YES LEGEND Jon Anderson has debuted a single entitled “WDMCF” in advance of his forthcoming album, 1000 Hands; and you can watch the clip below.
Of this latest single, Jon said: “[It] originates from me singing the first ideas that come to mind each morning. I start by creating vocal rhythmic sounds, very much like the Burundi in West Africa, who go foraging and hunting and sing all the time.
“They sing like the sounds around them … insects, birds, frogs, etc.
“I always dream and think that my best work is yet to come, or there would be no point in creating at all. I just feel so energized, happily surrounded by this world of music.”
And the song shows Jon, at 76, is still absolutely in top vocal form, his voice layered and chorused over a tune with a world music breaks coloration.
The album which this song trails, 1000 Hands, has had an on-off gestation of nearly 30 years. It will be unveiled for digital release on July 31st, with physical formats – CD and a double vinyl – following a fortnight later.
He actually laid the foundations of this album while still a member of Yes, but touring resulted in it being put on hold.
“Before you knew it, I started getting involved in other projects and tours, and years went by, … I would listen to the tapes from time to time and think, ‘This could have been a great album! One day I’ll finish it.’” he said of the project.
The album features a collaborative roll-call including former Yes colleague Steve Howe; Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull and fusion stalwarts Billy Cobham and Chick Corea.
“That’s where the title 1000 Hands comes from: all of the brilliant musicians who played a part in making the record,” Anderson added.
Order Jon Anderson’s 1000 Hands here.
