@AirplayBeats reacts to Siberian Khatru by YES Like comment and subscribe patreon.com/user?u=81569817 Airplay Beats 3609 Bradshaw Rd Ste H #337 Sacramento, CA 95827
Chris Squire on bass was a founder and genius player. 6'4" monster who truly did play a bass like a guitar, funny, jovial, oh and he sings all those harmonies with Jon Anderson. Died in 2016, his band made the Hall of Fame in 2017. Fuck the Hall of Fame, they should have been there before 2000.
Same thing with Ray Thomas of the Moody Blues, finally inducted months after his death. I agree Fuck them just for putting Janet Jackson in let alone all the bands they snub.
Okay, I confess: I did acid and listened to this back in '73, and I can tell you how I came back down. I came back down with my mind, my perspective on music, significantly rearranged. And you're right about Chris Squire (RIP). He was a bass player like no other, incorporating Bach-like lines into the Yes compositions. So glad you brothers are getting off on this Prog adventure you're on. It helped make the 70s what they were.
Squire is the beating heart of YES. He's always upfront in the mix and his tone is tasty. All the members of YES are at the top of their class plus their compositions are otherworldly. Huge fan since 1976! Go Deep with these guys!
Yes was the only band that ever drove me to tears. It was during “You and I”. I was so moved by the performance it made me weep. My girlfriend at the time said , “are you ok”? And I was so choked up, I couldn’t speak. I just nodded, “YES”. To this day, when I hear the song, I get a lump in my throat. They were and still are a glorious band. Rest in peace, Chris Squire. Thank you for the memories and experience.
Produce a long track and don't worry about what people think. It's about TRULY expressing yourself and you'll be surprised to see there are people who will dig it! Plus, you may start a new musical trend. That's how it works! Do you think Miles Davis or Black Sabbath were worried about opinions when they changed direction or played heavy or different concepts in the early 70''s? I think not. Next stop for you both I recommend is the rest of "Fragile" then "The Yes Album". Happy listening!
The last song in the greatest run of albums by this band. Hard to pick a favourite among the Yes Album, Fragile and Close to the Edge. All are so good. They went out on tour for this record and Yessongs was recorded. Drummer Bill Bruford left Yes to join King Crimson early in the tour and was replaced by Alan White (RIP).
Now you get it. We never came back down after listening to Yes. That’s why they are so ingrained into our souls 50 years later. Geddy from Rush, idolized Chris Squire so he was thrilled to play with Yes at the ceremony. Others may disagree but I’ve always believed that Yes was a bass driven band and everything revolved around Chris. There are many great bass players in all different genres so to say he’s the best would not be fair. For me, in this genre of progressive music, he was the gold standard. You should incorporate this into your beats. Be the trendsetters, bring us back to sanity😊. Floyd was definitely progressive. My day is so much better now that I’ve seen your reaction. The Moody Blues, ELP, Genesis, Supertramp, early Kansas, early Ambrosia, Procol Harum all await you in your Prog journey. King Crimson too but they are blockers. Have a great weekend. 👏👏
Ladies and gentlemen Chris Squire and Yes the greatest show on earth. Thank you boys for enjoying my youth of 51yrs ago. Yes we did dance to Yes. For your Yes journey one should continue with an earlier album. A band called Gentle Giant use to open for Yes, their prog also and a song called On Reflection would be a nice introduction. 🙏🍁
You guys are excellent reactors! As I write this comment, your video has been up only 10 hours and already has 179 beautiful comments by die hard fans. Just goes to show you that once you "get" the YES groove... it will never leave you and you will forever thirst for more. Once a YES fan always a YES fan. Enjoy your new journey. Just a note as you go forward... the sheer diversity of musical styles in YES music is absolutely astounding and unparalleled by any band ever. Take your time and enjoy the journey. YES is truly a band that is unworldly inspired, always one cohesive unit which can seemingly do no wrong in my opinion no matter the song. Cheers! P.
One important element of their sound during this era that’s often overlooked is Bill Bruford’s snare. Chris Squire’s bass had such a prominent treble sound, particularly because Chris used a super aggressive pick style, that Bill’s snare would be buried in the mix using a typical snare tuning. To fight this Bill tuned his snare really high, giving it a distinctive “thwack” that cut through the mix. Very unusual and unique to Yes while Bill was with them
Oh... If you haven't already, I would love for you to come make a similar comment on Jim Newstead's current first listen to YesSongs. On side three, Jim particularly comments on Bruford's use of the high hat, and does say the mix is very trebly. He may appreciate your input on this aspect.
@@stevemd6488 This seems absolutely true, to me. Bills chemistry with the band probably impressed even him and Bill is kinda hard to please. lol Alan White's drumming was of an opposite approach that, while absolutely superb, got buried, as you say, by Squires foundational bass sound. Yes were the first band I ever heard that put the bass up front. Nobody did that! The change in drumming styles severely altered the Yes sound which was already perfected. It is such a shame, as Alan was such a great drummer. His rolling fills are some of the fastest I've ever heard. He was an absolute master of rhythm, for sure. Yes did great music with him. I just miss the spacious quality that Bill brought. The individual personalities of each player were allowed to shine better with Bill's style. He brought them together with intelligent interpretations and clever style.
I’ve seen them 23 times since 1973 and most of the shows opened with this song. While they were getting settled on stage, the lights were completely off and a song called Firebird Suite was playing over the PA. It would cut off abruptly and when the first chord of the song was played the lights would come up on stage. What a great effect. Right after Wakeman’s little classical playing in this song the guitar section is played on a seated steel guitar that is mostly used by country artists.
Remember? The first note of Firebird Suite and the crowd would erupt? We must have waited all our lives for that moment. The anticipation for it was as mind bending as the show itself and sometimes yes, the acid we were on. I'm always thrilled to see comments like yours because I so vividly remember this like it was yesterday. Perhaps we sat next to each other at some point in history? 47 shows for me in all four corners of the country and everywhere in between.
In 1975, the bassist Chris Squire released his first solo album “Fish Out of Water”. It’s as good as the best Yes albums, and really features his bass. Check it out sometime, as well as the rest of the Fragile record (which started with Roundabout).
John Entwistle pioneered the concept of the bass being something other than in indistinct rumble in the background. Chris Squire took it to the next level with the absolute best bass tone ever in any music.
