The legendary voice of Yes, Jon Anderson, returns with a new solo project that is both reflective and forward-looking: his latest album, True. In an age where disinformation is rampant, Anderson’s True stands as a declaration of honesty and spiritual insight, influenced by a lifetime of global musical and cultural experiences.
The Inspiration Behind Jon Anderson’s True Album
Jon Anderson’s True album draws from a rich tapestry of influences, both past and present. According to Anderson, the concept of “truth” became a recurring theme as he wrote the lyrics. “As I was writing, I kept popping up with ‘true’ this or ‘true’ that,” he explained. One of the tracks, “True Messenger,” has roots in a memorable chapter from his youth. Anderson recalls spending time in Jamaica with Rastafarian communities, where he absorbed the culture and spiritual expressions. “I was a huge Bob Marley fan,” he reminisces. “I saw him at the Rainbow Theatre in London, and I was in shock at how great it sounded.”
This deep connection to different cultures and sounds is not new for Anderson. Throughout his career, his spiritual and musical explorations have often infused his work, from his days with Yes to his diverse solo projects. Whether inspired by Jamaica or his early years with his pre-Yes band, The Warriors, Anderson’s music reflects a global perspective that he has honed over decades.
A Look at Jon Anderson’s Career and His Enduring Musical Spirit
Jon Anderson is best known as a founding member of Yes, the iconic progressive rock band responsible for classic albums like Fragile, Close to the Edge, and the commercial hit 90125. His career spans over five decades, with Yes helping shape the entire progressive rock genre. However, Anderson has also carved out a successful solo career, driven by his interest in non-Western sounds and spiritual themes. His unique blend of the ethereal and the earthy makes his music resonate deeply with fans worldwide.
Speaking from his California home, Anderson, now 79, still exudes a youthful energy, looking decades younger than his age. His conversations effortlessly switch from his love of football to musings about the “fairies and elves” he believes live among us. This spiritual outlook has long defined him, prompting former bandmate Rick Wakeman to affectionately remark, “He’s the only person I know trying to save this planet whilst existing on another one.”
The Making of True with The Band Geeks
Anderson’s True album was recorded with The Band Geeks, a talented backing group he discovered after seeing their cover of the Yes classic “Heart of the Sunrise” online. Impressed by their skill and energy, Anderson was inspired to collaborate with them. “It’s like a gift from the heavens,” he said, describing the experience of making True. For Anderson, the process was effortless and joyful, marking one of the most rewarding projects of his storied career.
The music on True embodies Anderson’s lifelong quest for spiritual and musical authenticity. He seamlessly blends his love for global music traditions with the progressive rock sound that made him famous, creating an album that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.
