From Hofstadter's Godel, Escher, Bach: Crab: Oh, you needn't fear that infatuation will totally die. One of the nice things about that sort of youthful thrill is that it can always resuscitated, just when you thought it was finally dead. It just takes the right kind of triggering from the outside. Achilles: Oh, really? Such as what? Crab: Such as hearing it through the ears, so to speak, of someone to whom it is a totally new experience. Somehow the excitement transmits itself, and I can feel thrilled again.
Renaissance never get any credit for their music in the critical world, but if you listen, they really can play and sing. Wait until you do Scheherazade.
Scheherazade by Renaissance is a fantastic piece that takes up half of the album Scheherazade and Other Stories, definitely one of the best works of music ever made
Please let your audience know that the band celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2019 with a boxed set and Annie just celebrated her 50th with the band this year! Still going strong! "Ashes are Burning" on Live at Carnegie Hall (1976) where she sings the guitar solo and creates a vocal masterpiece. Albums don't do her justice - there is no other like her.
Welcome to "Annie's wonderful voice" world! She's a fantastic singer, and still one in the 21st century, yet! I am one of those who asked for some Renaissance song, and I am more than happy that you've enjoyed it, because it means we will see you reacting to more of their songs! Hope we all get there soon! Thanks from Brazil!
Doug, welcome to the sadly, little known but wonderful world that is Renaissance. Any tracks from any of their albums between 1970 -1978 will repay you with some wonderful music. Enjoy. With love from England.
Beautiful song, beautiful group and beautiful reaction!! well Doug, you are ready now for songs like A song for all seasons, Song for Scheherezade or Mother Russia
Great band. Some more suggestions from Renaisance: - Ashes are Burning - Carpet of the Sun - Song of Scheherazade - Day of the Dreamer - Mother Russia - Kiev
Besides Annie’s voice, and John Tout’s mad piano skills, Renaissance had the absolutely stellar Jon Camp on bass and vocals. Like Chris Squire, he played a Rickenbacker bass as a lead instrument. And Terry Sullivan is an unjustly overlooked drummer. He shunned the limelight, but his astonishing abilities really leap out at you when you see him on video.
My introduction to Renaissance was as the opening band for Yes in '76 (Relayer) and the Rick bass seemed required for that level of bass playing. That night stands out as best ever for a concert experience.
Lots for you to discover now Doug Renaissance are a magical band and Annie's voice is like no other Mother Russia next would be my suggestion ..or Ocean Gypsy
Love Scheherazade and Other Stories. Takes you out of misery into another world ;) The last three minutes of Song of .... is just plain out of this world beautiful.
Renaissance may just be the most under appreciated band in all of rock! Their musicianship is wonderful. They are technically skilled and their arrangements are spectacular. Then, to top it off, is the amazing singing of Annie Haslam, one of the greatest voices in popular music IMO.
As a big Renaissance fan I have to say this has been a great reaction (I watch all reactions to R). They are an unique band with no lead guitar, mostly lead by Jon Camp's bass. John Tout the pianist played on John Lennon's Imagine album (not on the title track), Mick Dunford was a fantiastic composer and Annie's vocals are sadly unknown to the wider public. Thank you for this, you have a new subscriber.
Oooh, Annie Haslam. What a voice! I love Renaissance, but my all time favorite piece is her duet on “Turn of the Century” with Steve Howe (Yes) from the Yes tribute album. Absolutely PRISTINE.
Renaissance is right up your alley, Doug. Lush, orchestral pop-rock-prog with a powerhouse lead vocalist that rewards deeper listening. The writing and playing might not be as clever as bands like Yes or Genesis, but Renaissance were smart enough to play to their strengths (pardon the pun). They were also a bit odd for their time in that there was no electric guitar and the sound focused on John Tout's piano and the backing orchestral arrangements. And here's a bit of trivia: Renaissance evolved out of the Yardbirds after that band folded in '68, founded by Kieth Relf (and his sister Jane) and Jim McCarty. The other English 60s band that played a part in Renaissance's history was the Nashville Teens, which saw many former members spend some time in the group.
@@christopherheckman7957 Yup, courtesy of Rob Hendry who left the band after that album. Dunford didn't even play the electric solo on "Ashes are Burning" on the next album.
