This is my conversation with Tom Brislin. It took place on 1/10/2021 from their home in London.
Voted one of the top ten keyboardists by the PROG Magazine readers poll, Tom Brislin has been established as one of the most compelling and versatile musicians in progressive rock today. The New Jersey native has toured and recorded with legends including Yes and Meat Loaf, and is now a member of iconic rock band KANSAS. His keyboards, vocals, and songwriting are featured heavily in the group’s 2020 studio album “The Absence of Presence”, which debuted on rock charts worldwide.
Prior to joining Kansas, Tom recorded and performed with prog supergroup The Sea Within, and fronted the synth-rock band Spiraling. Tom was the keyboardist for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Yes on their 2001 Symphonic Tour. The tour was documented on the concert DVD/Blu-Ray Yes Symphonic Live. Tom's connection to Yes has led to collaborations on stage and in studio with several notable artists, including Debbie Harry, Renaissance, Camel, Anderson/Stolt, and The Syn.
Tom has toured as pianist for multi-platinum-selling legend Meat Loaf and was featured on the albums/videos Storytellers and Couldn't Have Said it Better. He was touring keyboardist for legendary Blondie singer Debbie Harry in support of her solo album Necessary Evil, and served as the group's Musical Director. He is also a frequent performer with fellow New Jersey native Glen Burtnik (The Weeklings, Styx, The Orchestra). Most recently, Tom is featured on the 2021 Kansas release Point of Know Return Live and Beyond, which features selections from his first tour with the group.