This was my first and currently my only Yes album. I only bought it because it was 3 bucks and didn't expect anything. Here's a song-by-song thingy:

Magnification: The title track is very cool progressive rocker. The orchestra does an amazing job complementing those high falsetto vocals. Just an all around good song. 10/10

Spirit of Survival: This is probably the heaviest song on here, with an awesome bass line and some sweet guitar work from Mr. Howe. Sounds like it should be on the "Get Smart" soundtrack. 10/10

Don't Go: The lyrics are lame, but this is an okay song. More of a pop song than most of the tracks, but still pretty catchy and enjoyable. 7/10

Give Love Each Day: Ugh...that title is horrid and the lyrics are....interesting to say the least, but the orchestra does a nice job and the melody is good, so it's a decent enough song. 7/10

Can You Imagine: My favorite song from this album. The orchestra is at their best here, and the lyrics are pretty interesting. Also, Jon Anderson's voice sounds great and of course is as infectious as ever. 10/10

We Agree: A typical "Can't we all just get along?" type song, but the melody in the verses is pretty cool and Steve Howe does some cool stuff with his guitar. Not a bad song, but far from one of the best. 6/10

Soft As A Dove: A nice little acoustic interlude. Just very gentle and serene. Lyrically, the song is weird, but that's made up for with an excellent vocal performance. 8/10

Dreamtime: Now we're talking! Lengthy, progressive, catchy, dark, and hard-rockin! A great song! 10/10

In The Presence of: Another grandiose progressive number, but rather forgettable. I do like the jazzy interludes though. A good song, just not very memorable. 7/10

Time Is Time: Cool violin/ guitar duels, but once again, the song is pretty unmemorable. 6/10


Well, that's it. I was pretty impressed with this one. Certainly a worthy investment for 3 bucks, I'd say.

Final Rating: 8/10

I like this album also and great job on the review Schbob

A fantastic CD! Good starting place actually, because it you know go back to their classic 70's material, it will only get better.

ult

I guess you got it on FYE. I got it for the same price on that place, but I haven't been in the mood to listen to it. Know that I read a positive review I may check it out.

Thanks

Cool review man, keep at it!

Oh and Kudos on using the word "GRANDIOSE".

Wow, this is a real unlikely place for a YES review. Love this band. Even this specific title, which went directly into the bargain bin of my local CD store upon its release. Don't nobody wanna hear no more YES in the new millenium. 'Tis truly a shame, really. They still can cook up some really inspired and complex music, these guys.