@@EricSmaug Alan White was a freaking beast! Don't get me wrong, Bruford was also great as Yes's original drummer, but White was a mad skilled stickman!
This is a good choice to start a learning journey with Yes. As for lyrics, most English speakers are challenged to fully understand them. Some will even say that they are meaningless. I wouldn’t go that far. But Jon Anderson wrote them in a way that isn’t clear speech. It is partly poetic, and partly metaphysical. To better understand you would need to read the books he was reading at the time about Eastern philosophy. But the lead guitarist famously said when questioned about the lyrics 10-15 years ago, “What Jon meant by them isn’t so important. The real question is, what do they mean to you?” And so it is that most people pick out favorite phrases that resonate with them. And from that, most people find powerful positive messages that are interpreted WITH the music in a spell binding, sometimes life changing way. Don’t get caught up trying to understand everything. Please do enjoy the ride. There is so much more to enjoy. Thank you for this reaction, and I truly look forward to seeing more in the coming weeks.
This song is possibly the greatest of Yes compositions. There's a LOT going on here that's not immediately obvious on the first listen. Complex, complicated, intricately layered, and lyrically expressive. It's a complete journey; took me a while to get "there."
❤Yes ❤ When Yes came about, their music was called 'classical rock' because of the complexities, the time and key changes and theme variations. You cannot appreciate Beethoven's 9th Symphony on one hearing. You can love it, but not understand it with one listen. 50+ years later, I still crank the volume up for Yes. Jon Anderson's lyrics should be thought of as words of a spell being cast on the listener. To touch the emotions, to help feel the song. Dominika, you would be a very cool 70's chick! ☮💜🎶
The entire song is a masterpiece, and the vocal harmonies right at the end of the second section sometimes get overlooked because of all the great moments, but they are one of Yes’ most transcendent moments… your faces beamed, it was awesome to see…
Far and away the longest-lasting and the most popular of the 1970s progressive rock groups, Yes proved one of the lingering success stories from that genre. The band was formed in London in 1968 by singer Jon Anderson and bassist Chris Squire, both owners of high, clear tenor voices that blended seamlessly in the band's trademark harmonies. Yes overcame a generational shift in its audience to reach the end of the century as the definitive progressive rock band, purveyors of cosmic (often mystical) lyrics, virtuoso playing, and vast musical tapestries topped off with heart-stoppingly gorgeous melodies and sealed with a rock & roll kick. - All Music Guide
Amazing band & individual musicians. Chris Squire's Rickenbacker bass lines are a feature of their music through the 70's, 80's & beyond. Geddy Lee (Rush) cites him as a great influence on his own playing. Enough said.
Every time I listen to Yes, I can only come away with the same emotion. So many of the bands from this time became ageless because they worked so hard to give the audience what they wanted, rather than now, the presenter is all about me me me and the money. I was born in 1961, and as soon as I heard them i was hooked, picked up a FEW other bands along the way, still my personal favorite band. Thanks for the review.
It took me awhile to break away from the Beatles, Stones, Zeppelin, etc....the mainstream rock music...and when I finally discovered Yes, it was like an expansion of my mind into a completely new kind of musical style, and although it took awhile for me to appreciate what Yes were doing, they became one of my all-time favorite bands. I think they're brilliant.
Talking of lyrics, Squire once said of Anderson's lyrics that even he didnt understand them and he had to sing the damned things. Anderson said he might start out with a theme in mind but once he started writing he ended up just writing down words that sounded good together so dont worry if you dont understand the lyrics ;)
Anderson's lyrics are non-linear poetry...a bit like John Lennon's "jabberwocky" dadaist lyrics on "I Am The Walrus" and "Strawberry Fields"...you can't make sense of them, you can only hear them as sounds intertwined with the music.
Ladies and gentlemen YES the greatest show on earth. Nice reaction. You are absolutely correct to allow the divinity of the music to capture your soul. Enjoy your divine journey with YES ✨️🙏✨️ And You And I is a brilliant love song.
I saw them once in the early nineties.They were amazing.Great show at the Patriot Center in the round…a stage rotated slowly so everyone could see them all.
Saw them on July 19 1975. They opened the show with Sound Chaser, Close To The Edge, and Gates Of Delirium! I was so impressed that I saw Chris and Alan 35 more times until right before Squire passed 🙏🎶
I was a senior in high school when I first heard Starship Trooper on the radio. At first, I didn't know what I had just heard. By the 2nd or 3rd time I heard it, I was wondering if it wasn't the most beautiful song I had ever heard. Just filled with pleasing melody, & those vocal harmonies! And that Bass Player! They presented a long piece, with 3 basic sections, but they constantly changed what they were presenting, waiting only long enough for you to pick up the groove they were laying down. I quickly went out & bought the album & went to my first YES concert some months later & spent the next couple of decades declaring that YES was my favorite band. During this Uber Classic Period of YES' recording, they showed that they were Masters of Complexity & experimentation. There masterpieces were absolutely packed with complexity, which is why YES music stayed so fresh to me, every time I'd listen to them, I'd noticing something I had missed on previous listens, all the components of sound they were combining to make amazing music. Starship Trooper was one of YES' all-time masterpieces. There's another on the same album, *Yours Is No Disgrace* which you will find super enjoyable. After that I recommend *Roundabout* from their next album, which is universally hailed as their best creation that wasn't a super-long epic. Two others on that album you will enjoy: *Heart Of The Sunrise* and *South Side Of The Sky.* All three long songs on their next album *Close To The Edge* are must listen: *Close To The Edge, And You And I, & Siberian Khatru.* Every single one of these songs from their Uber Classic period (their 3rd, 4th, & 5th albums) will astonish you with their wondrous beauty & creativity.
