GOING FOR THE ONE

Going for the One is one of Yes' finest albums of the 70s and a well deserved number one in the year of its release. It saw Yes come back from a years break in which members of the group decided to release solo albums. Rick Wakeman as we all know was happy to regoin the band once again on seeing some of the tracks Jon had written for the new album. Going for the One is a more direct and approachable album and would be an excellent introduction to the band.

'Going for the One' opens the album, an excellent 50s style rock 'n' roll workout with excellent pedal steel guitar and some funky basslines, a driving rhythm and a very vibrant sounding Jon Anderson delivering his usual distinctive vocals. A very fun and lively track about the glories of sport. 'Turn of the Century' is one Yes' richest, melodic acoustic led songs, that has some great piano from Wakeman, and very emotional vocals from Jon and Chris. Maybe stretched a bit reaching eight minutes, but a beautiful track and something that hadn't been tried very often from the band. 'Parallels' is probably the mother of all anthems, an extremely powerful track with a stunning bass line and driving guitar from Howe, a stunning solo at the beginning also. Wakeman is on full form here, great organ work and one of his best organ solos toward the end.

'Wonderous Stories' is another favourite of mine, very much an Anderson type track, the lyrics are full of magic and colour and it even proved to be a succesful single, though don't don't be mislead, still excellent keyboard work from Wakeman. The track that closes the album may very well be the pinnacle of Yes in the late 70s. A memorable Wakeman piano intro and a stunning performance from every member of the band. A very creative, anthemic track, great use of assorted percussion and White and Howe in particular give the track so much life before it begins to die down to a wonderful haunting atmosphere and a beautiful climax, one of the bands finest epics.

Going for the One proved to be a major success, and is counted as one of the most enjoyable albums of their career. An odd cover, but the bright blue against the buildings do have a nice effect. Some dense production can seem a bit annoying at times, yet it also gives the album a great atmosphere. Wonderful album from start to finish. 4.5 stars.