Welcome everyone to another edition of the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast and show. I'm Brett Myers, your host again, uh excited about this show as I always am, we have a great performance coming down to Key West and we have uh the band leader with us today. I'm gonna tell you more about him and that band. Before we do, let's do some uh, house cleaning uh items here.

Welcome everyone to another edition of the Florida Keys Weekly Podcast and show. I'm Brett Myers, your host again, uh excited about this show as I always am, we have a great performance coming down to Key West and we have uh the band leader with us today. I'm gonna tell you more about him and that band. Before we do, let's do some uh, house cleaning uh items here.

Uh I wanna thank our sponsor, overseas Media Group. Um That's the local website, digital marketing company, brings you a world of experience with the local service that you deserve here throughout the Florida Keys. That's overseas media group.com. Thank you to our sponsors for that. If you're listening, listening to this show in Radioland, out in WKWF AM and FM 103.3 I wanna thank those partners

Uh I wanna thank our sponsor, overseas Media Group. Um That's the local website, digital marketing company, brings you a world of experience with the local service that you deserve here throughout the Florida Keys. That's overseas media group.com. Thank you to our sponsors for that. If you're listening, listening to this show in Radioland, out in WKWF AM and FM 103.3 I wanna thank those partners

and you listeners. We're doing that on radio and the rest of you who do this via podcast. Uh You, you know, you can catch this show and many others at www dot keys, weekly.com. That's the Florida Keys Weekly podcast and show. Of course, you can find it on Spotify, Amazon Apple, all the other places you kids like to have podcast uh again, type in Florida Keys, weekly podcast and show this show today, really fun show. Uh I've been revisiting

and you listeners. We're doing that on radio and the rest of you who do this via podcast. Uh You, you know, you can catch this show and many others at www dot keys, weekly.com. That's the Florida Keys Weekly podcast and show. Of course, you can find it on Spotify, Amazon Apple, all the other places you kids like to have podcast uh again, type in Florida Keys, weekly podcast and show this show today, really fun show. Uh I've been revisiting

the band. Yes. And you say, well, Britt, why are you revisiting the band? Yes, I've been jamming out to it. I've been listening to it because there is a band out there. Um Awaken it plays the music of Yes awaken. The music of yes who tour throughout the country sound amazing. And they are visiting the Key West Theater and it will be a show that you will not be uh uh upset that you attend it. I watched the videos of these guys

the band. Yes. And you say, well, Britt, why are you revisiting the band? Yes, I've been jamming out to it. I've been listening to it because there is a band out there. Um Awaken it plays the music of Yes awaken. The music of yes who tour throughout the country sound amazing. And they are visiting the Key West Theater and it will be a show that you will not be uh uh upset that you attend it. I watched the videos of these guys

again, if you want to google them awaken the music of Yes, it is pure energy, pure fun. And with me today is the bandleader and keyboardist, Mr Joe Luca. Joe, thanks for uh thanks for jumping on with me uh today for the show.

again, if you want to google them awaken the music of Yes, it is pure energy, pure fun. And with me today is the bandleader and keyboardist, Mr Joe Luca. Joe, thanks for uh thanks for jumping on with me uh today for the show.

Oh, it's a pleasure to be here. Thanks for having me.

Oh, it's a pleasure to be here. Thanks for having me.

Absolutely, Joe. I always ask this question when folks are coming down to perform no matter where they're at in their career or what they do because it's just a fun question. Have you been to Key West before or you were the band and whether it be professionally or uh casually,

Absolutely, Joe. I always ask this question when folks are coming down to perform no matter where they're at in their career or what they do because it's just a fun question. Have you been to Key West before or you were the band and whether it be professionally or uh casually,

to my knowledge, no one in the band has been that far yet. So this is our first, our first foray into the Keys.

to my knowledge, no one in the band has been that far yet. So this is our first, our first foray into the Keys.

Well, I know you've got a lot of shows particularly that I've seen. If you've been doing it throughout the east coast, we'll talk about that. Connecticut, New Jersey, Mass, New York all over the place. Are you guys gonna have some time to do some Key West type things while you're here, or is it, you gotta get in and get out?

Well, I know you've got a lot of shows particularly that I've seen. If you've been doing it throughout the east coast, we'll talk about that. Connecticut, New Jersey, Mass, New York all over the place. Are you guys gonna have some time to do some Key West type things while you're here, or is it, you gotta get in and get out?

I think, I think we have a day. I think we have a day. Um, we have, uh, I think we're, the show is on a Saturday. I think we're coming down, uh, Friday morning and, uh, so we'll have Friday to hang out a little bit, uh, before the show on Saturday, so that we're looking forward to that. All

I think, I think we have a day. I think we have a day. Um, we have, uh, I think we're, the show is on a Saturday. I think we're coming down, uh, Friday morning and, uh, so we'll have Friday to hang out a little bit, uh, before the show on Saturday, so that we're looking forward to that. All

right. Uh, well, you will find, of course, you're going to be in good hands with the, the Rams Head Group, Key West Theater,

right. Uh, well, you will find, of course, you're going to be in good hands with the, the Rams Head Group, Key West Theater,

uh, letting you know some things to do in Key West. I'm sure they'll, if you can't find it on your own, it's pretty easy. If you go down to Ball Street, you'll find some trouble and have a good time. But, uh, there, there'll be some good concierge direction for you there. And if, uh, if we can help, we'll, we'll guide you in the right direction there. There'll be no shortage of fun for you guys as you do it. So we're happy to get you in Key West. Now, here's the question. I know you get all the time. So I'm gonna get it out of the way in the beginning,

uh, letting you know some things to do in Key West. I'm sure they'll, if you can't find it on your own, it's pretty easy. If you go down to Ball Street, you'll find some trouble and have a good time. But, uh, there, there'll be some good concierge direction for you there. And if, uh, if we can help, we'll, we'll guide you in the right direction there. There'll be no shortage of fun for you guys as you do it. So we're happy to get you in Key West. Now, here's the question. I know you get all the time. So I'm gonna get it out of the way in the beginning,

