TIME AND A WORD

Like their symphonic counterparts GENESIS with "From Genesis to Revelation" and "Trespass," "Time and A Word" showed YES in their early development--not yet nailing down their distinctive sound(s) but very much on their way. "Then" (with its awesome video! [with Chris Squire playing the keyboards?!?!]), "Astral Travellor" and the title song are the most enjoyable/memorable songs for me from this album. The aforementioned trio of songs definitely put on display the awesome creativity to come while showcasing the amazing talent and skill these young musicians have. At this stage of the game (album #2) I think they were ahead of their countrymates. Albums number three, "The Yes Album" and "Nursery Cryme" really put the two at the top of the heap. I still can't hear the CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG similarities critics of the time were quick and frequent to point out. The chunky bass, prevalent organ, and high pitch of Anderson's lead vocal don't fit. Oh well.