RELAYER

'Relayer' is the seventh studio album by YES, featuring a new line up Patrick Moraz replacing Rick Wakeman on keyboards. While most of YES signature elements (poetic lyrics, vocal harmony, complex rhythm with dynamic bassline, and dominant guitar), the band extended its musical farther by experimenting jazz flavor and longer improvisations. Patrick Moraz fits very well with the band, contributing a different sound and style throughout the tracks.

'The Gates of Delirium' is an epic track (almost 22 minutes), telling a story of war, its aftermath and hope for peace. Jon Anderson got this idea from Leo Tolstoy's novel 'War and Peace'. The intro section is a nice guitar ? keyboard duet, before the vocal section starts at 02:14. Minute 8 to 12 is a great instrumental section at faster pace, which for me is kind of crescendo of excitement. This is known as 'battle' section of the track, and as its topic suggest, there is a freeform instrument representing chaotic situation of war. Chris Squire and Alan White made a great rhythm section. Squire bassline is fluid and melodic as we could always expect from him. At 12:50 the mood changes drastically, like a victory tune, a cooling down phrase before the peaceful section (better known as 'Soon' section). 'Soon' is indeed among great highlights in this track. Not only Jon Anderson singing is so beautiful, but also the background instruments are finely crafted. The complexity and beauty of this track is comparable to 'Close to the Edge'. In my opinion, 'The Gates of Delirium' is more powerful and experimental, compared to the well-structured and symphonic CTTE.

'Sound Chaser' shows a strong jazz fusion element in an aggressive composition. Steve Howe guitar playing is so diverse, with jazz and flamenco feels. It is told that this is the introductory track for Patrick Moraz in his audition with YES. He plays jazzy phrases in intro and interlude. Those who loves 'Heart of the Sunrise' might find this track as energetic as it.

'To be Over' is a calmer track, but still full of great instrument works from the band member, even I think the room for guitar improvisation is a bit too long.

For me this is a unique YES album, with additional jazz element that is well contributed by Patrick Moraz. Steve Howe plays a lot of string instruments in this album. His works using pedal steel guitar in 'The Gates of Delirium' is among his best works. He also plays sitar in 'To Be Over'.

Not an easy album to digest, but once we find the beauties, it is reasonable to rank this album among YES' best work.