I'm watching you guys perform. Um, it, it's quite a big band ensemble that you do. I know you're a keyboardist. I wanna know how many people were in the band but more so how, how, and why, you know, yes. Being a rock and roll hall of Fame band, um, incredible ballads and tracks they've done over the years. Multi really the diversity of yes is probably underrated when I start looking at it. And I, and I being

I'm watching you guys perform. Um, it, it's quite a big band ensemble that you do. I know you're a keyboardist. I wanna know how many people were in the band but more so how, how, and why, you know, yes. Being a rock and roll hall of Fame band, um, incredible ballads and tracks they've done over the years. Multi really the diversity of yes is probably underrated when I start looking at it. And I, and I being

openly admittingly that I've never put my time in a yes, like maybe I should, but I start looking at it and, well, how diverse and amazing

openly admittingly that I've never put my time in a yes, like maybe I should, but I start looking at it and, well, how diverse and amazing

the music's transcended through the seventies and through the eighties, I know band members, some have passed, some have changed.

the music's transcended through the seventies and through the eighties, I know band members, some have passed, some have changed.

Um You guys are playing yes music. Um As good. I shouldn't, I've gotta be careful how I say this as good or better as the band. It sounds amazing. But, but how does that happen? Why this band? It says you guys are basically, uh dedicated to performing. Yes, music the way you remember it, you're preserving that. Why is Yes important. How did you guys come about? Were y'all sitting around one day and you're like, hey, you like this music? Me too. Let's do this or how does that happen? Uh Joe, tell me a little bit about the background of this.

Um You guys are playing yes music. Um As good. I shouldn't, I've gotta be careful how I say this as good or better as the band. It sounds amazing. But, but how does that happen? Why this band? It says you guys are basically, uh dedicated to performing. Yes, music the way you remember it, you're preserving that. Why is Yes important. How did you guys come about? Were y'all sitting around one day and you're like, hey, you like this music? Me too. Let's do this or how does that happen? Uh Joe, tell me a little bit about the background of this.

Well, the, the brainchild of the band, uh uh was, uh from uh Danny the guitar player. He, he, he's been a rabid yes fan since, since the seventies.

Well, the, the brainchild of the band, uh uh was, uh from uh Danny the guitar player. He, he, he's been a rabid yes fan since, since the seventies.

Uh and, you know, and it, it was uh just really a question of finding like minded people. And, uh, you know, fortunately, Ray the bass player, he works with Danny. So that, that, that worked, um that, that, that came out together. They put an ad in uh at the time because that was going about seven years now. So at the time on Craigslist, uh looking for a keyboard player,

Uh and, you know, and it, it was uh just really a question of finding like minded people. And, uh, you know, fortunately, Ray the bass player, he works with Danny. So that, that, that worked, um that, that, that came out together. They put an ad in uh at the time because that was going about seven years now. So at the time on Craigslist, uh looking for a keyboard player,

uh, and I, I've been a, you know, I've been a rabid fan since the eighties since over me hard. And, uh,

uh, and I, I've been a, you know, I've been a rabid fan since the eighties since over me hard. And, uh,

so I answered the ad and then, uh, you know, long story short and cut a lot of stuff out. Uh My, my lead singer, Ron, he winds up living around the corner from me. I, I lived around the corner with him for 20 years. Never met him. Now,

so I answered the ad and then, uh, you know, long story short and cut a lot of stuff out. Uh My, my lead singer, Ron, he winds up living around the corner from me. I, I lived around the corner with him for 20 years. Never met him. Now,

where, where is this at? Where do you get, where is this at?

where, where is this at? Where do you get, where is this at?

This

This

is in, in Long Island. Uh And then recently, uh our original drummer retired last year. So I brought in a very dear friend of mine, uh, Frank from Connecticut,

is in, in Long Island. Uh And then recently, uh our original drummer retired last year. So I brought in a very dear friend of mine, uh, Frank from Connecticut,

uh to, to fill the seats to fill the drum seat. And, uh, so now that's the current incarnation. And, you know, it, it's really about just, it's just really challenging music to play and it's, it's, it's, it's really, you have a real sense of accomplishment. When you, when you can really play the stuff,

uh to, to fill the seats to fill the drum seat. And, uh, so now that's the current incarnation. And, you know, it, it's really about just, it's just really challenging music to play and it's, it's, it's, it's really, you have a real sense of accomplishment. When you, when you can really play the stuff,

you know. Um, I, I've been asked, I've been, I've, I've been, I've been attempted to be poached to other bands to, to do other things and I listen to the music of what they want me to play and I just, you know, and II, I respond to them. I said, you know, look, I appreciate it very much and, you know, thank you for the opportunity but you know, their music is boring.

you know. Um, I, I've been asked, I've been, I've, I've been, I've been attempted to be poached to other bands to, to do other things and I listen to the music of what they want me to play and I just, you know, and II, I respond to them. I said, you know, look, I appreciate it very much and, you know, thank you for the opportunity but you know, their music is boring.

You know, what am I, what am I to do up there for two hours? You know, hold out a couple of chords and play a solo here and there. This, this music is just so challenging to get it, to get it right. And uh it's very fulfilling when, when you have a big show, you

You know, what am I, what am I to do up there for two hours? You know, hold out a couple of chords and play a solo here and there. This, this music is just so challenging to get it, to get it right. And uh it's very fulfilling when, when you have a big show, you

say that and for people, I hope they do. I mean, again, every show at the Key West Theater has a different n positive nuance and different genre. You've got to be extremely talented to make the tour down here. So you guys are doing something right?

say that and for people, I hope they do. I mean, again, every show at the Key West Theater has a different n positive nuance and different genre. You've got to be extremely talented to make the tour down here. So you guys are doing something right?

But I hope people Google you guys. No, I just hope people Google if they're listening to this, um because tickets will be limited, you guys will sell out at September 7th. Key theater.com is where tickets are at Key West theater.com, September 7th doors open at seven shows at eight.

But I hope people Google you guys. No, I just hope people Google if they're listening to this, um because tickets will be limited, you guys will sell out at September 7th. Key theater.com is where tickets are at Key West theater.com, September 7th doors open at seven shows at eight.

