TORMATO

Sherman, let's set the way-back machine for 1978. Yes has just released their latest LP, Tormato, and something is happening within the band. Yes, the troops are restless, and it's showing in their material. After a great return to form with 1977's Going For The One, the kids in the back seat are at it again. This time it's Jon and Rick who can't quite keep their eye on the ball, and we get this collection of disconnected and not quite exiting songs. There are a lot of GOOD moments, but just very few GREAT ones. And why does Wakeman insist on playing with such boring and lifeless keyboard voices ? Can't Rick be creative, or is he just too lazy ? Circus Of Heaven does not make sense on a Yes record, it should have been stuck on an Anderson solo LP where it would fit in ! Well, at least Chris' bass work is lively, and really picks up some of the slack left by those lay-abouts. Steve really shines too on Release Release and Don't Kill The Whale. Tormato is not an unpleasant listen, and is actually quite fun in spots. However, it's certainly not the Yes we came to know and love on their earlier masterworks like Fragile and Close to the Edge. And fortunately there were better days still to come !