Chris Squire on bass was a founder and genius player. 6'4" monster who truly did play a bass like a guitar, funny, jovial, oh and he sings all those harmonies with Jon Anderson. Died in 2016, his band made the Hall of Fame in 2017. Fuck the Hall of Fame, they should have been there before 2000.
Same thing with Ray Thomas of the Moody Blues, finally inducted months after his death. I agree Fuck them just for putting Janet Jackson in let alone all the bands they snub.
Okay, I confess: I did acid and listened to this back in '73, and I can tell you how I came back down. I came back down with my mind, my perspective on music, significantly rearranged. And you're right about Chris Squire (RIP). He was a bass player like no other, incorporating Bach-like lines into the Yes compositions. So glad you brothers are getting off on this Prog adventure you're on. It helped make the 70s what they were.
Squire is the beating heart of YES. He's always upfront in the mix and his tone is tasty. All the members of YES are at the top of their class plus their compositions are otherworldly. Huge fan since 1976! Go Deep with these guys!
Yes was the only band that ever drove me to tears. It was during “You and I”. I was so moved by the performance it made me weep. My girlfriend at the time said , “are you ok”? And I was so choked up, I couldn’t speak. I just nodded, “YES”. To this day, when I hear the song, I get a lump in my throat. They were and still are a glorious band. Rest in peace, Chris Squire. Thank you for the memories and experience.
The last song in the greatest run of albums by this band. Hard to pick a favourite among the Yes Album, Fragile and Close to the Edge. All are so good. They went out on tour for this record and Yessongs was recorded. Drummer Bill Bruford left Yes to join King Crimson early in the tour and was replaced by Alan White (RIP).
Produce a long track and don't worry about what people think. It's about TRULY expressing yourself and you'll be surprised to see there are people who will dig it! Plus, you may start a new musical trend. That's how it works! Do you think Miles Davis or Black Sabbath were worried about opinions when they changed direction or played heavy or different concepts in the early 70''s? I think not. Next stop for you both I recommend is the rest of "Fragile" then "The Yes Album". Happy listening!
One important element of their sound during this era that’s often overlooked is Bill Bruford’s snare. Chris Squire’s bass had such a prominent treble sound, particularly because Chris used a super aggressive pick style, that Bill’s snare would be buried in the mix using a typical snare tuning. To fight this Bill tuned his snare really high, giving it a distinctive “thwack” that cut through the mix. Very unusual and unique to Yes while Bill was with them
Oh... If you haven't already, I would love for you to come make a similar comment on Jim Newstead's current first listen to YesSongs. On side three, Jim particularly comments on Bruford's use of the high hat, and does say the mix is very trebly. He may appreciate your input on this aspect.
@@stevemd6488 This seems absolutely true, to me. Bills chemistry with the band probably impressed even him and Bill is kinda hard to please. lol Alan White's drumming was of an opposite approach that, while absolutely superb, got buried, as you say, by Squires foundational bass sound. Yes were the first band I ever heard that put the bass up front. Nobody did that! The change in drumming styles severely altered the Yes sound which was already perfected. It is such a shame, as Alan was such a great drummer. His rolling fills are some of the fastest I've ever heard. He was an absolute master of rhythm, for sure. Yes did great music with him. I just miss the spacious quality that Bill brought. The individual personalities of each player were allowed to shine better with Bill's style. He brought them together with intelligent interpretations and clever style.
I’ve seen them 23 times since 1973 and most of the shows opened with this song. While they were getting settled on stage, the lights were completely off and a song called Firebird Suite was playing over the PA. It would cut off abruptly and when the first chord of the song was played the lights would come up on stage. What a great effect. Right after Wakeman’s little classical playing in this song the guitar section is played on a seated steel guitar that is mostly used by country artists.
Ladies and gentlemen Chris Squire and Yes the greatest show on earth. Thank you boys for enjoying my youth of 51yrs ago. Yes we did dance to Yes. For your Yes journey one should continue with an earlier album. A band called Gentle Giant use to open for Yes, their prog also and a song called On Reflection would be a nice introduction. 🙏🍁
John Entwistle pioneered the concept of the bass being something other than in indistinct rumble in the background. Chris Squire took it to the next level with the absolute best bass tone ever in any music.
Chris Squire had his bass planed down on 2 separate occasions and was told that was the last time he needed to thin the body down. He then had it wired in stereo, so he could play through 2 different amps at two different settings. That, and the way he held his pick, along with tons of talent, gave him his unique sound. There will not be another Chris Squire.
In 1975, the bassist Chris Squire released his first solo album “Fish Out of Water”. It’s as good as the best Yes albums, and really features his bass. Check it out sometime, as well as the rest of the Fragile record (which started with Roundabout).
