
“Much of the music was written in late 2019 with the rest in 2020,” explains Howe. “We commissioned several orchestrations to augment and enhance the overall sound of these fresh new recordings, hoping that our emphasis on melody, coupled with some expansive instrumental solo breaks, keeps up the momentum for our listeners.”
“‘The Ice Bridge’ opens the album in the dark and moody key of C minor, aided by the orchestra,” he adds. “The rolling bass part kicks things into gear as the vocals and guitars start a winding journey through the various structures till the breakdown happens, where ice breaking is heard.”
“The Quest” was recorded across the globe: the sessions took place in the UK with Steve Howe, Geoff Downes and Jon Davison, while Alan White and Billy Sherwood got together in the studio in the US.
“Billy Sherwood and myself did all the rhythm sections, bass and drum, in America,” says White, “down in Los Angeles at Uncle Studios, where he works a lot. It helps when you’ve got a good place to work, and Billy’s really good on the recording desk, so we got things down relatively quickly. I spent quite a while studying the music before I went down to LA, so I was prepared.”
The current Yes lineup includes guitarist Steve Howe, drummer Alan White, keyboardist Geoff Downes, singer Jon Davison and bassist Billy Sherwood.
Additional percussion on the album was provided by guest Jay Schellen who supplements Yes’ live performances.
“The Quest” will be available in multiple formats, including Limited Edition Deluxe 2LP & 2CD plus Blu-ray Box-set, Limited Edition 2CD & Blu-ray Artbook, Gatefold 2LP & 2CD plus LP and booklet, 2CD Digipak, Digital Album, Vinyl, 5.1 Blu-ray, and CD.
Yes
"The Quest"
2CD digipak edition
Release date: October 1
CD1
01. The Ice Bridge
02. Dare To Know
03. Minus The Man
04. Leave Well Alone
05. The Western Edge
06. Future Memories
07. Music To My Ears
08. A Living Island
CD2
01. Sister Sleeping Soul
02. Mystery Tour
03. Damaged World
See also:
Yes announce new album The Quest
Yes reschedule UK and European Relayer tour
Yes stream Owner Of A Lonely Heart from Union 30 Live package
Yes preview Roundabout from 30th anniversary Union Live box set
Search Yes at hennemusic