DRAMA

A couple of major lineup changes had taken place since the ill-received "Tormato (1978)" album as both lead vocalist Jon Anderson and keyboard player Rick Wakeman left the band in 1979 after some not so successful sessions that were meant to have become Yes next album. New faces in the lineup are ex-The Buggles members Trevor Horn on lead vocals and Geoff Downes on keyboards. I´m sure the fans must have been in shock when they heard of this new constellation but any fears of how the impact of the inclusion of two pop musicians in the lineup would have on Yes music turned out unfounded as "Drama" is widely considered a great Yes album with the "right" trademark Yes sound.

The album opens with the impressive "Machine Messiah". Now that´s what I call a progressive rock song. Great technical playing, multible parts and innovative songwriting. For fans of an act like Dream Theater this is simply mandatory listening. This is what your heroes listened to when they were kids. The same can be said about both "Does It Really Happen?" and especially "Into the Lens". "Tempus Fugit" is also an excellent technical and progressive rock track. The short "White Car" track works well as an atmospheric variation. The only song I´m not too fond of is "Run Through the Light". It´s by no means a bad song or anything like that but it´s just the least interesting track here with it´s more easily accessible sound.

The musicianship is as always outstanding. Great performances all around. New vocalist Trevor Horn has a pretty strong voice not too far removed from the distinct vocal style of Jon Anderson, so Jon Anderson´s absence from the album isn´t a problem. The rythm section which consists of bassist Chris Squire and drummer Alan White needs a special mention here as they are on fire. Simply outstanding playing and great innovative ideas. Guitarist Steve Howe plays much more structured on "Drama" compared to his more loose style of playing on earlier albums. I think it suits the music well on this album. New keyboard player Geoff Downes does a great job. I enjoy Rick Wakeman´s playing on earlier albums by Yes but he isn´t missed here.

The tight and dark production on the album suits the music perfectly.

"Drama" is an excellent progressive rock album by Yes and considering that it was released in 1980 which was generally not a friendly year for progressive rock it´s actually quite the achivement IMO. A 4 star (80%) rating is fully deserved.

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