Now you get it. We never came back down after listening to Yes. That’s why they are so ingrained into our souls 50 years later. Geddy from Rush, idolized Chris Squire so he was thrilled to play with Yes at the ceremony. Others may disagree but I’ve always believed that Yes was a bass driven band and everything revolved around Chris. There are many great bass players in all different genres so to say he’s the best would not be fair. For me, in this genre of progressive music, he was the gold standard. You should incorporate this into your beats. Be the trendsetters, bring us back to sanity😊. Floyd was definitely progressive. My day is so much better now that I’ve seen your reaction. The Moody Blues, ELP, Genesis, Supertramp, early Kansas, early Ambrosia, Procol Harum all await you in your Prog journey. King Crimson too but they are blockers. Have a great weekend. 👏👏
Chris Squire's jaw-dropping domination of YES' Sound was always my favorite element of the amazing sh!t this band was able to put together. I mean, yeah there was all that other talent from the other musicians, but from their very 1st album, the other guys could see the wisdom of building their contributions around Chris' Industrial-Melodic bass inspirations. The amazing thing was how he was able to contribute to a LOT of the *_melody_* in their songs but was able at the same time to hold down the groove that pulled you in. Chris' bass playing is the main reason why I am always emphasizing the studio version of YES' masterpieces, cuz with very few exceptions, the studio version gives you not only the full bass contribution, but also the band's mastery of the mix at the sound board. YES spent hours & hours perfecting the mix. It's also the reason why they were able to pack so much *complexity* into their masterpieces but still enable the listener to hear all their contributions. YES were the Masters of Complexity in Progressive Rock. I used to give Eddy Offord, their sound engineer during their Best Period, the credit for it, but from things I've read, Eddy credits everything to his willingness to listen to the musicians & give them what they wanted to hear. It's well-known that Chris was always right there when the mixing took place, so maybe he was just giving Chris what he wanted to hear. Who knows? And then there was the vocal harmonies. There weren't many Progressive Rock bands that placed an emphasis on those harmonies like YES did. The only Prog band that came close was the Moody Blues. Chris Squire was a big part of _that_ element, as well. Turns out he was singing in some big deal church choir in his youth where he became accustomed to singing those soaring climaxes. It helped that his back up vocals were an exceptional match for Jon's lead vocals. No other Progressive Rock band had those two elements, both of which Chris was a big part of. Chris once said that before he put his own band together with Jon Anderson, whenever he'd offer his services as a studio musician, nobody liked the way he played bass. So when he formed his own band, he was obviously determined that his contributions would _always_ be heard, lol! Throughout their first five albums, Chris' inspirations were always given the prominence in the mix that is normally given to the lead guitarist. There was almost never a time when you couldn't hear Chris' contribution. After the Close To The Edge album, Chris started to dial it back, trying to accept a more 'equal' presentation of all the contributions of their very talented musicians. By the late 1980's it seemed like Chris was content to be "just the bass player" in the YES ensemble. I have to admit, at this point I pretty much lost my infatuation with YES as the best band I had ever heard. I see you guys still have a lot of joyous YES ear candy to look forward to. I'll recommend that you listen to *The Yes Album* next, my second favorite of their albums after Close To The Edge. (Fragile is a very close 3rd place according to my ranking of their albums.) On The Yes Album, there are two that are *Must Listen* masterpieces: *Yours Is No Disgrace* and *Starship Trooper* (The whole album is really great; you might wanna just go though the whole thing). I'm looking forward to more of your YES reactions, guys! It is _so_ apparent that you two *_totally get it._*
I agree with everything you said, including the order of the albums you like best and my two favorite tracks from The Yes Album! I'll only add that Steve Howe also contributed a great deal of vocals, usually the lower note of the three part harmonies they sometimes did. 🎵❤️🎵 Debbie
one of my all time favorites had the honor and privilege of seeing them 3 times in the 70s especially there 1978 tour when they introduced YES IN THE ROUND .....RIP Chris Squire
The Trinity of Yes is Close to the Edge, Awaken, and Gates of Delirium. You listened to the first; hope you get to the other two. Awaken is described as a musical journey to meet a higher power. Gates of Delirium is loosely based on Tolstoy's "War and Peace", and includes a musical representation of a full battle. Both are really next-level listening.
If you listen to the studio version of Awaken it is also worth checking out the Live version by lead singer Jon Anderson and the Icelandic group Todmobile, seriously it is a brilliant track and the live cover elevates it to another level. It also illustrates how YES’s music will always be valued long after they have stopped playing it themselves.
