THE WORD IS LIVE

Ok, I'll admit that Yes is my favorite band right from the start. Given that, I've been increasingly critical of their output over the years. Although there are a few stinkers, they haven't really done anything so bad that I can't forgive them, like Genesis. But I don't think they've ever matched their peak from the mid 70's (Relayer, Close to the Edge, Going for the One), and with maybe a couple of exceptions haven't released a greater than 3- star album since those golden days. This is a 3 CD live set that is based around 4 periods: 1971, 1976-79, 1980 (considered separately due to the Buggles line-up), and 1988. The selections are superb, and manage to avoid duplicating the songs found on Yesshows and Yessongs, with a few exceptions. Only two of the tracks have been previously released, on the BBC sessions set they released a few years back. There are also a few surprises on here, songs that I've never heard or even heard of. The sound quality is excellent, much better than the Yessongs set, and as good as Yesshows (my favorite Yes live album, or is it this one? Haven't decided yet). The packaging is lavish and very nice, the obligatory Roger ("I love rocks") Dean cover, with some insightful essays (including a few comments by some surprising contributors). And let me finish by saying that the version of Sound Chaser on here is worth the price of admission by itself! This and a few other tracks (Awaken, a very funky interpretation of Sweet Dreams) make this collection essential. 5 stars easy, I could give it that in my sleep.