Funny you mention that evolution. I spent many hours searching cut out bins for copies of Illusion's "Out of the Mist" in the early 80's. (Still have the 2 copies I found) It's one of those turn out the lights, turn up the volume and let the music wash over you albums. That album was my jumping on point to Renaissance, though at the time I didn't understand the bands history. I had just heard there was a relationship between the two bands. Oddly enough, again thanks to cut out bins, Azure d' or was my first Renaissance LP. I still enjoy listening to it but it's quite the departure from what came before it. Lastly as a plug for Illusion, if you are a Renaissance fan, check out Madonna Blue from their second album. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-0RS3YGmbuT8.html Illusion does that same establish a musical theme and build on it thing that I love about Renaissance.
I was lucky enough to have seen Renaissance when they played The Royal Albert Hall in London in 1977, with the backing of the full Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Harry Rabinowitz. Still the most memorable concert I have ever been to.
@@allisonrich5061 I have seen many great groups or solo artists in concert including Genesis, Wishbone Ash, Barclay James Harvest, Al Stewart, Status Quo etc, but nothing comes close to that evening at the RAH. Cherry Red records have released the CD of the concert, just a shame a video was never recorded
So happy to see you discovering the greats from the 70s like Yes, Gentle Giant, Genesis etc. Renaissance was up there with the best but less well known. You must listen to Ashes Are Burning. Indeed, you should listen to all their stuff. Annie Haslam had one of the best voices ever. Her range was incredible.
My reactions to the composer's reactions. (1) Annie Haslam is known in some prog circles as The Voice. Very versatile and a warm personality, too. (She signed some autographs after a performance in Atlanta that I went to.) (2) The band had a completely (or almost completely) different lineup for their first two albums; they were former members of the Yardbirds. The first album with this lineup was Prologue and features some experimentation, including "Rajah Khan" which sounds unlike anything they did before or after.
SO HAPPY you finally found Renaissance. Annie’s voice is an absolute weapon. It think it’s time to add “Song of Scheherezade” to the list for your long play reactions!
Renaissance has been one of my favorite bands for almost 50 years. Saw them live several times in the mid-70s. Their album “Live at Carnegie Hall” from 1976 is one of the best albums of all time in my humble opinion. This band laid the groundwork for so much great music over the last 4 decades, from prog rock to classical rock and even to symphonic metal.
Renaissance, and this album, was my gateway drug into symphonic prog nearly 50 years ago and they remain one of my favorites. I was fortunate to see Annie and Michael Dunford play a 2 person show at a small venue. It was incredible and is still a concert highlight for me. Thanks for this one.
This is one of my top 3 favorites Daily Doug’ videos already! Awesome! Thanks for doing Renaissance! PS: I miss Tout very much! My favorite keyboard player in Rock music!
Silly trivia time- When The Yardbirds (you remember The Yardbirds, right?) broke up in 1968, the group split in two. Keith Relf and Jim McCarty, the soul of the band went off and formed a folksy-classical rock band called Renaissance, while Jimmy Page and some buddies formed Led Zeppelin. True story. This song was co-written by Jim McCarty and carries a lot of the blues-ier influence from the early incarnation of the band, although he and Relf had left in 1971.
Great to see Turn of the Cards, one of their best albums Now you need to listen to more. Damn you Doug - you made me dig out all my Renaissance albums!
Annie Haslam could sing the phone book and I'd listen. Almost anyhthing from Renaissance in the 70's is worth a listen. Annie has also done a few outstanding prog covers that I recommend folks check out: Turn of the Century by Yes, Ripples by Genesis, and Moonlight Shadow by Mike Oldfield--all three are beyond beautiful.
@@markharwood7573 Her cover of Turn of the Century is with Steve Howe on acoustic guitar. I think it rivals, and maybe even surpasses, the the excellent original from Going for the One!
@@jeffreygould101 so often disappointed with cover versions in the prog genre ( especially Yes as I feel the record is the artwork, whereas Genesis are self confessed songwriters ( side discussion for later maybe)) but Annie’s Turn Of The Century made me appreciate the song SO much more. Didn’t know about ripple, much gratitude.