But where they Google you, if you watch you guys now what I saw what I was youtubing and on your website I saw quite a few band members. Is that what you guys will bring down to Key West? Is it a limited version of that or what? What's the scope of the band?

But where they Google you, if you watch you guys now what I saw what I was youtubing and on your website I saw quite a few band members. Is that what you guys will bring down to Key West? Is it a limited version of that or what? What's the scope of the band?

Yeah. Well, the band is, is five members just like the, just like, yes. Uh you know, guitar based, drums, keyboards and a vocalist.

Yeah. Well, the band is, is five members just like the, just like, yes. Uh you know, guitar based, drums, keyboards and a vocalist.

Um, you know, we, uh, this is our, uh you know, like I said, this is our first foray down there. So, um I mean, we're just excited, we're, we're excited for the opportunity to, to go. I mean, we're based in the northeast to, to go all the way down to the southeast as far south as you can go, we can't go any further south.

Um, you know, we, uh, this is our, uh you know, like I said, this is our first foray down there. So, um I mean, we're just excited, we're, we're excited for the opportunity to, to go. I mean, we're based in the northeast to, to go all the way down to the southeast as far south as you can go, we can't go any further south.

Um You know, it, it's, it's, it's a great opportunity and we're looking forward

Um You know, it, it's, it's, it's a great opportunity and we're looking forward

to it.

to it.

Well, you made a good point and I'm not, I'm a music fan. That's why I indulge myself with a podcast. A doofus like me gets to talk to cool people like you. But I'm not, you know, I'm not gonna tell you which notes you're hitting and I don't pretend to tell you, you know, I've got friends who follow fish around or the dead and company and they're like you did it and he mor and trade it and I'm like, ok, but you don't play the guitar, but I'm a fan and I appreciate fans like that.

Well, you made a good point and I'm not, I'm a music fan. That's why I indulge myself with a podcast. A doofus like me gets to talk to cool people like you. But I'm not, you know, I'm not gonna tell you which notes you're hitting and I don't pretend to tell you, you know, I've got friends who follow fish around or the dead and company and they're like you did it and he mor and trade it and I'm like, ok, but you don't play the guitar, but I'm a fan and I appreciate fans like that.

But I, I have to think and I have to ask you where you've got five members playing, you know, you're sounding very, you know, exactly like what has been created before. And that takes, I mean, you look at Allman Brothers, you look at people, you look at, you know, you look at the band, uh, you go back to people like that and Levon,

But I, I have to think and I have to ask you where you've got five members playing, you know, you're sounding very, you know, exactly like what has been created before. And that takes, I mean, you look at Allman Brothers, you look at people, you look at, you know, you look at the band, uh, you go back to people like that and Levon,

when it takes five people harmonizing, playing together like that and you're playing something else that's been done. So you've gotta hit it exactly. That cannot be an easy task the way you guys pull it off. You've gotta have something that clicks together, I guess, right? There's gotta be something when you bring someone in or you guys are doing this, it really has to work, I assume. Or am I stretching here?

when it takes five people harmonizing, playing together like that and you're playing something else that's been done. So you've gotta hit it exactly. That cannot be an easy task the way you guys pull it off. You've gotta have something that clicks together, I guess, right? There's gotta be something when you bring someone in or you guys are doing this, it really has to work, I assume. Or am I stretching here?

No, you're, you're not stretching. I, I think, you know, there's a couple of factors. Um And the first factor of course is that there has to be, there has to be a chemistry working within the five of us. You know, we, we, we all have to have, be in the same type of headspace and we have to have the same goals and we have to have the same attention to detail and dedication to the craft.

No, you're, you're not stretching. I, I think, you know, there's a couple of factors. Um And the first factor of course is that there has to be, there has to be a chemistry working within the five of us. You know, we, we, we all have to have, be in the same type of headspace and we have to have the same goals and we have to have the same attention to detail and dedication to the craft.

Um You know, but that's, that's all well and good if, if providing, you could still pull it off. I mean, because you can grab five guys, you know, there are other, yes tributes out there. Um, you know, but do they, do they achieve it the same way? You know, I, I'll tell you that. Yes, I think, yes, fans, I think Genesis fans too, um, are just ultra ridiculously critical,

Um You know, but that's, that's all well and good if, if providing, you could still pull it off. I mean, because you can grab five guys, you know, there are other, yes tributes out there. Um, you know, but do they, do they achieve it the same way? You know, I, I'll tell you that. Yes, I think, yes, fans, I think Genesis fans too, um, are just ultra ridiculously critical,

you know, they, even if they don't play an instrument, they, they know what it's supposed to sound like and if it doesn't sound like that you're gonna get hell. Um, and so if that's always in the back of my mind is, you know, when, when we're preparing something, you know, how authentic does it sound? How is it gonna come across there have been songs that, that I flat out said we're not gonna do, you know, we're not, we're not gonna go down that road. Um Just because the,

you know, they, even if they don't play an instrument, they, they know what it's supposed to sound like and if it doesn't sound like that you're gonna get hell. Um, and so if that's always in the back of my mind is, you know, when, when we're preparing something, you know, how authentic does it sound? How is it gonna come across there have been songs that, that I flat out said we're not gonna do, you know, we're not, we're not gonna go down that road. Um Just because the,

just because I don't think that I don't think that we could do it justice um to, to, to the point where I'd be comfortable playing it live, you know. So it's, it's, you, you really have to cherry pick and, and, and, and in, in and I'm not looking to sell us short. Uh because we do some really complicated material. You also have to remember that, you know, we didn't create this music. We are replicated.

just because I don't think that I don't think that we could do it justice um to, to, to the point where I'd be comfortable playing it live, you know. So it's, it's, you, you really have to cherry pick and, and, and, and in, in and I'm not looking to sell us short. Uh because we do some really complicated material. You also have to remember that, you know, we didn't create this music. We are replicated.

So I don't care who you are. You know, you, you, you know, if, if you know, you can't replicate every blessed song to absolute perfection when you didn't create it, you know. So, you know, you, you gotta be careful. It, it's a process. It is absolutely a

So I don't care who you are. You know, you, you, you know, if, if you know, you can't replicate every blessed song to absolute perfection when you didn't create it, you know. So, you know, you, you gotta be careful. It, it's a process. It is absolutely a

process.

process.