To me typical music enters your world and enhances your surroundings, with these epic songs especially by Pink Floyd and Yes you enter their world and the atmosphere they create become your surroundings.
The Trinity of Yes is Close to the Edge, Awaken, and Gates of Delirium. You listened to the first; hope you get to the other two. Awaken is described as a musical journey to meet a higher power. Gates of Delirium is loosely based on Tolstoy's "War and Peace", and includes a musical representation of a full battle. Both are really next-level listening.
If you listen to the studio version of Awaken it is also worth checking out the Live version by lead singer Jon Anderson and the Icelandic group Todmobile, seriously it is a brilliant track and the live cover elevates it to another level. It also illustrates how YES’s music will always be valued long after they have stopped playing it themselves.
Fellas...do the long experimental track for YOU!!! Not only do you not have to worry about if anybody else listens to it...that's why you have your own singles along with an EPIC!!! I'm totally on board to hear how your experience with progressive music impacts your own interpretation. I think it is an exciting idea!!! DO IT!!!
Absolutely, do you think Yes, Floyd, Zep gave a flying poop what people thought. Show some balls and do it maybe a new genre will be born, Airplayprog.
Chris Squire's jaw-dropping domination of YES' Sound was always my favorite element of the amazing sh!t this band was able to put together. I mean, yeah there was all that other talent from the other musicians, but from their very 1st album, the other guys could see the wisdom of building their contributions around Chris' Industrial-Melodic bass inspirations. The amazing thing was how he was able to contribute to a LOT of the *_melody_* in their songs but was able at the same time to hold down the groove that pulled you in. Chris' bass playing is the main reason why I am always emphasizing the studio version of YES' masterpieces, cuz with very few exceptions, the studio version gives you not only the full bass contribution, but also the band's mastery of the mix at the sound board. YES spent hours & hours perfecting the mix. It's also the reason why they were able to pack so much *complexity* into their masterpieces but still enable the listener to hear all their contributions. YES were the Masters of Complexity in Progressive Rock. I used to give Eddy Offord, their sound engineer during their Best Period, the credit for it, but from things I've read, Eddy credits everything to his willingness to listen to the musicians & give them what they wanted to hear. It's well-known that Chris was always right there when the mixing took place, so maybe he was just giving Chris what he wanted to hear. Who knows? And then there was the vocal harmonies. There weren't many Progressive Rock bands that placed an emphasis on those harmonies like YES did. The only Prog band that came close was the Moody Blues. Chris Squire was a big part of _that_ element, as well. Turns out he was singing in some big deal church choir in his youth where he became accustomed to singing those soaring climaxes. It helped that his back up vocals were an exceptional match for Jon's lead vocals. No other Progressive Rock band had those two elements, both of which Chris was a big part of. Chris once said that before he put his own band together with Jon Anderson, whenever he'd offer his services as a studio musician, nobody liked the way he played bass. So when he formed his own band, he was obviously determined that his contributions would _always_ be heard, lol! Throughout their first five albums, Chris' inspirations were always given the prominence in the mix that is normally given to the lead guitarist. There was almost never a time when you couldn't hear Chris' contribution. After the Close To The Edge album, Chris started to dial it back, trying to accept a more 'equal' presentation of all the contributions of their very talented musicians. By the late 1980's it seemed like Chris was content to be "just the bass player" in the YES ensemble. I have to admit, at this point I pretty much lost my infatuation with YES as the best band I had ever heard. I see you guys still have a lot of joyous YES ear candy to look forward to. I'll recommend that you listen to *The Yes Album* next, my second favorite of their albums after Close To The Edge. (Fragile is a very close 3rd place according to my ranking of their albums.) On The Yes Album, there are two that are *Must Listen* masterpieces: *Yours Is No Disgrace* and *Starship Trooper* (The whole album is really great; you might wanna just go though the whole thing). I'm looking forward to more of your YES reactions, guys! It is _so_ apparent that you two *_totally get it._*
I agree with everything you said, including the order of the albums you like best and my two favorite tracks from The Yes Album! I'll only add that Steve Howe also contributed a great deal of vocals, usually the lower note of the three part harmonies they sometimes did. 🎵❤️🎵 Debbie
Somebody once said, "On the bus full of bass players, Chris Squire RIP is the driver." You should check out a solo album of his called "Fish Out of Water." Chris Squire and Jon Anderson, the singer, are the two constant members of Yes. Drums, keyboards and guitar were all played by several players at various times. This album and Fragile feature, in my humble opinion, the best of the Yes lineups: Anderson, Squire, Bruford, Wakeman and Howe. If this group inspires you to produce a progressive piece, I think it'll be well worth your time and effort. Great reaction gentlemen!
Ah,......no Chris Squire was the Only constant while he was alive. Anderson left the band and returned multiple times. Same with Rick Wakeman. Steve Howe is Only the second guitarist with the longest tenure now that Chris is gone. You probably don't know that Yes just put out a New Album, because none of the original band members are in it. Jeez.
first song I learned to play on the bass (Yessongs version), after being blown away by Chris' bass line on Roundabout! (studio version - THE song the prompted me to play bass!)
Another great reaction. I’m fascinated by the fact that the “groove” of the music has been an entry point for you into this music. It something I never really thought of. It always just sounded like Yes to me. It is a great experience to see you two react.
In my humble yet correct opinion, THIS is their best song, their best moment. The Bass player is the MVP of Yes. Back in the day, everyone was into the keyboards, but Chris Squire was the engine of Yes. Great reaction guys!
one of my all time favorites had the honor and privilege of seeing them 3 times in the 70s especially there 1978 tour when they introduced YES IN THE ROUND .....RIP Chris Squire
Another album you guys might like is by Chris Squire, his solo album Fish out of Water. Solid album and you can really hear the quality of his voice and how much value he added vocally to Yes behind Jon Anderson.
Yes had many lineup changes; drummer, keyboards, guitar, even vocals. One constant throughout was Chris Squire on bass. One of the greatest I've ever heard!
