Peter Banks - Two Sides Of Peter Banks (1973) {2009, Reissue}

First ever UK CD edition of this classic album from 1973 by original YES guitarist Peter Banks. Features appearances by Jan Akkerman, Phil Collins, Steve Hacket and John Wetton. Peter Banks was the original guitarist of the progressive rock bands The Syn, Yes, Flash and Empire. The BBC's Danny Baker and Big George often called Banks "The architect of progressive music".

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. ~ François Couture, All Music

Track List

01. Visions Of The King [01:25]
02. The White House Vale [07:14]
03. Knights [06:15]
04. Battles [01:39]
05. Knights (Reprise) [02:12]
06. Last Eclipse [02:30]
07. Beyond The Lonliest Sea [03:07]
08. Stop That! [13:48]
09. Get Out Of My Fridge [03:24]

Personnel
Peter Banks - electric and acoustic guitar, ARP, Minimoog, and Fender piano
Jan Akkerman - electric guitar (1,4,6,8,9), acoustic guitar (7)
Ray Bennett - bass guitar (3-5,8,9)
Phil Collins - drums (4,5,8,9)
Steve Hackett - electric guitar (5)
Mike Hough - drums (3)
John Wetton - bass guitar (5)