Steve Howe Bob Dylan Tribute Continues With Limited Signals Crossed

The Return of Steve Howe Bob Dylan Interpretations

Rock and roll enthusiasts have something extraordinary to celebrate this December. The iconic guitarist from Yes is delivering another dose of Dylan magic with a collector’s dream release that builds on his passionate tribute to the folk rock legend. When it comes to Steve Howe Bob Dylan covers, this latest offering showcases the progressive rock virtuoso’s continuing dedication to reinterpreting the songwriting master’s catalog with fresh arrangements and innovative instrumentation.

The announcement has sent waves through classic rock news circles as fans eagerly await this special release. Scheduled to arrive on December 5, 2025, through his own HoweSounds label, the guitarist proves once again why his interpretations stand apart from typical cover versions. This is not just another tribute project but a deeply personal exploration of songs that have resonated with Howe since his youth.

What Is Signals Crossed EP

Following the September reissue of his acclaimed 1999 album Portraits Of Bob Dylan, the progressive rock legend is releasing Signals Crossed as a companion piece that features three previously unreleased interpretations. The EP represents tracks that were recorded during the original sessions but took different creative directions than what appeared on the full-length album. This makes the Steve Howe Bob Dylan connection even more compelling for collectors who want to hear alternative arrangements of beloved songs.

The limited edition format adds to the release’s appeal. Only 500 copies will be pressed on pristine white vinyl in a distinctive 10-inch format. The one-sided disc features a mirror-backed design that transforms the physical product into a conversation piece as much as a listening experience. For those who prefer digital formats, a download version will also be available, ensuring accessibility while maintaining the exclusive nature of the physical release.

Three Previously Unreleased Dylan Covers

The EP features three carefully selected songs from the Dylan songbook. Leading the tracklist is “I Want You,” a passionate declaration from the 1966 Blonde on Blonde album that Howe recorded before even starting the Portraits sessions. This version sets the tone for the entire project, showcasing the guitarist’s ability to reimagine familiar material through his progressive rock lens.

“One Too Many Mornings” receives an electrified treatment that differs dramatically from the acoustic version featuring vocalist Phoebe Snow on the original album. Drawing inspiration from Dylan’s Hard Rain interpretation, this arrangement brings new energy to the introspective folk tune. The transformation demonstrates how Steve Howe Bob Dylan collaborations transcend simple reproduction, instead offering genuine artistic reinterpretation.

Closing the EP is “Mama, You’ve Been On My Mind,” which Howe sang himself on the original Portraits release in a slow, contemplative style. The Signals Crossed version flips the mood entirely, presenting an upbeat and optimistic take complete with vocal harmonies and dynamic drumming from his son Dylan Howe. The contrast between versions highlights the malleability of great songwriting and the endless possibilities for creative interpretation.

Steve Howe Explains His Vision

In discussing the project, the guitarist revealed his creative process and the reasoning behind these alternative versions. He explained that “I Want You” was actually recorded before he began work on the released Portraits Of Bob Dylan tracks, making it a fascinating glimpse into the project’s evolution. The song represents his initial exploration of how to approach Dylan’s material with fresh ears and hands.

Regarding the alternate arrangements, Howe noted that the new version of “One Too Many Mornings” addresses a technical challenge from the original sessions. The key used for Snow’s beautiful acoustic performance didn’t allow for the electric treatment he had envisioned. This new recording finally brings that vision to life, incorporating elements from Dylan’s own live performances while maintaining Howe’s distinctive guitar work.

The guitarist emphasized that these tracks capture the mood he originally wanted to explore in 2000, describing them as “songs about getting your Signals Crossed.” The title itself speaks to communication breakdowns and misunderstandings, themes that run through Dylan’s work and resonate with anyone who has experienced the complexities of human relationships. The vocal harmonies and Dylan Howe’s percussion work help maintain the cohesive atmosphere across all three songs.

The Portraits Of Bob Dylan Legacy

The original Portraits album stands as a landmark in the classic rock artists community, featuring an impressive roster of guest vocalists and musicians. Jon Anderson, Annie Haslam of Renaissance, Max Bacon from GTR, Allan Clarke of The Hollies, and PP Arnold all contributed their talents to various tracks. The collaborative nature of the project allowed Howe to match each song with the perfect vocalist while he focused on crafting intricate arrangements.

For the guitarist, the project represented a “pipe dream” come to life. He had always wanted to tackle Dylan’s catalog but needed the right opportunity and approach. Rather than simply covering the songs note for note, his goal was to bring something extra to the material through creative arrangements and his vast collection of stringed instruments. This philosophy elevated Portraits beyond typical tribute album territory.

The September 2025 reissue on CD and vinyl marked the first time Portraits appeared on vinyl format, introducing the album to a new generation of collectors and audiophiles. The renewed interest created the perfect climate for releasing these additional recordings. The Steve Howe Bob Dylan project demonstrates how an artist can return to earlier work with fresh perspective and additional material that enriches the original vision.

