Two Sides of Peter Banks

by Peter Banks

Overview

For Two Sides of Peter Banks, the ex-guitarist from Yes gathered an impressive group of guest musicians, including Genesis' Phil Collins and Steve Hackett and King Crimson's John Wetton. Most importantly, the whole album was written and recorded with Netherlands guitarist Jan Akkerman (of Focus). The first six tracks make up a suite (early themes are recapitulated toward the end) ranging from acoustic duets ("Visions of the King") to full-blown instrumental progressive rock numbers ("Knights") that bear noticeable similarities with some material Steve Hackett would record for his first solo album Voyage of the Acolyte. Some sections (like "Battles") are surprisingly sloppy and show poor production, but overall the material is engaging for the prog fan and is worthy of the attention of anyone fond of Steve Hackett's mid-'70s albums. "Beyond the Loneliest Sea" is a delicate Akkerman tune, while "Stop That!" is an extended jam of medium interest (Banks and Akkerman trade some nice solos). Two Sides of Peter Banks is the most progressive effort the guitarist released after his departure from Yes. If it weren't for the star-heavy cast this album would be nothing more than an enjoyable curiosity, but fans of Genesis and Focus should find it an important addition to their collections. ~ Francois Couture

Product Details

Release Date:	08/02/2024
Label:	Purple Pyramid
UPC:	0889466484926
Rank:	23264

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Peter Banks   Primary Artist,Mini Moog,Guitar (Acoustic),Guitar (Electric),Piano
Jan Akkerman   Guest Artist,Guitar (Acoustic),Guitar (Electric)
Steve Hackett   Guest Artist,Guitar (Electric)
Phil Collins   Guest Artist,Drums
Mike Hough   Drums
Ray Bennett   Guitar (Bass)
John Wetton   Guitar (Bass)

Technical Credits

Peter Banks   Producer,Composer
Jan Akkerman   Composer
Ben Wiseman   Digital Remastering
Mark Powell   Research,Remastering Coordination
Phil Smee   Package Design
Paul Northfield   Assistant
Geoff Young   Engineer