- Buy a CD or a vinyl record, get a $1 Amazon MP3 Credit. Limit one promotional credit per customer. Here's how (restrictions apply)
- Includes FREE MP3 version of this album Here's how (restrictions apply)
| |||||||||||||||
Special Offers and Product Promotions
Frequently Bought Together
Product Details
Would you like to update product info or give feedback on images? |
Track Listings
| 1. New New World |
| 2. Understanding Truth |
| 3. Unbroken Spirit |
| 4. Love of the Life |
| 5. Big Buddha Song |
| 6. Incoming |
| 7. Effortlessly |
| 8. Love and Understanding |
| 9. Just One Man |
| 10. Sharpening the Sword |
| 11. Cloudz |
Editorial Reviews
2011 album from the former Yes vocalist. This album is a collaborative affair featuring Jon and many other artists writing songs via the internet while Jon performs them. The album as a performance is however a solo album and features that unique Jon Anderson stamp. It began life as an advert on Jon Anderson's website. "About four years ago I just put in an ad on my website: 'Musicians Wanted'... this is the result." - Jon Anderson
Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
26 of 27 people found the following review helpful
Format:Audio CD
"Survival & other stories" is a unique collaboration of Jon Anderson with musicians that responded to his website request "Musicians wanted...send me your music..." posted four years ago. Ever the spirited innovator and adopter of new technology, Jon pushes the boundaries of music making in the 21st century. All songs were worked on and recorded via the internet, with his collaborators recording in their own home studies around the world and Jon adding his unique vocals and the final production in his home studio in San Luis Obispo. The results are superb and represent easily one of the best works of his over 40 year long career.
Jon sings with renewed energy having survived long standing illnesses and near death experiences in the past four years. The songs present a fresh perspective of his positive outlook on life, love and the spiritual future of the human race. The freshness in the songs is also created by the variety of musical styles that the different musicians bring in. Simple acoustic guitar or piano supported songs ("Effortlessly"; "Love & Understanding"; "Cloudz") mix with fully orchestrated pieces ("Incoming"; "Just one man"), world music ("Sharpening the Sword") and modern pop ("New New World"). "Making music is easy" he writes in the liner notes and he shows us in the effortless mastering of various musical styles and influences in this outstanding collection of songs held together by his voice and spirit.
Jon sings with renewed energy having survived long standing illnesses and near death experiences in the past four years. The songs present a fresh perspective of his positive outlook on life, love and the spiritual future of the human race. The freshness in the songs is also created by the variety of musical styles that the different musicians bring in. Simple acoustic guitar or piano supported songs ("Effortlessly"; "Love & Understanding"; "Cloudz") mix with fully orchestrated pieces ("Incoming"; "Just one man"), world music ("Sharpening the Sword") and modern pop ("New New World"). "Making music is easy" he writes in the liner notes and he shows us in the effortless mastering of various musical styles and influences in this outstanding collection of songs held together by his voice and spirit.
32 of 38 people found the following review helpful
Format:Audio CD
For the first time in my life, I went to see Jon Anderson sing at the BB King's Blues Club in NYC on April 30th of this year. I have been a fan of his since I was eight. I am 33 now. I only recently got mostly caught up with the work he did with Yes, Vangelis and other artists within the last nine years. It would be a TOTAL understatement to say he has touched my life with his celestial voice and his out-of-this-world beautiful lyrics, because I think of the heavenly Light he represents and how that Light has used Jon to set my soul free from the lies I got told all my life.
Imagine, therefore, my horror back in 2008 when Jon nearly died from an asthma attack.
Imagine, now, my amazement and utter relief watching from afar his miraculous recovery and the regained ability to do what he loves best: sing and make music. The result of this triumphant comeback: "Survival and Other Stories," which I purchased at BB King's before the show started.
My friend and I popped in the CD once we were back in her car and like the Jon fans we are, we fell even further under this magical man's spell!
One thing I have always loved about Jon is the true artistic ability to create different-sounding albums while retaining the core essence of who he is inside. "Survival and Other Stories" follows that deeply creative pattern, and then some.
