YES
There are groups with outstanding soloists who dominate; there are groups without solo stars, and here the aim is usually to merge all the talents so that no one stands out. Both policies can be successful.
But rarely has a group gathered so much cohesion as Yes, and few groups can boast such a winning mixture of dazzling soloists and total togetherness. The precision and lightness of their performance, at London's Royal Festival Hall on Friday was staggering. Two encores insisted on their return to the stage. At the end of the night Yes had been elevated to superstar status.
They proved they deserve most of the superlatives that have been heaped on them. Five musicians, beautifully complementing each other blend into a joyful sound which, while keeping its roots firmly in rock, strives successfully for a non-raucous gloss. None of the players is incapable of fierce, aggressive and exciting solo work - but the Yes sound excites more through its shiny sparkle.
After taking eons to set up equipment, during which the stage looked more like a radio station than a setting for a concert, Yes raced into a pacy act featuring material from their new " Fragile " album.
" Mood For A Day " featured the Spanish guitar work of Steve Howe, who wrote the piece. Steve's delicate acoustic touch contrasted vividly with his other work, and this segment of the show was especially pleasing. In "Heart Of The Sunrise," Rick Wakeman showed a keen sense of dramatics in his multi-keyboard acrobatics, He is an electrifying player who knows how to please an audience.
Chris Squire got his personal spot with " The Fish," which emphasised the striking effect used by Yes with stabbing, fast-changing tempos. Rick Wakeman did a send-up of an old " Housewives Choice " signature tune before plunging into a fair old solo. And there were more familiar Yes tunes like " Perpetual Change " and " Yours Is No Disgrace " showing their melodic strength.
Yes's sound is taut, driving and a thorough joy.
Jonathan Swift opened the show. After meeting an unresponsive audience, he worked well to persuade us that his songs were worth hearing. An infinitely better acoustic guitarist than singer, Jonathan impressed with "Blue Eyes," his new single, and songs from his debut album. A promising folk talent.
- RAY COLEMAN.
*Entry* Cover* 1* 2* 3* 4* 5* 6* 7* 8* 9* 10* Photo 1* Photo 2*
