Prog rock giants heading for Midlands

Fans of progressive rock are in for a treat with the announcement of three Midlands concerts by giants of the genre.

Legendary supergroup Yes, will perform at Birmingham Symphony Hall on Monday, November 16; former Genesis guitarist Steve Hackett is at the Robin 2, Bilston, on Wednesday, November 18, and Jethro Tull, fronted by the eccentric Ian Anderson, will be at Symphony Hall on Wednesday, March 24, 2010.

Birmingham is the first night of Yes's UK tour, which features the classic line-up of guitarist Steve Howe, bassist Chris Squire and drummer Alan White, joined on tour by keyboard player Oliver Wakeman, son of the band's legendary synthesiser maestro Rick, and Canadia vocalist Benoit David on vocals, replacing singer Jon Anderson, who was sidelined last year with a serious respiratory problem.

Talking about the tour, which celebrates the band's four decades, Squire said, "I'm very excited about the new additions to the Yes line-up. We have already had a very successful tour of the US this summer and aim to be working on some new Yes music for next year."

Steve Hackett will be at the Robin 2 to promote his new album Out Of The Tunnel's Mouth. A member of Genesis from 1970-1977, Hackett has since enjoyed a successful solo career, releasing a mammoth 22 solo albums.

Recorded entirely in Hackett's London living room, the album covers a variety of styles, some progressive, some heavy and some with his trademark classical style.

The guitarist said: "I'm totally biased of course but I suspect it's probably the best album ever crafted in a Twickenham living room since the Stones set fire to the Station Hotel!"

Jethro Tull will bring a "Best of Tull" set to Symphony Hall, with some rare gems thrown in for good measure.

Singer and flautist Ian Anderson said: "Of all the music recorded by Jethro Tull over the years, there are several songs which have rarely, if ever, been performed in public. We look forward to introducing some of this material to the setlist in 2010 along with some of the tried and trusty favourites."

* Yes are at Birmingham Symphony Hall on Monday, November 16. Tickets cost £33.50 plus booking fee.

* Steve Hackett is at the Robin 2, Bilston, on Wednesday, November 18. Tickets are £18.50 in advance or £20 on the door.

* Jethro Tull, will be at Symphony Hall on Wednesday, March 24, 2010. Tickets are £22.50 and £28.50 plus booking fee.