"Unbroken Spirit" is the cornerstone song of this album, and like many of Jon's other songs, it struck me to the bone with this intense understanding of what it means to be alive and breathing, literally and philosophically. While I have not experienced the things Jon has recently, and while I am still young, "Unbroken Spirit" made me take a look back at the challenging things I've experienced and I realized that, I too, have survived those challenges, and I have not allowed life to bring me down. Indeed, the song showed me my own internal strength and that I am stronger still for coming through the trials of my past.
Once more, I have Jon (and the Universe) to thank for this deeper understanding, and "Sharpening the Sword," another richly inspiring song backs up that understanding with the message that each challenge we face sharpens us, hones us, and if we will it, those challenges will change us for the better. And these are just two examples of the collection of 'musical spells' that is "Survival & Other Stories."
Simply put, this is another alchemical masterpiece from a man who could rightly be called a musical Wizard: Jon Anderson's possession of cosmic-level musical talents, skills and work ethic on top of fortitude and strength, mixed with passion, courage of his convictions, and deep attunement with Spirit have marked him for all time as a force to be reckoned with.
A true Wizardly spirit that, indeed, shall never be broken.
Imagine, therefore, my horror back in 2008 when Jon nearly died from an asthma attack.
Imagine, now, my amazement and utter relief watching from afar his miraculous recovery and the regained ability to do what he loves best: sing and make music. The result of this triumphant comeback: "Survival and Other Stories," which I purchased at BB King's before the show started.
My friend and I popped in the CD once we were back in her car and like the Jon fans we are, we fell even further under this magical man's spell!
One thing I have always loved about Jon is the true artistic ability to create different-sounding albums while retaining the core essence of who he is inside. "Survival and Other Stories" follows that deeply creative pattern, and then some.
"Unbroken Spirit" is the cornerstone song of this album, and like many of Jon's other songs, it struck me to the bone with this intense understanding of what it means to be alive and breathing, literally and philosophically. While I have not experienced the things Jon has recently, and while I am still young, "Unbroken Spirit" made me take a look back at the challenging things I've experienced and I realized that, I too, have survived those challenges, and I have not allowed life to bring me down. Indeed, the song showed me my own internal strength and that I am stronger still for coming through the trials of my past.
Once more, I have Jon (and the Universe) to thank for this deeper understanding, and "Sharpening the Sword," another richly inspiring song backs up that understanding with the message that each challenge we face sharpens us, hones us, and if we will it, those challenges will change us for the better. And these are just two examples of the collection of 'musical spells' that is "Survival & Other Stories."
Simply put, this is another alchemical masterpiece from a man who could rightly be called a musical Wizard: Jon Anderson's possession of cosmic-level musical talents, skills and work ethic on top of fortitude and strength, mixed with passion, courage of his convictions, and deep attunement with Spirit have marked him for all time as a force to be reckoned with.
A true Wizardly spirit that, indeed, shall never be broken.
45 of 56 people found the following review helpful
Format:Audio CD
Picture yourself as a singer on stage in front of a large crowd of people with all eyes upon you. Now, even if you are well accustomed to performing on stage, and are within your comfort zone in front of an audience and do well, keeping audiences entertained year after year is of course a completely different story. To survive and remain a long-term success, everything is dependent on your abilities as a vocalist and the quality of the lyrical message you wish to deliver.
Jon Anderson, former lead vocalist and lyrical messenger for the group Yes, is while I write this review, standing on a stage entertaining audiences during tour venues in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, which is in support of his concept album - Survival & Other Stories. What I find most impressive about Jon Anderson is the fact he has been not only capturing, but keeping a firm grip on audiences with his music for the past 5 decades, and so it goes without saying that Jon Anderson is a wonderfully gifted vocalist with a exciting message people truly want to hear over and over again. It was during my recent 2011 interview with Jon Anderson where he specified that while on stage, concert goers would hear original Yes songs, along with Jon & Vangelis songs. In addition he articulates the biographical aspects about his life to an audience, what the songs mean and how they were created, along with singing songs from his newest release - Survival & Other Stories. Jon also acknowledged the importance his fans are to him, which are of course the lifeblood for any artist.