To me typical music enters your world and enhances your surroundings, with these epic songs especially by Pink Floyd and Yes you enter their world and the atmosphere they create become your surroundings.
Another great reaction. I’m fascinated by the fact that the “groove” of the music has been an entry point for you into this music. It something I never really thought of. It always just sounded like Yes to me. It is a great experience to see you two react.
Somebody once said, "On the bus full of bass players, Chris Squire RIP is the driver." You should check out a solo album of his called "Fish Out of Water." Chris Squire and Jon Anderson, the singer, are the two constant members of Yes. Drums, keyboards and guitar were all played by several players at various times. This album and Fragile feature, in my humble opinion, the best of the Yes lineups: Anderson, Squire, Bruford, Wakeman and Howe. If this group inspires you to produce a progressive piece, I think it'll be well worth your time and effort. Great reaction gentlemen!
Ah,......no Chris Squire was the Only constant while he was alive. Anderson left the band and returned multiple times. Same with Rick Wakeman. Steve Howe is Only the second guitarist with the longest tenure now that Chris is gone. You probably don't know that Yes just put out a New Album, because none of the original band members are in it. Jeez.
Fellas...do the long experimental track for YOU!!! Not only do you not have to worry about if anybody else listens to it...that's why you have your own singles along with an EPIC!!! I'm totally on board to hear how your experience with progressive music impacts your own interpretation. I think it is an exciting idea!!! DO IT!!!
Absolutely, do you think Yes, Floyd, Zep gave a flying poop what people thought. Show some balls and do it maybe a new genre will be born, Airplayprog.
You're right re Chris. What a phenomenal bass player. Correct me if I'm wrong but he's the first bass player you can 'hear' ie he's not mixed in the back as a backing instrument. He is leading, quite rightly. He's a massive unacknowledged influence on punk. Plays for the song but flair when needed. Also an amazing vocalist. A guy you know has got your back when you're playing. Solid as ****. Just amazing. RIP Chris I miss you
In my humble yet correct opinion, THIS is their best song, their best moment. The Bass player is the MVP of Yes. Back in the day, everyone was into the keyboards, but Chris Squire was the engine of Yes. Great reaction guys!
Yes had many lineup changes; drummer, keyboards, guitar, even vocals. One constant throughout was Chris Squire on bass. One of the greatest I've ever heard!
first song I learned to play on the bass (Yessongs version), after being blown away by Chris' bass line on Roundabout! (studio version - THE song the prompted me to play bass!)
OMG...I love that you guys get YES! Love your reactions to my favorite progressive rock band! Chris Squire was the only bass player for this group until he passed in 2015 (?) I believe. He was a founding member and definitely the foundation for this great group. He was also a vocalist and paired greatly with Jon Anderson.
My guitar teacher was an assistant engineer on a Yes album that was being produced in Vancouver in the 90’s. The band recorded and then took a break for a meal. The staff who were all musicians picked up their instruments without changing a setting on anything. They jammed out a song or two and then put the instruments back. They sounded tinny and very thin. Yes came back in and picked up the same instruments with the same settings and in an instant had a thick, powerful sound blasting out of the studio room. They were a powerful monster band that could play with anyone.
For an amazing example of Bruford and Squire firing on all cylinders, you should check out Heart of the Sunrise. The long slow section right after the opening intro is out of this world.
Another album you guys might like is by Chris Squire, his solo album Fish out of Water. Solid album and you can really hear the quality of his voice and how much value he added vocally to Yes behind Jon Anderson.
I love seeing you on the Yes discovery journey... you're are right it not about dancing.... but about stimulating your inner jiggy.. I can't wait to see more of your reactions!
I remember we were 14 when we listened to Close to the Edge for the first time, we had the chance to listen to it on a sound system who coast 10,000$ (in 1972). The father of one of our friend was a doctor and he was a fan of classical music. We never stopped listenieng to Yes. And we saw every show that they did in Montreal.
For several of their tours, this was the opening tune. This was the only group I budgeted for front row, the most memorable was the Bronco Bowl in TX. Curious to hear your opinion of Relayer album when Patrick Moraz replaced Rick Wakeman on keys.
Yes r the Goat!! All musicians top in their fields of music!! Thanks for Playing this album!! I am glad u r hearing this fir the first time! It blew me away first time I heard it!🔥
I love that you guys are diggin' Yes! My favorite band. Those 70s albums are pure genius... 🔥 All of them are amazing musicians in their own right! Thank you guys!
