A History of Ascension

The Reunion and Return to Form (1995–1996)

In 1995, progressive rock legends Yes faced a pivotal moment as guitarist Trevor Rabin and keyboardist Tony Kaye departed, leading to the return of former members Steve Howe and Rick Wakeman. This reunion brought together the classic lineup of Jon Anderson, Chris Squire, Alan White, Howe, and Wakeman, who had not performed together since 1979.

Determined to make a statement, Yes relocated to San Luis Obispo, California to work on a new album and showcase their reunion with a series of electrifying live performances at the Fremont Theater in March 1996. This period marked a significant return to form for the band, as they delved into writing longform pieces for the first time in years.

Keys to Ascension (1996)

The culmination of their efforts came in the form of 'Keys to Ascension,' a double album released in October 1996 on Essential Records. This album featured a selection of tracks from the 1996 live shows, capturing the magic and energy of Yes' performances. In addition, 'Keys to Ascension' included two new studio tracks that showcased the band's creative prowess and marked a triumphant return to their signature sound.

Receiving praise from music critics, 'Keys to Ascension' climbed to No. 48 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 99 on the Billboard 200. Yes embarked on a media tour to support the album, captivating audiences with live performances, television appearances, and a home video release of the Fremont Theater concerts.

Legacy and Continued Success (1997–2010)

Building on the momentum of 'Keys to Ascension,' Yes continued to create new studio tracks in 1996 and 1997, which culminated in the release of 'Keys to Ascension 2' in 1997. This album combined the remaining live set from the 1996 shows with the new studio recordings, further solidifying Yes' place in the progressive rock scene. The studio tracks from both 'Keys to Ascension' albums were later compiled on 'Keystudio' in 2001, showcasing the band's enduring creativity and musical evolution.

In 1998 and 2010, both 'Keys to Ascension' albums were reissued in their entirety, with the latter release including the concert video as a bonus disc. This period not only marked a successful chapter in Yes' history but also highlighted their lasting legacy as pioneers of progressive rock.

Yes' journey through 'Keys to Ascension' solidified their status as icons of progressive rock, showcasing their ability to evolve and captivate audiences with their unique sound. The album's impact continues to resonate with fans and musicians alike, cementing Yes' place in the annals of music history.