You're right re Chris. What a phenomenal bass player. Correct me if I'm wrong but he's the first bass player you can 'hear' ie he's not mixed in the back as a backing instrument. He is leading, quite rightly. He's a massive unacknowledged influence on punk. Plays for the song but flair when needed. Also an amazing vocalist. A guy you know has got your back when you're playing. Solid as ****. Just amazing. RIP Chris I miss you
My guitar teacher was an assistant engineer on a Yes album that was being produced in Vancouver in the 90’s. The band recorded and then took a break for a meal. The staff who were all musicians picked up their instruments without changing a setting on anything. They jammed out a song or two and then put the instruments back. They sounded tinny and very thin. Yes came back in and picked up the same instruments with the same settings and in an instant had a thick, powerful sound blasting out of the studio room. They were a powerful monster band that could play with anyone.
I love that you guys are diggin' Yes! My favorite band. Those 70s albums are pure genius... 🔥 All of them are amazing musicians in their own right! Thank you guys!
I have been listening to YES for 50 years. There is something to be said about listening to a YES LP on an old phonograph. We wore the Close to the Edge album out! I can remember all of the skips, pops, and scratches on that album. I have seen them LIVE four times. I am so glad to have seen Chris Squire LIVE on stage before he died.
Chris Squire passed on and so did my favorite bass musician. He was a big dude and had such presence. I truly loved listening to him. There is a video where they do a version of a song “show me” that Squire plays an acoustic bass so nicely and Wakeman plays a beautiful piano! You should check it out even if you don’t react to it!👍🏻👌🏻❤️
For several of their tours, this was the opening tune. This was the only group I budgeted for front row, the most memorable was the Bronco Bowl in TX. Curious to hear your opinion of Relayer album when Patrick Moraz replaced Rick Wakeman on keys.
Frequency. It was (and still is) about raising my vibration. Yes, as well as Jethro Tull and Pink Floyd music aided my journey to 5D. A total spiritual experience.
This was the first Yes song that really twisted my head back around 1985. It could also have been the acid I dropped before listening to it, but this song really contributed!
2 suggestions the Group is Boston #1 Foreplay/Longtime, #2 The Launch/Cool The Engines. The first Boston LP just like Dark side of the moon with Pink Floyd just listen to side 1 and side 2. It's worth it.
My favorite track on the album. What a groove! BTW that's Steve Howe guitar solo at the end of the track. He gets into some nice jazz licks. People often criticize prog bands such as yes as being too busy , which reminds me off this scene from the movie Amadeus. Mozart is about to get some feedback from the Emperor, on his latest composition. EMPEROR: There's too many notes. MOZART: I don't understand. There are just as many notes, Majesty, as are required. Neither more nor less. EMPEROR: My dear fellow, there are in fact only so many notes the ear can hear in the course of an evening. I think I'm right in saying that, aren't I, Court Composer? SALIERI: Yes! yes! er, on the whole, yes, Majesty. MOZART: But this is absurd! EMPEROR: My dear, young man, don't take it too hard. Your work is ingenious. It's quality work. And there are simply too many notes, that's all. Cut a few and it will be perfect. MOZART: Which few did you have in mind, Majesty?
Geddy Lee: "Of course I loved Chris Squire's incredible bass…and am still a huge fan. Quite amazing. But Yes provided an incredible array of intricate arrangements and a musicality beyond belief. They are often knocked for being too complex but I don't agree. There is a simplicity and elegance to the songs. I always found them both accessible and adventurous."
How did we come down from trippin' balls to Yes? Well, very gradually and not ever completely. Some of us carry this around with us and filter our perceptions of the world thru that mindset. 👽🐝🐙🐢🍄🎸🖖
I remember having the album on 8-track tape! I was living at home, and I would close my bedroom door at night, put on my headphones, and get totally immersed in the music! Simply incredible. I listen to it today (not on 8-track!😂) with the same exuberance! You guys are experiencing Yes in their “classic” era. And yes, their music takes you on a journey. But Yes in the 80s were quite different. With new guitarist Trevor Rabin, the music became more rhythm oriented, as opposed to the 70s melody oriented epics. This turned some fans off, but it kept the band relevant as the progressive era was fading out. If you ever get to react to the song “Owner Of A Lonely Heart,” you’ll see what I mean.
For an amazing example of Bruford and Squire firing on all cylinders, you should check out Heart of the Sunrise. The long slow section right after the opening intro is out of this world.
The best thing about the late 60's early 70's was in my collection was Yess, Cream, Led Zepplin, Marvin Gay, Sly and the Family Stone, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Blood Sweat and Tears, Temptations, Frank Zappa, Janis Joplin, Linda Ronstadt, Ted Nugent, Aerosmith, Three Dog Night, Mott the Hopple, David Bowie, Fifth Dimension, Parliament, War, Hollies, and the man Al Green. The beauty of the age, talented artists, the variety, good music is just plain good music. I really enjoy watch your reaction, your knowledge of how it's done in the studio and on stage, to just your child like wonder at it all. Beautiful.
The album Close to the Edge only contained three “songs”. But I have spent fifty years loving every beat of them. My favourite record by my favourite band.
I took YES instead of acid, saved me a few brain cells! I am convinced that when they were writing they simply kept asking the questions ‘what might make this section sound better?’ And ‘what would sound good next? When they got to 22mins they had to stop as they had used up the space on a side of a vinyl. Had they had the CD format we probably would have had a load of 50minute songs. How great might that be.
Y’know, I love u guys so much for doing Yes. Today we look at things with such black & white lenses - he’s that, they’re that… don’t talk to them, don’t listen to her - causing us to discard all the progress we had made as a people & culture. But here I am a white, 64 yr old child of the late 60’s/70’s… and I can’t wait to hear your reactions to music I hold most dear - especially prog - because I know how different it’s been for u guys to take a path you’ve never taken before. You really brighten my heart because this is the shit we should be focusing on - music brings us together, and it’s effects are life-long. Like, I know that neither of you guys will ever, ever forget Yes’ music, and it’s also broadened your musical horizon. That is so wonderful!
Chris Squire had his bass planed down on 2 separate occasions and was told that was the last time he needed to thin the body down. He then had it wired in stereo, so he could play through 2 different amps at two different settings. That, and the way he held his pick, along with tons of talent, gave him his unique sound. There will not be another Chris Squire.
Yes r the Goat!! All musicians top in their fields of music!! Thanks for Playing this album!! I am glad u r hearing this fir the first time! It blew me away first time I heard it!🔥
I saw Yes and ELP, Yes opened, in November, 1971 at the Spectrum in Philly for $5.50. A hit of Windowpane acid at $2.00. Cannot properly describe the experience but probably about 5,00 of the 28,00 there were in the same frame of mind. Joints and Hashish constantly passed down the aisles.