A word Squire once used to describe some of the songs was bombastic.When we would go see them do their songs we were always astonished at how perfectly they could execute these arrangements and improvise the hell out of them. They were truly in a league of their own. The only bass players anything like him were in jazz fusion groups. He combined every style known and made up alot himself. He was the most interesting composer bassist, vocalist I have ever seen.
Chris Squire is a legend and put the Rickenbacker stereo bass into a new realm. There’s so many great bass players and there’s no color to be considered at all. Many greats.
You guys are excellent! Glad you like my favorite band of 50 years. The true meaning of being synergistic - better together. The best, actually. New subsciber. Appreciate what you guys are doing.
Chris Squire passed on and so did my favorite bass musician. He was a big dude and had such presence. I truly loved listening to him. There is a video where they do a version of a song “show me” that Squire plays an acoustic bass so nicely and Wakeman plays a beautiful piano! You should check it out even if you don’t react to it!👍🏻👌🏻❤️
This was the first Yes song that really twisted my head back around 1985. It could also have been the acid I dropped before listening to it, but this song really contributed!
Great song. Every year back in the 70's Playboy mag ( I read it for the articles) would rate musicians. Top guitarist, bass, keyboards, singers etc. Squire was always top rated. As well as Howe, Bruford, Wakeman and of course Anderson. I'm surprised no one has requested Jethro Tull with frontman and flutist Ian Anderson. They were an inspiration to many bands. Geddy Lee of Rush was at the same concert I was at in Toronto back in the 70's and said they were an inspiration to him and his mates. Song to start with would be 'My God' live at the Isle of Wight concert and the album 'Aqualung' a record that's great start to finish. Locomotive Breath, Crosseyed Mary and the title track are standouts. The whole album is. Ian Anderson is one of (progressive rocks) great frontmen. Enjoy your channel. Great stuff. Nice to watch you appreciate this great music...
The best thing about the late 60's early 70's was in my collection was Yess, Cream, Led Zepplin, Marvin Gay, Sly and the Family Stone, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Blood Sweat and Tears, Temptations, Frank Zappa, Janis Joplin, Linda Ronstadt, Ted Nugent, Aerosmith, Three Dog Night, Mott the Hopple, David Bowie, Fifth Dimension, Parliament, War, Hollies, and the man Al Green. The beauty of the age, talented artists, the variety, good music is just plain good music. I really enjoy watch your reaction, your knowledge of how it's done in the studio and on stage, to just your child like wonder at it all. Beautiful.
I saw Yes and ELP, Yes opened, in November, 1971 at the Spectrum in Philly for $5.50. A hit of Windowpane acid at $2.00. Cannot properly describe the experience but probably about 5,00 of the 28,00 there were in the same frame of mind. Joints and Hashish constantly passed down the aisles.
The album Close to the Edge only contained three “songs”. But I have spent fifty years loving every beat of them. My favourite record by my favourite band.
2 suggestions the Group is Boston #1 Foreplay/Longtime, #2 The Launch/Cool The Engines. The first Boston LP just like Dark side of the moon with Pink Floyd just listen to side 1 and side 2. It's worth it.
Yah, this was early on in the acid trip. Much later on, after further exploration of the Yes universe, The Moody Blues were always a good way to ease on back in to the real world, nice and slow.
So glad your continuing on exploring YES!!! Can’t wait til you hear More! …..Eventually( not yet)…. Getting to Relayer!!! ❤ There is Much more between .. I listed the tunes in CTTE comment!!! Chris Squire Voted # 1 Bass Player in the world!❤
Guys your next listen should be song Heart of the Sunrise. You two are amazing. Love your reactions. note: seen Yes live many many times...lost count. They were GREAT live.
Once you listen to these songs a few times you'll get the timing.. you'll know what to expect.. you'll feel it. Until then.. it's just listening. Once you feel it.. (after many listens) you'll REALLY get it.. you could almost dance to it at that point
Hey great reaction video guys. I’m really enjoying your channel! Just like Pink Floyd, I started list to Yes 50 years ago. You’re right,Chris Squire’s bass drove their music.
I have to say! You guys are great. I’ve been listening to yes for many years, and have seen them in Concert around 20 or more times. And yes you nailed it on your comment about Chris Squire being the lead player in the band. He got he’s incredible influence from the bass player from the Who and the bass player from Cream. The both had a high scratchy tone from using Rotto Wound Bass strings And Squire used Marshall Amp heads for that Distinctive Distortion sound. Later he combined Ampeg S V T 2 Pro heads. Listen to the Fragile Album. (South Side Of The Sky) Amazing.