Growing up with this music I very rarely questioned the lyrics or deeper meanings. The music lands on you as an EXPERIENCE not something to figure out. My brain, my heart, and soul were expanded through the LISTEN-ING as opposed to something else. It was an era of exploration and pushing boundaries. Music from this time period was a kind of language. If you weren’t “brought up” speaking the language it might not make sense at first. You might have to LISTEN, (as you said Dominka) a few times until you let go of trying to make sense of It all. I feel so fortunate having grown up with this kind of music. My mind and soul were set free by listening to YES and I learned to be “IN IT” rather than to be separate from my experience.
I’ve been listening to Yes for over 50 years and I still don’t understand the lyrics, but if as one of you said “just listen to the music” you can’t go wrong!
Around 14:35 when Howe comes in with his lead, if you can find a live version of this when Wakeman was in th band, Wakeman flat tears it up on a keyboard solo. Steve Howe won Guitar Player Magazine's award for best overall guitarist for 5 years in a row. Back in the day that award meant something because that was your peers voting for you
that chord on the last break was the first lick I learned on the guitar in the '70s. My wife still grins when I play it to this day! YES is a joy to hear, any time, any day.
This was the song that Phil Carson -- an exec with Atlantic Records -- knew would help break Yes in America in 1971. Yes didn't include "Starship Trooper" in their live shows when they first toured the states, but he knew it would be a hit on FM and college radio. As for 'what was in the water', remember this was just a couple years on from King Crimson's debut, which itself was just a couple years on from 'Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band' (plus Cream, Hendrix, etc.) The prevailing rule was there were no rules. BTW, if this scratches an itch for you, I'd recommend going on to the 'Fragile' album.
Great reaction! I believe YES IS a time machine.... and maybe, just maybe, YES traveled to visit all of us from the future? Or a different dimension? Try their song "Awaken" sometime. I'm sure you'd really like it.
The best music... ever, from the best band... ever. And YES has dozens and dozens of songs every bit as unique as this one. Thanks for the reaction from this 70 year old YES fan.
The Yes Effect: they open the back panel on your brain by sneaking in your ears, and then re-sets you for greater positivity and hope. And you don't really know how it's happening....it just is.
Some of their magnum opuses may be initially overtaxing, like Close to the Edge and Gates of Delirium, which are among the best in all music. "And You and I" and "Awaken" may be a better entrance into their inner sanctum. "To Be Over" and "Onward". "Time and a Word".
My wife introduced me to Yes when we were in high school. We went to see them live during the Fragile tour back in 72. Decades later my daughter took me to see them in 2008. I've seen them a dozen times in between and can attest they sound every bit as good a clean live as they do in studio
Some of the finest musicians ever formed together what a band every member are guifted from Andersons unique voice Steve Howe guitarest Alan White & Bill Bruford Drums & Rick Wakeman & Moraz keyboard's & Chris squire the finest Bass player ever walk this planet RIP💔 So many more tracks to explore from YES Close to the Edge' Relayer' etc Awaken' Beautiful track.
Firstly I love both of you and thank you so much for the wonderful sharing of yourselves and your authentic reactions to all this great music that you have done. Secondly, I believe that this is your first reaction to Yes and you definitely have tumbled down the rabbit hole into Wonderland (musically speaking). Don't be in a hurry to leave.Yes has many fantastic surprises in store for you! I think that one has to listen to both Yes and King Crimson to hear the poles of prog rock- alpha and omega- glass full or empty. Lastly, I loved your BS&T reaction to You've Made Me So Very Happy (this was our garage band's big number when we were lucky enough to do some paying gigs in high school (a long time ago).
I saw them in 1977! This was their 3rd studio album, but first with guitarist Steve Howe! Great album, I always liked Perpetual Change, from this album! Jon Anderson's vocals & the harmonies from the rest of the band, are like another instrument!
this is by far my absolute FAVORITE track by Yes! And it's kinda hard to pick any one song of theirs as a favorite, since in my opinion all their songs are awesome !
I'm so glad your are getting into Yes. Try Heart of the Sunrise, Roundabout, And You and I, South Side of the Sky, Yours is no Disgrace, I've Seen all good People, Perpetual Change. And the cherry on top of the cake, Close To The Edge (the song). Love you guys.
Seen this band many times. I consider them to be the most talented musicians ever put together. They are in my top 3 right behind Genesis and Pink Floyd.
I discovered "Yes" in 1969 on radio, "We've Seen All Good People, " was playing on the radio. Really like them. I was still a fan of Blood Sweat and Tears, Three Dog Night, and Creedence Clearwater Revival.....and the Yes came along and I was a fan for life.
