TALES FROM TOPOGRAPHIC OCEANS

Tales from Topographic Oceans is easily one of Yes's most controversial albums, evoking love and hate from just about everyone. I personally think that it is very well-made and enjoyable, though I really can't take all of it at once, though it works just as well one song at a time. The reason so many have poured hate on this album is the fact that it's long, spiritually-driven, full of instrumentals, and tackling huge themes, which many see as pretentious. The reason so many love it is that there is definitely inspiration and soul here, and for the most part, it is a revealing and emotional album. Ultimately, it is the listener who shall find which side they are on, though for now, I think the best I can do is to say that it's good, but not quite essential or excellent. Three stars.