Gone from 1991's abysmal Union are Rick Wakeman, Bill Bruford and Steve Howe. Remaining are Trevor Rabin, Jon Anderson, Tony Kaye, Chris Squire and Alan White – the same lineup that produced 1983's platinum 90125.

Produced and co-written by Rabin, Yes' 13th album has been given an antiseptic scrub and employs enough computer wizardry to put a smile on any geek. Slick pop gifts like "The Calling" and "Walls," along with the anthemic "I Am Waiting," sparkle next to the familiar progressive prattle of "State of Play" and "Where Will You Be."

Of course, what would a Yes album be without the over-the-top histrionics of the three-part finale "Endless Dream" – a 16-minute testament to wretched excess. But give Yes credit for the way Jon Anderson's ageless tenor complements the always-steady performances of Kaye, Squire and White – and for at least admitting that this, indeed, is the '90s. And despite the band's lofty perch, the view from the stratosphere seems to be getting a bit clearer.

Share

• Email
• AIM
• Del.icio.us
• DiggThis
• Fark It!

MATT BIRKBECK

(Posted: Sep 22, 1994)