THE YES ALBUM

Yes' first masterpiece! However, I find that this is Yes' only album which really 'rocks' all the way through - only on Roundabout and Siberian Khatru do we see that slightly harder edge to Yes with more prominent guitars and an actual beat from Bruford, rather than his usual flamboyance. The reason for this is that this album is a Steve Howe showcase - his first album and he makes an incredible impact on the direction of the band.

Of course, the rest of the band are on excellent form as well - the rhythm section continuing from 'Time and a Word' (although I find Squire's very muddy bass sound a little worse than on his favourite album), Jon Anderson reaching a creative peak (or a suppose a crest considering the next six albums), and Tony Kaye doing an admirable job.

All songs on here are fabulous, including Howe's delicious virtuosic interlude 'Clap', but especially Starship Trooper (I just love the intro to this song!). Everything has really been said about the individual songs before - incredible song-writing throughout. An essential for Yes and prog rock in general - a very effective starting point to get into Yes as well, especially if you listen to mostly classic rock.