My favorite track on the album. What a groove! BTW that's Steve Howe guitar solo at the end of the track. He gets into some nice jazz licks. People often criticize prog bands such as yes as being too busy , which reminds me off this scene from the movie Amadeus. Mozart is about to get some feedback from the Emperor, on his latest composition. EMPEROR: There's too many notes. MOZART: I don't understand. There are just as many notes, Majesty, as are required. Neither more nor less. EMPEROR: My dear fellow, there are in fact only so many notes the ear can hear in the course of an evening. I think I'm right in saying that, aren't I, Court Composer? SALIERI: Yes! yes! er, on the whole, yes, Majesty. MOZART: But this is absurd! EMPEROR: My dear, young man, don't take it too hard. Your work is ingenious. It's quality work. And there are simply too many notes, that's all. Cut a few and it will be perfect. MOZART: Which few did you have in mind, Majesty?
Geddy Lee: "Of course I loved Chris Squire's incredible bass…and am still a huge fan. Quite amazing. But Yes provided an incredible array of intricate arrangements and a musicality beyond belief. They are often knocked for being too complex but I don't agree. There is a simplicity and elegance to the songs. I always found them both accessible and adventurous."
Frequency. It was (and still is) about raising my vibration. Yes, as well as Jethro Tull and Pink Floyd music aided my journey to 5D. A total spiritual experience.
I remember having the album on 8-track tape! I was living at home, and I would close my bedroom door at night, put on my headphones, and get totally immersed in the music! Simply incredible. I listen to it today (not on 8-track!😂) with the same exuberance! You guys are experiencing Yes in their “classic” era. And yes, their music takes you on a journey. But Yes in the 80s were quite different. With new guitarist Trevor Rabin, the music became more rhythm oriented, as opposed to the 70s melody oriented epics. This turned some fans off, but it kept the band relevant as the progressive era was fading out. If you ever get to react to the song “Owner Of A Lonely Heart,” you’ll see what I mean.
Chris Squire on bass was a founder and genius player. 6'4" monster who truly did play a bass like a guitar, funny, jovial, oh and he sings all those harmonies with Jon Anderson. Died in 2016, his band made the Hall of Fame in 2017. Fuck the Hall of Fame, they should have been there before 2000.
Will NEVER forgive those assholes for that. Because of anyone in the band,Chris is the one who would have most likely reveled in being in the R&R HOF.
Same thing with Ray Thomas of the Moody Blues, finally inducted months after his death. I agree Fuck them just for putting Janet Jackson in let alone all the bands they snub.
Just think about who went in before them and you'll get a good idea about the clowns who run that show.
The intro and outro groove is in altering 8s and 7s: basically a 15 beat figure. You don't even notice it. That's mastery of the rhythm section.
Passed 2015
Okay, I confess: I did acid and listened to this back in '73, and I can tell you how I came back down. I came back down with my mind, my perspective on music, significantly rearranged. And you're right about Chris Squire (RIP). He was a bass player like no other, incorporating Bach-like lines into the Yes compositions. So glad you brothers are getting off on this Prog adventure you're on. It helped make the 70s what they were.
Yep, I was fifteen/sixteen, window pane acid and Yes.
Definitely made a big difference to my mindset for fifty+ years now...
I've never come down 🙃
I took acid when I watched 'Yessongs' in the theatre. Thought I'd explode at the end of 'Starship Trooper'.
Love these replies! Re: coming down, always was partial to a handful of dried shrooms to take the edge off…
Me too! Lol
You guys CONSTANTLY pick the best tunes from my youth. Your fans are digging this!!!!!
Squire is the beating heart of YES. He's always upfront in the mix and his tone is tasty. All the members of YES are at the top of their class plus their compositions are otherworldly. Huge fan since 1976! Go Deep with these guys!
That was a nice observation guys. "This is like your favorite musicians favorite musician.:
Yes was the only band that ever drove me to tears. It was during “You and I”. I was so moved by the performance it made me weep. My girlfriend at the time said , “are you ok”? And I was so choked up, I couldn’t speak. I just nodded, “YES”. To this day, when I hear the song, I get a lump in my throat. They were and still are a glorious band. Rest in peace, Chris Squire. Thank you for the memories and experience.
Back in the early 70s, YES started their show with this song.
The last song in the greatest run of albums by this band. Hard to pick a favourite among the Yes Album, Fragile and Close to the Edge. All are so good. They went out on tour for this record and Yessongs was recorded. Drummer Bill Bruford left Yes to join King Crimson early in the tour and was replaced by Alan White (RIP).
Produce a long track and don't worry about what people think. It's about TRULY expressing yourself and you'll be surprised to see there are people who will dig it! Plus, you may start a new musical trend. That's how it works! Do you think Miles Davis or Black Sabbath were worried about opinions when they changed direction or played heavy or different concepts in the early 70''s? I think not. Next stop for you both I recommend is the rest of "Fragile" then "The Yes Album". Happy listening!
