'Fly From Here' by Yes, 2011

The 1970's are regarded as Yes's best years. Prior to decades spackled with endless personnel changes (the bands rehearsal space should have a revolving door...or two) and numerous progressively inconsequential releases, Yes was selling out arenas and exceeding the reach and grasp of most of their contemporaries. Their 1970's releases ('The Yes Album', 'Fragile', 'Close to the Edge', 'Tales From Topographic Oceans', 'Relayer', 'Going For the One', 'Tormato', and 'Drama') which explored various philosophical and theolgical topics, staggering rhythmic interplay, and accessible yet sophisticated melodic composition cemented the band as the leading pioneers of Art Rock, or Progressive Rock. By the start of the 1980's however Yes began a swift departure from their signature sound. Differences concerning the groups direction ultimately led to split ups, unfocused writing, and lots of let down fans up into the 2000's. 'Fly From Here' sounds like Yes in their prime. New lead singer Benoit David echoes Jon Andersen's high tenor and melodic sensibilities, yet makes the songs his own. Left behind are the dream-catching,middle-aged/new-age lyrics of laborious albums like 'Union' and 'Magnification'. Benoit sings a simple but metaphoric narrative centered in an airfield for the 25 minute title track. Yes alumni Alan White and Chris Squier striate counter rhythms with virtuoso guitarist Steve Howe while keyboardist Geoff Downes glues it all together to refreshingly familiar effect. The results are more memorable than they've been in 30 years and genuinely engage the listener for the records duration. I would attribute this to the maleable enthusiasm running through each piece. Yes play with intent and energy; they sound young again, which is what fans of most 35 year old bands can usually only dream about. Their performances are even further enhanced by producer Trevor Horn's immaculate, glassy production as opposed to their 1990's albums which sound plastic and thin by comparison. It is an overwhelming relief to hear Yes return to their trademark sound with such vigor at this late point in their career. Not much more to say other than that minus the absence of original vocalist and keyboard wizard Jon Andersen and Rick Wakeman, 'Fly From Here' is what Yes fans have been waiting for for 3 decades. Stellar album! MUSED: 85% ABUSED: 15%