----------------------------------------------------- MAY 15, 2002 ----------------------------------------------------- Source: Chicago Sun Times  Wakeman finally says 'yes' to Yes reunion  By Barry A. Jeckell NEW YORK--Although he has said many times that it was ''unlikely,'' keyboardist Rick Wakeman has once again rejoined the progressive rock band Yes, and will be with the band on its summer North American tour. ''It's true that I have said in many interviews that I thought it unlikely to happen,'' Wakeman says on his official Web site, ''but I also said that I would never say never [although I'm sure somebody is bound to find an interview somewhere where I said 'never']!'' Wakeman, who has been in and out of the Yes lineup many times over the last 33 years, last exited the group in the mid-1990s to concentrate on his solo career. ''We are very excited to have Rick joining us on this tour,'' bassist Chris Squire said in a statement. ''It's been something the fans have wanted to see for quite some time, and we are happy to be playing with him again.'' What is being called the ''classic'' Yes lineup--vocalist Jon Anderson, guitarist Steve Howe, drummer Alan White, Squire, and Wakeman--will kick off its North American tour July 17 in Seattle and come to the Chicago Theatre on July 26. An exclusive Internet presale will begin at 9 a.m. Thursday at windowsmedia.com. Along with the opportunity to purchase tickets before they go on sale to the public, the site also features rare Yes audio and video clips. The group will be touring in support of its forthcoming Rhino/ Elektra box set, ''In a Word: Yes (1969-).'' Due July 16, the five-disc, 55-track set boasts material from the band's entire career, as well as an 80-page booklet with rare photos and essays. The booklet will also feature quotes from a host of notables, including "Almost Famous" writer-director Cameron Crowe, Phish drummer Jon Fishman, Primus bandleader-bassist Les Claypool, Kings X bassist Doug Pinnick and Tool drummer Danny Carey. Close Window YesInThePress.com For site comments, problems, corrections, or additions, contact YesinthePress@aol.com