FRAGILE

After a masterpiece, Yes came stimulated to the studio. And as a result of this, here is another masterpiece. The curious fact is that all members have a solo song in the album. Let's take a look:

Five Percent For Nothing: Nonsense solo piece by Bill. I really don't know about what this song is, and it has no lyrics. Bruford was a very talented musician, I'm sure he could have done something better ! 2,5 stars...

Cans and Brahms: solo piece by Wakeman, it is an adaptation of a classical work from Johannes Brahms. It is graceful, very beautiful. The synthesizer sound is very cool. 4,1 stars to it.

We Have Heaven: great solo song by Anderson, showing how talented he was/is. Many Jon's voices overdubbed, this is great. 4,5 stars.

Mood For a Day: After 'Clap', here is another classical Howe's acoustic guitar song. Better than the other cited, it has more feeling and it's more complex. 4,5 stars.

The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus): Good solo piece by the talented Squire. It is very complex and simple at the same time. The drums, guitar and bass are played fantastically, and the vocals are so simple but powerful. Alone, it wouldn't have much impact, but it's a medley with Long Distance Runaround, and this makes it even great. 4,5 stars.

Roundabout: some people say this is the biggest Yes success, or that it is the best song of the band. I disagree. Of course, Yes always play it in every show, and if I went to a Yes show I'd want to hear it also, though is not my favourite, but I like it. 5 stars.

Heart of the Sunrise: this song is very repetitive, and could be a little shorter, but the musicians play perfectly in it: an enviable bass line, great guitar riffs and solos, fast crazy drums and emotional keyboards. This song has an incredible atmosphere, mystic, melancholic, deep. Jon sings the words 'sharp distance' so many times, but every time he sings is different. Great song. 5 stars.

South Side of the Sky: this song begins with Mr. Bruford's syncopation and wind effects: a great intro to advertise the great song that is starting. It has a contagious rhythm and good lyrics. In fact, it has something special. A very powerful song. I love it. 5 stars !

Long Distance Runaround: For me, the best song on the album. Happy, positive, melancholic at the same time, powerful, contagious. One of my favourite Yes tunes. 5 stars !

Let's remember that this album was just an 'appetizer'. The next album would be the Yes' maximum, but this is a terrific album. 5 stars of course !