You guys are my favorite reaction couple by far. Nice job working your way into Yes. They really were quite different from almost anyone else. Incredible musicians at every instrument. Jon Anderson wrote essentially surrealist lyrics, and the band incorporates far more dissonance and complex time signatures than just about anyone then and certainly anyone today, so they take some getting used to, but repeated exposure just increases the listener's awe and respect for their artistry. And Dominica is correct: the coda at the end of Starship Troopers is epic. You guys do make me reflect: what was in the water in the UK back in the late 60s thru the mid-70s? That so many British kids (that's what they basically were) produced so much incredibly sophisticated and compelling music in such a short time really is cause for wonder, especially considering the derivative and almost factory-produced music that dominates today.
I saw them in the around 1980 and they played this song....and just kept playing the outro...and playing ...and the volume increased by increments...until the crowd was in a hypnotic state. Completely cathartic.
fantastic band. i group them with early genesis. great reactions. i enjoy seeing dominica's face get puzzled, then bemused, then joyed, then amazed, etc... you guys are totally right. that was a magical musical era.
You asked what was in the water at that time, I can give you a clue. The UK, between the sixties and seventies, had the most equitable distribution of wealth in its entire history (i.e. the rich paid higher taxes). This wealth manifested itself in free college education and good jobs, allowing young people to create and consume at a higher rate than previous generations. Couple this with the revolutions in musical instrument technology and you get bands like Yes.
Do not worry about the lyrics. I'm English and have been on this planet 54 years and I find it hard to comprehend and dissect everything they are saying. It's very, VERY complex English composition as is the music. Fantastic. My favourite band EVER.
If you are surprised by Yes (and Starship Trooper), then think about me being only 20 years old when this album was released. It hit me as a sledgehammer right in my head and I've been devoted to Yes since that. The voice of Jon Anderson is from another heaven, the guitar playing by Steve Howe is outstandingly good and creative, the bass playing by Chris Squire is so innovative and way out of this world (and his voice dubs Jon Anderson perfectly), Bill Bruford's drumming is perfectly funky and jazzy at the same time, and Rick Wakeman on the all sorts of keyboards is a wizard. No wonder I still love Yes!
Very nice review. These are my absolute favorites. Agree - that these take many listens to pick up. Don't worry about the lyrics - they are more impressions or word poems rather than literal. Lots of great songs by this band - hard to find a bad one on The Yes Album, Fragile, Close to the Edge, etc. Steve Howe is an amazing and unusual guitarist' Chris Squire is the superb bassist and back-up singer; Bill Bruford is a great drummer... etc..
Yes, and Keyboardist Rick Wakeman, is one of my heros in Music. I was playing Keyboards in the 1970s and Yes, Emerson Lake & Palmer and Deep Purple are my top 3
I listen to this album all the time. I've seen Yes 10+ times. First one in 1978, last one in 2022. Jon's vocals are so outstanding. Heart of the Sunrise and Wonderous Stories show off the the virtuosity of the band. Dominica, your English is just fine.
When I had a few years after an initial listen to a song I loved at first listen, when I found myself trying to get that feeling back. A song that is beautiful from far away, later becomes up close, upon repeated listenings and sometimes I wish I could scoot back to a virginal state.
Yes is like a new genre of music. There is so much fantastic music here. Just listen and enjoy. You will pick out different things on each listening. Also, Squire is a bass God, one of the best. Howe is a fantastic guitar player, such style. Wakeman on the key is a master. Such a great set of musicians. A master class.
Some classic Yes suggestions for early exploration: "I've Seen All Good People," "Long Distance Runaround" (including "The Fish"), "Roundabout," "Wonderous Stories" As with say, ELP and Pink Floyd, diving into the deep end early on isn't advisable. The shorter (under 10 min.) songs are obviously more accessible for newbies before testing deeper waters.
As a young teenager, I mostly listened to the short, catchy song "I've Seen All Good People" from the same brilliant album or the US single hit "Roundabout" from the next album. Through repeated listening, I found more and more access to these nuanced musical journeys like Starship Trooper, Your Is No Disgrace (there's a brilliant live video from 1971 of the cult show Beat Club, then you can see how Yes works) or Perpetual Changen. The short guitar song Clap by Steve Howe is also fantastic. With Pink Floyd, Genesis and ELP, Yes were my evening entertainment after homework (we didn't have that many media distractions yet). It's timeless, brilliant music. I wouldn't go to You And I or the other two long songs from the best (!?) Yes album Close To The Edge as quickly as some would suggest. You miss too much and don't recognize the band's development. It would be great if you continued!
Yes especially in their early years were well beyond their time. Definitely one of the most notable prog rock bands. Their ability to harmonize and transition songs is top notch.
their compositions let you listen time and time again and you will hear a different sound or angle that depending on your mood on each listen will take your breath away YES were a huge influence on TOOL and RUSH I have been a fan since the beginning I'm 68 now and still enjoy every last note they play and produce and fyi:- its Great Britain not just England {:-) PAV UK
"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.." to quote Charles Dickens, growing up in a small Midlands town in England, born in '54, a peaceful and caring place. By 1970 the Beatles had changed the world of music and in 1971 and onward there was an incredible explosion of creativity. I was a hippie, long hair, blue jeans, hitch-hike to Egypt without fear of anything, the music of YES just a constant and beautiful companion. Yes, Dominiqa, you would have fit right in and Andre even more! Haha, peace and love is what we still hope for our world. "And You and I" off the "Close to the Edge" album would be a good next choice.
