BEGINNINGS

Steve Howe's first solo album, recorded when each member of Yes released a solo album, sound mostly like songs written with Yes in mind. I gives the listener a good idea of what aspects of Yes' music was driven by Howe. And the guitar playing throughout is spectacular, as it should be. But it leaves me with a few questions. First, what would the songs sound like with Yes-like keyboards (I know Patrick Moraz plays on three tracks, but he mostly lays back)? And how could the great producer Eddie Offord allow Howe to sing lead? His voice is thin and weak, especially on Australia and Will O' The Wisp. A few effects might have made it better, but still...

At least there are enough good songs (if you can ignore his voice) to make this worthwhile. The Nature Of The Sea and Pleasure Stole The Night, each featuring members of Gryphon are good, as is Break Away From It All with Bill Bruford. Ram sounds like The Clap with added banjo and slide guitar.