Following the 1975 Relayer tour, the members of YES took a hiatus for each of the five members to produce solo albums. For lead vocalist JON ANDERSON, it meant bringing a mobile recording unit to his home in Buckinghamshire, UK, to create a self-produced album where he played all of the instruments, assisted by YES sound engineer Mike Dunne. The result was 'Olias of Sunhillow,' which was released by Atlantic Records on July 9, 1976, debuting at #8 on the UK album charts and #47 on the Billboard top 200.
JON comments on the upcoming release:
"The dream of Olias was to spend time learning how to play the numerous instruments I had collected over a period of time… which I kept in my garage…..ranging from guitars, Koto and ethnic flute instruments, harp and percussion to modern electronic keyboards.
I had sketched out the framework of a story relating to the power of music and connected to the Seven Sisters star system, The Pleiades.
"All very simple, really. The evolution of the idea took me on an everlasting mission, driving me a bit crazy but nonetheless a satisfying experience which has stood the test of time….hoping you enjoy the journey!
"Best wishes, Jon🙏”
With long-time YES artist Roger Dean not available, JON enlisted artist David Fairbrother-Roe, who was recommended to JON by a friend, to create the elaborate packaging for the album.
This July, Mobile Fidelity, a label known for high-end audio releases, will be rereleasing 'Olias of Sunhillow' on 180gram vinyl.
About the re-release, Mobile Fidelity states:
“Jon Anderson’s 'Olias of Sunhillow' is a cult classic. Strictly limited to 2,000 numbered copies and featuring deluxe packaging that replicates the original gatefold jacket with an inner hinged panel and embossed textures, Mobile Fidelity’s 50th anniversary reissue is only the second domestic vinyl version of the concept album since its 1976 release. Preorder your 180g 33RPM LP copy now!”