YES

"Yes" is the eponymously titled debut full-length studio album by UK progressive rock act Yes. The album was released through Atlantic Records in July 1969. Yes formed in mid-1968 and toured the UK early on playing both covers and original compositions. They signed to Atlantic Records in early 1969 and the 8 tracks on the debut album were recorded in April and May 1969. The album was not a commercial success upon release, although it did receive a fair amount of positive reviews from critics.

"Yes" features six originals and two covers of "Every Little Thing" by The Beatles and "I See You" by The Byrds. Both covers are re-arranged and fit in well with the original material. The overall style on the album is technically well played and slightly psychadelic rock with the occasional progressive edge. The 6:01 minutes long closing track "Survival" is the most progressive track on the album, but the remaining tracks also feature ideas and elements which point in the direction that Yes would pursue on subsequent album releases. They are just delivered here in a more simple and subtle fashion.

Most of the trademarks of Yes future sound are already in place here though. The intricate organ/piano and guitar work, the dominant and busy basslines, the fusion influenced drumming, and Jon Anderson´s and Chris Squire´s phenomenal vocal harmonies (guitarist Peter Bank´s also sings harmonies and of course also deserves a mention here). Anderson was already this early on a world class singer with a distinct sounding voice and delivery, and when complimented by Squire/Banks there is magic in the air...

The album features a detailed and organic sounding production job, and although Yes still had a way too go before reaching their peak, this is a good quality debut album which shows a lot of promise. A 3.5 star (70%) rating is deserved.