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Yes - Relayer CD (album) cover

RELAYER

Yes

 

Symphonic Prog

4.38 | 3536 ratings

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Thufir Hawat
5 stars Relayer - Yes

Relayer is one of the Yes masterpieces and it easily equals the might and splendor of Close to the Edge and other progressive master works. With no Rick wakeman the band went in search of a new keyboardist and they held auditions. They pulled out the amazingly talented and ingenious Patrick Moraz (Previously from Refugee) who more than filled the shoes of Mr. Rick Wakeman. Relayer was a made straight after Tales From Topographic oceans which did not receive the great media attention befitting it (Even though it reached no. 1 on the charts.)

Relayer features one of the great Yes epics, The Gates of Delirium which is based around a lose concept which is depicted very well by the band, in particular Steve Howe how is amazing start to finish with his blazing guitar work. Patrick Moraz is also very good on the album and his keyboard playing in the middle section is different. Many say that this section is repetitive but if you look beyond this it is a very good song. The greatest part of the song, and one of the greatest moments in Yes's history is Soon, what a beautiful and emotional song. I have to say that this is one of Jon Anderson's greatest moments.

Sound Chaser sounds very much like a jazz/fusion song with the very amazing guitar work especially the blazing solo in the middle. The opening lyrics flow very well from the band when combined with the jazzy music. To top it off at the end of the song there are some Cha-cha's, what more could you want.

Last of all is To be Over which sounds very beautiful it reminds me of one of their later songs Hearts from 90125. The beginning starts off with a sitar (I think) which is played by Steve Howe and then the flowing of the song begins. Again Steve Howe plays the best he ever has on any album and he really shines in this album. Overall the album is worthy of five stars and the live version of The Gates of Delirium is well worth having.

Thufir Hawat | 5/5 |

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