YES

Sure, it's a sweet and chipper snap-shot of late '60's rock-- but it's also an outstanding start to what will later become the Yes sound. Although only a few of the here songs could be described as ambitious-- they are all performed earnestly and with fine attention paid to detail; certainly enjoyable if not epic with a fine mix of moods and colors.

The music itself sounds very much a product of its era, with Kaye's organ and Bank's guitar dating the songs with a touch of psychedelia. Each of these players leaves the band soon (and are often forgotten when those other guys join)-- but do a fine job getting the party started. Bank's guitar has a nice mix of soft noddling/heavy jamming, such as in I See You, where he delivers a jazzy, characteristic solo juxtaposed to noisy outbursts. Very enjoyable. Yes' key members, Squire/Bruford/Anderson, shine as well, especially for those who appreciate the band's later releases since with this debut we can really see where their talent started out. Perhaps most impressive, is the group's tremendous vocal harmonies which, led by Anderson's very strong leads, layer this album with class.

A great album, especially considering it is a debut; while a little old fashioned it will certainly appeal to fans of the band and maybe those who found themselves disliking their later bombast.

Songwriting: 2 Instrumental Performances: 3 Lyrics/Vocals: 3 Style/Emotion/Replay: 2