GOING FOR THE ONE

I like to think of this beautiful record as a celebration of a coming- of-age era for Yes. It marks the return of Rick Wakeman. I acknowledge the complex musicianship found on 1974's Relayer with Patrick Moraz! The jazz fusion influence was just great! Whether it saw confused fans or not, I don't know, but it is a very experimental and well thought out record. I also praise the band for taking a year off in 1976 for each member to release a solo album. Taking that time off is integral in making sure that everyone has their space and can come back to the band refreshed, which I attribute to the success and feeling of rebirth for Yes on Going for the One. Each track on this album has a feeling of youthfulness and eagerness in everyone's playing.

Regarding the songs, the title track is a great moment for Steve Howe as he plays the slide guitar for the duration of the whole song. The musical and lyrical structure are more concise and straightforward, but that does not take away from the way the song flows. "Turn of the Century" is a great acoustic piece. It sounds like there is a reverb effect on the instruments, which compliments the gentle nature of the song. I admire the fact that Alan White received a writing credit on this track. His tuned percussion playing is subtle compared to his usual style of playing but it works well in the context of the song. There is a great blend and combination between guitar and keyboards in this song. "Parallels" once again showcases Wakeman's trademark prowess for keyborading on the church organ. It's a masterpiece if you ask me. "Wondrous Stories" is such a lush and soothing single. I respect that Yes decided to release it as a single. And then of course, the epic track "Awaken." The whole band basks in its richness as the song moves through its twists and turns and parts.

Even though Going for the One marked a return to a more commercial sounding record, it still earns its spot in my mind as a Yes masterpiece. The same goes for the album cover. Hipgnosis designed that cover and, although it doesn't have the trademark fantastical Roger Dean artwork, it works nevertheless.

Overall, this is an album that deserves to be recognized as a celebration of Yes. Well done!