As expected the vast majority of the audience
was composed of the "baby boomer" generation.
The atmosphere was buzzing and all tickets were
sold. In true YES tradition an except from Stravinsky's
Firebird Suite was played as a precursor to the
main concert. It was at this point you knew that
you were in for a treat anticipating what is to
come; a nice serendipity moment.
Tonight’s show was a special night for Yes
fans as there was no support as Yes decided to
play ‘The Yes Album’, ‘Going
For The One’ and ‘Close To The Edge
albums in their entirety instead which must have
been a tough decision for the band considering
their massively impressive back catalogue.
The concert
opened with a spectacular rendition of their 1972
album " Close to Edge". The musicianship
was second to none, flanked by stalwarts Steve
Howe on lead guitar and Chris Squire on bass guitar.
The music was delivered with controlled power,
sensitivity and clarity, a fusion of the majestic
and the esoteric, the hallmark of YES.
Steve Howe's guitar playing (on many different
guitars) was simply exquisite and sublime, played
with similar passion as the likes of Carlos Santa
and Eric Clapton. Chris Squire and the rest of
the band all gave a 100% performance with gusto,
which matched the master Architect of the band,
Steve Howe.
Fortunately, with no disrespect; former front
man Jon Anderson was not missed. His replacement,
Jon Davison resembled a young Jon Anderson both
in stature and style, but more importantly had
a similar distinctly high falsetto voice which
is essential for the delivery of the unique sound
of YES.
The band overall have not lost any of their magic
and may they remain at the top table as Aristocrats
of "Prog Rock". This was confirmed and
reinforced by the long standing ovation at the
close of the concert.
Yes 5/5
Review By Nigel Richards
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