Description

Chris Squire and multi-instrumentalist Billy Sherwood worked together in Yes and World Trade, so the decision to collaborate on Conspiracy (2000) and Conspiray The Unknown (2003) isn’t unexpected. Nwo on this live dvd were able to get up close and personal with these two legends of progressive rock. This dvd features 2 Yes songs ( The More We Live, Universal Garden ) plus tracks from Squire s classic 1975 solo album Fish Out Of Water and two brand new, never before heard compositions. The dvd has been over two years in the making, having been filmed in April 2004. But it was worth the wait. These contributions from Chris and Billy probably sit somewhere between progressive rock and a more mainstream feel. The visual appearance will attract criticism from some for the dimly lit stage set, which gives a grainy image at times; perhaps requiring the use of high speed film. A similar approach was used in the bonus interview material where there is candle-light illumination, combined with a narrow spot light on the face only. The person being interviewed is looking away from the camera at almost a 90 degree angle; and whilst I did find this mildly distracting, the content of the spoken words remained interesting enough to keep my attention. The show opens with a blistering, foot stomping, performance of the song ‘Conspiracy’ which sets the tone for a show strong on the Bass sounds of Chris Squire with a masterful contribution from Billy Sherwood on lead guitars. In fact, one of my overwhelming impressions when watching Billy strut his stuff on lead guitars, was how under-rated he has been through much of his career. His place in Yes saw him being subservient to Mr. Steve Howe. But after watching Billy’s mastery of his guitar parts, I began to understand that he would likely be the equal of Mr. Howe. But that’s another story. Chris and Billy are joined on the set by Billy’s brother Michael Sherwood and Scott Walton on keys, along with Jay Schellen on drums. The setting is a dimly lit studio; and by the use of cleverly crafted camera angles, you the viewer are able to see all the finer work of the hands and fingers of these brilliant musicians at work. After 57 minutes of very enjoyable, well crafted music and an appropriate finishing piece in ‘Red Light Ahead’ the show ends all too soon, leaving me wishing for an encore. Whilst progressive rock appeals mainly to a select group of musical enthusiasts, this dvd has a sound which should please a wider ranging audience with its rock based influence and soothing, soulful vocal harmonies. Still, all self respecting Yes fans should give this one a go.

Track list:
1. Conspiracy
2. Days Of Wonder
3. Universal Garden
4. New World
5. The More We Live
6. Hold Out Your Hand
7. You By My Side
8. Confess
9. Red Light Ahead
10. Interviews With The Band
11. Behind The Scenes Footage
12. Photo Gallery