Absolutely! Don't follow! Lead! That is why so many bands from the 70's made it big. No Rules.
And let us hear what you come up with!
I would love to hear what long form hip hop sounded like or what prog hop fusion sounded like. Rap metal is already a thing so why not!
FACTS!!!
One important element of their sound during this era that’s often overlooked is Bill Bruford’s snare. Chris Squire’s bass had such a prominent treble sound, particularly because Chris used a super aggressive pick style, that Bill’s snare would be buried in the mix using a typical snare tuning. To fight this Bill tuned his snare really high, giving it a distinctive “thwack” that cut through the mix. Very unusual and unique to Yes while Bill was with them
Absolutely. They lost a big part of their sound when Bruford left, although AW was certainly a phenomenal drummer.
Oh...
If you haven't already, I would love for you to come make a similar comment on Jim Newstead's current first listen to YesSongs. On side three, Jim particularly comments on Bruford's use of the high hat, and does say the mix is very trebly. He may appreciate your input on this aspect.
I don’t really like any of the yes albums after Bill Bruford left, they just were never the same
@@stevemd6488 This seems absolutely true, to me. Bills chemistry with the band probably impressed even him and Bill is kinda hard to please. lol
Alan White's drumming was of an opposite approach that, while absolutely superb, got buried, as you say, by Squires foundational bass sound. Yes were the first band I ever heard that put the bass up front. Nobody did that! The change in drumming styles severely altered the Yes sound which was already perfected.
It is such a shame, as Alan was such a great drummer. His rolling fills are some of the fastest I've ever heard. He was an absolute master of rhythm, for sure. Yes did great music with him. I just miss the spacious quality that Bill brought. The individual personalities of each player were allowed to shine better with Bill's style. He brought them together with intelligent interpretations and clever style.
Bill Bruford was Yes's best drummer...one of the Top 5 GOATs, Alan White is spectacular...but he's not Bruford.
I’ve seen them 23 times since 1973 and most of the shows opened with this song.
While they were getting settled on stage, the lights were completely off and a song called Firebird Suite was playing over the PA. It would cut off abruptly and when the first chord of the song was played the lights would come up on stage. What a great effect.
Right after Wakeman’s little classical playing in this song the guitar section is played on a seated steel guitar that is mostly used by country artists.
Firebird Suite is from Stravinsky Firebird music for ballet master piece from XIX century.
To quote Geddy Lee - Without YES, there would be no RUSH.
I dont think yes should be blamed foe rush
Ladies and gentlemen Chris Squire and Yes the greatest show on earth. Thank you boys for enjoying my youth of 51yrs ago. Yes we did dance to Yes. For your Yes journey one should continue with an earlier album. A band called Gentle Giant use to open for Yes, their prog also and a song called On Reflection would be a nice introduction. 🙏🍁
👍😎
Nothing like a Khatru to start the day!
I love that Yes puts Squire's bass so up the mix, it's like the lead instrument. Geddy Lee of Rush who was inspired by Squire does the same thing.
John Entwistle pioneered the concept of the bass being something other than in indistinct rumble in the background. Chris Squire took it to the next level with the absolute best bass tone ever in any music.
Chris Squire had his bass planed down on 2 separate occasions and was told that was the last time he needed to thin the body down. He then had it wired in stereo, so he could play through 2 different amps at two different settings. That, and the way he held his pick, along with tons of talent, gave him his unique sound. There will not be another Chris Squire.
In 1975, the bassist Chris Squire released his first solo album “Fish Out of Water”. It’s as good as the best Yes albums, and really features his bass. Check it out sometime, as well as the rest of the Fragile record (which started with Roundabout).
Now you get it. We never came back down after listening to Yes. That’s why they are so ingrained into our souls 50 years later. Geddy from Rush, idolized Chris Squire so he was thrilled to play with Yes at the ceremony. Others may disagree but I’ve always believed that Yes was a bass driven band and everything revolved around Chris. There are many great bass players in all different genres so to say he’s the best would not be fair. For me, in this genre of progressive music, he was the gold standard. You should incorporate this into your beats. Be the trendsetters, bring us back to sanity😊. Floyd was definitely progressive. My day is so much better now that I’ve seen your reaction. The Moody Blues, ELP, Genesis, Supertramp, early Kansas, early Ambrosia, Procol Harum all await you in your Prog journey. King Crimson too but they are blockers. Have a great weekend. 👏👏
He also provided great backing vocals to Jon, so complicated at times, you could really tell he was a choirboy, he really hit all the notes.
