Long Distance Runaround

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the progressive rock classic "Long Distance Runaround" by Anderson Bruford Wakeman Howe from their live album An Evening of Yes Music Plus. This track, originally by Yes from their 1971 album Fragile, was reimagined during a 1989 performance at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California, captured for the live album. A fascinating piece of trivia comes from drummer Bill Bruford, who shared on his YouTube channel that the performance featured a massive, largely electronic drum kit with acoustic cymbals and a snare, inspired by his time with King Crimson’s Jamie Muir in 1973. Bruford’s extended solo in this rendition, as noted in a No Treble post, starts with a back-rack of percussion and builds intensity as he moves to the main kit, showcasing his innovative approach to rhythm.

Another intriguing story about this performance involves the lineup. Bassist Tony Levin, a regular with the group, was sidelined by hepatitis for this concert, and Jeff Berlin stepped in, learning the complex setlist in just days. According to a review on Progarchives, Berlin’s performance was commendable, though some fans preferred Levin’s dynamic interplay, especially on tracks like "Long Distance Runaround." The song itself, a staple of Yes’s early ’70s catalog, was introduced by Rick Wakeman’s keyboards in this live version, with the full band joining in a fluid, precise rendition that fans on Last.fm have praised for its energy. The concert, originally a pay-per-view event, was a bold statement by the quartet, who were barred from using the Yes name due to legal issues with bassist Chris Squire, as detailed in a Loudersound article, making it a defiant celebration of their shared legacy for Zoo Freaks tuning in.

Anderson Bruford Wakeman Howe, often abbreviated as ABWH, was a project born from the reunion of four Yes alumni: vocalist Jon Anderson, drummer Bill Bruford, keyboardist Rick Wakeman, and guitarist Steve Howe. Their story begins with Yes, formed in London in 1968 by Anderson, Squire, and others, blending intricate musicianship with mystical lyrics. By the early 1970s, Bruford, Wakeman, and Howe had joined, contributing to landmark albums like The Yes Album and Fragile. However, lineup changes and creative differences led to their departures, with Anderson being the last to leave in the late ’80s. In 1988, the four reunited in Paris to record new material, relocated to Montserrat with producer Chris Kimsey, and released their self-titled album in 1989 under the ABWH moniker, as Squire held the rights to the Yes name. Their world tour, including the performance of "Long Distance Runaround," was a triumph, proving their enduring chemistry, though the project was short-lived, folding into a Yes reunion by 1991.

Fans can dive deeper into ABWH’s world through their official channels and fan communities. The best starting point is Yes’s official website, which covers ABWH’s history, though it focuses on the broader Yes legacy. Jon Anderson’s website, Facebook, and Instagram offer updates on his current projects, often reflecting on ABWH. Bill Bruford’s website and Facebook provide insights into his drumming philosophy, while Rick Wakeman’s website, Facebook, and X account share his witty takes and solo work. Steve Howe’s website and Facebook detail his guitar virtuosity. For fan connections, the Yes Fans Facebook group is a vibrant hub for discussing ABWH and Yes, and Progarchives offers detailed reviews and forums for Zoo Freaks to geek out over every note of "Long Distance Runaround."