So I have a question for you and I know you're a modest guy. I can tell by talking to you and I know how talented you guys are.

So I have a question for you and I know you're a modest guy. I can tell by talking to you and I know how talented you guys are.

Yes. Today who is still touring? I think some version of yes, the band and you guys are to be clear, you guys are awakened the music of yes, but the band yes is still touring today as I would assume there's no original members. I know we've had some, uh, you know, members pass such as, you know, Chris Squire, uh Tony Kay who kind of rep, you know, toured with Bowie at some point. Key Boris and I'm sure you know much about him, John Anderson no longer there. It's different guys.

Yes. Today who is still touring? I think some version of yes, the band and you guys are to be clear, you guys are awakened the music of yes, but the band yes is still touring today as I would assume there's no original members. I know we've had some, uh, you know, members pass such as, you know, Chris Squire, uh Tony Kay who kind of rep, you know, toured with Bowie at some point. Key Boris and I'm sure you know much about him, John Anderson no longer there. It's different guys.

Alright. Modesty. Aside the, the, the maybe the version of Yes tour today, do you feel like you guys pull it off better than maybe the newest version of Yes or where would you put yourself in that? Because there's gotta be a little bit different sound for everybody doing

Alright. Modesty. Aside the, the, the maybe the version of Yes tour today, do you feel like you guys pull it off better than maybe the newest version of Yes or where would you put yourself in that? Because there's gotta be a little bit different sound for everybody doing

that music that came from the seventies. Right.

that music that came from the seventies. Right.

Right. Right. Right. Well, that's, that, that is a complicated question. So I'm going to give you kind of a, a as simplified, a complicated answer as I can. So the, the only member of, of, of the current incarnation of Yes, he's not an original member, but he's arguably one of the most important members through the history and that's Steve Howell,

Right. Right. Right. Well, that's, that, that is a complicated question. So I'm going to give you kind of a, a as simplified, a complicated answer as I can. So the, the only member of, of, of the current incarnation of Yes, he's not an original member, but he's arguably one of the most important members through the history and that's Steve Howell,

uh, the guitar player. Um, so he's the, he's the only guy that in the band now that's been in the classic lineup and that produced all of those incredible tunes in the seventies.

uh, the guitar player. Um, so he's the, he's the only guy that in the band now that's been in the classic lineup and that produced all of those incredible tunes in the seventies.

Um, even though he's not the original guitar player, uh, that being said, um, you know, our mantra with this is like you had mentioned it before. It's, it's performed the way you remember it. OK? And, and that really is the key. I, I'm not gonna say that we

Um, even though he's not the original guitar player, uh, that being said, um, you know, our mantra with this is like you had mentioned it before. It's, it's performed the way you remember it. OK? And, and that really is the key. I, I'm not gonna say that we

better or worse. It's not better or worse than the current incarnation of. Yes. However, here's the difference when, when, when those guys come, the guys that are in the band now and yes, you have another drummer, Alan White passed away. You have another piece player, Chris Gore passed away. Uh You have another vocalist, uh replacing John Anderson and, and, and um you have Jack Downes who, you know, he's a, he's a classic keyboardist as well,

better or worse. It's not better or worse than the current incarnation of. Yes. However, here's the difference when, when, when those guys come, the guys that are in the band now and yes, you have another drummer, Alan White passed away. You have another piece player, Chris Gore passed away. Uh You have another vocalist, uh replacing John Anderson and, and, and um you have Jack Downes who, you know, he's a, he's a classic keyboardist as well,

but those guys are not required really to play the tunes the way they were played in the seventies. They're, they're given the latitude to play it the way they want to play it. You know, their, their own interpretations of the tunes, you know how they would play it. No one's saying to, to Jeff Downs, I want you to play the song and I want you to play it just like the way, you know, no one's saying to the drummer. I want you to play it just like Bill Bruford or Alan. W they have the latitude to play it the way they want to. We don't

but those guys are not required really to play the tunes the way they were played in the seventies. They're, they're given the latitude to play it the way they want to play it. You know, their, their own interpretations of the tunes, you know how they would play it. No one's saying to, to Jeff Downs, I want you to play the song and I want you to play it just like the way, you know, no one's saying to the drummer. I want you to play it just like Bill Bruford or Alan. W they have the latitude to play it the way they want to. We don't

have that latitude. So we say we're going to play it but we are going to play it the way they played it in the seventies. We are going to play that arrangement. We're going to play it with, with that level of scrutiny and intensity and that's what we're emulating. So it's different. It's, it's just a different outlook, you know. Uh It's not better or worse, it's just different.

have that latitude. So we say we're going to play it but we are going to play it the way they played it in the seventies. We are going to play that arrangement. We're going to play it with, with that level of scrutiny and intensity and that's what we're emulating. So it's different. It's, it's just a different outlook, you know. Uh It's not better or worse, it's just different.

You are the consummate political politician answer to that. And I like it's the perfect answer. I really, this is a great answer. I love it. Um

You are the consummate political politician answer to that. And I like it's the perfect answer. I really, this is a great answer. I love it. Um

uh but

uh but

it's

it's

the truth. I mean, it's the truth. I mean, do, do I do I? No, I'm not gonna go down the road. Well,

the truth. I mean, it's the truth. I mean, do, do I do I? No, I'm not gonna go down the road. Well,

let's talk about your talk about your band. Uh Joe. So, you know, there's five of you. I know there's a lot of harmony. Does everyone have a microphone and talk to me a little bit about the band. Who, who do you love to hear? Let loose. What should the crowd look for here in Key West?

let's talk about your talk about your band. Uh Joe. So, you know, there's five of you. I know there's a lot of harmony. Does everyone have a microphone and talk to me a little bit about the band. Who, who do you love to hear? Let loose. What should the crowd look for here in Key West?

And, uh again, if you're just tuning in, we've got, uh, we've got the band awaken the music of yes, coming to the Key West Theater, uh, here in September. That's gonna be September 7th Key West theater.com. It's Joe Luca on with us today. So Joe, tell us a little bit about the band and what to expect from those guys and, and who, who do you like to hear? Just let loose, give, give us a little picture of this.

