The History (2015-2025)
The Idea
Yazell/Richardson traces its existence to January, 2015. Central New York musicians Steve Yazell and Seth Richardson began writing songs together for the purpose of releasing an instrumental project to raise money for the New Hope Children's Home, an orphanage in Peru. Both had played together in the short lived, but critically exclaimed Syracuse area band, the Kerlin Syndrome.
The Musicians
Joined by guitarist Gabe Richardson and an incredible group of supporting musicians including special guest guitarists Bill Leverty and Mark Bolos, the tracks came together in a remarkable way.
The Result
Released in the fall of 2015, the CD, "Beyond Reason," was very well received and garnered positive reviews. Four months later, Y/R was honored to be chosen as a 2016 Syracuse Area Music Award (SAMMY) nominee for “Beyond Reason.”
In May, 2016, Y/R went back in the studio and began the follow up to "Beyond Reason." Joined once again by special guest guitarists Bill Leverty and Mark Bolos, the tracks developed through the next several months.
The resulting CD, "Stormfront" was released in early 2017, and highlighted the next step in Y/R's unique musical stylings.
The Present
During the holiday season of 2023, the EP, A Yazell/Richardson Christmas was released . Featuring the vocal talents of Mark Bolos and Shannon Pawlak, A Yazell/Richardson Christmas represented the band's ever changing musical evolution.
In 2024, the CD, Defining Moments, was released. Featuring the best of Beyond Reason, Stormfront, and a Yazell/Richardson Christmas, (including bonus tracks not found on any of the prior releases) the CD marked the 10 year anniversary of Yazell/Richardson, as well as provided a fitting conclusion to our “long and winding road.”
New for 2024
Defining Moments: Ten Years of Music
In the fall of 2024, Y\R released Defining Moments, a CD celebrating our 10th Year Anniversary. This select collection of tracks is comprised of previously released material from Beyond Reason, Stormfront and A Yazell\Richardson Christmas.
2024 Christmas Digital Release
Remixed and Remastered for Streaming
In December, 2024, after numerous requests, Y\R released a digital version of A Yazell\Richardson Christmas. which included two brand new holiday tracks.