THE YES ALBUM

The Yes Album was the first Yes LP I owned and is what got me into Yes. The primary songs on this LP display the power and creativity of the band. Interestingly, I read that Tony Kaye balked at using synthesisers & mellotrons, claiming he was an organist and this was a major factor in his being replaced by Rick Wakeman. Thus, the synth work on this album is sparse, mostly organ or piano. However, the simple synth hook in "Yours is no Disgrace" really makes that tune.

"Yours is no Disgrace" is Yes' first magnum opus, a brilliant song. The thumping bass line in the intro would come to define Chris Squire's big Rick bass tone, imitated by numerous progressive bands to follow, such as Renaissance and PFM. Steve Howe's arpeggiated phrasing along with Kaye's synth line is beautiful. Lyrics are memorable and catchy "Silly Human Race." Amazing lead guitar. 10/10

"The Clap" a display of Steve Howe's inhuman acoustic guitar prowess and a very challenging piece for aspiring guitarists... One of the first albums to feature a solo acoustic showcase such as this, following Page's "White Summer" or "Black Mountainside" and Beck's "Greensleeves" For what it is 10/10

"Starship Trooper" A ultimate Yes classic, with the chorused bass and guitar adding an ethereal element to the tune. Very powerful sonic ridges and valleys. The closing section "Wurm" is a bit I would hear numerous guitarists play, a sitting in the park favorite. 10/10.

"Seen all good People" A very simple song, but a major hit and one I recall on the radio as a youngin. Can grow tiresome if you've heard it a million times... I like the live version on Yessongs better. Lyrics are sort of hippy dippy. Amazing lead guitar work though and a stomp your foot beat & bass line. 8/10

"A Venture" a jazzy departure from the other tunes... is a precursor to "Long Distance Runaround" IMO... Kaye's level of talent, compared to Wakeman, is evident on this track...they really start to rock when it fades out 7/10

"Perpetual Change" Another staunch Yes standard... Very rocking, very prog, great lyrics, great guitar, great bass, great drums...10/10