Great song. Every year back in the 70's Playboy mag ( I read it for the articles) would rate musicians. Top guitarist, bass, keyboards, singers etc. Squire was always top rated. As well as Howe, Bruford, Wakeman and of course Anderson. I'm surprised no one has requested Jethro Tull with frontman and flutist Ian Anderson. They were an inspiration to many bands. Geddy Lee of Rush was at the same concert I was at in Toronto back in the 70's and said they were an inspiration to him and his mates. Song to start with would be 'My God' live at the Isle of Wight concert and the album 'Aqualung' a record that's great start to finish. Locomotive Breath, Crosseyed Mary and the title track are standouts. The whole album is. Ian Anderson is one of (progressive rocks) great frontmen. Enjoy your channel. Great stuff. Nice to watch you appreciate this great music...
I've been waiting to hear modern artists, especially in Hip Hop or R&B, start embracing odd time signatures, longer tunes, and some of the other tropes of progmusic. You can get some insanely cool rhymes and rhythms going on odd time signatures. I hope you guys do it! Another idea for exporing longer compositions is to follow what some bands like Genesis have done and couch your longer ideas into smaller songs with short thoughtful connective bits. That way you can do single mixes for individual songs, but present tehm in a longer context for an "album" version. To be honest, in these days of downloading individual tracks instead of albums, you'd know more than I do how practical that is. As an example of what I'm talking about, I'd suggest Genesis, "The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway" (one of the great prog concept album masterpieces), side two of Mike Rutherford's "Smallcreep's Day," or side two of Kate Bush's "Hounds Of Love." I'm sure there are many other examples as well.
Yah, this was early on in the acid trip. Much later on, after further exploration of the Yes universe, The Moody Blues were always a good way to ease on back in to the real world, nice and slow.
I love seeing you on the Yes discovery journey... you're are right it not about dancing.... but about stimulating your inner jiggy.. I can't wait to see more of your reactions!
OMG...I love that you guys get YES! Love your reactions to my favorite progressive rock band! Chris Squire was the only bass player for this group until he passed in 2015 (?) I believe. He was a founding member and definitely the foundation for this great group. He was also a vocalist and paired greatly with Jon Anderson.
....but Steve Howe was their saviour....they were about to be dropped for poor sales of the first 2 albums, then Steve took them to another level with his contribution to "the Yes album"
Being in high school just starting to do party favors! Discovered Yes and took the journey! Introduce my friends and each ride was different! That’s progressive! That’s Yes! Chiguy
That is exactly correct. "You are going to listen to it." Progressive rock was never a passive experience. Your participation is required. It's not background music for you to passively cop a groove and bop your head. Yes' arrangements were like classical music. It's contemplative and intense. Those days are gone, and that's our loss.
Once you listen to these songs a few times you'll get the timing.. you'll know what to expect.. you'll feel it. Until then.. it's just listening. Once you feel it.. (after many listens) you'll REALLY get it.. you could almost dance to it at that point
You are correct about Chris Squire's influence on the overall sound. His first solo album "Fish out of water" shows this clearly. Keep rocking on your journey.
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Chris Squire on bass was a founder and genius player. 6'4" monster who truly did play a bass like a guitar, funny, jovial, oh and he sings all those harmonies with Jon Anderson. Died in 2016, his band made the Hall of Fame in 2017. Fuck the Hall of Fame, they should have been there before 2000.
Will NEVER forgive those assholes for that. Because of anyone in the band,Chris is the one who would have most likely reveled in being in the R&R HOF.
Same thing with Ray Thomas of the Moody Blues, finally inducted months after his death. I agree Fuck them just for putting Janet Jackson in let alone all the bands they snub.
Just think about who went in before them and you'll get a good idea about the clowns who run that show.
The intro and outro groove is in altering 8s and 7s: basically a 15 beat figure. You don't even notice it. That's mastery of the rhythm section.
Passed 2015
Okay, I confess: I did acid and listened to this back in '73, and I can tell you how I came back down. I came back down with my mind, my perspective on music, significantly rearranged. And you're right about Chris Squire (RIP). He was a bass player like no other, incorporating Bach-like lines into the Yes compositions. So glad you brothers are getting off on this Prog adventure you're on. It helped make the 70s what they were.
Yep, I was fifteen/sixteen, window pane acid and Yes.
Definitely made a big difference to my mindset for fifty+ years now...
I've never come down 🙃
I took acid when I watched 'Yessongs' in the theatre. Thought I'd explode at the end of 'Starship Trooper'.
Love these replies! Re: coming down, always was partial to a handful of dried shrooms to take the edge off…
Me too! Lol
You guys CONSTANTLY pick the best tunes from my youth. Your fans are digging this!!!!!
Squire is the beating heart of YES. He's always upfront in the mix and his tone is tasty. All the members of YES are at the top of their class plus their compositions are otherworldly. Huge fan since 1976! Go Deep with these guys!
Yes was the only band that ever drove me to tears. It was during “You and I”. I was so moved by the performance it made me weep. My girlfriend at the time said , “are you ok”? And I was so choked up, I couldn’t speak. I just nodded, “YES”. To this day, when I hear the song, I get a lump in my throat. They were and still are a glorious band. Rest in peace, Chris Squire. Thank you for the memories and experience.
Produce a long track and don't worry about what people think. It's about TRULY expressing yourself and you'll be surprised to see there are people who will dig it! Plus, you may start a new musical trend. That's how it works! Do you think Miles Davis or Black Sabbath were worried about opinions when they changed direction or played heavy or different concepts in the early 70''s? I think not. Next stop for you both I recommend is the rest of "Fragile" then "The Yes Album". Happy listening!
Absolutely! Don't follow! Lead! That is why so many bands from the 70's made it big. No Rules.
And let us hear what you come up with!
I would love to hear what long form hip hop sounded like or what prog hop fusion sounded like. Rap metal is already a thing so why not!
FACTS!!!
Back in the early 70s, YES started their show with this song.
The last song in the greatest run of albums by this band. Hard to pick a favourite among the Yes Album, Fragile and Close to the Edge. All are so good. They went out on tour for this record and Yessongs was recorded. Drummer Bill Bruford left Yes to join King Crimson early in the tour and was replaced by Alan White (RIP).
