THE LITTLE PRINCE AND OTHER STORIES - LIVE

A true bucket-list event for me was seeing Yesterdays perform at the Winter's End Festival 2024 in Chepstow. I had been looking forward to this moment for years, and it turned out to be an incredible experience.

This live album includes the same songs from their setlist at the festival, plus one track from the Colours Caffé album. However, it was recorded in August 2024 with a different lead singer. András Karola stepped in to replace Stéphanie, who was reportedly unavailable due to medical reasons. Despite having only 12 days to learn the entire repertoire, Karola delivered an exceptional performance. Guitarist Ákos also lent his vocal talents, taking lead on the first two songs. It was a pleasant surprise to hear him sing lead, as I had only heard him on backing vocals before.

Another significant addition to this recording was the presence of their percussionist, Kósa Dávid, whose contributions brought extra richness to the rhythm section. And the biggest treat? Both their studio flute player, Kecskeméti Gábor, and tour flute player, Kozma Kis Emese, performed together, creating stunning two-part harmonies on the flute. This collaboration was a true delight for the audience.

The August performance was recorded in its entirety, prompting the band to release it on CD, digital platforms, and vinyl.

The Little Prince and Other Stories primarily features songs from their epic concept album Saint-Exupéry álma, while the second half plays out like a "best of" Yesterdays. If you're familiar with the studio versions, you'll be in for a treat. The live versions include extended improvisations, intricate flute harmonies, outstanding vocal deliveries, and extraordinary keyboard work.

This album also marks the debut of Yesterdays' new keyboard player, Tóth Gábor, who impressively handles eight keyboards, filling the role of the late Enyedi Zsolt, who sadly passed away in 2020. Joining the lineup was bassist Csajkos Nándor, who infused the band's sound with Chris Squire-inspired bass lines perfect for their progressive style.

The album's closing track, Seven, stands out as one of the finest contemporary symphonic prog compositions I've heard. While the studio version is impeccable, the live rendition takes it to another level, especially with its incredible solos in the final section. Singing along with the band to this masterpiece in Chepstow back in April 2024 was an unforgettable moment for me?an absolute bucket-list achievement.

Favorite tracks/moments: Bábu, Rajzolj át, Ma minden érdekel and Seven!

For fans of symphonic prog, this release is a must-have. And if you get the chance to see this band live, don't miss it. After this experience, Yesterdays holds an even closer place in my heart. Highly recommended!