Close to the Edgefield

It was announced (very quietly I might add) that Yes is indeed making a trip to Oregon on its upcoming tour. But not to any of the places I would have guessed.

They are playing at the McMenamins Edgefield in Troutdale, Oregon. The Edgefield is one of the many killer McMenamins brewpubs throughout Oregon. Wikipedia explains it well:

McMenamins was founded by Mike and Brian McMenamin, who grew up in Portland. Mike learned the ins-and-outs of the restaurant business while working at a sub shop as a student at Oregon State University. After a series of failed restaurant ventures in the Portland area, the brothers began establishing pubs throughout the metropolitan area. In 1985 they created the first post-Prohibition brewpub (the Hillsdale Brewery & Public House in southwest Portland in February 1984) in Oregon after the brewing industry in Oregon — including the McMenamins — successfully lobbied the state legislature to change liquor laws to make such an establishment legal.

As the brothers expand their restaurant chain, they have replicated core elements of their menu and decor. Yet most locations, particularly the historical properties, still retain a sense of individualism. Many in Portland consider the chain to be a high-profile component of Portland culture since the 1980s. Their respectful renovation and rehabilitation of historical locations throughout the city, their contributions to the popularity of a microbrew culture, and the Grateful Dead-inspired decor make them almost a required part of any visitor's tour.

Many of the McMenamins brewpubs have live music, but none can support the girth of a band like Yes except Edgefield. Should be a great gig - Sunday August 17 (the day after my Floydian Slips show in Eugene). Tickets for the Yes show go on sale this Saturday but I hear there is a pre-sale on Thursday.

I have to give credit to colorfield bassist Mike Budd for the "Close to the Edgefield" title. Thanks, Mike. Clever.