THE YES ALBUM

'Yours is No Disgrace' explains the moral reasoning behind why Steve Howe joined the band. With a mix of psychedelic and acoustic guitar soloing, there is no regret behind Yes' decision of joining forces with technical master Howe. And yes, the song as a whole stands out as one of the best on the record.

'The Clap', if you needed further proof, credits Howe as a songwriter and reveals his style and influences (whatever they may be, I'm no music historian). A short and live acoustic solo (his first of many), this song is a jolly good segue into my favorite Yes song.

'Starship Trooper' is my personal favorite mainly because of the live version found on "Yessongs" but as for the studio recording, it is a cheerfully uplifting song worthy of it's name. Good song writing by Anderson and Squire fill up the first half, so as to send the listener into space first before unveiling the grand chord progression 'Wurm'. Here, none other than Steve Howe takes control of the rhythm until it escalates into one his finest solos to date before fading out.

'I've Seen All Good People' then greets us with the highest of high vocals that Jon Anderson can offer (except for maybe on Going For the One). While more commercially satisfying, there is no lack of complexity. Peacefully singing about nothing, Anderson guides the song steadily through vocal melodies set to the backdrop of Howe's vachalia. The real energy starts in the second half, not unlike the previous song. A groovy uptempo melody to say the least, the song ends leaving the listener feeling fulfilled.

'A Venture' is not often talked about, but I think it should be. A short song written by Anderson, this piece should not be overlooked as it bridges the last two big songs together with Tony Kaye's piano work and a catchy melody.

'Perpetual Change' might have the most uplifting energy of all the songs on the album. With driving chords and a memorable chorus, this song proves that complexity is no problem for these musicians. With a contrast of quiet verses in between louder choruses, there is a good balance between collective meddling and jamming out. The unique riff found roughly five minutes in is simply Prog.

"The Yes Album" is exactly that. While maybe not as matured or appraised as their next two albums, this one certainly helped pave the road for both "Fragile" and "Close to the Edge", and deserves equal recognition in my opinion.

Share this YES review

Social review comments () BETA

---

---

Review related links

• Send comments to ebil0505
• Report this review (#873773)
• Buy YES music online with PA partners
• Show all YES MP3/Stream
• Go to YES page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to The Yes Album page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for YES related discussions