TALK

I agree that this album is not one of the best albums by YES but whenever I consider this album with an open mind, it's a very good one. Musically, it's mostly a straight forward rock music but it has some enrichment in its composition. Take an example the album opener "The Calling" which is basically a straight forward and upbeat rock music. But when I look into details there are some important elements that are rarely found in typical rock music. This includes the opening acoustic guitar parts by Rabin or the guitar solo in alternate with keyboard during interlude; it's different kind of rock music. "I Am Waiting" is a nice song that starts with a soft guitar work followed with a bit symphonic music featuring Rabin's guitar solo. This is the kind of music you would never imagined YES would have ever played, knowing their classic albums like "Fragile" or "The Album" or "Close To The Edge". But, forgetting the classic albums, you will find that enjoying this album is quite rewarding. Trevor Rabin, a young guitarist, is a very talented musician where he could infuse the new Yes sound that can be enjoyed by a wider audience.

"Where Will You Be" (6:03) brings the band to another venture in their musical journey as this song is a percussion-based music with acoustic instruments. "Endless Dream" (15:41) is an excellent track which starts with nice repeated piano chords followed with guitar solo and fast tempo music. Duration-wise it qualifies the YES oldies with 15 minutes duration. But most interestingly is the richness of composition the band offers with this track. A combination of piano, distant vocal and guitar works has characterized this song.

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW