TALK

Back in the 80s Yes had transformed into a successful Pop Rock band with some pretty catchy hit singles, however that only lasted for two albums(90125 and Big Generator). When the band or record label decided to join all line-ups Yes had had up to that moment(well, most of them), a new disaster, even more disastrous than Tormato, surged; this was Union (a.k.a.''Onion''). However I'm sure all members who participated in that album realized what was the quality of that album and soon decided to ''disband'' even if they really didn't play all together with the exception on the tour of it. The Rabin-era returned in full form to release another Pop Rock record in the likes of their 80s hit albums. This time, heavier and proggier: definitely not a soft love songs pop rock band they were anymore, Trevor delivers some pretty heavy riffs and Alan White supports a very loud, typical 90s, drumming. Jon and Chris play nicely, though no wonders to be expected, while Tony can bring back some of his prog momentum, though not much, but definitely greater than that from his 80s simple playing.

Talk is indeed a massive great hard rockin', AOR, record with prog leanings here and there, in which culminate with the longest song, Endless Dream, an overlooked gem dealing with Rabin's most accomplished effort with the band, pop sensibilities are also featured, so don't expect a modern Close to the Edge. Though it's indeed unique and brilliant by its own means.

Real Love is a tune that shows perfectly what I mean by hard rockin' and different to their 80's Pop stuff. Yes it's catchy and it's indeed Pop, yet it's pretty dark and daring from what you expect from a typical Pop song, the dark and daring aspects are due to Rabin's menacing guitar bites and riffs including some good back up from Tony's organ.

The Calling is the perfect balance between both sides from the album, being the single, it's a damn good one. A catchy riff to beg for if you're a AOR fan or even a man with sensibilities about good rockin' riffs. It shares, like you may have noticed, the rock edge from its riff and White's loud, unstoppable, drumming beat, while the pop sensibilities are from its chorus.

Buy this album if you're in a need of good pop rock that rocks pretty loud for it being pop music. While also those who are curious about what Rabin could really support to the band, this album is it, you got his superb solos and riffs, and an entire 15 minute symphonic-inspired rock song written by him and Mr. Anderson. However don't get this if you can't digest loud drum beats and 90s style hard-rock. And of course, if you can't listen to any tiny bit of Pop/AOR music, this should get crossed-out from your buy-list.

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