RELAYER

When I first began listening to Yes, I started off with what I found to be their most famous and well-received albums, Close to the Edge and Fragile. I found them to be masterpieces in their own right, and they had me thirsting for more. When I first put on Relayer, I was shocked as to what I had found, a hidden masterpiece. At least that is how it felt to me, given many people I know have little interest in prog rock, save for a couple famous classics.

The first track Gates of Delirium is a masterpiece in it's own right. I continue to be mesmerized by that entire track. The departure of Wakeman was unfortunate, and even though this was Moraz's only album until he departed as well. The synth riffs in this track feel as if they had some kind of funky, yet mythical feel to them. Which lead me to feel he did a really great job on the album, and helped contribute to what I feel is my favourite Yes song.

The work from Squire, Anderson, Howe and White. Is, as always, oozing with talent. I especially found the solo in Sound Chaser a great example of the diversity of Howe's wild creativity with his guitar. While the pedal steel guitar at the end of Gates of Delirium gave such a chilling and eerily feel to the finale, which only added to the mystical and fantasy feel that I felt came from the synth riffs.

In review, I feel that this is definitely my favourite Yes album. I know a claim like this will probably come with criticism and objection. I just can't help but revel in one of the only true epic albums ever made.