Nothing like a Khatru to start the day!
Now you get it. We never came back down after listening to Yes. That’s why they are so ingrained into our souls 50 years later. Geddy from Rush, idolized Chris Squire so he was thrilled to play with Yes at the ceremony. Others may disagree but I’ve always believed that Yes was a bass driven band and everything revolved around Chris. There are many great bass players in all different genres so to say he’s the best would not be fair. For me, in this genre of progressive music, he was the gold standard. You should incorporate this into your beats. Be the trendsetters, bring us back to sanity😊. Floyd was definitely progressive. My day is so much better now that I’ve seen your reaction. The Moody Blues, ELP, Genesis, Supertramp, early Kansas, early Ambrosia, Procol Harum all await you in your Prog journey. King Crimson too but they are blockers. Have a great weekend. 👏👏
He also provided great backing vocals to Jon, so complicated at times, you could really tell he was a choirboy, he really hit all the notes.
Ladies and gentlemen Chris Squire and Yes the greatest show on earth. Thank you boys for enjoying my youth of 51yrs ago. Yes we did dance to Yes. For your Yes journey one should continue with an earlier album. A band called Gentle Giant use to open for Yes, their prog also and a song called On Reflection would be a nice introduction. 🙏🍁
👍😎
You guys are excellent reactors! As I write this comment, your video has been up only 10 hours and already has 179 beautiful comments by die hard fans. Just goes to show you that once you "get" the YES groove... it will never leave you and you will forever thirst for more. Once a YES fan always a YES fan. Enjoy your new journey. Just a note as you go forward... the sheer diversity of musical styles in YES music is absolutely astounding and unparalleled by any band ever. Take your time and enjoy the journey. YES is truly a band that is unworldly inspired, always one cohesive unit which can seemingly do no wrong in my opinion no matter the song. Cheers! P.
Thank you so much!!
With zep and Dan and yes I am hearing my youth again.loving and grateful for the unvarnished soul
One important element of their sound during this era that’s often overlooked is Bill Bruford’s snare. Chris Squire’s bass had such a prominent treble sound, particularly because Chris used a super aggressive pick style, that Bill’s snare would be buried in the mix using a typical snare tuning. To fight this Bill tuned his snare really high, giving it a distinctive “thwack” that cut through the mix. Very unusual and unique to Yes while Bill was with them
Absolutely. They lost a big part of their sound when Bruford left, although AW was certainly a phenomenal drummer.
Oh...
If you haven't already, I would love for you to come make a similar comment on Jim Newstead's current first listen to YesSongs. On side three, Jim particularly comments on Bruford's use of the high hat, and does say the mix is very trebly. He may appreciate your input on this aspect.
I don’t really like any of the yes albums after Bill Bruford left, they just were never the same
@@stevemd6488 This seems absolutely true, to me. Bills chemistry with the band probably impressed even him and Bill is kinda hard to please. lol
Alan White's drumming was of an opposite approach that, while absolutely superb, got buried, as you say, by Squires foundational bass sound. Yes were the first band I ever heard that put the bass up front. Nobody did that! The change in drumming styles severely altered the Yes sound which was already perfected.
It is such a shame, as Alan was such a great drummer. His rolling fills are some of the fastest I've ever heard. He was an absolute master of rhythm, for sure. Yes did great music with him. I just miss the spacious quality that Bill brought. The individual personalities of each player were allowed to shine better with Bill's style. He brought them together with intelligent interpretations and clever style.
Bill Bruford was Yes's best drummer...one of the Top 5 GOATs, Alan White is spectacular...but he's not Bruford.
I’ve seen them 23 times since 1973 and most of the shows opened with this song.
While they were getting settled on stage, the lights were completely off and a song called Firebird Suite was playing over the PA. It would cut off abruptly and when the first chord of the song was played the lights would come up on stage. What a great effect.
Right after Wakeman’s little classical playing in this song the guitar section is played on a seated steel guitar that is mostly used by country artists.
Remember? The first note of Firebird Suite and the crowd would erupt? We must have waited all our lives for that moment. The anticipation for it was as mind bending as the show itself and sometimes yes, the acid we were on. I'm always thrilled to see comments like yours because I so vividly remember this like it was yesterday. Perhaps we sat next to each other at some point in history? 47 shows for me in all four corners of the country and everywhere in between.
Firebird Suite is from Stravinsky Firebird music for ballet master piece from XIX century.
In 1975, the bassist Chris Squire released his first solo album “Fish Out of Water”. It’s as good as the best Yes albums, and really features his bass. Check it out sometime, as well as the rest of the Fragile record (which started with Roundabout).
I love that Yes puts Squire's bass so up the mix, it's like the lead instrument. Geddy Lee of Rush who was inspired by Squire does the same thing.
John Entwistle pioneered the concept of the bass being something other than in indistinct rumble in the background. Chris Squire took it to the next level with the absolute best bass tone ever in any music.
Now its a party! And to answer your question: "How did y'all get back down to Earth?" We didn't. Enjoy the trip!
To me typical music enters your world and enhances your surroundings, with these epic songs especially by Pink Floyd and Yes you enter their world and the atmosphere they create become your surroundings.
“That bass player.”
I said the same exact words 50 years ago.
And someone 100 years from now will say
“That bass player.”
The Trinity of Yes is Close to the Edge, Awaken, and Gates of Delirium. You listened to the first; hope you get to the other two. Awaken is described as a musical journey to meet a higher power. Gates of Delirium is loosely based on Tolstoy's "War and Peace", and includes a musical representation of a full battle. Both are really next-level listening.
If you listen to the studio version of Awaken it is also worth checking out the Live version by lead singer Jon Anderson and the Icelandic group Todmobile, seriously it is a brilliant track and the live cover elevates it to another level. It also illustrates how YES’s music will always be valued long after they have stopped playing it themselves.
Those three works are my trinity, for sure. It's so heartwarming to know that I'm not alone in that sentiment!
Fellas...do the long experimental track for YOU!!! Not only do you not have to worry about if anybody else listens to it...that's why you have your own singles along with an EPIC!!! I'm totally on board to hear how your experience with progressive music impacts your own interpretation. I think it is an exciting idea!!! DO IT!!!
