March 12, 2013 20:40

Original Yes guitarist Peter Banks dies aged 65

The guitarist played on the prog-rock band's first two albums

Peter Banks, best known as an original member of the prog-rock band Yes, has died aged 65.

According to the guitarist's website, Banks passed away on March 7 at his home in London due to heart failure. He was reportedly found after failing to show up for a recording session.

Alongside Chirs Squire, who Banks played with in his first band the Syn, the duo helped form Yes in 1968. The guitarist played with the prog-rock group for their first two albums, '1969's 'Yes' and 1970's 'Time And The Word', but a disagreement about the direction of the band led to Banks' dismissal before the release of the second album.

In a statement, Yes said: "We are deeply saddened to learn about the passing of fellow bandmate and founding Yes member, Peter Banks. He was a huge piece of the fabric that made Yes what it is, and our thoughts, sincere condolences, and prayers are with him and his family. Peter, we shall miss you greatly."

Post-Yes, Banks formed Flash and released three studio albums – 'Flash', 'In The Can' and 'Out Of Our Hands' – before forming Empire, who also released three records ('Mark I', 'Mark II' and 'Mark III'). He also made a string of solo albums, most notably 1973's 'Two Sides Of Peter Banks'.

Most recently, Banks published his autobiography, 'Beyond & Before', and was reportedly putting the final touches to a Flash live album, titled 'Flash – In Public', prior to his death.

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