FLY FROM HERE

As good I would have expected, "Fly From Here" sounds very much Drama era Yes, with more than a nod in the direction of their symphonic predecesors, though slightly lacks the impact of Drama and the adventurism of their early albums.

I understand the main theme songs were written during the Drama sessions but never used, they are strong Yes tracks and pleased to see them brought out "into the light" (he he!) here, all the songs are good and up to standard, Fair do's the production on this album sounds magnificent as a good Yes album should on my vinyl copy, no excuse for poor sound in this modern age of state of the art studio technology, though i've heard a few duffers over the last few years.

New singer Benoit David seems born to fill Jon Anderson's shoes, though playing safe he is a good soundalike, he slightly lacks the impact, light and shade of his predecessors but is pleasant enough to listen to, maybe he'll settle in better after a tour and be more confident on the next album.

The other legendary performers sound in fine form, their signature solos, licks and phrases are all there to enjoy again and sound refreshed from their long abscence from each other. Yes has had many trials and tribulations over the years but doubt if we'll see Rick Wakeman back with the band, though i did hear one of his sons Oliver was up for the job and worked with the band on the new album but was dismissed...? ....shame.

Great artwork and flight theme all go together to make a great comeback album for Yes, though the old purist cynics could have a field day criticising it, the guys have stood up well here to keep up their reputations on all counts, personally i am just chuffed to have a new pretty well up to standard Yes album in my hands, the Spirit of Prog is still alive and kickin', show 'em guys!!

Though Fly From Here is by no means a masterpiece, it will remain a worthy addition to Yes fans and Prog fans alike, and the album will remain on my turntable for some time to come i know. .