Limited Edition Release Information

The Signals Crossed EP arrives December 5, 2025, through HoweSounds, the guitarist’s own label that gives him complete creative control. This independence allows him to release projects on his own schedule without commercial pressures, ensuring artistic integrity remains paramount. The label has become a trusted source for fans seeking authentic Steve Howe material.

The EP features contributions from several talented musicians who helped bring the vision to life. Geoff Downes, Howe’s bandmate from both Yes and Asia, provides keyboard textures. Dylan Howe continues the family tradition on drums, while Stephanie Sounds and Paul K Joyce round out the ensemble. Each musician brings their own expertise while serving the songs and the overall artistic vision.

Collectors should act quickly given the 500-copy limitation. The white vinyl presentation with mirror backing creates a striking visual that complements the music within. The 10-inch format harkens back to earlier eras of music presentation while the single-sided nature allows for optimal sound quality without compression issues. Pre-orders are available now for those wanting to secure their copy before the December release date.

How Bob Dylan Shaped Steve Howe Career

The guitarist’s appreciation for Dylan dates back to his teenage years in 1960s London. He purchased The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan when it was released, immediately connecting with songs like “Blowin’ in the Wind” and the album’s broader artistic vision. While he missed Dylan’s debut, that second album opened his ears to a songwriter who approached music with both poetic depth and raw emotional honesty.

As albums like Another Side of Bob Dylan and The Times They Are A-Changin’ arrived, the young guitarist found himself increasingly drawn to Dylan’s fearless exploration of serious themes. Songs such as “The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll” demonstrated how popular music could tackle social issues with intelligence and compassion. The combination of memorable melodies, harmonica, and that distinctive vocal style created something parents might hate but young people absolutely loved.

Dylan served as what Howe describes as “a great ambassador for the young people who were just getting into the Beatles and all of that stuff.” For aspiring musicians like Howe, Dylan proved that one person with a guitar and strong songs could make a massive cultural impact. This lesson influenced how Howe would approach his own career, always prioritizing artistic vision over commercial considerations. The classic rock landscape would be fundamentally different without Dylan’s influence on musicians like Howe.

Yes Touring And Future Plans

The EP release arrives during an active period for Yes, with the legendary prog rock band currently touring across the United States through November 16, 2025. The tour includes performances of their classic album Fragile in its entirety, along with fan favorites from their extensive catalog spanning over five decades. American audiences are getting the chance to hear these intricate compositions performed by musicians who helped create progressive rock’s golden era.

Following the American dates, Yes will bring the Fragile tour to the United Kingdom in 2026, giving European fans their opportunity to experience these complex arrangements live. The guitarist has spoken about how Fragile represented a unique approach within the band’s discography, with each member contributing solo pieces alongside the full band arrangements. This format showcased individual talents while maintaining the group’s cohesive vision.

Between Yes commitments and solo projects like the Steve Howe Bob Dylan releases, the guitarist maintains an impressive schedule that would challenge musicians half his age. His dedication to both his band responsibilities and personal artistic explorations demonstrates the work ethic and passion that has sustained his career for over 50 years. Fans benefit from this prolific output, receiving both the classic Yes material they love and intimate solo projects that reveal different facets of his artistry.

🎸 ESSENTIAL STEVE HOWE MUSIC COLLECTION 🎸

Discover the albums that define Steve Howe’s legendary career from Yes classics to solo masterpieces and Dylan tributes

The Signals Crossed EP represents more than just bonus tracks or outtakes. It offers genuine alternative visions of songs that Steve Howe Bob Dylan fans have cherished for decades. By presenting these three interpretations alongside the reissued Portraits album, the guitarist creates a fuller picture of his creative process and his deep connection to Dylan’s songwriting. The limited nature of the release ensures it will become a treasured item for collectors while the music itself stands on its own artistic merits.

As Yes continues touring and Howe maintains his prolific release schedule, this EP serves as a reminder of how artists can return to earlier inspirations with fresh energy and new perspectives. The combination of unreleased material and alternative arrangements gives fans something genuinely new rather than simply repackaged content. December 5 marks an important date for anyone who appreciates when classic rock artists honor their influences while maintaining their own distinctive voice.

Sources

• Louder Sound: Yes guitarist Steve Howe to release limited edition vinyl 10 inch EP of Bob Dylan covers
• Cult Following: Steve Howe confirms Portraits of Bob Dylan follow-up with three-song Signals Crossed EP
• Metal Planet Music: Steve Howe Announces Ltd Edition 10″ Vinyl EP of Previously Unreleased Bob Dylan Tracks
• antiMusic: Steve Howe Announces Limited Edition ‘Signals Crossed’ EP
• Ultimate Classic Rock: Steve Howe Is a Bob Dylan Nerd Like All of Us