TORMATO

Brash and lively, perhaps indicative of what was needed at the time. Less indulgant, more focused. In some cases it works, in others a failed song isn't perhaps allowed to develope, so it remains lost.

Occasionally, like in 'Future times/rejoice', they sound like a band at the top of their game. The changes in mood and tempo are extreme, but pulled off with aplomb. Alan White should've been well pleased with his efforts. The percussion is exciting and catchy.

There are two beautiful gentle numbers, 'Madrigal' and 'Onwards', which allow Jon Anderson to express what he does so well.

'Circus of Heaven' seemed poignant and effective 30 years ago. Today, it's over in a flash, and is less so. That's my fault though. I'm older.

If the cracks of any impending change are to be seen, then they reveal themselves in the last song 'On the silent wings of freedom', because although complex, it's a right mish-mash of ideas without direction or theme. However, as I never noticed it all those years ago it would be unfair to criticise it now.

When this album came out it was perfectly acceptable. It represented the last evolution of the 70's style Yes, and maybe even one of the last examples of the genre before the desert of 80's music took control.

There are 3 tracks that need to be heard by all Yes fans. Ignore the bad press. It''s more rewarding than you think.