RELAYER

The Gates Of Delirium is one of Yes best longer pieces. It is a true masterpiece of progressive rock! It builds from an interesting start to a fantastic instrumental workout and it ends with a beautiful symphonic ballad; so powerful, so emotional, so perfect! It is not up to par with Close To the Edge, but nothing else in this world is!

Steve Howe's guitar playing is very much to the forefront on this album. But even if he is great here, this is not the album I would say best represents his unique and distinctive sound. Some parts feature his most aggressive playing ever, and there are several times where Howe plays all by himself with the rest of the band being silent. This does not always work out for the better.

Patrick Moraz, being the new guy here, is often pushed to the background providing more sonic textures - or layers - to the music than being a lead instrumentalist in his own right. But there are several parts where he is allowed to shine, and when he does, he shines brightly. Comparing him with Rick is pointless - they are simply different players and both are great in their own special way! Alan White also further proves himself here, and drums away in a frenzy on the jazzy Soundchaser.

In my review of Tales From Topographic Oceans I complained that the songs, or movements, were too long. Paradoxically, it is the two shortest songs on Relayer that are slightly too long for their own good.

Still, I think that this album is close to a masterpiece, and yet again a very special album by my favourite band. Highly recommended!

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