Peter Banks, original guitar player from Yes, dies in London

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Original guitar player from psych-rock band Yes, Peter Banks, has died of apparent heart failure in his London home on Thursday. Banks played with Yes through their influential records Yes and Time and a Word, then was replaced by Steve Howe before the release of their second album. He went on to play in bands Flash and Empire and was working on an album of live material when he died.

Yes has released a statement regarding the guitar player's passing: “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.”

To catch a little of the fascinating solos that Banks was known for, take a listen to this medley.