Yes - (1971) Fragile

Studio Album, released in 1971

Without a doubt the best that Yes has to offer is contained on this album, Fragile. Here all five musicians are at the peak of their game, creating a warm, organic sound that compulsively continues to attract new listeners to the band and to the progressive genre as a whole. It was my gateway album. From the delicate acoustic intro to Roundabout I was hooked and I had to hear more. The band really tightened up their sound on this album compared to the spawling pieces on the The Yes Album. They also didnt go over the edge with weird, impenetrable metaphysical musing. The three longer songs are all great rock tunes that showcase each members capabilities, especially the muscular bass of Chris Squire. While the six shorter pieces are all fantastic (well maybe not 5% for nothing), each one showcasing one band member's instrumental prowess.

IMO I think that this album is the best of the symphonic sub-genre of prog, it has no flaws. Yes may have gotten grander but could never top the warm, inviting and most importantly, listenable feeling of Fragile.

Track Listings

1. Roundabout (8:29)
2. Cans And Brahms (1:35)
3. We Have Heaven (1:30)
4. South Side Of The Sky (8:04)
5. Five Percent For Nothing (0:35)
6. Long Distance Runaround (3:33)
7. The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus) (2:35)
8. Mood For A Day (3:57)
9. Heart Of The Sunrise (10:34)

Total Time: 40:52

Bonus tracks on Elektra remaster (2003):
10. America (10:33)
11. Roundabout (early rough mix) (8:35)
Line-up/Musicians

- Jon Anderson / vocals
- Chris Squire / bass and vocals
- Rick Wakeman / keyboards
- Bill Bruford / drums
- Steve Howe / guitars and vocals