Summary: Jon & Vangelis’s 1983 album, Private Collection, is a collaboration between Jon Anderson, the lead vocalist of the progressive rock group Yes, and Greek synthesizer maestro Vangelis Papathanassiou. The album is a collection of eight instrumental tracks that blend Vangelis’ electronic soundscapes with Anderson’s ethereal vocals, creating a unique and captivating listening experience.

About the Artist: Jon Anderson is a British singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist best known for his work as the lead vocalist of the progressive rock group Yes. Vangelis Papathanassiou is a Greek composer and multi-instrumentalist who has created a wide range of music over his long career, including progressive rock and electronic music. The two artists had collaborated previously on the 1979 album Short Stories, and the success of that project led to the creation of Private Collection.

About the Record: Private Collection is an instrumental album that blends the two artists’ unique styles. Vangelis’ electronic soundscapes provide a lush backdrop for Anderson’s ethereal vocals, creating a tranquil and captivating listening experience. The album is a departure from the two artists’ previous work as it features no lyrics, relying solely on the interplay between the two artists’ sounds.

About the Cover: The image conveys the collaborative nature of the album, and the blue and white color palette reflects the tranquil atmosphere of the music.

About the Lyrics and Music: The album features eight instrumental tracks that blend Anderson’s vocals with Vangelis’ electronic soundscapes. Standout tracks include the opening track “Italian Song,” which features a pulsing synth line and Anderson’s soaring vocals, and the closing track “He Is Sailing,” which features a hypnotic synth line and Anderson’s calming vocal melodies. The album’s themes range from love and longing to loss and nostalgia, creating a captivating and emotive listening experience.

Conclusion: Jon & Vangelis’ 1983 album, Private Collection, is a captivating blend of electronic music and ethereal vocals. The album’s tranquil atmosphere and emotive themes make it an essential listen for fans of progressive rock and electronic music.

Other Recommendations: If you enjoyed Private Collection, you may also enjoy Jon Anderson’s solo album Olias of Sunhillow (1976) and Vangelis’s solo album Heaven and Hell (1975). Fans of progressive rock may also enjoy Yes’s classic albums, Fragile (1971) and Close to the Edge (1972).

About the tracklist. Side one:
Italian song
And when the night comes
Deborah
Polonaise
He is sailing
Side two:
Horizon