Ponder The Mystery (Cleopatra Records, 2013)
If you heard the rumors that William Shatner was going to make a progressive rock album, look no further, Shatner’s album is now out. William Shatner is the legendary actor that played the role of Captain Kirk in the original Star Trek series. Shatner has occasionally ventured into sound recording and has recorded albums before. Progressive rock, however, is the perfect match for the sci-fi and fantasy genres.
William Shatner co-wrote Ponder The Mystery along with producer and multi-instrumentalist Billy Sherwood, who played with progressive rock band Yes for a few years. Sherwood has been really busy lately with numerous projects that are described as progressive rock. He’s a great musician, although his songwriting skills are closer to radio friendly AOR than real progressive rock.
Ponder The Mystery features William Shatner on spoken word and Billy Sherwood on the singing and instrumental side. Sherwood always manages to get big names in the areas of progressive rock and other genres who contribute memorable solos. On this occasion, Sherwood invited guitarists Steve Vai, Al Di Meola and Zoot Horn Rollo; keyboardists Rick Wakeman and the late George Duke; saxophonists Dave Koz, Edgar Winter and Nik Turner; The Doors’ Robby Krieger on sitar and guitar; and country legend Vince Gill on mandolin and guitar.
“It was an absolute hoot to play on Bill’s track,” says guitar virtuoso Steve Vai. “It’s great to see and hear that after all these years his contributions are still fresh!”
“I’ve known William for a while and have worked with him on one of his previous charity events,” says longtime friend Vince Gill. “It was so cool for me to play on his new album. Overall, it really means a lot to be part of projects that William is doing at this point of his life. William is a special person and I really enjoy any chance that I get to work with him.”
“What I love most about this album is that it feels like all the musicians were in this big top – a sort of three-ring circus…you have all these talented people, each bringing their unique offering to the table,” says saxophonist Dave Koz. “Then there’s Bill, the ring-leader, with a big smile on his face, inspiring us all to bring even more to the party. It was a blast, and I love the way it turned out. Unlike anything I’ve EVER done before. But then again, that’s what working with an icon will get you!”
“I’ve never adhered to the assumption that oil and water don’t mix…stir them hard enough and add a few other ingredients and they certainly will mix, and give an interesting and pretty unique result too,” adds renowned Yes keyboardist Rick Wakeman. “So I’m all for Progressive Shatner Rock and it was a pleasure to play on the album and be involved!”
William Shatner will be performing his new record Ponder The Mystery in its totality accompanied by AOR band Circa featuring Billy Sherwood and Tony Kaye, famed keyboardist also known for his work with Yes.
Concert dates and locations:
Wednesday, October 23, 2013 – Saint Rocke, 142 E. Pacific Coast Hwy, Hermosa, CA 90254 (310-372-0035)
Thursday, October 24, 2013 – The Canyon Club, 289 12 Roadside Dr., Agoura, CA 91301 (818-879-5016)
Friday, October 25, 2013 – The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 (949-496-8930)