Everything learned and experienced on such a vast musical journey, has culminated to create 1,000 Hands. From travels around the globe, to the many people cherished in life. A vibrant medley of musical styles and influences have entwined. Circulating around the iconic vocals of Jon Anderson.
Elements of this album are pleasantly surprising, and each track is so wonderfully unique. From the stripped back acoustic beginnings of Now, to songs that make you want to get up and dance, such as Makes Me Happy. It’s wonderful to hear Jon’s vocals shining so effortlessly, with whatever twist and groove he pioneers them to. Fans of Yes and his numerous other musical projects of years gone by, will be delighted by this solo offering.
1,000 Hands is in many ways a gorgeous slice of history. An album Jon first began to create 28 years ago; as its title alludes, many great musicians and friends have helped to make it so special. Musicians including Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull), Chick Corea, Billy Cobham (Miles Davis), Jean-Luc Ponty (Mother’s of Invention/ Return to Forever), Steve Morse (Deep Purple, Dixie Dregs) and Zap Mama have all had a hand in crafting a beautiful score to accompany each track. The album also features touching appearances from Yes compadres: Steve Howe, Alan White, and the late Chris Squire.
Created and nurtured by the love of so many friends and influences. 1,000 Hands is a celebration of music itself. Jon Anderson expresses how much he adores the adventure of making music, and 1,000 Hands is that glorious kaleidoscope of colour we are now able to behold. Through listening, we have the pleasure of gazing back at the entirety of his musical life.
Vocals that never falter with age, Jon Anderson has a voice so distinguishable. Captured brilliantly through the variety of music on display in this album. A variety that flourishes, so that each track is embodied with its own unique style and sound, yet Jon’s clear vocal definition is rooted at the core.
The prolonged lengths of each track pressed within 1,000 Hands, are a real treat and indulgence for any music fan. Without being overworked, the woozy 8-minute long Activate for example, only deepens in intensity as the song progresses.
Sweet little variations of songs are also included in the album, with different versions co-existing. The aforementioned acoustic opening of track Now, transforms to an almost operatic prelude later on in the album. It’s these little sparks of beauty that exude spirit and awe within this album, as well as its emotional depth, rich history and culture.
Through 1,000 Hands, a merry band of instruments echo musical styles adopted from the many countries we have travelled. Overlaid vocals add the knowing weight of time that has passed us by. A mix of genres and sounds, pay ode to the friends we encounter along the way, who bring joy to our lives with their own individual traits.
As Jon Anderson himself has said;
“Music is our spiritual connection to the soul, that’s why people all over the world connect to music and to each other through music.”
1,000 Hands is Jon Anderson’s way of connecting the world, through music.
1,000 Hands will be out on 31st July 2020 via Blue Elan Records
Words: Rebecca Llewellyn