Jon Anderson is a music superstar, even to those other than his most loyal fans who regard him as one of the greatest music icons past and present. While true he is best known as the former lead singer and key lyricist of the Progressive Rock band Yes, his prolific solo music career continues to be as positive and significant today as it was years ago, when people like myself were buying his vinyl records! Jon Anderson's influence and starring role in music over five decades is legendary, and one can say Jon's divine voice and lyrical message is clearly unforgettable. Presently, it is estimated over 38 million records were sold during his years as the dynamic lead vocalist with Yes, and his successful solo career to date. Even today people are discovering the earlier works from Yes, in addition to his numerous collaborations with other top artists, and personalized solo projects.
Survival & Other Stories is a concept album Jon created after he nearly perished from a serious illness. The silver lining began after his recovery when this unique project began to take shape. During this time period, Jon published a message on his website inviting artists to submit their music for this new endeavor. When musicians from all corners of the world turned in their ethnic music over the internet the substance of something beautiful was born. Jon then mixed, composed, and co-produced with wife Jane Anderson the first of three concept albums, Survival & Other Stories which has a collection of 11 songs with wonderful orchestrations unified with Jon's heartfelt vocal energies clearly articulated both musically and lyrically as optimistic and positive.
The first song New New World which opens with bold drum cadence, snare taps, and dancing strings makes a clear distinction this release is like no other yet his lyrical propensity and alto tenor range vocals reassure the listener this release will be just as impressive as the melodies he released decades ago. Unbroken Sprit is a moving piece with a light percussion backed melody, while Love Of The Life & Big Buddha Song touch upon politics and religion with spirited instrumentals backing verses of inspiration. The blend of harmonic ethnicities continues in the moderately arranged melodies Understanding Truth, Effortlessly, Love And Understanding & Sharpening The Sword. All songs are identifiable in a sense by vocal recognition, yet each has a varying metrical rhythm and unique melody which gives every song a singular timbre and atmosphere. Gentle introspective moments are prevalent qualities in the more serene songs Incoming, Just One Man & Cloudz.
Jon Anderson without a doubt has a wonderful story to share, and in the auditory sense, his new release has a personalized point of view that comes across as musical magic. And while many artists have abandoned their music careers or quietly faded away by stepping off and never returning to the stage, Jon Anderson has clearly reached the expert level while entertaining his audiences onstage and in the studio. As it turns out, 2011 now appears to be an exciting year for everyone. On the 10 page CD cover booklet are all song lyrics and a memoir style narrative from Jon. The global musicians listed on specific songs are; Jamie Dunlap, Peter Kiel, Jann Castor, Dan Spollen, Kevin Shima, Stefan Poddell, Steve Layton, Jeremy Cubert, Christophe Lebled, Ryan Fraley, Daniel Reinker, and Paul Quinn.
Jon Anderson, former lead vocalist and lyrical messenger for the group Yes, is while I write this review, standing on a stage entertaining audiences during tour venues in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, which is in support of his concept album - Survival & Other Stories. What I find most impressive about Jon Anderson is the fact he has been not only capturing, but keeping a firm grip on audiences with his music for the past 5 decades, and so it goes without saying that Jon Anderson is a wonderfully gifted vocalist with a exciting message people truly want to hear over and over again. It was during my recent 2011 interview with Jon Anderson where he specified that while on stage, concert goers would hear original Yes songs, along with Jon & Vangelis songs. In addition he articulates the biographical aspects about his life to an audience, what the songs mean and how they were created, along with singing songs from his newest release - Survival & Other Stories. Jon also acknowledged the importance his fans are to him, which are of course the lifeblood for any artist.
Jon Anderson is a music superstar, even to those other than his most loyal fans who regard him as one of the greatest music icons past and present. While true he is best known as the former lead singer and key lyricist of the Progressive Rock band Yes, his prolific solo music career continues to be as positive and significant today as it was years ago, when people like myself were buying his vinyl records! Jon Anderson's influence and starring role in music over five decades is legendary, and one can say Jon's divine voice and lyrical message is clearly unforgettable. Presently, it is estimated over 38 million records were sold during his years as the dynamic lead vocalist with Yes, and his successful solo career to date. Even today people are discovering the earlier works from Yes, in addition to his numerous collaborations with other top artists, and personalized solo projects.
Survival & Other Stories is a concept album Jon created after he nearly perished from a serious illness. The silver lining began after his recovery when this unique project began to take shape. During this time period, Jon published a message on his website inviting artists to submit their music for this new endeavor. When musicians from all corners of the world turned in their ethnic music over the internet the substance of something beautiful was born. Jon then mixed, composed, and co-produced with wife Jane Anderson the first of three concept albums, Survival & Other Stories which has a collection of 11 songs with wonderful orchestrations unified with Jon's heartfelt vocal energies clearly articulated both musically and lyrically as optimistic and positive.