Doug, you are absolutely amazing. I love watching your reactions and especially to Renaissance. If I can remember way back when, I think I had those same facial expressions the first time I heard this piece. Keep up with Renaissance, it’s truly enjoyable. Bravo 😁👏🏽
Man, I guess I've never laughed so much on a Doug's video as I did on that! Seems that every time he thought he had figured out the music, it changed in an unexpectable way (for him), surprising him, what he shows to us in so many fun ways... that was just great, a great "reaction" video, really, because your reactions during it... very funny!
I have been a huge fan of Renaissance since the early/mid 70's....and was fortunate enough uto have seen them live in 1977., one of my most cherished memories. You have uncovered just the tip of a wonderful mountain of songs, well actually pieces.. since many run over 10 minutes in length. Some of my favorites to consider: "Mother Russia" ; "Black Flame" ; " Can You Hear Me?" ; "Ashes Are Burning."...etc!
I'd argue Camel for THE most underrated, but Renaissance are not far behind They should both have been right up there with Genesis, Pink Floyd and Yes.
Thanks Doug, I'm glad you enjoyed Renaissance! I look forward to you reviewing more, especially my favorites like Ocean Gypsy, Scheherazade, Can You Hear Me?, The Sisters, The Captive Heart, Touching Once, Song For All Seasons, etc, etc, etc
Doug- if you liked this, you will LOVE 1977's "Novella", with two long-format pieces and full orchestra. Also some cribbed Rimsky-Korsakov, as Dunford had a habit of 'borrowing' Russian themes quite often. It wasn't popular when new, but IMHO is the apex of Renassiance's composing, arranging and performing skills. Also, Annie grabs a couple of notes higher than in TIDU. Worth 40-ish minutes of your time, relevant to this channel or not.
Sadly, you only get to hear Renaissance for the first time just once per lifetime. Fortunately, these songs continue to sound great over a lifetime too.
Renaissance means love, tenderness, hope & beauty in Progressive Rock world. Loved them from the beginning (the 1st incarnation of the band in 1969) and this love grew more and more until it took me to the heavens by their masterpiece album "Scheherazade and the other stories". Once you get in touch with their fantastic music and the beautiful heavenly voice of Annie they will be always with you, like guardian angels. R.I.P great and underrated Maestros Michael Dunford & John Tout. And thank you master Doug for all the great music that you share here with your knowledge and pure joy. Cheers!
I've been listening to Renaissance since about the time that album came out. Later, I delved into some of the original band's earlier stuff. They had a close connection to The Yardbirds. Keith Relf played guitar and Jane Relf was the lead singer. Annie's voice transcends all. She's gifted.
It must be pointed out that Annie has that beautiful five-octave range, and she uses her sweet, angelic, ethereal voice as an instrument equal to the rest of the band; absolutely stunning!
OMG! I thought I was the only one that listens to this. Rarely do you find them broadcast. All your adjectives and praise are well deserved by these talented artists. Their music is a part of my life since i was 17. That's 50 years, and I carry them in in playlists always Wish I didn't lose all the vinyls i had, a great collection.
That’s a cool one. I have listened solely to their live recordings. Might have to change that… Doug, hit Mother Russia or Running Hard after that! Thanks for the lovely time.
Yay, Doug!!! Renaissance was great! You should really try the Live At Carnegie Hall (with an orchestra) album from 1976. For me the sound and performances surpass all the studio versions. Every song is a gem! Hearing Renaissance and Annie’s voice and how she used it as an instrument in her upper range in 1976 is what made me want to take voice lessons which was the best thing I ever did. Their great songs, vocals, musicians and creativity are unique in the progressive rock world. Renaissance has enriched my life immeasurably! I’m glad you’ve discovered them. I never get tired of their timeless music. I loved how you picked up on the chords and played along. Try “Mother Russia” next!
