TALES FROM TOPOGRAPHIC OCEANS

A change in the sound for Yes, Tales was way more epic and experimental than any Yes album dated before (or after) it. It's a complex and entangled album, with mythical and historical lyrics written by Howe and Anderson. I think the music and lyrics fits well to eachother and the atmospheric and dark atmosphere here is chillingly brilliant. There are four tracks here, each one clocking in at over 18 minutes each. You need to study this album at the same time you listening to it, cause it is a bastard to understand musically and lyrically, but it will surely grow on you. I swallowed this one pretty well at my first listen, but it growed on me even more after some more spins. It's not the best Yes album though, as there is some flaws here (part's drags on for too long etc.)

Bill Bruford quitted right before Close to the Edge was released so Yes found Alan White, and he was a great replacement, IMO. His powerful and nearly thundering drumming style fits this album very well. Steve Howe's guitar noodling here is an acquired taste, and the tone on his guitar is very weird here, but surprisingly fitting to the music. The production is excellent and adds the special mood and atmosphere to the album that makes Tales Tales (if you know what I mean). It's not perfect though, but it's definetly a excellent and bold release from Yes. 4/5