SONGS FROM TSONGAS: 35TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT (DVD)

This DVD is probably one of the greatest in my collection. I range in progressive DVD's from Evergrey's A Night to Remember, to Dream Theater's Score, to Peter Gabriel's, Growing Up and Secret World.

YES is up there in my top three.

Such a massive setlist to witness. I was able to attend that tour in 2004 when Dream Theater opened for them in London. The London show was much different than this DVD, showing me that YES still has the power to do absolutely anything.

Opening up with Firebird Suite and Going For the One even had me going in my seat at home. The energy which YES gives off draws you right into the show, making you feel as if you are there. The classics progress with Sweet Dreams (wow), Mind Drive, and a moderately slowed down South Side of the Sky (which actually plays out better slower.)

The second disc begins with the acoustic set, where YES performs Roundabout, Owner of a Lonely Heart and others, in a new light. A swing set changes up previous recordings and performances by the band and gives the average YES fan a new pace to these songs.

The conclusion of the show involves the WONDERFUL And You and I, which the audience falls completely in love with. It was mezmerizing. The Beatles Cover of Every Little Thing was well appreciated, and of course, Starship Trooper was a great end to the over two-hour performance.

As for the performances, knowing Jon Anderson was sick during this tour, he did not crack once during the performance. Vocal melodies were strong with the band, as both Squire and Howe each sung along with Anderson.

The sound is wonderful, as everything is almost mixed properly. The lapsteel guitar and Wakeman's keys sometimes are too powerful or too quiet, but are rarely recognized when viewing.

The concert quality is fantastic. We get an equal viewing of all musicians, albeit, I think White was a bit hindered behind the kit.

But overall, it is a classic DVD which I think is essential for not just all YES fans, but ALL FANS of the progressive music genre.

This DVD shows the movements of progressive rock from the 70's to today, and it is a magnificant experience which everyone should watch.