Yours Is No Disgrace off of Yessongs will completely blow your mind! One of the best jams ever.
Chris Squire's jaw-dropping domination of YES' Sound was always my favorite element of the amazing sh!t this band was able to put together. I mean, yeah there was all that other talent from the other musicians, but from their very 1st album, the other guys could see the wisdom of building their contributions around Chris' Industrial-Melodic bass inspirations. The amazing thing was how he was able to contribute to a LOT of the *_melody_* in their songs but was able at the same time to hold down the groove that pulled you in.
Chris' bass playing is the main reason why I am always emphasizing the studio version of YES' masterpieces, cuz with very few exceptions, the studio version gives you not only the full bass contribution, but also the band's mastery of the mix at the sound board. YES spent hours & hours perfecting the mix. It's also the reason why they were able to pack so much *complexity* into their masterpieces but still enable the listener to hear all their contributions. YES were the Masters of Complexity in Progressive Rock.
I used to give Eddy Offord, their sound engineer during their Best Period, the credit for it, but from things I've read, Eddy credits everything to his willingness to listen to the musicians & give them what they wanted to hear. It's well-known that Chris was always right there when the mixing took place, so maybe he was just giving Chris what he wanted to hear. Who knows?
And then there was the vocal harmonies. There weren't many Progressive Rock bands that placed an emphasis on those harmonies like YES did. The only Prog band that came close was the Moody Blues. Chris Squire was a big part of _that_ element, as well. Turns out he was singing in some big deal church choir in his youth where he became accustomed to singing those soaring climaxes. It helped that his back up vocals were an exceptional match for Jon's lead vocals. No other Progressive Rock band had those two elements, both of which Chris was a big part of.
Chris once said that before he put his own band together with Jon Anderson, whenever he'd offer his services as a studio musician, nobody liked the way he played bass. So when he formed his own band, he was obviously determined that his contributions would _always_ be heard, lol!
Throughout their first five albums, Chris' inspirations were always given the prominence in the mix that is normally given to the lead guitarist. There was almost never a time when you couldn't hear Chris' contribution. After the Close To The Edge album, Chris started to dial it back, trying to accept a more 'equal' presentation of all the contributions of their very talented musicians. By the late 1980's it seemed like Chris was content to be "just the bass player" in the YES ensemble. I have to admit, at this point I pretty much lost my infatuation with YES as the best band I had ever heard.
I see you guys still have a lot of joyous YES ear candy to look forward to. I'll recommend that you listen to *The Yes Album* next, my second favorite of their albums after Close To The Edge. (Fragile is a very close 3rd place according to my ranking of their albums.) On The Yes Album, there are two that are *Must Listen* masterpieces: *Yours Is No Disgrace* and *Starship Trooper* (The whole album is really great; you might wanna just go though the whole thing).
I'm looking forward to more of your YES reactions, guys! It is _so_ apparent that you two *_totally get it._*
I agree with everything you said, including the order of the albums you like best and my two favorite tracks from The Yes Album! I'll only add that Steve Howe also contributed a great deal of vocals, usually the lower note of the three part harmonies they sometimes did. 🎵❤️🎵 Debbie
@@debrabrabenec I 100% agree.
one of my all time favorites had the honor and privilege of seeing them 3 times in the 70s especially there 1978 tour when they introduced YES IN THE ROUND .....RIP Chris Squire
The Trinity of Yes is Close to the Edge, Awaken, and Gates of Delirium. You listened to the first; hope you get to the other two. Awaken is described as a musical journey to meet a higher power. Gates of Delirium is loosely based on Tolstoy's "War and Peace", and includes a musical representation of a full battle. Both are really next-level listening.
If you listen to the studio version of Awaken it is also worth checking out the Live version by lead singer Jon Anderson and the Icelandic group Todmobile, seriously it is a brilliant track and the live cover elevates it to another level. It also illustrates how YES’s music will always be valued long after they have stopped playing it themselves.
Those three works are my trinity, for sure. It's so heartwarming to know that I'm not alone in that sentiment!
Can't think of another group that pulls out a harpsichord solo in the middle a tune.
....dont forget the church pipe organ solos too
@@martinreed5964 excellent point
I have been a big fan of Yes since they started and their music still blows me away !!
To me typical music enters your world and enhances your surroundings, with these epic songs especially by Pink Floyd and Yes you enter their world and the atmosphere they create become your surroundings.
Now its a party! And to answer your question: "How did y'all get back down to Earth?" We didn't. Enjoy the trip!
“That bass player.”
I said the same exact words 50 years ago.
