FRAGILE

After a masterpiece, Yes came stimulated to the studio. And, as a result of this, here is another masterpiece. The curious fact is that all members have a solo song in the album. Let's take a look:

Five Percent For Nothing: nonsense solo piece by Bill. I really don't know about what this song is (I mean, the title, for it has no lyrics). Bruford was a very talented musician; even being a drummer and not always participating in the compositional process, I'm sure he could have done something better ! 2,5 stars...

Cans and Brahms: solo piece by Wakeman, it is an adaptation of a classical work from Johannes Brahms. It is graceful, very beautiful. The synthesizer sound is very cool. 4,1 stars to it. We Have Heaven: great solo song by Anderson, showing how talented he was/is. What could be better than a song sung by Jon Anderson ? A song sung by many Jons ! 4,5 stars.

Mood For a Day: after 'Clap', here is another classical Howe's acoustic guitar song. Better than the other cited, it has more feeling and is more complex. 4,5 stars.

The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus): good solo piece by the talented Squire. It is very complex and simple at the same time. The drums, guitar and bass are played fantastically, and the vocals are simple, but powerful. Alone, it wouldn't have much impact, but it's a medley with Long Distance Runaround, and this makes it even greater. 4,5 stars.

Roundabout: some people say this is the biggest Yes success, or that it is the best song of the band. I disagree. Of course, Yes always plays it in every show, and, if I went to a Yes show, I'd want to hear it also, though it's not one of my favourite. 5 stars.

Heart of the Sunrise: this song is very repetitive and could be a little shorter, but the musicians play perfectly in it: an enviable bass line, great guitar riffs and solos, fast crazy drums and emotional keyboards. This song has an incredible atmosphere, mystic, melancholic, deep. Jon sings the words 'sharp distance' so many times, but every time he sings is different. Great song. 5 stars.

South Side of the Sky: this song begins with Mr. Bruford's syncopation and wind effects: a great intro to advertise the great song that is starting. It has a contagious rhythm and good lyrics. In fact, it has something special. A very powerful song. I love it. 5 stars !

Long Distance Runaround: For me, the best song on the album. Happy, positive, melancholic at the same time, powerful, contagious. One of my favourite Yes tunes. 5 stars ! Let's remember that this album was just an 'appetiser'. The next album would be Yes' maximum, but this is a terrific album. 5 stars, of course !