❤❤❤ ONCE YOU LET GO, YOURE SOLD!😂 It ENGULFS you and take you on a journey! And what is amazing, YES continued to create such MAGIC, time after time after time. You're now at the top of the RABBIT HOLE where you'll only spiral deeper within the VORTEX of the REVEALING SCIENCE of YES WORLD! Welcome! Yes lyrics are like Shakespeare and they take practice to hear & and comprehend, just like adjusting to their music.
Think "Yours Is No Disgrace " is the star from this album. But this comes a close second. then you can look for "Roundabout" from "Fragile". But "The Clap" should also get a mention.
I really got into Yes during my college days in the late 70s-early 80s. I loved the Yes Album but I would have started with something like "Roundabout" or "I've Seen All Good People".
Lots of Rand R heroes out there but YES is an entire bands worth!! It took me a long time to finally see them with the original group on their 35th anniversary tour at Red Rocks in Colorado. An epic show during a wind storm and the band literally blew the place to pieces!! Next up: Going For The One Close To The Edge And You And I ENJOY!!!!
Nice reaction😊 I would recommend " and you and I " as a yes tune to listen to after this one. Hope you'll continue this journey, if you do I'm sure you'll find many more wonderful songs.
You have entered the wonderful garden of Yes. This is a good album to start with. Or their next album, Fragile. Roundabout is a good classical Yes masterpiece. Then you are ready for Close to the Edge and Relayer
Hello Andrei and Dominika! First off, great reaction as always. I think both of you have now been bitten by the Yes bug. Once you go down this rabbit hole, you are in for an amazing journey. Yes is one of the finest representatives of progressive rock music, also King Crimson, Emerson, Lake & Palmer, Genesis and many others in this genre. You will find that their compositions are epic and contain very complex musicianship. I would highly recommend that you check out "Roundabout", "And You and I", and "Close to the Edge" which I think you will find fascinating. Thank you for being you
YES one of the most tallented progbands ever. Jon Andersons lyrics is not to be understod...hahaha..The words is far out..Sometimes he just use words that fit the music...he is very much a down to earth spiritual guy even today. He is still going strong. I saw him in concert in Uppsala Sweden last summer. Every member of this band is top nodge. Great to hear from old YES again. Great reaction to. Thank you.
Glad you liked that! Don't worry about not following Jon Anderson's lyrics - I'm a native English speaker and I have no clue what he's talking about. I once made the mistake of asking Jon what they were all about (at a post-gig 'meet and greet') and he replied ... and I was none the wiser. Essentially, his reply was as weird as his lyrics.
I hope you continue to react to Yes, you'll be well rewarded 🙂I think you've also chosen the right album to start, when they've just about developed their style and confidence as a band.
You may not have English as your first language, but I can understand everything you say, no problem. I just wish I could speak a second language as well as you have managed to. Keep the reactions coming please, especially classic bands like this. Thanks. 👍
![They took me to INFINITY AND BEYOND! 🙌🏽✨| Yes - Starship Trooper [REACTION!!]](/img/n.gif)
It blows my mind seeing people get this band the way I did years ago, it makes me feel like I'm hearing it for the first time.
"And You and I" next! One of the most beautiful songs everrrrrr!
Bill Bruford is one of my favorite drummers. He left Yes at the peak of their success to join Robert Fripp in King Crimson
ALAN WHITE WAS A PRETTY GOOD REPLACEMENT LOL!!!
He left as he never thought they could better the peak they had reached
@@EricSmaug Alan White was a freaking beast! Don't get me wrong, Bruford was also great as Yes's original drummer, but White was a mad skilled stickman!
This is a good choice to start a learning journey with Yes. As for lyrics, most English speakers are challenged to fully understand them. Some will even say that they are meaningless. I wouldn’t go that far. But Jon Anderson wrote them in a way that isn’t clear speech. It is partly poetic, and partly metaphysical. To better understand you would need to read the books he was reading at the time about Eastern philosophy. But the lead guitarist famously said when questioned about the lyrics 10-15 years ago, “What Jon meant by them isn’t so important. The real question is, what do they mean to you?” And so it is that most people pick out favorite phrases that resonate with them. And from that, most people find powerful positive messages that are interpreted WITH the music in a spell binding, sometimes life changing way. Don’t get caught up trying to understand everything. Please do enjoy the ride.
There is so much more to enjoy. Thank you for this reaction, and I truly look forward to seeing more in the coming weeks.
And You and I next by YES
One of the most beautiful uses of mellotron in prog (along with Genesis' Watcher Of The Skies).
This is progressive rock and Yes are the kings. The lyrics are poetry. Fantastic music and musicians. Doesn’t get any better. Try more.
For sure. They are a total experience, especially in concert when they were in their prime!
Yes were peak prog rock. Excellent musicians and great transitions. This was their breakout album.
And the final piece was added on the next album
I saw your lights come on when you got it. YES rules. Great reaction.
Welcome to YES. You owe it to yourselves to dive in deep with this band. What a ride it will be and we yes fans enjoy taking the journey with you .
This song is possibly the greatest of Yes compositions. There's a LOT going on here that's not immediately obvious on the first listen. Complex, complicated, intricately layered, and lyrically expressive. It's a complete journey; took me a while to get "there."