And, uh again, if you're just tuning in, we've got, uh, we've got the band awaken the music of yes, coming to the Key West Theater, uh, here in September. That's gonna be September 7th Key West theater.com. It's Joe Luca on with us today. So Joe, tell us a little bit about the band and what to expect from those guys and, and who, who do you like to hear? Just let loose, give, give us a little picture of this.

Well, um, you know, like I said, it started, the band started with, uh with Danny, our guitar player. Uh and, uh it, it really is a marvel that he's able to incorporate the different styles of, of Steve Howe and, and Trevor Raven, th those two guys are completely 180 from each other. Uh You know, and so, so Danny does a great job of, of, of, of copying them both. He, he's the only guy in the band that doesn't sing. Um

Well, um, you know, like I said, it started, the band started with, uh with Danny, our guitar player. Uh and, uh it, it really is a marvel that he's able to incorporate the different styles of, of Steve Howe and, and Trevor Raven, th those two guys are completely 180 from each other. Uh You know, and so, so Danny does a great job of, of, of, of copying them both. He, he's the only guy in the band that doesn't sing. Um

Yeah, he, he, he's, he is the, he is the complete anti guitarist and he is the only guitar player. He is the only guitar player I have ever met in my entire 56 years of life where I have had to say to him, Dan, I can't hear you. Can you turn up,

Yeah, he, he, he's, he is the, he is the complete anti guitarist and he is the only guitar player. He is the only guitar player I have ever met in my entire 56 years of life where I have had to say to him, Dan, I can't hear you. Can you turn up,

you know, every guitar player, every other guitar player you're begging him to turn down. Uh So, uh yeah, so that's Danny Ray is our bass player and uh he just, you know, he lives and breathes to try to emulate Chris Squire. He's got a great voice and uh and he's, he's just, you know, he's the anchor.

you know, every guitar player, every other guitar player you're begging him to turn down. Uh So, uh yeah, so that's Danny Ray is our bass player and uh he just, you know, he lives and breathes to try to emulate Chris Squire. He's got a great voice and uh and he's, he's just, you know, he's the anchor.

Uh Frank, uh Frank is our drummer. He's the new kid in town, uh a best friend from mine since uh since birth. Actually, it just so happens that he plays drums and just so happened that we needed one. And uh and I, I'll never forget when he accepted the position. About a week after he joined the band, he called me up and he's like, dude, this music is fing hard

Uh Frank, uh Frank is our drummer. He's the new kid in town, uh a best friend from mine since uh since birth. Actually, it just so happens that he plays drums and just so happened that we needed one. And uh and I, I'll never forget when he accepted the position. About a week after he joined the band, he called me up and he's like, dude, this music is fing hard

and like, uh you know. Yeah, man. So you better get your butt back on the drum seat and start practicing. But he, he's done great. And um and Ron, our lead vocalist is he's the comedian. Uh because before us, he was the Genesis tribute band

and like, uh you know. Yeah, man. So you better get your butt back on the drum seat and start practicing. But he, he's done great. And um and Ron, our lead vocalist is he's the comedian. Uh because before us, he was the Genesis tribute band

and he was doing Gabriel Gabriel and Collins, which sound nothing like John Anderson. And uh you know, and uh you know, he would be very vague. You would close your eyes and, you know, you would hear Genesis's mama and you would, and he would sing and you would swear it was Phil Collins. Yeah. Yeah. And so, you know, when, when, uh when he has to come down to, to audition for this band

and he was doing Gabriel Gabriel and Collins, which sound nothing like John Anderson. And uh you know, and uh you know, he would be very vague. You would close your eyes and, you know, you would hear Genesis's mama and you would, and he would sing and you would swear it was Phil Collins. Yeah. Yeah. And so, you know, when, when, uh when he has to come down to, to audition for this band

and I'm like, I'm watching the video like him singing like Genesis like this. How does this dude get to do? This guy can't do this. There's no way. And he came down and he sang, uh what did he say? He sang Heart of the Sunrise, which we'll be doing at Key West. We'll be doing heart of the Sunrise. And I was just like, dude, you got the job and that was, that was awesome. Really cool. Yeah. Yeah. So, it, it, it's been great. It's been a fun ride and, uh,

and I'm like, I'm watching the video like him singing like Genesis like this. How does this dude get to do? This guy can't do this. There's no way. And he came down and he sang, uh what did he say? He sang Heart of the Sunrise, which we'll be doing at Key West. We'll be doing heart of the Sunrise. And I was just like, dude, you got the job and that was, that was awesome. Really cool. Yeah. Yeah. So, it, it, it's been great. It's been a fun ride and, uh,

you know, every year the band grows every year the band, you know, does better than the year before. So, you know, again, just soul throb be coming down there.

you know, every year the band grows every year the band, you know, does better than the year before. So, you know, again, just soul throb be coming down there.

Would you guys, you know, if someone listening, OK, you got this yes uh band awaken that plays the music of Yes. Um And I, you talk about touring and you, you, you're obviously popular and demand enough to make it to Key West and all these places I looked at the theaters and, and venues you play at

Would you guys, you know, if someone listening, OK, you got this yes uh band awaken that plays the music of Yes. Um And I, you talk about touring and you, you, you're obviously popular and demand enough to make it to Key West and all these places I looked at the theaters and, and venues you play at

just gotta be a cool life um to be able to tour with guys like that and, and run around and do what you're doing and have fun doing it. Um

just gotta be a cool life um to be able to tour with guys like that and, and run around and do what you're doing and have fun doing it. Um

Where's just, just for a fun question? Where are some of the most fun places you guys have been able to play at? And then what's one of the better compliments or something? Someone's come to you and said, hey, you know what I came out tonight, but this, this really spoke to me or this meant this to me or whatever it might be. So, uh two part question there is, you know, where do you, where are some places that stick out to you? Venues you get to play at? I hope Key West becomes one of those for you. And then what kind of compliments or feedback do you get? That's really kinda meant something to you that stuck out.

