TALES FROM TOPOGRAPHIC OCEANS

It seems to me that after Close To The Edge, Yes were focused on one thing only: finding a way to top their previous work. Well, I don't blame them for it. Everyone here knows that pushing the boundaries to the extreme IS the essence of progressive rock. With TFTO, Yes simply stated that they were not afraid to go even further with their ideas, which shows just how bold these guys were to have attempted such a large-scale work.

Tales From Topographic Oceans is quite a journey. Each of the four side-long suites is packed with fresh ideas and superb playing from all members. Howe and Wakeman share the lead in most of the passages but Squire and White join them with really powerfull bass and drumming. Jon Anderson also makes a great performance on vocals, and his lyrics are...well...as bizarre as ever. I must say that this album does take a while to truly appreciate, but it is immensly rewarding when it finally clicks. I'm going to give this one four stars because I can't really say it tops Close To The Edge, but it is nonetheless a high quality recording that will take you to another world.