I’m sitting here thinking this song is how prog started and influenced so many after! 💕
❤Yes ❤ When Yes came about, their music was called 'classical rock' because of the complexities, the time and key changes and theme variations. You cannot appreciate Beethoven's 9th Symphony on one hearing. You can love it, but not understand it with one listen. 50+ years later, I still crank the volume up for Yes. Jon Anderson's lyrics should be thought of as words of a spell being cast on the listener. To touch the emotions, to help feel the song. Dominika, you would be a very cool 70's chick! ☮💜🎶
The ending of this song is sooooo Epic......a super ending to a truly great unique Musical Masterpiece by Yes.
The entire song is a masterpiece, and the vocal harmonies right at the end of the second section sometimes get overlooked because of all the great moments, but they are one of Yes’ most transcendent moments… your faces beamed, it was awesome to see…
Far and away the longest-lasting and the most popular of the 1970s progressive rock groups, Yes proved one of the lingering success stories from that genre. The band was formed in London in 1968 by singer Jon Anderson and bassist Chris Squire, both owners of high, clear tenor voices that blended seamlessly in the band's trademark harmonies. Yes overcame a generational shift in its audience to reach the end of the century as the definitive progressive rock band, purveyors of cosmic (often mystical) lyrics, virtuoso playing, and vast musical tapestries topped off with heart-stoppingly gorgeous melodies and sealed with a rock & roll kick. - All Music Guide
Simply a monster track, a masterpiece. There is nothing more to say.
Amazing band & individual musicians. Chris Squire's Rickenbacker bass lines are a feature of their music through the 70's, 80's & beyond. Geddy Lee (Rush) cites him as a great influence on his own playing. Enough said.
Every time I listen to Yes, I can only come away with the same emotion. So many of the bands from this time became ageless because they worked so hard to give the audience what they wanted, rather than now, the presenter is all about me me me and the money. I was born in 1961, and as soon as I heard them i was hooked, picked up a FEW other bands along the way, still my personal favorite band. Thanks for the review.
It took me awhile to break away from the Beatles, Stones, Zeppelin, etc....the mainstream rock music...and when I finally discovered Yes, it was like an expansion of my mind into a completely new kind of musical style, and although it took awhile for me to appreciate what Yes were doing, they became one of my all-time favorite bands. I think they're brilliant.
Talking of lyrics, Squire once said of Anderson's lyrics that even he didnt understand them and he had to sing the damned things. Anderson said he might start out with a theme in mind but once he started writing he ended up just writing down words that sounded good together so dont worry if you dont understand the lyrics ;)
Jon thought of the vocals as another instrument in the mix, in that way.
@@Pixelologist very good point
@@Pixelologistand a percussive instrument
@@Pixelologist That's how I've always felt as well. Frank Zappa called vocals "mouth sounds"
Anderson's lyrics are non-linear poetry...a bit like John Lennon's "jabberwocky" dadaist lyrics on "I Am The Walrus" and "Strawberry Fields"...you can't make sense of them, you can only hear them as sounds intertwined with the music.
Ladies and gentlemen YES the greatest show on earth. Nice reaction. You are absolutely correct to allow the divinity of the music to capture your soul. Enjoy your divine journey with YES ✨️🙏✨️
And You And I is a brilliant love song.
36 👍😎
Fantastic Band!! I saw them live back in the late 70s!! So creative! ❤❤❤
Me to.
Here too. Right when Tales FromTopographic Oceans came out. Nous Sommes Du Soleil was unreal.
I saw them twice,best live sound I've ever heard at a concert!,and I've seen all the legends
I saw them once in the early nineties.They were amazing.Great show at the Patriot Center in the round…a stage rotated slowly so everyone could see them all.
Saw them on July 19 1975. They opened the show with Sound Chaser, Close To The Edge, and Gates Of Delirium! I was so impressed that I saw Chris and Alan 35 more times until right before Squire passed 🙏🎶
I was a senior in high school when I first heard Starship Trooper on the radio. At first, I didn't know what I had just heard. By the 2nd or 3rd time I heard it, I was wondering if it wasn't the most beautiful song I had ever heard. Just filled with pleasing melody, & those vocal harmonies! And that Bass Player! They presented a long piece, with 3 basic sections, but they constantly changed what they were presenting, waiting only long enough for you to pick up the groove they were laying down. I quickly went out & bought the album & went to my first YES concert some months later & spent the next couple of decades declaring that YES was my favorite band.
During this Uber Classic Period of YES' recording, they showed that they were Masters of Complexity & experimentation. There masterpieces were absolutely packed with complexity, which is why YES music stayed so fresh to me, every time I'd listen to them, I'd noticing something I had missed on previous listens, all the components of sound they were combining to make amazing music.
Starship Trooper was one of YES' all-time masterpieces. There's another on the same album, *Yours Is No Disgrace* which you will find super enjoyable. After that I recommend *Roundabout* from their next album, which is universally hailed as their best creation that wasn't a super-long epic. Two others on that album you will enjoy: *Heart Of The Sunrise* and *South Side Of The Sky.*
All three long songs on their next album *Close To The Edge* are must listen: *Close To The Edge, And You And I, & Siberian Khatru.* Every single one of these songs from their Uber Classic period (their 3rd, 4th, & 5th albums) will astonish you with their wondrous beauty & creativity.
