Rick Wakeman - 25.02.2024 - Bridgewater Hall - Manchester

Credit for this page goes to : Matthew Isaac

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The first time I saw Rick Wakeman was in Stoke way back in 1992. This was just him and his monstrous bank of keyboards. I’d never see yes at that point (who were fast becoming favourite band of all time) and was so glad to see  the maestro of keyboards in action.

A lot of has changed in yes land in the last 32 years. There is no original members left in the band . Their founding singing  is solo whilst the band are carrying on with a tribute vocalist and their founding bassist Chris squire passed away in 2015.

Recently Rick has been releasing brilliant solo albums, a couple of ‘piano portrait’ cds and of course, sell out  ‘grumpy old rock star’ shows showcasing his peerless piano skills .

Tonight’s concert was a return his ‘rock ensemble’ days complete with band and backing singers containing a few familiar faces ...

His son Adam was on additional keyboards and guitar. Adam has played with everyone from ozzy osbourne , Tony Hadley , black sabbath, will young and snake charmer to name but a few .

On vocals is mollie marriott , daughter of Steve . I saw her live 5 years ago on bill with Wilco Johnson , Hugh Cornwell. She was absolutely fantastic and held her own in such illustrious company.


The concert was in two halves . The first was devoted to his time with yes. It began with a blistering version of ‘roundabout’which immediately proved mollie Marriott ‘s ability to provide a bluesy twist to Jon Anderson’s lyrics .

Highlights included a rocked up version of rendition of ‘wondrous stories’, a stunning reading of my personal favourite ‘south of the sky’ the stirring set closer ‘and you and l’.

The second half was an extended concert performance of his number 1 album journey to the centre of the earth . He explained he was originally only allowed to release as a 36 minute album . It was a phenomenal experience hearing Rick at the peak of his powers with each member of his amazing band getting their chance to shine ....

He left the best until last. An unbelievable encore ‘starship trooper’ literally toor the roof off. Rick and his son both brought their keytars out . Long standing bassist Lee Pomeroy paid an admirable tribute to Chris squire and guitarist Dave Colquhoun performed Steve howe’s signature solo with gusto ...

It was my first local concert of the year . What a fantastic start to the year