IN THE PRESENT - LIVE FROM LYON

That is my first review on this website. Despite the fact that using extreme ratings is generally discouraged and should be sparsely imposed I can hardly find reasons for dropping even half of a star from the rating of this release.

If there are any drawbacks related to this live album, these were already mentioned throughout the Yes community. Frist of all it is absence of Jon Anderson, then lack of new material and the fact that it is their third live CD release since last studio output (though in my opinion every one of them was worth releasing), not to mention DVDs.

As of Jon's absence, for myself this album is the definite proof that he isn't in fact indispensable for the band, if Drama and Fly From Here were not enough for some folks. Benoit is singing efficiently and comfortably. His performacne on "Machine Messiah" is truly fantastic. He is in full control throughout the set and in that sort of shape I fully support guys in commiting to him as a full-time singer. That is all said with the experience of Dresden concert couple of weeks age wher he struggled and was mixed much too low. I hope that it has been only a one-off indisposition.

The music itself and disposition of the band is top notch here. They're perfectly tight. Tighter and better tuned together than during any tour in last fifteen years. Even young Wakeman whom disappointed me a bit during polish gig prior to this recording is playing magnificently. All three Squire, Howe and White are at least delivering at their usuall - extremely high standards. The sound is incredibly crisp and selective with good dynamic range. So there are lots of nice details, delicate ornaments delivered by Howe and Wakeman interwoven with raging bass-guitar and strong drums. Another thing is keboards sound, which is really refreshening and analogue. Young Wakeman surpisingly delivers some vintage stuff, which leaves me scratching my head with hindsight of fact that he was later released from the band.

Set list speaks for itself to anyone familiar with Yes' catalogue. Personally I am fed up with "I've Seen All Good People" which was included on couple of previous releases and does not appeal to myself musically. "Owner Of The Lonely Heart" is also quite dubious choice, but I admit that they've managed to rebuild it a bit. With rocky approach and nicely crafted guitar solo with great lining flowing in background by other instruments. The rest are just fantastic compositions, played with inspiration and experience. All in all this is fantastic live album and a great introduction to Yes heritage for any new fans and of course a treat to any open-minded longtime protagonists.