Where's just, just for a fun question? Where are some of the most fun places you guys have been able to play at? And then what's one of the better compliments or something? Someone's come to you and said, hey, you know what I came out tonight, but this, this really spoke to me or this meant this to me or whatever it might be. So, uh two part question there is, you know, where do you, where are some places that stick out to you? Venues you get to play at? I hope Key West becomes one of those for you. And then what kind of compliments or feedback do you get? That's really kinda meant something to you that stuck out.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Well, I look, I mean, I have to say the best compliment that, that we

Well, I look, I mean, I have to say the best compliment that, that we

ever get and we're very fortunate knock on wood that we've gotten it more than once. Um, is that you guys sound better than yes does. And, and I mean, that's it. I mean, I, I don't care about anything else, you know, I, I really don't, I, I don't care about anything else. I don't care about personal accolades or, you know, whatever

ever get and we're very fortunate knock on wood that we've gotten it more than once. Um, is that you guys sound better than yes does. And, and I mean, that's it. I mean, I, I don't care about anything else, you know, I, I really don't, I, I don't care about anything else. I don't care about personal accolades or, you know, whatever

the band do the job, you know, and when people come out and say, dude, man, I saw, I saw yes last year or last month or whatever. And I just saw you guys and you guys sound better. I mean, that's, that's it. That's the, that's the ultimate compliment I can, I can die now. Um So that as far as places that we've played, we've been, we've been very fortunate and very blessed that, um, you know, the, the, the, the theater, the theater,

the band do the job, you know, and when people come out and say, dude, man, I saw, I saw yes last year or last month or whatever. And I just saw you guys and you guys sound better. I mean, that's, that's it. That's the, that's the ultimate compliment I can, I can die now. Um So that as far as places that we've played, we've been, we've been very fortunate and very blessed that, um, you know, the, the, the, the theater, the theater,

you know, the theater

you know, the theater

tour that we hit, you know, in Pennsylvania and Jersey and, you know, up in, up in New England and stuff like that, they, they've got some really great place. Well, I, I'm tell you what, II, I would love to add Key West.

tour that we hit, you know, in Pennsylvania and Jersey and, you know, up in, up in New England and stuff like that, they, they've got some really great place. Well, I, I'm tell you what, II, I would love to add Key West.

Uh And I would love to add, uh, the Rams head in Baltimore. I would love to play that. Well,

Uh And I would love to add, uh, the Rams head in Baltimore. I would love to play that. Well,

they'll be listening. So, you know, there, there you go. There's the pitch that there,

they'll be listening. So, you know, there, there you go. There's the pitch that there,

there's the pitch, you know, we, we want to get into the Rams head in Baltimore. Uh You know, so, uh hopefully we'll, we'll get to add both of those. But uh

there's the pitch, you know, we, we want to get into the Rams head in Baltimore. Uh You know, so, uh hopefully we'll, we'll get to add both of those. But uh

yeah, I mean, we've been, like I said, we've been very blessed. No complain at all. Um

yeah, I mean, we've been, like I said, we've been very blessed. No complain at all. Um

So I'm sure you get asked this question and we've had some tremendous tribute bands come through the theater here along, you know, from big anyone you can imagine. I, I'd like to ask this question and it's probably 5050. Uh Yes and no to this question. So it's not a surprise either way. But

So I'm sure you get asked this question and we've had some tremendous tribute bands come through the theater here along, you know, from big anyone you can imagine. I, I'd like to ask this question and it's probably 5050. Uh Yes and no to this question. So it's not a surprise either way. But

have you ever, has any of anyone affiliated with? Yes, ever attended your shows or reached out to you and said that was great or don't do that or whatever it might be. But any, have you ever gotten any feedback on, on that side before

have you ever, has any of anyone affiliated with? Yes, ever attended your shows or reached out to you and said that was great or don't do that or whatever it might be. But any, have you ever gotten any feedback on, on that side before

uh attended? Uh interesting. Uh That's an interesting, uh no one from, yes. Oh, no, I shouldn't say that. All right. So we were playing at the hard rock in Atlantic City um a few years ago. And uh so we were on, of course, the smaller, much more modest stage on the, on the um in the large theater, Kansas was playing same night

uh attended? Uh interesting. Uh That's an interesting, uh no one from, yes. Oh, no, I shouldn't say that. All right. So we were playing at the hard rock in Atlantic City um a few years ago. And uh so we were on, of course, the smaller, much more modest stage on the, on the um in the large theater, Kansas was playing same night

and

and

the guy and, and Ronnie Platt the lead singer from Kansas and Tom Brislin, the keyboard player of Kansas who used to play keyboard. And yes, they came and they watched the set of arts, um and they came over and, you know, they were very, very, very, very appreciative, uh and very complimentary. So that was, that was a great feeling, you know, uh especially Tom, that's really from a keyboard keyboard perspective. I mean, the man is a monster. So, um

the guy and, and Ronnie Platt the lead singer from Kansas and Tom Brislin, the keyboard player of Kansas who used to play keyboard. And yes, they came and they watched the set of arts, um and they came over and, you know, they were very, very, very, very appreciative, uh and very complimentary. So that was, that was a great feeling, you know, uh especially Tom, that's really from a keyboard keyboard perspective. I mean, the man is a monster. So, um

so that, that was great. Um As far as other types of accolades, John Anderson, who's, you know, the, the original lead vocalist and founder of the band. Uh, I, I've had, I've had some, I've had some good uh correspondence with him back forth via email and, and such and,

so that, that was great. Um As far as other types of accolades, John Anderson, who's, you know, the, the original lead vocalist and founder of the band. Uh, I, I've had, I've had some, I've had some good uh correspondence with him back forth via email and, and such and,

and he's, you know, he's, he's offered a lot of positive compliments to the band as well. So it's really, it's nice to hear that is cool

and he's, you know, he's, he's offered a lot of positive compliments to the band as well. So it's really, it's nice to hear that is cool

because you never know what bands and I get it. But I mean, there's no way you guys cannot be doing tremendous, tremendous things for them. I mean, you're doing it well, you're doing it incredibly well, great. And, you know, for, there's an, there's gotta be an age group,

because you never know what bands and I get it. But I mean, there's no way you guys cannot be doing tremendous, tremendous things for them. I mean, you're doing it well, you're doing it incredibly well, great. And, you know, for, there's an, there's gotta be an age group,

I think Joe that probably has lost touch with. Yes, that you guys certainly can bring it back to, you know, I mean, there's gotta be a lot of tremendous help, you know, a lot of exposure and engagement for, yes, that you guys not just for your band, but for them as well, I would think. Right.

