Pier 6 Amphitheater, Baltimore: Yes is a band which has overcome adversity and seemingly become stronger for it. The loss of a founding member, however, typically is too much for any group to endure. Yes has, of course, witnessed the departure of all its original members – with the exception of bassist Chris Squire. So, it was unclear if they could survive Squire’s sudden death on the eve of a co-headlining tour with Toto.
Fortunately for Yes fans, the band called on former Yes member Billy Sherwood to replace his friend, Squire. Sherwood’s contributions to Yes’ live show in the past included second guitar and vocals on the tours for Open Your Eyes and The Ladder; he also served as keyboardist, guitarist and second bassist on the Talk tour. More significantly, Billy Sherwood has made memorable production, mixing and writing contributions on many other Yes projects.
Filling in for Chris Squire on bass, at first, would seem to be a heady task for anyone, but Sherwood has played Squire-style bass parts before: Check out his Circa project. Perhaps equally challenging, however, is to sing Chris Squire parts. But Yes’ Baltimore stop found Sherwood firmly engrained, as the band honored the memory of Chris Squire and moved the legacy of the world’s greatest progressive rock band onward.
In fact, “Onward” served as the show’s opening tribute to Chris Squire, and it was touchingly appropriate. The track, originally recorded for the Tormato album, is a great celebration of the life and work of the bassist. The prerecorded new version accompanied a touching video tribute, along with a sole white spot light on Squire’s signature Rickenbacker bass.
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