The Golden Age of Yes: A Retrospective by Steve Howe
The legendary guitarist Steve Howe, a cornerstone of the progressive rock band Yes, reminisces about his favorite songs from their extensive catalog, and an intriguing pattern emerges. In a 2015 interview with Prog, Howe's top picks were primarily from the 1970s, a decade he regards with a certain nostalgic fondness.
The Magic of the 70s
Howe's sentiment isn't an uncommon one among artists. The 70s, for Yes, represented a period of creative innocence, a time when the band was pushing boundaries and exploring new musical territories without the weight of expectations or the pressures of commercial success. This era, as Howe describes, was 'astounding' and 'magical.'
His choice of 'Turn of the Century' from the 1977 album 'Going for the One' exemplifies this. The song, with its soft and deep qualities, was a collaborative effort that drew on the band's collective creativity. It's a testament to the band's ability to craft intricate and emotional pieces, a hallmark of their early work.
'Siberian Khatru' from the iconic 1972 album 'Close to the Edge' is another standout. Howe's reflection on this era suggests a sense of wonder and exploration, a time when the band was perhaps at its most daring and innovative. This track, in particular, encapsulates the archetypal Yes sound of that period, a sound they would later revisit and draw inspiration from.
The Evolution and Challenges
As the band progressed into the 1980s, their music evolved. 'Tempus Fugit' from the 1980 album 'Drama' is a notable mention, showcasing a different side of Yes. The song, with its dynamic speed and powerful lyrics by Trevor Horn, demonstrates the band's adaptability and their ability to incorporate new members and influences. However, it also marks a shift in the band's trajectory, moving away from the innocence of the 70s.
'South Side of the Sky' from the 1971 album 'Fragile' is a fascinating contrast. This song, with its three distinct sections, reflects the experimental nature of the band's early work. The use of a spinning microphone to create a unique sound effect is a testament to their playful and innovative approach to music production.
The Double-Edged Sword of Ambition
The 1973 album 'Tales from Topographic Oceans' is a significant turning point in Yes' history. 'The Revealing Science of God (Dance of the Dawn)' was a bold choice for the opening track, and it divided opinions within the band and among critics. Howe and Jon Anderson's belief in the project, despite initial skepticism, is a testament to their artistic vision. However, the mixed reception and subsequent departure of Rick Wakeman highlight the risks and rewards of such ambitious endeavors.
Personally, I find this period of Yes' history particularly intriguing. It's a microcosm of the challenges and triumphs that many bands face as they evolve and experiment. The 70s were a time of unbridled creativity and exploration for Yes, but it also set a high bar that, as Howe suggests, they sometimes struggled to reach in later years. This dynamic between the band's past and present is a fascinating thread that runs through their discography.
In conclusion, Steve Howe's reflection on Yes' music offers a unique insight into the band's evolution and the impact of different eras on their sound. The 1970s, with its innocence and innovation, remains a golden age for Yes, a period that continues to inspire and challenge the band in their later works.
