YES - (2001) Magnification

Studio Album, released in 2001

People underestimate old bands that have new, bright sparks, particularly Yes as everyone only ever thinks of the 70’s Yes era. There is another 30 or so years of Yes music out there, during this time unappreciated albums such as 'The Ladder' and 'Keystudios' have been released, all of which can rival any “classic” prog album. They may not be the same in terms of sound, but creativity is defiantly there as the band continues, over thirty years after their debut to challenge standing styles of music, this time incorporating an entire orchestra which, in a way defies their own musical styles. What’s the point of being a symphonic band who synthesizes the orchestral sound and using an actual orchestra? For me, this means that Yes doesn’t care too much about their standings, now, as their careers are drawing to an end they are just making music that can be enjoyed, nothing dark or too meaningful, just music. I like this idea, the band has nothing to aspire to and have not pressure to write any chart-toping hits which gives them great freedom in the composing department.

Indeed, the compositions on "Magnification" are very different from the 70’s, but who cares? Different though they may be they are of no less intrigue. Different styles and moods are provoked by the backing orchestra, and songs like "Spirit of Survival" use this large array of instrumentalists well. The orchestra gives a backing like no other, just listen to "Give Love Each Day", better than any melltron, hu? Another point to make it that there is no Rick Wakeman, just like on 'The Ladder', he is not needed, but he did do a good job on Keystudios. Coincidently there is little keyboard work and the orchestra more than makes up for this vacancy. Alan White plays piano during "Magnification" when needed.

"Magnification" really deserves more than 3.5 stars, with songs like "Magnification", "Spirit of Survival" and others it’s worth at least four. I don’t see anything wrong with this album and I see many people say, to support their ratings “not as good as classic Yes albums”, as The Eagles would say “get over it.” You can’t give a rating solely comparing to another album, it’s criminal and unfair. Steve Howe is the stand out on "Magnification" and he actually makes the banjo blend in with the music towards the end of "Magnification." Generally his guitar work is fantastic.

Track Listings:

1. Magnification (7:15)
2. Spirit Of Survival (6:02)
3. Don't Go (4:27)
4. Give Love Each Day (7:44)
5. Can You Imagine (2:58)
6. We Agree (6:30)
7. Soft As A Dove (2:18)
8. Dreamtime (10:45)
9. In the Presence of (10:24)
i) Deeper
ii) Death of Ego
iii) True Beginner
iv) Turn Around and Remember
10. Time Is Time (2:09)

Total Time: 60:33
Line-up/Musicians

- Jon Anderson / lead vocals, MIDI guitar, acoustic guitar
- Steve Howe / acoustic & electric guitars, steel, mandolin, vocals
- Chris Squire / bass guitars, vocals, lead vocal on "Can You Imagine"
- Alan White / drums, percussion, piano, vocals

Orchestral music composed, arranged and conducted by Larry Groupë