----------------------------------------------------- MAY 2002 ----------------------------------------------------- Source: ARTISTDirect http://imusic.artistdirect.com/showcase/contemporary/jonanderson.html CD Review: Jon Anderson: Toltec (Vinyl released 1996) Toltec, Jon Anderson's second major release for Windham Hill, represents the popular singer and composer's heartfelt musical expression of mysteries absorbed from Native American culture. Having already established himself as a masterful world music artist with the lively Latin-based rhythms and textures of 1994's Deseo. Anderson has fashioned a sweeping musical statement of global harmony that incorporates such inspirations as the writings of author Carlos Castenada, the wisdom of the ancient Toltec, and a transcendental experience of his own. Best know as the lead vocalist of the phenomenally successful progressive rock band Yes, Anderson has always been a restless voyager. A native of Lancashire, England who now makes his home in San Luis Obispo, California, he has lived in the Caribbean and the south of France, as well. In recent years, as his travels have taken him to Peru, Venezuela, Chile, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua, Anderson has further broadened his musical palette. To his early interests in ancient and indonesian music and the sounds of Trinidadian Carnival, he added the Latin American beats and melodies so prevalent on Deseo and The Deseo Remixes. Toltec marks an even greater expansion and deepening of Anderson's artistic inquiries. "I was fortunate to have what you would call a very spiritual experience," he explains, "and it came out of singing a song." During a Los Angeles concert by his longtime musical partner Vangelis, Anderson joined the Greek keyboardist on stage to sing a few songs, dedicating one to the ancient people of what is now called California. "Lo and behold, one of the ancient people came to me that evening," he explains, " and talked to me about the real and wonderful world of Native Americans. It was an incredible experience." After his visitation from the ancient, Anderson rededicated himself to his pursuit of timeless native wisdom. "Doing this music was a way of reconnecting with the ancient people in the hope that we all become aware of our heritage as tribal people," Anderson explains. "As my friend Longwalker says on the album, we must take care of this planet in order to take care of our souls, our ancient ones, and our future children. When people listen to Toltec, I would hope they would close their eyes and let the music take them on a musical adventure, wherever they want to go." Close Window YesInThePress.com For site comments, problems, corrections, or additions, contact YesinthePress@aol.com