Yes - The Yes Album (1971)

Yes are an English progressive rock band that formed in London in 1968. Their music is marked by sharp dynamic contrasts, often extended song lengths, and a general showcasing of its members' instrumental skills. Yes uses symphonic and other so called 'classical' structures with their blend of musical styles in an innovative "marriage" of music. Despite a great many lineup changes, occasional splits and many changes in popular music, the band has continued for over 35 years and still retains a strong international following.



The Yes Album is the third album by British progressive rock band Yes. The first release to feature 24-year-old guitarist Steve Howe, the album was released on Atlantic Records in February 1971 in the UK, a month later in the United States. This was the album that finally set Yes's career alight, with the album reaching #4 in the UK and, eventually, #40 in the U.S., where it was a platinum seller. This was also the last Yes album for over twelve years to feature keyboardist Tony Kaye until his return in 1983's 90125.

The Yes Album set the stage for the band's route to superstardom with Fragile and Close to the Edge. This was their first commercial success and, reportedly, it had to be or Atlantic was going to cut them loose.

If there is a weak point it has to be Jon Anderson's lyrics. The vague cosmic mish-mash of Eastern spirituality and philosophy makes sense to few people, and dates the album firmly in the hippy era. Having said that, Anderson has been writing lyrics like that well into the 90's!

Studio Album, released in 1971
Track Listings

1. Yours Is No Disgrace (9:36)
2. The Clap (3:07)
3. Starship Trooper: Life Seeker / Disillusion… (9:23)
4. I've Seen All Good People: Your Move / All… (6:47)
5. A Venture (3:13)
6. Perpetual Change (8:50)

Total Time: 41:56