Considered by many to be their first masterpiece (I beg to differ, in fact, as I find the Yes Album not only to be their first true
masterpiece but also more consistent with my own aesthetic and a more listenable recording), Fragile nevertheless delivers on the
great promise of this band. Roundabout is one of the quintessential anthems of progressive rock, with a driving rhythm, great
vocals by Anderson, muscular bass by Chris Squire as well as distinctive play by both Howe and Wakeman. Cans and Brahms,
regretfully is a pretentious and flatulent piece of filler material and not even good filler at that. We Have Heaven is an strange little
vocal piece by Anderson with a repeated vocal line but is nothing special. South Side of the Sky is an absolute classic, and one that
cannot be adequately described here...it has to be listened to. Five percent of Nothing is a puzzling few moments of percussion
whimsy by Bruford and is not a sufficient showcase for his remarkable talents. Long Distance Runaround, despite its brevity, is
classic Yes. Great bass chops by Squire on this cut and Howe's playing shows real versatility on this one. The Fish (Schindleria
Praematurus) provides a crafty little vignette of Squire bass play but is somewhat repetitive. Mood for a Day is a subdued little Howe
guitar piece. Heart of the Sunrise is a true Yes epic, it builds and builds.... a true collaborative effort by the band with hair raising
vocals by Anderson. Overall, a very good album, excellent in many ways, but also rather inconsistent. Neither as good as Yes
Album or Close to the Edge, though this is a sore spot for a lot of Yes fans, this album rates 4 and most definitely NOT 5
stars.
LARKSTONGUE |4/5 |
MEMBERS LOGIN ZONE
As a registered member (register here if not), you can post rating/reviews (& edit later), comments reviews and submit new albums.
You are not logged, please complete authentication before continuing (use forum credentials).