The SiX BY SiX STORY
The term ‘six by six’ can conjure various images.
It could be something of large and impressive stature or perhaps the dimensions of a newly discovered space on the planet. For some, it may be the exponential potential of those numbers. For others, it might bring to mind the rhythmic pulse of sound waves.
Now, for the initiated, for those in the know, SiX By SiX is perhaps all of those things. It’s also the name for an exciting new band. It’s a sizable collaboration filling a massive sonic space and driven by three renowned and diverse musicians of international origin. The anticipation is palpable as the group is about to release its eponymous debut album on the InsideOut Music label, part of Sony.
SiX By SiX is composed of three hugely accomplished and highly acclaimed musicians hailing from disparate corners of the globe and each with the pedigree to back up the claim. They are guitarist Ian Crichton from the acclaimed Canadian prog-rockers Saga, recognized as one of the top rock players in North America, powerhouse drummer Nigel Glockler of English heavy metal masters Saxon, and U.S. based Robert Berry, perhaps best known for his association with Keith Emerson and Carl Palmer in their group ‘3’ on bass, keyboards and vocals.
The roots of SiX By SiX can be traced back decades to a time when Glockler and Berry were together as part of Yes guitarist Steve Howe’s continuation of the band GTR. Then there’s the Asia connection, where Crichton and Glockler contributed to sessions and recordings, while Berry was the link for his guitarist friend Pat Thrall joining that band. Time marches on, paths cross and fate brings these three musicians together, born from a conversation with an industry insider in the UK who connected Ian Crichton in the Toronto area with Robert Berry outside San Francisco, who in turn reached Glockler at his home on the south coast of England.
While the chemistry of the band transcends audio speakers and their sound is distinctly their own, comparisons to other power trios past and present will likely be inevitable. SiX By SiX boldly say, “Bring it on!”
Certainly, discerning listeners will hear an expansive guitar-driven pallet, paired sonically with the unique flavor of the Crichton/Berry songwriting collaboration. If you don’t already know Ian, Nigel, or Robert individually or collectively as SiX By SiX, you’ll likely know them soon. Management is in place; the record company has assembled an enthusiastic support team and a tour is in the works.
All in all, the SiX By SiX equation adds up to winning numbers. And that’s good news for everybody.
Ian Crichton: Ian Crichton began playing guitar at 12 years old. By 18, his first band, Kickback, performing a mix of cover and original material, became a staple on Canada’s Ontario-Quebec area club scene. 
Nigel Glockler: Nigel Glockler began his career in 1980 as the drummer for the British band Krakatoa. In 1981 he found an opportunity with singer Toyah. By the end of the year, he joined metal legends, Saxon. Except for two brief absences, Glockler has been behind his massive drum kit as an integral part of Saxon ever since. 
Robert Berry: Robert Berry began studying piano in earnest at 6 years old and by age 12 was recruited to join his first legitimate rock band with older musicians. He continued classical and jazz studies before entering university as a music major.