Growing up with this music I very rarely questioned the lyrics or deeper meanings. The music lands on you as an EXPERIENCE not something to figure out. My brain, my heart, and soul were expanded through the LISTEN-ING as opposed to something else.
It was an era of exploration and pushing boundaries. Music from this time
period was a kind of language. If you weren’t “brought up” speaking the language it might not make sense at first. You might have to LISTEN, (as you said Dominka) a few times until you let go of trying to make sense of
It all.
I feel so fortunate having grown up with this kind of music. My mind and soul were set free by listening to YES and I learned to be “IN IT” rather than to be separate from my experience.
Beautiful Alic ✨️🙏🎶
Your expressions during that final break...PRICELESS!! Thanks for doing this...now, on to the Grateful Dead!!
I’ve been listening to Yes for over 50 years and I still don’t understand the lyrics, but if as one of you said “just listen to the music” you can’t go wrong!
Around 14:35 when Howe comes in with his lead, if you can find a live version of this when Wakeman was in th band, Wakeman flat tears it up on a keyboard solo. Steve Howe won Guitar Player Magazine's award for best overall guitarist for 5 years in a row. Back in the day that award meant something because that was your peers voting for you
Chris Squire won best bassist 7 years in a row, both self-taught!
"Yours Is No Disgrace" from the same album.
The Yes enigma! They were so creative and spacey
that chord on the last break was the first lick I learned on the guitar in the '70s. My wife still grins when I play it to this day! YES is a joy to hear, any time, any day.
This was the song that Phil Carson -- an exec with Atlantic Records -- knew would help break Yes in America in 1971. Yes didn't include "Starship Trooper" in their live shows when they first toured the states, but he knew it would be a hit on FM and college radio. As for 'what was in the water', remember this was just a couple years on from King Crimson's debut, which itself was just a couple years on from 'Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band' (plus Cream, Hendrix, etc.) The prevailing rule was there were no rules.
BTW, if this scratches an itch for you, I'd recommend going on to the 'Fragile' album.
Great reaction! I believe YES IS a time machine.... and maybe, just maybe, YES traveled to visit all of us from the future? Or a different dimension?
Try their song "Awaken" sometime. I'm sure you'd really like it.
The best music... ever, from the best band... ever. And YES has dozens and dozens of songs every bit as unique as this one. Thanks for the reaction from this 70 year old YES fan.
The Yes Effect: they open the back panel on your brain by sneaking in your ears, and then re-sets you for greater positivity and hope. And you don't really know how it's happening....it just is.
Some of their magnum opuses may be initially overtaxing, like Close to the Edge and Gates of Delirium, which are among the best in all music. "And You and I" and "Awaken" may be a better entrance into their inner sanctum. "To Be Over" and "Onward". "Time and a Word".
My wife introduced me to Yes when we were in high school. We went to see them live during the Fragile tour back in 72. Decades later my daughter took me to see them in 2008. I've seen them a dozen times in between and can attest they sound every bit as good a clean live as they do in studio
Some of the finest musicians ever formed together what a band every member are guifted from Andersons unique voice Steve Howe guitarest Alan White & Bill Bruford Drums & Rick Wakeman & Moraz keyboard's & Chris squire the finest Bass player ever walk this planet RIP💔
So many more tracks to explore from YES Close to the Edge' Relayer' etc Awaken' Beautiful track.
Yes is not just music, it is a journey. Their music is timeless.
Firstly I love both of you and thank you so much for the wonderful sharing of yourselves and your authentic reactions to all this great music that you have done. Secondly, I believe that this is your first reaction to Yes and you definitely have tumbled down the rabbit hole into Wonderland (musically speaking). Don't be in a hurry to leave.Yes has many fantastic surprises in store for you! I think that one has to listen to both Yes and King Crimson to hear the poles of prog rock- alpha and omega- glass full or empty. Lastly, I loved your BS&T reaction to You've Made Me So Very Happy (this was our garage band's big number when we were lucky enough to do some paying gigs in high school (a long time ago).
I saw them in 1977! This was their 3rd studio album, but first with guitarist Steve Howe! Great album, I always liked Perpetual Change, from this album! Jon Anderson's vocals & the harmonies from the rest of the band, are like another instrument!
Perpetual Change
this is by far my absolute FAVORITE track by Yes! And it's kinda hard to pick any one song of theirs as a favorite, since in my opinion all their songs are awesome !
I'm so glad your are getting into Yes. Try Heart of the Sunrise, Roundabout, And You and I, South Side of the Sky, Yours is no Disgrace, I've Seen all good People, Perpetual Change. And the cherry on top of the cake, Close To The Edge (the song). Love you guys.
Thanks for the reaction. I knew you would like Yes
Seen this band many times. I consider them to be the most talented musicians ever put together. They are in my top 3 right behind Genesis and Pink Floyd.
I discovered "Yes" in 1969 on radio, "We've Seen All Good People, " was playing on the radio. Really like them. I was still a fan of Blood Sweat and Tears, Three Dog Night, and Creedence Clearwater Revival.....and the Yes came along and I was a fan for life.