Absolutely, do you think Yes, Floyd, Zep gave a flying poop what people thought. Show some balls and do it maybe a new genre will be born, Airplayprog.
I have been a big fan of Yes since they started and their music still blows me away !!
Chris Squire's jaw-dropping domination of YES' Sound was always my favorite element of the amazing sh!t this band was able to put together. I mean, yeah there was all that other talent from the other musicians, but from their very 1st album, the other guys could see the wisdom of building their contributions around Chris' Industrial-Melodic bass inspirations. The amazing thing was how he was able to contribute to a LOT of the *_melody_* in their songs but was able at the same time to hold down the groove that pulled you in.
Chris' bass playing is the main reason why I am always emphasizing the studio version of YES' masterpieces, cuz with very few exceptions, the studio version gives you not only the full bass contribution, but also the band's mastery of the mix at the sound board. YES spent hours & hours perfecting the mix. It's also the reason why they were able to pack so much *complexity* into their masterpieces but still enable the listener to hear all their contributions. YES were the Masters of Complexity in Progressive Rock.
I used to give Eddy Offord, their sound engineer during their Best Period, the credit for it, but from things I've read, Eddy credits everything to his willingness to listen to the musicians & give them what they wanted to hear. It's well-known that Chris was always right there when the mixing took place, so maybe he was just giving Chris what he wanted to hear. Who knows?
And then there was the vocal harmonies. There weren't many Progressive Rock bands that placed an emphasis on those harmonies like YES did. The only Prog band that came close was the Moody Blues. Chris Squire was a big part of _that_ element, as well. Turns out he was singing in some big deal church choir in his youth where he became accustomed to singing those soaring climaxes. It helped that his back up vocals were an exceptional match for Jon's lead vocals. No other Progressive Rock band had those two elements, both of which Chris was a big part of.
Chris once said that before he put his own band together with Jon Anderson, whenever he'd offer his services as a studio musician, nobody liked the way he played bass. So when he formed his own band, he was obviously determined that his contributions would _always_ be heard, lol!
Throughout their first five albums, Chris' inspirations were always given the prominence in the mix that is normally given to the lead guitarist. There was almost never a time when you couldn't hear Chris' contribution. After the Close To The Edge album, Chris started to dial it back, trying to accept a more 'equal' presentation of all the contributions of their very talented musicians. By the late 1980's it seemed like Chris was content to be "just the bass player" in the YES ensemble. I have to admit, at this point I pretty much lost my infatuation with YES as the best band I had ever heard.
I see you guys still have a lot of joyous YES ear candy to look forward to. I'll recommend that you listen to *The Yes Album* next, my second favorite of their albums after Close To The Edge. (Fragile is a very close 3rd place according to my ranking of their albums.) On The Yes Album, there are two that are *Must Listen* masterpieces: *Yours Is No Disgrace* and *Starship Trooper* (The whole album is really great; you might wanna just go though the whole thing).
I'm looking forward to more of your YES reactions, guys! It is _so_ apparent that you two *_totally get it._*
I agree with everything you said, including the order of the albums you like best and my two favorite tracks from The Yes Album! I'll only add that Steve Howe also contributed a great deal of vocals, usually the lower note of the three part harmonies they sometimes did. 🎵❤️🎵 Debbie
@@debrabrabenec I 100% agree.
Somebody once said, "On the bus full of bass players, Chris Squire RIP is the driver."
You should check out a solo album of his called "Fish Out of Water."
Chris Squire and Jon Anderson, the singer, are the two constant members of Yes. Drums, keyboards and guitar were all played by several players at various times. This album and Fragile feature, in my humble opinion, the best of the Yes lineups: Anderson, Squire, Bruford, Wakeman and Howe.
If this group inspires you to produce a progressive piece, I think it'll be well worth your time and effort. Great reaction gentlemen!
Ah,......no Chris Squire was the Only constant while he was alive. Anderson left the band and returned multiple times. Same with Rick Wakeman. Steve Howe is Only the second guitarist with the longest tenure now that Chris is gone. You probably don't know that Yes just put out a New Album, because none of the original band members are in it. Jeez.
Yours Is No Disgrace off of Yessongs will completely blow your mind! One of the best jams ever.
The live version from the YesSongs album is even better. It's probably my favorite Yes song.
first song I learned to play on the bass (Yessongs version), after being blown away by Chris' bass line on Roundabout! (studio version - THE song the prompted me to play bass!)
Another great reaction. I’m fascinated by the fact that the “groove” of the music has been an entry point for you into this music. It something I never really thought of. It always just sounded like Yes to me. It is a great experience to see you two react.
Between Squires' groove and Bruford's swing, YES had a lot of listener appeal!
Can't think of another group that pulls out a harpsichord solo in the middle a tune.
....dont forget the church pipe organ solos too
@@martinreed5964 excellent point
im glad YES is finally getting some respect. most of my friends never even listened to YES and have no clue
In my humble yet correct opinion, THIS is their best song, their best moment. The Bass player is the MVP of Yes. Back in the day, everyone was into the keyboards, but Chris Squire was the engine of Yes. Great reaction guys!
I think The Yes Album, Fragile and this one are their best albums and era, and each one a masterpiece in its own right.
I love that, "In my humble yet correct opinion..."
one of my all time favorites had the honor and privilege of seeing them 3 times in the 70s especially there 1978 tour when they introduced YES IN THE ROUND .....RIP Chris Squire
To quote Geddy Lee - Without YES, there would be no RUSH.
I dont think yes should be blamed foe rush
Another album you guys might like is by Chris Squire, his solo album Fish out of Water. Solid album and you can really hear the quality of his voice and how much value he added vocally to Yes behind Jon Anderson.
Yes had many lineup changes; drummer, keyboards, guitar, even vocals. One constant throughout was Chris Squire on bass. One of the greatest I've ever heard!
You should hear this Masterpiece live from YESSONGS. The layering is so dense, that it's like a Puzzle For Your Ears. Steve Howe is Amazing
Yessongs (2009 Remaster - 2 SHM-CD - Japan): th-cam.com/video/kvo15NhCJoI/w-d-xo.html
love the Steve Howe intro solo on this song!
