Styx: Embracing Prog Rock - A Journey Through Crash Of The Crown and Beyond
Styx, the iconic rock band from Chicago, has always had a strong connection to progressive rock music. With their 17th studio album, Crash Of The Crown, released in 2021, the band fully embraced the prog genre, marking a new chapter in their post-Dennis DeYoung era. Guitarist Tommy Shaw and singer/keyboardist Lawrence Gowan expressed their excitement about the band's revitalization and newfound happiness in this latest record.
Despite their reputation for hit ballads like Babe and The Best Of Times, Styx's roots in progressive rock have been a defining element of their music for nearly 50 years. Co-founding keyboardist Dennis DeYoung acknowledged the influence of bands like Yes on Styx's early years, shaping their sound and musical direction.
Following the departure of Dennis DeYoung in 1999, Styx welcomed Lawrence Gowan, a Canadian solo artist with a deep appreciation for progressive music, as their new singer/keyboardist. Gowan's passion for prog rock and his dynamic stage presence brought a fresh energy to the band, adding a new dimension to their performances.
Tommy Shaw, the band's guitarist and vocalist, admitted to being a "student of prog" despite his background in a mellower singer/songwriter style. Shaw's exposure to the genre was further enriched during a North American tour with Yes, where he witnessed the transformative power of progressive rock music.
The band's recent albums, including The Mission in 2017 and Crash Of The Crown, have seen a resurgence in Styx's creative output, thanks in part to producer Will Evankovic. The new record, recorded at Shaw's home studio in Nashville, showcases a more proggy and conceptual approach, with Gowan's lavish keyboard work adding depth to the music.
Crash Of The Crown features bass guitar parts from co-founding member Chuck Panozzo, who continues to make guest appearances despite health challenges. The album's theme of hope, survival, and prosperity resonates strongly in today's uncertain world, offering a message of positivity and resilience.
As Styx celebrates their 50th year, the band's current lineup, including Gowan and Shaw, reflects on their collective journey and the evolution of their sound. While the topic of a reunion with Dennis DeYoung remains a sensitive issue, the band remains focused on their music and the joy of performing together.
With a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to their craft, Styx shows no signs of slowing down. As they continue to create music that inspires and uplifts audiences, the band's legacy in progressive rock and their enduring passion for performance remain as strong as ever.