Yes, the legendary prog-rock band, have announced their 24th studio album, Aurora, set for release on June 12th via InsideOut and Sony Music. This highly anticipated album marks the band's second studio release with the current lineup, featuring Steve Howe on guitar, Geoff Downes on keyboards, Jon Davidson on vocals, Billy Sherwood on bass, and Jay Schellen on drums. The album's title track, 'Aurora', has been unveiled alongside an accompanying music video, offering a glimpse into the album's vibrant and progressive sound.
The current lineup has been together since 2015 and 2023, respectively, with Billy Sherwood joining after the passing of founding member Chris Squire and Jay Schellen replacing the late Alan White. Steve Howe, a key figure in the band's evolution, emphasizes the collaborative nature of their music, stating, 'It’s always been about collaboration... We’re not trying to echo the past; we’re carrying the spirit of Yes forward and turning it into something new.'
The title track, 'Aurora', is a significant part of the album's narrative, as Jon Davidson explains, 'The title immediately resonated with Steve Howe and sparked visual inspiration for artist Roger Dean, setting a conceptual tone that would guide the project.' The music video for 'Aurora' showcases the band's signature symphonic elements, reminiscent of their earlier works like 'Magnification', and sets the stage for a bright and spritely album.
Despite the album's release, the band's UK tour, scheduled for later this month, has been postponed due to Steve Howe's upcoming medical operation. Meanwhile, former Yes members have been keeping busy; Jon Anderson is set to tour with the Band Geeks in April 2026, and Rick Wakeman released a new solo album, 'Melancholia', in November 2025. The album artwork and tracklist for 'Aurora' are available below, and fans can pre-order the album here.
Album Artwork and Tracklist:
01. Aurora
02. Turnaround Situation
03. Love Lies Dreaming
04. Countermovement
05. Ariadne
06. All Hands on Deck
07. Outside the Box
08. Emotional Intelligence
09. Jambustin’ (Bonus Track)
10. Watching the River Roll (Bonus Track)
In conclusion, 'Aurora' promises to be a testament to Yes' enduring legacy, blending their iconic sound with a fresh and collaborative approach. As the band continues to evolve, fans can look forward to a new chapter in the Yes story, one that carries the spirit of the past while embracing the future.