Annie's voice is angelic! I was introduced to Renaissance back in '82, out in the middle of the ocean on my first Walkman. Got me through a long voyage at sea. Just Annie and the stars. Past life. Glad you enjoyed them, too! I enjoyed your reaction. You're very cute. 😊
I never get tired of Renaissance. Saw them many times in the 1970s- the classiest of all the prog bands. I saw them do "Things I Don't Understand" at a free outdoor concert in a park on Lake Michigan-- one of the best musical experiences I ever had. Recommended tracks: "At the Harbour," "Ashes are Burning" (about the near death experience of their lyricist Betty Thatcher), "Can You Understand," "Can You Hear Me Now?"/"The Sisters" (side one of Novella), "The Captive Heart," and "Mother Russia." You'd also probably like the acoustic piano work on "Running Hard."
I saw Renaissance back in the late 70's, a real hidden gem of a band, heavily influenced by Classical music. As to Annie Haslam, she has a five-octave range, absolutely an amazing voice. I really hope you explore more of their catalog.
I saw your interview with Annie and review of Scherazade that followed this video. Great job with both of those. May I please suggest doing Ashes Are Burning (live from Carnegie Hall), or A Song For All Seasons. Two more Renaissance classics. Keep up the good work Doug.
I love the fact that you are playing the chords and understanding the gorgeousness of what they are doing. And the look on your face, Doug, when you heard Annie easily move from that high g# after her lovely low g was wonderful
Glad that you appreciated this band. We’re a lot in the Renaissance club! You will find beautiful classical arrangements throughout their songs. Mother Russia or Ocean Gypsy are great examples. Song For Scheherazade or A Song For All Seasons are majestic.
YAY!!! Fan of Renaissance since the 70s. Saw them several times in the Philly area back then. Just an amazing band. You are going to love what you hear next. I envy your journey!!
Good choice of track in my opinion. One of Renaissance's more proggy numbers, with its delightful 'movements' from rock to choral to ballad. I can enjoy this one again and again especially the latest remaster (Esoteric). In isolation the lyrics might sound a bit hippie-ideal, but the quality of the composition and its superb execution gives it an enduring profundity, which to me is utterly irresistible.
Thanks Doug! I'm one of people that requested this band. For your friday episode Songs of Scheherazade would be an ideal.choice....it's very long and an epic in symphonic rock. Also, I'm sure Annie Haslam will have a look and enjoy this video.
I hear and play (bass) this song for a long long time, but all your surprise's reaction I have every day that I heard it too. Thank you for sharing your knowledge for talk about this masterpiece.
Thanks for showcasing one of my favorite all-time bands. It was kind of cool seeing some of your piano fills too, because they actually added even more to the feel of the music. If you really want to listen to a crazy one that has several styles in one song, listen to the song Trip to the Fair.
Annie Haslam have one of the most beautiful voices I have ever heard. She a five-octave vocal range. Song of Scheherazade is a gorgeous piece that I think you would enjoy. Annie's singing is perfection. I first discovered Renaissance nearly 50 years ago when they were on Don Kirchner's rock concert.
I saw many bands in the 1970's and 80's. No one is close to Annie's vocals. I saw them at the Academy of Music in Philly, wow, what musicianship and masterful playing
you were absolutely a young boy listening to Renaissance this time! All smiles... Annie Haslam is the only woman I ever would have wanted to be stranded on a desert island (with my guitar, of course)!
Thanks for Your listening and performing also! You did get their sound, I heard that! Have been in love with Renaissance since the late 70-ies! Sadly not seen them live though! 🙂👍
I have been listening to this album since it first came out, and I was just listening to it it the other day. I was thinking to myself, Doug would love to react to this it’s right up his alley. Now you have I am so pleased, there is nothing like Renaissance. I hope in the future you do some reactions to Glass Hammer. The Inconsolable Secret is a double album, some might say “a high point” with so much great stuff I think you would like.
Thank you Doug! You did it. Renaissance, they have so many tremendous songs and epics. And as said before… the 25min Song of Sheherazade is their ultimate best. But, if you want to see them and a lovely young Annie singing… just discovered on RU-vid a live studio recording from 1974 them playing three songs from RTL Luxemburg television. Amazing, brought tears to my eyes, with two of my favs from them: Can you understand? and Ashes are burning. Both absolutely worthwhile doing, the album versions are great but these RTL live versions blew me away! Curious what it will bring to you…
Oh man Doug seeing you understand this song not just with your ears, but also with your hands was something special. I can only recommend you to listen to anything off of this album, Ashes are burning or Scheherazade and other stories.