You guys are my favorite reaction couple by far. Nice job working your way into Yes. They really were quite different from almost anyone else. Incredible musicians at every instrument. Jon Anderson wrote essentially surrealist lyrics, and the band incorporates far more dissonance and complex time signatures than just about anyone then and certainly anyone today, so they take some getting used to, but repeated exposure just increases the listener's awe and respect for their artistry. And Dominica is correct: the coda at the end of Starship Troopers is epic. You guys do make me reflect: what was in the water in the UK back in the late 60s thru the mid-70s? That so many British kids (that's what they basically were) produced so much incredibly sophisticated and compelling music in such a short time really is cause for wonder, especially considering the derivative and almost factory-produced music that dominates today.
Yes has a way of deeply touching both the mind and the heart..
I discovered Yes in 1971 when I was 11 years old with this album!
I saw them in the around 1980 and they played this song....and just kept playing the outro...and playing ...and the volume increased by increments...until the crowd was in a hypnotic state. Completely cathartic.
fantastic band. i group them with early genesis. great reactions. i enjoy seeing dominica's face get puzzled, then bemused, then joyed, then amazed, etc... you guys are totally right. that was a magical musical era.
You asked what was in the water at that time, I can give you a clue.
The UK, between the sixties and seventies, had the most equitable distribution of wealth in its entire history (i.e. the rich paid higher taxes).
This wealth manifested itself in free college education and good jobs, allowing young people to create and consume at a higher rate than previous generations.
Couple this with the revolutions in musical instrument technology and you get bands like Yes.
Do not worry about the lyrics. I'm English and have been on this planet 54 years and I find it hard to comprehend and dissect everything they are saying. It's very, VERY complex English composition as is the music. Fantastic. My favourite band EVER.
man yous guys are on another musical journey with yes, another world would be apt. enjoy
If you are surprised by Yes (and Starship Trooper), then think about me being only 20 years old when this album was released. It hit me as a sledgehammer right in my head and I've been devoted to Yes since that. The voice of Jon Anderson is from another heaven, the guitar playing by Steve Howe is outstandingly good and creative, the bass playing by Chris Squire is so innovative and way out of this world (and his voice dubs Jon Anderson perfectly), Bill Bruford's drumming is perfectly funky and jazzy at the same time, and Rick Wakeman on the all sorts of keyboards is a wizard. No wonder I still love Yes!
This is prog rock -- just sit back and let the impressions come. This is not a photograph, it's expressionism. Just let it flow.
Very nice review. These are my absolute favorites. Agree - that these take many listens to pick up. Don't worry about the lyrics - they are more impressions or word poems rather than literal. Lots of great songs by this band - hard to find a bad one on The Yes Album, Fragile, Close to the Edge, etc. Steve Howe is an amazing and unusual guitarist' Chris Squire is the superb bassist and back-up singer; Bill Bruford is a great drummer... etc..
Yes, and Keyboardist Rick Wakeman, is one of my heros in Music. I was playing Keyboards in the 1970s and Yes, Emerson Lake & Palmer and Deep Purple are my top 3
Hi guys! Great selection on this song! I got to see them live 4 times and they always put on great shows!
I listen to this album all the time. I've seen Yes 10+ times. First one in 1978, last one in 2022. Jon's vocals are so outstanding. Heart of the Sunrise and Wonderous Stories show off the the virtuosity of the band. Dominica, your English is just fine.
Smart reaction. Thx 👍💪🤙
When I had a few years after an initial listen to a song I loved at first listen, when I found myself trying to get that feeling back. A song that is beautiful from far away, later becomes up close, upon repeated listenings and sometimes I wish I could scoot back to a virginal state.
I first heard this song and album 50 years ago. The entire album is great, and this song is, as you said, epic!
Yes is like a new genre of music. There is so much fantastic music here. Just listen and enjoy. You will pick out different things on each listening. Also, Squire is a bass God, one of the best. Howe is a fantastic guitar player, such style. Wakeman on the key is a master. Such a great set of musicians. A master class.
Some classic Yes suggestions for early exploration: "I've Seen All Good People," "Long Distance Runaround" (including "The Fish"), "Roundabout," "Wonderous Stories"
As with say, ELP and Pink Floyd, diving into the deep end early on isn't advisable. The shorter (under 10 min.) songs are obviously more accessible for newbies before testing deeper waters.
I was rarely able to understand much of their songs but loved listening to them!
I LOVE THEM SO MUCH TY !!!!! CANT WAIT TO HEAR WHAT YA SAY LOL!!!!!!
As a young teenager, I mostly listened to the short, catchy song "I've Seen All Good People" from the same brilliant album or the US single hit "Roundabout" from the next album. Through repeated listening, I found more and more access to these nuanced musical journeys like Starship Trooper, Your Is No Disgrace (there's a brilliant live video from 1971 of the cult show Beat Club, then you can see how Yes works) or Perpetual Changen. The short guitar song Clap by Steve Howe is also fantastic. With Pink Floyd, Genesis and ELP, Yes were my evening entertainment after homework (we didn't have that many media distractions yet). It's timeless, brilliant music.
I wouldn't go to You And I or the other two long songs from the best (!?) Yes album Close To The Edge as quickly as some would suggest. You miss too much and don't recognize the band's development. It would be great if you continued!
Yes especially in their early years were well beyond their time. Definitely one of the most notable prog rock bands. Their ability to harmonize and transition songs is top notch.