I think Joe that probably has lost touch with. Yes, that you guys certainly can bring it back to, you know, I mean, there's gotta be a lot of tremendous help, you know, a lot of exposure and engagement for, yes, that you guys not just for your band, but for them as well, I would think. Right.

Well, I think, you know, it, it's funny because there are some bands out there, like, you know, like original, like, like, like the Eagles, for example, uh, you know, King Crimson is a, is a, is another one with the Bob Fripp and, and they, they do not like any types of tributes or, or copies or covers or Don Henley is ridiculously vehemently against anyone playing his music.

Well, I think, you know, it, it's funny because there are some bands out there, like, you know, like original, like, like, like the Eagles, for example, uh, you know, King Crimson is a, is a, is another one with the Bob Fripp and, and they, they do not like any types of tributes or, or copies or covers or Don Henley is ridiculously vehemently against anyone playing his music.

Um, you know, but, but you're right, the, the age demographic of these classic rock bands, you know, they're getting older. Um, you know, and, and they're aging out and, um, you know, let, let's face it, you know, guys, when, you know, you're in your mid to upper sixties, you know, you don't, your rock and roll times are coming down, you know. Um, so, yeah, it is nice to go and, and play to some, uh, younger crowds

Um, you know, but, but you're right, the, the age demographic of these classic rock bands, you know, they're getting older. Um, you know, and, and they're aging out and, um, you know, let, let's face it, you know, guys, when, you know, you're in your mid to upper sixties, you know, you don't, your rock and roll times are coming down, you know. Um, so, yeah, it is nice to go and, and play to some, uh, younger crowds

and, uh, I didn't,

and, uh, I didn't,

I didn't cue the rap music in the background just to prove my point here. We're in the live studio to outside. Somebody came by and get the hip hop going as we're talking about the younger crowd. I didn't do that on purpose, I promise Joe. That's,

I didn't cue the rap music in the background just to prove my point here. We're in the live studio to outside. Somebody came by and get the hip hop going as we're talking about the younger crowd. I didn't do that on purpose, I promise Joe. That's,

that's ok. No, but, you know, but it's funny and what, what I think Don Henley is Missing and, uh, is that, you know, if all we could do as a tribute band is bolster their music that, that's all we're looking to do.

that's ok. No, but, you know, but it's funny and what, what I think Don Henley is Missing and, uh, is that, you know, if all we could do as a tribute band is bolster their music that, that's all we're looking to do.

You know, so if we can honor their legacy and bring some new fans into the foray and then maybe those guys that come see us will go and see them when they come to, come to town. Right. So there's, you know, in my opinion, there's no downside of a tribute band to, to the band that they're attributing,

You know, so if we can honor their legacy and bring some new fans into the foray and then maybe those guys that come see us will go and see them when they come to, come to town. Right. So there's, you know, in my opinion, there's no downside of a tribute band to, to the band that they're attributing,

you know, all we can do is just keep the legacy alive. You know, and if we're doing it and we do it well, then let us do it, you know, we'll have a good time doing it. You know, it's, it's, you know, I think it's a win, win for

you know, all we can do is just keep the legacy alive. You know, and if we're doing it and we do it well, then let us do it, you know, we'll have a good time doing it. You know, it's, it's, you know, I think it's a win, win for

everybody

everybody

that was really well, I've, I've kept you, Joe. We got, uh, Joe Luca, he's the bandleader and keyboarders for, uh, the, the awaken the music of, yes, they're gonna be here at the Key West Theater if you would like to, to grab tickets do it while you can. We know the venue is,

that was really well, I've, I've kept you, Joe. We got, uh, Joe Luca, he's the bandleader and keyboarders for, uh, the, the awaken the music of, yes, they're gonna be here at the Key West Theater if you would like to, to grab tickets do it while you can. We know the venue is,

uh, not tiny, but there's limited seats when, when it comes down to it for the demand. So Key West theater.com, September 7th, the doors open at seven. This show begins at eight, Joe Luca here on the Key West Florida, uh Florida Keys Weekly podcasting show, Joe, I'll, I'll end it with this. Um You guys obviously travel quite a bit. You're, you're a band, but you're a bunch of guys who hang out together a lot. What's the best part of this for you? What, what do you really, what do you enjoy doing?

uh, not tiny, but there's limited seats when, when it comes down to it for the demand. So Key West theater.com, September 7th, the doors open at seven. This show begins at eight, Joe Luca here on the Key West Florida, uh Florida Keys Weekly podcasting show, Joe, I'll, I'll end it with this. Um You guys obviously travel quite a bit. You're, you're a band, but you're a bunch of guys who hang out together a lot. What's the best part of this for you? What, what do you really, what do you enjoy doing?

Did I lose you,

Did I lose you,

Joe? Are you still there, buddy?

Joe? Are you still there, buddy?

Hello.

Hello.

We may have lost Joe. That might have been the end of the end of the interview here. But um uh really, really great talking to you Joe. I don't know if you can hear me or not, Joe, you're there.

We may have lost Joe. That might have been the end of the end of the interview here. But um uh really, really great talking to you Joe. I don't know if you can hear me or not, Joe, you're there.

Maybe not. We may have lost him there but um uh we we can get it back on. We will, but if not, it's gonna be a show. You don't wanna miss uh Key West theater.com uh September 7th 7 to 8 p.m. awaken the music of yes and I hate that we kinda lost Joe right there at the end of the interview but uh sounds like a great guy. Let's see if we can get him back in here,

Maybe not. We may have lost him there but um uh we we can get it back on. We will, but if not, it's gonna be a show. You don't wanna miss uh Key West theater.com uh September 7th 7 to 8 p.m. awaken the music of yes and I hate that we kinda lost Joe right there at the end of the interview but uh sounds like a great guy. Let's see if we can get him back in here,

Joe. Are you there? Oh man. Alright. I was afraid we had to end this without you and I was I was telling everyone about the dates again and where to be. So I'm glad we got you back on. I won't keep you much longer. I know we're at the end of this but Joe, uh the question I had to kind of to send this off and I'm glad you got back on.