You're right re Chris. What a phenomenal bass player. Correct me if I'm wrong but he's the first bass player you can 'hear' ie he's not mixed in the back as a backing instrument. He is leading, quite rightly. He's a massive unacknowledged influence on punk. Plays for the song but flair when needed. Also an amazing vocalist. A guy you know has got your back when you're playing. Solid as ****. Just amazing. RIP Chris I miss you
YES! glad you guys got to this one
I really hope you guys will do the YES Album too! It’s such a great work in my opinion.
I saw Yes in concert, Chris Squire was a big man with big hands, those strings didn’t stand a chance against his technique!
My guitar teacher was an assistant engineer on a Yes album that was being produced in Vancouver in the 90’s. The band recorded and then took a break for a meal. The staff who were all musicians picked up their instruments without changing a setting on anything. They jammed out a song or two and then put the instruments back. They sounded tinny and very thin. Yes came back in and picked up the same instruments with the same settings and in an instant had a thick, powerful sound blasting out of the studio room. They were a powerful monster band that could play with anyone.
I love that you guys are diggin' Yes! My favorite band. Those 70s albums are pure genius... 🔥 All of them are amazing musicians in their own right! Thank you guys!
Prog is mind and mood music .. brain food !!
I have been listening to YES for 50 years. There is something to be said about listening to a YES LP on an old phonograph. We wore the Close to the Edge album out! I can remember all of the skips, pops, and scratches on that album. I have seen them LIVE four times. I am so glad to have seen Chris Squire LIVE on stage before he died.
Chris Squire passed on and so did my favorite bass musician. He was a big dude and had such presence. I truly loved listening to him. There is a video where they do a version of a song “show me” that Squire plays an acoustic bass so nicely and Wakeman plays a beautiful piano! You should check it out even if you don’t react to it!👍🏻👌🏻❤️
The beauty of it all was these guys could bring this all Live in concerts. Amazing band my favorite still.
I´m glad you guys focus on Squires bass playing because it´s exceptional and totally unique.
For several of their tours, this was the opening tune. This was the only group I budgeted for front row, the most memorable was the Bronco Bowl in TX. Curious to hear your opinion of Relayer album when Patrick Moraz replaced Rick Wakeman on keys.
YES....the greatest progressive rock band in history..or to most of us...the greatest BAND in history
Sending spiritual ripples around the world, I would also say.
Frequency. It was (and still is) about raising my vibration. Yes, as well as Jethro Tull and Pink Floyd music aided my journey to 5D. A total spiritual experience.
This was the first Yes song that really twisted my head back around 1985. It could also have been the acid I dropped before listening to it, but this song really contributed!
I'm sure the acid had absolutely nothing to do with it!
2 suggestions the Group is Boston #1 Foreplay/Longtime, #2 The Launch/Cool The Engines. The first Boston LP just like Dark side of the moon with Pink Floyd just listen to side 1 and side 2. It's worth it.
My favorite track on the album. What a groove! BTW that's Steve Howe guitar solo at the end of the track. He gets into some nice jazz licks.
People often criticize prog bands such as yes as being too busy , which reminds me off this scene from the movie Amadeus. Mozart is about to get some feedback from the Emperor, on his latest composition.
EMPEROR: There's too many notes.
MOZART: I don't understand. There are just as many notes, Majesty, as are required. Neither more nor less.
EMPEROR: My dear fellow, there are in fact only so many notes the ear can hear in the course of an evening. I think I'm right in saying that, aren't I, Court Composer?
SALIERI: Yes! yes! er, on the whole, yes, Majesty.
MOZART: But this is absurd!
EMPEROR: My dear, young man, don't take it too hard. Your work is ingenious. It's quality work. And there are simply too many notes, that's all. Cut a few and it will be perfect.
MOZART: Which few did you have in mind, Majesty?
Geddy Lee: "Of course I loved Chris Squire's incredible bass…and am still a huge fan. Quite amazing. But Yes provided an incredible array of intricate arrangements and a musicality beyond belief. They are often knocked for being too complex but I don't agree. There is a simplicity and elegance to the songs. I always found them both accessible and adventurous."
How did we come down from trippin' balls to Yes?
Well, very gradually and not ever completely.
Some of us carry this around with us and filter our perceptions of the world thru that mindset.
👽🐝🐙🐢🍄🎸🖖
I remember having the album on 8-track tape! I was living at home, and I would close my bedroom door at night, put on my headphones, and get totally immersed in the music! Simply incredible. I listen to it today (not on 8-track!😂) with the same exuberance! You guys are experiencing Yes in their “classic” era. And yes, their music takes you on a journey. But Yes in the 80s were quite different. With new guitarist Trevor Rabin, the music became more rhythm oriented, as opposed to the 70s melody oriented epics. This turned some fans off, but it kept the band relevant as the progressive era was fading out. If you ever get to react to the song “Owner Of A Lonely Heart,” you’ll see what I mean.
Excellent choice
For an amazing example of Bruford and Squire firing on all cylinders, you should check out Heart of the Sunrise. The long slow section right after the opening intro is out of this world.
The best thing about the late 60's early 70's was in my collection was Yess, Cream, Led Zepplin, Marvin Gay, Sly and the Family Stone, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Blood Sweat and Tears, Temptations, Frank Zappa, Janis Joplin, Linda Ronstadt, Ted Nugent, Aerosmith, Three Dog Night, Mott the Hopple, David Bowie, Fifth Dimension, Parliament, War, Hollies, and the man Al Green. The beauty of the age, talented artists, the variety, good music is just plain good music. I really enjoy watch your reaction, your knowledge of how it's done in the studio and on stage, to just your child like wonder at it all. Beautiful.
The album Close to the Edge only contained three “songs”. But I have spent fifty years loving every beat of them. My favourite record by my favourite band.
To me there is only one yes song AWAKEN. I got to here it live in the early 90's. This track has it all. Epic.
It was fun....saw them on some good coke. FABULOUS SHOW!!!
I took YES instead of acid, saved me a few brain cells! I am convinced that when they were writing they simply kept asking the questions ‘what might make this section sound better?’ And ‘what would sound good next? When they got to 22mins they had to stop as they had used up the space on a side of a vinyl. Had they had the CD format we probably would have had a load of 50minute songs. How great might that be.
I can tell you this, our expanded minds have allowed us to notice and appreciate more in life than had we not partaken.
Y’know, I love u guys so much for doing Yes. Today we look at things with such black & white lenses - he’s that, they’re that… don’t talk to them, don’t listen to her - causing us to discard all the progress we had made as a people & culture.