This was a great choice for your first Yes song, and noticing how they influenced Tool was really insightful. Well done!
Dominika nailed it. Once you just let go and let the music wash over you,Yes' music becomes transcendent.
their compositions let you listen time and time again
and you will hear a different sound or angle
that depending on your mood on each listen
will take your breath away
YES were a huge influence on TOOL and RUSH
I have been a fan since the beginning
I'm 68 now and still enjoy every last note they play and produce
and fyi:- its Great Britain not just England
{:-) PAV UK
"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.." to quote Charles Dickens, growing up in a small Midlands town in England, born in '54, a peaceful and caring place. By 1970 the Beatles had changed the world of music and in 1971 and onward there was an incredible explosion of creativity. I was a hippie, long hair, blue jeans, hitch-hike to Egypt without fear of anything, the music of YES just a constant and beautiful companion. Yes, Dominiqa, you would have fit right in and Andre even more! Haha, peace and love is what we still hope for our world. "And You and I" off the "Close to the Edge" album would be a good next choice.
My favorite band after Zeppelin. Love them so much. Ty for reaction!
Yes is a bigger rabbit hole than you can imagine. They have many different albums. Enjoy!!! Live was incredible.
Lets build your Yes playlist and add And You and I. A beautiful and magical song that hooked my on Yes. Love you guys and your dog!
❤❤❤ ONCE YOU LET GO, YOURE SOLD!😂 It ENGULFS you and take you on a journey! And what is amazing, YES continued to create such MAGIC, time after time after time. You're now at the top of the RABBIT HOLE where you'll only spiral deeper within the VORTEX of the REVEALING SCIENCE of YES WORLD! Welcome! Yes lyrics are like Shakespeare and they take practice to hear & and comprehend, just like adjusting to their music.
Think "Yours Is No Disgrace " is the star from this album. But this comes a close second. then you can look for "Roundabout" from "Fragile". But "The Clap" should also get a mention.
I remember when this album came out! My favorite yes album! Great memories ❤
I really got into Yes during my college days in the late 70s-early 80s. I loved the Yes Album but I would have started with something like "Roundabout" or "I've Seen All Good People".
This album is especially good. Yours Is No Disgrace will amaze you also
Lots of Rand R heroes out there but YES is an entire bands worth!! It took me a long time to finally see them with the original group on their 35th anniversary tour at Red Rocks in Colorado. An epic show during a wind storm and the band literally blew the place to pieces!!
Next up: Going For The One
Close To The Edge
And You And I
ENJOY!!!!
brilliant you get it
Starship Trooper is 3 parts
Life Seeker
Disillusion
Würm
you two have a great reaction, as It was so new to the ears when first released. This is pure musical joy!
Nice reaction😊 I would recommend " and you and I " as a yes tune to listen to after this one. Hope you'll continue this journey, if you do I'm sure you'll find many more wonderful songs.
As a 90125 fan, it took me years to enjoy this magical song.
I'm always here for reactions to my favs. Rush, Yes, Genesis, Pink Floyd, & Led Zeppelin
They were way ahead of their time. 1968 was a great year for music in general. But this was a whole other level of experience for its time.
The live versions of this epic tune are on the next level
The song, "And You and I," from the album 'Close to the Edge,' would be great for your next Yes reaction.
Sublime. The end building is phenomenal, and just when you feel it can't build anymore, the guitar solo comes in. Brilliant.
You have entered the wonderful garden of Yes.
This is a good album to start with. Or their next album, Fragile. Roundabout is a good classical Yes masterpiece. Then you are ready for Close to the Edge and Relayer
This song is a masterpiece!
Yes is one of the bands you (probably) should listen to ... in the dark ... with nothing else going on and your eyes closed.
Yes inspired a plethora of other bands. Absolute legends!
Especially like the fantastic outro to this song.
Hello Andrei and Dominika! First off, great reaction as always. I think both of you have now been bitten by the Yes bug. Once you go down this rabbit hole, you are in for an amazing journey. Yes is one of the finest representatives of progressive rock music, also King Crimson, Emerson, Lake & Palmer, Genesis and many others in this genre. You will find that their compositions are epic and contain very complex musicianship. I would highly recommend that you check out "Roundabout", "And You and I", and "Close to the Edge" which I think you will find fascinating. Thank you for being you
YES one of the most tallented progbands ever. Jon Andersons lyrics is not to be understod...hahaha..The words is far out..Sometimes he just use words that fit the music...he is very much a down to earth spiritual guy even today. He is still going strong. I saw him in concert in Uppsala Sweden last summer. Every member of this band is top nodge. Great to hear from old YES again. Great reaction to. Thank you.
Glad you liked that! Don't worry about not following Jon Anderson's lyrics - I'm a native English speaker and I have no clue what he's talking about. I once made the mistake of asking Jon what they were all about (at a post-gig 'meet and greet') and he replied ... and I was none the wiser. Essentially, his reply was as weird as his lyrics.
I hope you continue to react to Yes, you'll be well rewarded 🙂I think you've also chosen the right album to start, when they've just about developed their style and confidence as a band.
You may not have English as your first language, but I can understand everything you say, no problem. I just wish I could speak a second language as well as you have managed to. Keep the reactions coming please, especially classic bands like this.
Thanks. 👍