9012LIVE: THE SOLOS

9012 Live: The Solos is the third live album from Yes released as a mini-LP in November of 1985. It was recorded during the band's 1984 world tour in support of their eleventh studio album, 90125. The album showcases solo tracks performed by each of the five band members, plus live versions of two songs from 90125. However, the album was essentially created to promote the band's 1985 concert film, 9012Live. This is clearly evident since whenever you buy the album on vinyl an order sheet for the concert film is packaged as the sleeve. This album would fair better if it were extended to be a double LP and contain more classic live tracks from the band's studio catalog. But instead, we a greeted with a rather mediocre yet interesting live album that consists of numerous solos that are truthfully best intended for fans of the band. The band members on this album consist of Jon Anderson on vocals, Trevor Rabin on guitar and vocals, Alan White on drums, Tony Kaye on keyboard, and Chris Squire on bass.

The first track, Hold On, receives an especially solid live rendition consisting of great guitar work from Trevor Rabin. Furthermore, Tony Kaye's choice of keyboard sounds may sound simple at times but work well within the track. A solid choice for an opener! Subsequently, the album transfers into Tony Kaye's solo of the album entitled Si. This is an interesting piece with some top-notch atmosphere around it. A special mention goes to the wonderful organ sound and composition choices Tony Kaye chooses to incorporate here. The next track is a Trevor Rabin solo piece entitled Solly's Beard. The track is terrific at points but at other points I feel as if it could have been condensed. However, I generally happen to enjoy what Trevor Rabin does with his guitar here despite it seeming a bit self-indulgent. But what prog fan doesn't enjoy some self-indulgence every once in awhile? After this, Jon Anderson provides a lovely rendition of Soon. However, I always find it off-putting when it is sung separately from the entire Gates of Delirium Suite. Nevertheless, Jon Anderson's vocals are as beautiful as ever in addition to his vocals being full of emotion.

Changes is up next, and it features the entire band performing together. The track opens with the wonderful rhythmic section lead by keyboards as found on the studio album, 90125. Trevor Rabin gives a terrific vocal performance here while also providing some solid guitar throughout. In addition, Tony Kaye yet again delivers solid keyboard work despite it not being as in your face when compared to some of the other instruments. This track actually tends to work quite well in a live setting, giving the track a ton of energy which at points was lacking on the original studio version. After Changes, Chris Squire provides a bass solo entitled Amazing Grace. Similar to most of the other solos this doesn't scream essential by any means. Nevertheless, it is an interesting and skillful piece with some beautiful bass work throughout. Whitefish is a Alan White and Chris Squire solo track that essentially combines The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus) with other parts of the Yes discography such as Sound Chaser and Tempus Fugit. This track is an appealing listen for any Yes fan, I'd recommend checking this one out if you had to choose just one. Chris Squire's bass performance all through this track is nothing less than phenomenal.

The solos here a pleasant but aren't too interesting after one or two listens. Nevertheless, these live tracks aren't bad by any means. If you are interested in hearing Yes perform live during 1984, I would recommend checking out the 9012 Live DVD instead, as it contains an abundance of tracks consisting of the full band performing in addition to solo pieces sprinkled throughout. In general, this is an album that is meant for fans/collectors. "Change, changing places. Root yourself to the ground. Capitalize on this good fortune. One word can bring you round, changes!"

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