Styx & Yes Join Forces For Summer

With both bands representing a combined total of more than 80 years of prog-rock, we wouldn’t blame you if you’re not totally up-to-speed on each group’s lineup. These days Styx features Tommy Shaw and James “JY” Young on vocals and guitars, Lawrence Gowan on vocals and keyboards and a rhythm section spotlighting Todd Sucherman on drums and bassist Ricky Phillips. There is also the possibility that original bassist Chuck Panozzo might make an appearance or two during the U.S. run.

The Yes lineup for the “Progressive U.S. Tour” differs somewhat from past shows. While bassist/co-founder Chris Squire, guitarist Steve Howe, drummer Alan White and vocalist Benoit David are on board for this trip, there will not be a Wakeman in sight. While Oliver Wakeman is scheduled to play with the band later this year, the U.S. tour will have Yes reuniting with keyboardist Geoff Downes.

With a July 4 date yet to be announced, the routing shows the two bands playing Holmdel, N.J., at the PNC Bank Arts Center July 5; Canandaigua, N.Y., at the CMAC Performing Arts Center July 7 and Mashantucket, Conn., at the MGM Grand Theatre At Foxwoods Resort July 8. Other stops on this mostly amphitheatre tour include Wantagh, N.Y. (July 11), Nashville (July 16; Kansas City (July 18), Noblesville near Indianapolis (July 19), Clarkston near Detroit (July 20; Oklahoma City (July 23), Morrison near Denver (July 26) and Mountain View, Calif. (Aug. 3). 

Tickets go on sale beginning April 8. Visit Styxworld.com and Yesworld.com for more information.