The first song New New World which opens with bold drum cadence, snare taps, and dancing strings makes a clear distinction this release is like no other yet his lyrical propensity and alto tenor range vocals reassure the listener this release will be just as impressive as the melodies he released decades ago. Unbroken Sprit is a moving piece with a light percussion backed melody, while Love Of The Life & Big Buddha Song touch upon politics and religion with spirited instrumentals backing verses of inspiration. The blend of harmonic ethnicities continues in the moderately arranged melodies Understanding Truth, Effortlessly, Love And Understanding & Sharpening The Sword. All songs are identifiable in a sense by vocal recognition, yet each has a varying metrical rhythm and unique melody which gives every song a singular timbre and atmosphere. Gentle introspective moments are prevalent qualities in the more serene songs Incoming, Just One Man & Cloudz.
Jon Anderson without a doubt has a wonderful story to share, and in the auditory sense, his new release has a personalized point of view that comes across as musical magic. And while many artists have abandoned their music careers or quietly faded away by stepping off and never returning to the stage, Jon Anderson has clearly reached the expert level while entertaining his audiences onstage and in the studio. As it turns out, 2011 now appears to be an exciting year for everyone. On the 10 page CD cover booklet are all song lyrics and a memoir style narrative from Jon. The global musicians listed on specific songs are; Jamie Dunlap, Peter Kiel, Jann Castor, Dan Spollen, Kevin Shima, Stefan Poddell, Steve Layton, Jeremy Cubert, Christophe Lebled, Ryan Fraley, Daniel Reinker, and Paul Quinn.
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Jon
It's Jon, how can anyone possibly go wrong? Everything he does is with a pure heart and soul. He is a man who lives and writes exactly what he believes and is a true minsiter... Read more
Published 1 month ago by Lisakay
5.0 out of 5 stars
Jon Anderson's voice is truly amazing
Being a YES fan, it was great to see Jon Anderson at the 2013 Byron Bay Blues Fest. His voice is a gift. I bought this album as a result and it does disappoint. Read more
Published 1 month ago by Wayne Barnes
5.0 out of 5 stars
Powerful Songs
This album is beautiful. Jon Andersons voice is excellent, the melodies are striking, the instrumentation is wonderful. Read more
Published 4 months ago by Tommy T
5.0 out of 5 stars
The best Jon in years!
This CD is the best thing I've heard from Jon in a long time. It is so spiritual and uplifting. The unique concept of the songwriting collaborations perfectly suits his wonderful... Read more
Published 5 months ago by T. J. Millman
5.0 out of 5 stars
Jon Anderson Survival
Jon Anderson is awesome. Its like Yes lite. I really enjoy listening to his music. Live long and prosper Jon!
Published 6 months ago by AL
5.0 out of 5 stars
He is the Best
This is pure Jon, love it he is singing better then ever. Cloudz.... so simple so deep so good. To bad he is not with YES anymore.
Published 8 months ago by todofoto
3.0 out of 5 stars
fizzles out as it goes along
As New New World started, I thought, here we go, a post Yes Anderson on his own terms. Yes has managed a post Anderson Yes effort, so let's see what the Northern Englishman can... Read more
Published 14 months ago by o dubhthaigh
4.0 out of 5 stars
music
Is in the ear & mind of the listener. Reviews shouldn't matter-it's a person's own opinion. The cd itself was very good quality.
Published 16 months ago by Gregory C. Ward
5.0 out of 5 stars
Best use of a Species Changing Event
Anderson rightly called the internet a species changing event and he has made brilliant use of it here. This is a wise, profound, and endearing work. Read more
Published 16 months ago by Idaho
4.0 out of 5 stars
Jon Anderson - Survival & Other Stories
Um disco melhor do que aquele feito anteriormente com Rick Wakeman, mas no mesmo estilo. Calmo e sereno ao estilo de Jon Anderson, năo apresentando novidades quanto ao estilo de... Read more
Published 18 months ago by Jose Henrique
Listmania!
So You'd Like to...
|
|
