DRAMA

I avoided this album for months because of the Anderson-lessness that was told to me repeatedly. Being the huge Jon Anderson fan I was at the time (and still am), I was therefore really afraid to hear what it would sound like without the angelic voice of Jon. Still, I gave it a shot. I am so glad I did.

1. Machine Messiah- Right away, the band shows you that they still have it, with or without Mr. Anderson. Downes does a wonderful and unique job on keyboards, often too overlooked, and Horn's vocals are spectacular. Howe, Squire, and White are no slacks either. This track is one of the most powerful tracks Yes have ever recorded, and it is extremely enjoyable. Perfectly crafted. 10/10

2. White Car- Overlooked interlude. Horn's voices are good. It's definitely not a typical Yes song, but it's not skip-worthy either. It's actually good, despite it being very short. 7/10

3. Does It Really Happen?- Squire's bass on this song. That's all I have to say. Especially at the part when he goes all Bass Hero is absolutely stunning and very enjoyable. This track is crafted extremely well, great overall performances from everyone. This has to be another underrated Yes song that hardly gets the mention it deserves. 9/10

4. Into the Lens- I AM A CAMERA! Despite the repetition of that line, this song actually works. Downes and Horn really fit in well to create another unique and well-crafted composition. The keys are of particular note on this one. Squire shines once again. 9/10

5. Run Through The Light- This is an alright ballad... but it never hit me too much. It really brings down the album a bit for me. There's nothing particularly wrong with it, it's just a bit too on the sappy/soft side and lacks the punch of the songs that preceded it. I sometimes skip it. 5/10

6. Tempus Fugit- Pretty good song. Again, Horn and Downes fit well here, Squire's usual awesomeness, Howe and White both keep us as well. The musicianship is a given. This song tends to be a fan favorite, but I can't really see THAT much of the appeal, as I prefer Machine, Lens, and Does It Really Happen. However, this is still a pretty good song. 7/10

Much better than I expected and a uniquely good album in the Yes discography. Don't go for this first, but it is a pretty good addition after you're acquainted with Yes's masterpieces and other better works.