Joe. Are you there? Oh man. Alright. I was afraid we had to end this without you and I was I was telling everyone about the dates again and where to be. So I'm glad we got you back on. I won't keep you much longer. I know we're at the end of this but Joe, uh the question I had to kind of to send this off and I'm glad you got back on.

Um, you guys do a lot of touring. There's five of you, you're, you've got to be close to one another

Um, you guys do a lot of touring. There's five of you, you're, you've got to be close to one another

aside from playing to the crowds and, and getting to do what you love doing in front of people. What's the best part of touring and hanging, hanging with these guys? What do you really enjoy about this?

aside from playing to the crowds and, and getting to do what you love doing in front of people. What's the best part of touring and hanging, hanging with these guys? What do you really enjoy about this?

A,

A,

I, I would have to say, interacting with, with, with the crowd. I, I really do. You know, we, we, um, we do something that not, not a lot of bands do. Um, I don't think at least I don't think they do and that's when, when the show is over and the encore is finished and we take our bow. We do not walk off stage. Instead, we jump off stage into the audience. Um, and we talk to everybody and anyone who wants to come up and talk to us

I, I would have to say, interacting with, with, with the crowd. I, I really do. You know, we, we, um, we do something that not, not a lot of bands do. Um, I don't think at least I don't think they do and that's when, when the show is over and the encore is finished and we take our bow. We do not walk off stage. Instead, we jump off stage into the audience. Um, and we talk to everybody and anyone who wants to come up and talk to us

and chat. We're, we're more than happy to do that and, and interact with, with everyone and just, uh, show our appreciation for them coming down and, uh, and we trade some stories and that's other than playing the music, that's probably the best part of all.

and chat. We're, we're more than happy to do that and, and interact with, with everyone and just, uh, show our appreciation for them coming down and, uh, and we trade some stories and that's other than playing the music, that's probably the best part of all.

All right. Last question. What do you, what's your, what's your, I know there's so many hits, you know, you got close to the edge. You've got, I've seen good people Rhythm of Love. Gates of Delirium. Go on and on and on about. Yes. What, what's your, what's the most? I don't know if it's a b side track or something.

All right. Last question. What do you, what's your, what's your, I know there's so many hits, you know, you got close to the edge. You've got, I've seen good people Rhythm of Love. Gates of Delirium. Go on and on and on about. Yes. What, what's your, what's the most? I don't know if it's a b side track or something.

What, what do you, what, which one would you just say I love doing this song. It lets me pour my heart out on the keyboard vocals. Which one do you love the most?

What, what do you, what, which one would you just say I love doing this song. It lets me pour my heart out on the keyboard vocals. Which one do you love the most?

Uh I, I would say I'd say probably close to the edge is probably my favorite one to play live. Um Yeah, I think I kind of encapulates, encapsulates, I should say, I'm sorry, encapsulates everything. That's, that's great about. Yes. Um

Uh I, I would say I'd say probably close to the edge is probably my favorite one to play live. Um Yeah, I think I kind of encapulates, encapsulates, I should say, I'm sorry, encapsulates everything. That's, that's great about. Yes. Um

Yeah, that's

Yeah, that's

awesome.

awesome.

Well, listen, we're, we're pumped to see you. You're fun to talk to. I know uh again, if you guys just uh folks and listeners, uh ladies and gents, everyone uh just Google, just look at awaken the music of Yes and Joe, if they want to learn more about you guys and hear more before you get here, any other places you want them to visit your website or other other platforms to list to check you out. What would you recommend?

Well, listen, we're, we're pumped to see you. You're fun to talk to. I know uh again, if you guys just uh folks and listeners, uh ladies and gents, everyone uh just Google, just look at awaken the music of Yes and Joe, if they want to learn more about you guys and hear more before you get here, any other places you want them to visit your website or other other platforms to list to check you out. What would you recommend?

Well, uh so the uh the website uh a Waking Yes Tribute has some stuff but Facebook has just about everything. And uh so if you go on Facebook and you search a Waking Yes Tribute, you'll find like a plethora of stuff. I think we've got just about everything up there. Um So plenty of videos and, and all the announcements and everything is, is on Facebook.

Well, uh so the uh the website uh a Waking Yes Tribute has some stuff but Facebook has just about everything. And uh so if you go on Facebook and you search a Waking Yes Tribute, you'll find like a plethora of stuff. I think we've got just about everything up there. Um So plenty of videos and, and all the announcements and everything is, is on Facebook.

Good deal. All right, everyone. Check it out there. You're not going to be disappointed. This is gonna be a fun,

Good deal. All right, everyone. Check it out there. You're not going to be disappointed. This is gonna be a fun,

fun show full of energy. You can just tell by talking to Joe. It's gonna be fun and personable and the talent level is, you know, they're coming here for a reason off the charts. Key West theater.com. The show is September 7th 7 p.m. Doors open 8 p.m. This show will begin and looking forward to it, Joe. Thanks for being on the show with us and uh I look forward to seeing you as well and I, I really appreciate you taking the time to do this. Thanks again.

fun show full of energy. You can just tell by talking to Joe. It's gonna be fun and personable and the talent level is, you know, they're coming here for a reason off the charts. Key West theater.com. The show is September 7th 7 p.m. Doors open 8 p.m. This show will begin and looking forward to it, Joe. Thanks for being on the show with us and uh I look forward to seeing you as well and I, I really appreciate you taking the time to do this. Thanks again.

It was a pleasure.

It was a pleasure.

Thanks for having me. Alright.

Thanks for having me. Alright.

We'll see you soon at Key West, Joe. All the best

We'll see you soon at Key West, Joe. All the best

take care. Yes, sir.

take care. Yes, sir.