YESSONGS

I heard this amazing live set at a friend of mine's house right after it's initial 1973 release. I was converted in his living room that evening. The band was burning up with youthful energy, and it shows in spades on this 3 vinal record set. That some complain of it's audio quality says two obvious things, those folks have no sense of the history of recorded music, and they confuse audio, with musical quality, so stop complaining. Jon Anderson (whom I have recorded with) is steller as usual, and perfectly pitched on every track. Steve Howe's performances are inspired throughout, even when he goes off into hyper guitar heaven. Chris Squire shows us why is is considered not only a superb player, but an innovative bassist in the uncommonly original notes he chooses to play at certain critical points, that most other bassist in rock couldn't even hear, much less play! Rick Wakeman is all that and then some in his classical, but aggressive stylings. And let me say here that Alan White takes a beating from those prog rock fans that still are ticked that Bill Bruford left Yes at their zenith. But Alan not only came in at the last minute and learned the band's entire rep. in three days flat, he played those pieces in his own style, not trying to imitate Bruford in the least. Bruford himself has applauded White's power and innovation over Yes's recording history. Alan White brought a whole new dimension to Yes, a bit heavier, and rock oriented for sure, but also adding more dynamics and subtle aspects that Bruford never gave. I could not imagine Bruford on the drum throne on the "Relayer" album, Alan White truly became Yes's drum man on that recording. As for Yessongs, if you haven't already, go straight out and get this recording, this amazing musical document of Yes in their prime... burning brighter than Halley's comet on a moonless night!