BIG GENERATOR

"Big Generator" stands as an album that sometimes people try to establish as controversial. And this for different reasons, mainly: 1) That the 80's brought a new era of music characterised by a commercial-poppish approach; 2) That essential prog rock was becoming old fashioned, and 3) That the changes in line-up unevitably led to a drastic change in the classic Yes sound.

However, none of these are excuse to what we hear in this album. The fact that the 80's represented a big change in music instigating towards commercial approach actually means nothing, because progressive rock was never a genre oriented towards that kind of "horizons". As a matter of fact, progressive rock was considered some kind of a "mainstream" type of music because of the cultural background and political enviroment in the 60's and 70's. That also goes for the argument that sustains a view of prog rock as old fashioned, because nowadays it seems that it is beginning to have a "rebirth" with new, fresh and young exponents.

On the other hand, the changes in line-up might be the most reasonable argument. Let's not deny the pretty good musicianship manifested in Big Generator, as demonstrated in songs like "Rhythm of Love" or "I'm Running", but always keeping in mind that we should draw the comparison with the rest of the 80's pop scene. Never with progressive rock as a musical achievement. I would agree with saying that the heavy influence of Trevor Rabin makes the difference here, in terms of the poppish/poorish inclinations.

The only thing that made me think of giving this one a lone star is the fact that great musicians are standing behind this embarassing proyect, such as Alan White, Jon Anderson and Chris Squire.