Frontiers/BAM
YES was formed in London in 1968 by vocalist Jon Anderson and bassist/vocalist Chris Squire. With a background in the LSD London of the era it is a surprise they are still around but they still have a chance of celebrating 50 as a band. The lineup has changed of cause, but Chris is still around, and Steve Howe, guitars, has been a member since 1970, and drummer Alan White has been on board since 1972! The keyboard spot has even been “inherited” by Oliver Wakeman from his father Rick, who joined in 1971. The real center of attention seems to be new vocalist Benoit David, who came in 2008 from a YES cover band in best Rock Star movie fashion! The latter has been said to be out of tune at times but seems to have been embraced by the fans in general. This recording was made in Lyon, France, on December 1st 2009.
The mix of songs is of cause necessary if you have a soon fifty year band history, but “Fragile” (1971) and “Close to the Edge” (1972) have the most songs included. “Drama” from 1980 contributes two songs and the emphasis on the early years is clear. No YES live without “Owner of a Lonely Heart” though, the sort of reluctant hit from 1983. I find it hard to find the real spark and fire in the 14 tracks, but the band has been around for a very long time and what can be asked? The musical performance is immaculate, as can be expected, one highlight is Steve Howe´s guitar on his solo instrumental, the acoustic “Corkscrew”. They would also have to exceed themselves to fail with tracks like the masterful “Roundabout” a song constantly on the “best song of all times lists”. This is all in all very professional, but with an understandable lack of hunger.
Track List
CD1
Siberian Khatru
I´ve Seen All Good People
Tempus Fugit
Onward
Astral Traveller
Yours Is No Disgrace
And You and I
Corkscrew (Acoustic Solo)
CD2
Owner of a Lonely Heart
Southside of the Sky
Machine Messiah
Heart of the Sunrise
Roundabout
Starship Trooper
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