But here I am a white, 64 yr old child of the late 60’s/70’s… and I can’t wait to hear your reactions to music I hold most dear - especially prog - because I know how different it’s been for u guys to take a path you’ve never taken before.
You really brighten my heart because this is the shit we should be focusing on - music brings us together, and it’s effects are life-long.
Like, I know that neither of you guys will ever, ever forget Yes’ music, and it’s also broadened your musical horizon.
That is so wonderful!
Chris Squire had his bass planed down on 2 separate occasions and was told that was the last time he needed to thin the body down. He then had it wired in stereo, so he could play through 2 different amps at two different settings. That, and the way he held his pick, along with tons of talent, gave him his unique sound. There will not be another Chris Squire.
Yes r the Goat!! All musicians top in their fields of music!! Thanks for Playing this album!! I am glad u r hearing this fir the first time! It blew me away first time I heard it!🔥
The BASS and the GUITAR!
I saw Yes and ELP, Yes opened, in November, 1971 at the Spectrum in Philly for $5.50. A hit of Windowpane acid at $2.00. Cannot properly describe the experience but probably about 5,00 of the 28,00 there were in the same frame of mind. Joints and Hashish constantly passed down the aisles.
I saw Yes in Niagara Falls in ,1974. Such a fantastic band!
My first Yes concert was in 1979--I think--and the first song played was Siberian Khatru--I'll remember as long as I live :)
Great song. Every year back in the 70's Playboy mag ( I read it for the articles) would rate musicians. Top guitarist, bass, keyboards, singers etc. Squire was always top rated. As well as Howe, Bruford, Wakeman and of course Anderson. I'm surprised no one has requested Jethro Tull with frontman and flutist Ian Anderson. They were an inspiration to many bands. Geddy Lee of Rush was at the same concert I was at in Toronto back in the 70's and said they were an inspiration to him and his mates. Song to start with would be 'My God' live at the Isle of Wight concert and the album 'Aqualung' a record that's great start to finish. Locomotive Breath, Crosseyed Mary and the title track are standouts. The whole album is. Ian Anderson is one of (progressive rocks) great frontmen. Enjoy your channel. Great stuff. Nice to watch you appreciate this great music...
... Yes fan since 50 y ! I enjoy your journey with Yes !! Go on Men ! 💚💚
I've been waiting to hear modern artists, especially in Hip Hop or R&B, start embracing odd time signatures, longer tunes, and some of the other tropes of progmusic. You can get some insanely cool rhymes and rhythms going on odd time signatures. I hope you guys do it!
Another idea for exporing longer compositions is to follow what some bands like Genesis have done and couch your longer ideas into smaller songs with short thoughtful connective bits. That way you can do single mixes for individual songs, but present tehm in a longer context for an "album" version. To be honest, in these days of downloading individual tracks instead of albums, you'd know more than I do how practical that is.
As an example of what I'm talking about, I'd suggest Genesis, "The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway" (one of the great prog concept album masterpieces), side two of Mike Rutherford's "Smallcreep's Day," or side two of Kate Bush's "Hounds Of Love." I'm sure there are many other examples as well.
Yah, this was early on in the acid trip. Much later on, after further exploration of the Yes universe, The Moody Blues were always a good way to ease on back in to the real world, nice and slow.
I love seeing you on the Yes discovery journey... you're are right it not about dancing.... but about stimulating your inner jiggy..
I can't wait to see more of your reactions!
Great stuff guys! Love your takes. But you MUST check out Yessongs! The live versions of these songs are on a different level.
OMG...I love that you guys get YES! Love your reactions to my favorite progressive rock band! Chris Squire was the only bass player for this group until he passed in 2015 (?) I believe. He was a founding member and definitely the foundation for this great group. He was also a vocalist and paired greatly with Jon Anderson.
Chris Squire and Jon Anderson are Yes! They started Yes way back in the day 🔥🤘✌
....but Steve Howe was their saviour....they were about to be dropped for poor sales of the first 2 albums, then Steve took them to another level with his contribution to "the Yes album"
Close To The Edge and Dark Side Of The Moon are the two albums that I always hand top of my play list.
YES is medicinal. Therapeutic.
YES is always a great journey of the mind.....
Prog rock from the 70's (from around the world) is a rabbit hole that I still haven't gotten out of.
We got back to Earth by listening to Blind Faith's "Can't Find My Way Home."
This was what they opened their show with for years and years. It followed Firebird Suite.
Thanks guys for covering this classic 1972 progressive-rock masterpiece😊😊😊😊😊😊
Being in high school just starting to do party favors! Discovered Yes and took the journey! Introduce my friends and each ride was different! That’s progressive! That’s Yes! Chiguy
They danced to roundabout cause yes was FINALLY IN THE HALL of FaME!
Long over due celebration.
❤🎉!
The Groove Always Hits YA YES 😀
It was called Progressive Rock because they were trying to move the harmonic “language” further along. Almost symphonic.
That is exactly correct. "You are going to listen to it." Progressive rock was never a passive experience. Your participation is required. It's not background music for you to passively cop a groove and bop your head. Yes' arrangements were like classical music. It's contemplative and intense. Those days are gone, and that's our loss.
Chris definitely drove the ship but Jon was the captain. Maestro Anderson, God bless him & his vision 💓
Another excellent video. Great job guys loving your videos thank you very much!
72 year old here who took acid most times listening to Yes. I saw them twice tripping, wow, what an experience.
Good to see you guys appreciate this music. I very much enjoy watching your experience with it.
I used to be so judgmental of my music, but listening to progressive music set me free to expand my horizons and realize my potential.
You guys are great, really enjoy your commentary!
Rush always credited Yes as their main influence. That's why Geddy Lee wanted to play at their Hall of Fame induction. 💯
👍
Love you guys. Welcome to what I've always just thought of as music, without even thinking about how long the song lasted.
Once you listen to these songs a few times you'll get the timing.. you'll know what to expect.. you'll feel it.
Until then.. it's just listening. Once you feel it.. (after many listens) you'll REALLY get it.. you could almost dance to it at that point
You are correct about Chris Squire's influence on the overall sound. His first solo album "Fish out of water" shows this clearly. Keep rocking on your journey.
When you said we could do it for just us, I feel that is the spirit behind this music. Wanna see what you come up with