And someone 100 years from now will say
“That bass player.”
YES! glad you guys got to this one
Another great reaction. I’m fascinated by the fact that the “groove” of the music has been an entry point for you into this music. It something I never really thought of. It always just sounded like Yes to me. It is a great experience to see you two react.
Between Squires' groove and Bruford's swing, YES had a lot of listener appeal!
Somebody once said, "On the bus full of bass players, Chris Squire RIP is the driver."
You should check out a solo album of his called "Fish Out of Water."
Chris Squire and Jon Anderson, the singer, are the two constant members of Yes. Drums, keyboards and guitar were all played by several players at various times. This album and Fragile feature, in my humble opinion, the best of the Yes lineups: Anderson, Squire, Bruford, Wakeman and Howe.
If this group inspires you to produce a progressive piece, I think it'll be well worth your time and effort. Great reaction gentlemen!
Ah,......no Chris Squire was the Only constant while he was alive. Anderson left the band and returned multiple times. Same with Rick Wakeman. Steve Howe is Only the second guitarist with the longest tenure now that Chris is gone. You probably don't know that Yes just put out a New Album, because none of the original band members are in it. Jeez.
Fellas...do the long experimental track for YOU!!! Not only do you not have to worry about if anybody else listens to it...that's why you have your own singles along with an EPIC!!! I'm totally on board to hear how your experience with progressive music impacts your own interpretation. I think it is an exciting idea!!! DO IT!!!
Absolutely, do you think Yes, Floyd, Zep gave a flying poop what people thought. Show some balls and do it maybe a new genre will be born, Airplayprog.
You're right re Chris. What a phenomenal bass player. Correct me if I'm wrong but he's the first bass player you can 'hear' ie he's not mixed in the back as a backing instrument. He is leading, quite rightly. He's a massive unacknowledged influence on punk. Plays for the song but flair when needed. Also an amazing vocalist. A guy you know has got your back when you're playing. Solid as ****. Just amazing. RIP Chris I miss you
In my humble yet correct opinion, THIS is their best song, their best moment. The Bass player is the MVP of Yes. Back in the day, everyone was into the keyboards, but Chris Squire was the engine of Yes. Great reaction guys!
I think The Yes Album, Fragile and this one are their best albums and era, and each one a masterpiece in its own right.
I love that, "In my humble yet correct opinion..."
Yes had many lineup changes; drummer, keyboards, guitar, even vocals. One constant throughout was Chris Squire on bass. One of the greatest I've ever heard!
The live version from the YesSongs album is even better. It's probably my favorite Yes song.
first song I learned to play on the bass (Yessongs version), after being blown away by Chris' bass line on Roundabout! (studio version - THE song the prompted me to play bass!)
Prog is mind and mood music .. brain food !!
Excellent choice
The beauty of it all was these guys could bring this all Live in concerts. Amazing band my favorite still.
I really hope you guys will do the YES Album too! It’s such a great work in my opinion.
im glad YES is finally getting some respect. most of my friends never even listened to YES and have no clue
The BASS and the GUITAR!
YES!!!🤩
😎
OMG...I love that you guys get YES! Love your reactions to my favorite progressive rock band! Chris Squire was the only bass player for this group until he passed in 2015 (?) I believe. He was a founding member and definitely the foundation for this great group. He was also a vocalist and paired greatly with Jon Anderson.
My guitar teacher was an assistant engineer on a Yes album that was being produced in Vancouver in the 90’s. The band recorded and then took a break for a meal. The staff who were all musicians picked up their instruments without changing a setting on anything. They jammed out a song or two and then put the instruments back. They sounded tinny and very thin. Yes came back in and picked up the same instruments with the same settings and in an instant had a thick, powerful sound blasting out of the studio room. They were a powerful monster band that could play with anyone.
For an amazing example of Bruford and Squire firing on all cylinders, you should check out Heart of the Sunrise. The long slow section right after the opening intro is out of this world.
Another album you guys might like is by Chris Squire, his solo album Fish out of Water. Solid album and you can really hear the quality of his voice and how much value he added vocally to Yes behind Jon Anderson.
I love seeing you on the Yes discovery journey... you're are right it not about dancing.... but about stimulating your inner jiggy..
I can't wait to see more of your reactions!
Thank you! Love your insight…..great choice to start the day!
I remember we were 14 when we listened to Close to the Edge for the first time, we had the chance to listen to it on a sound system who coast 10,000$ (in 1972). The father of one of our friend was a doctor and he was a fan of classical music. We never stopped listenieng to Yes. And we saw every show that they did in Montreal.
For several of their tours, this was the opening tune. This was the only group I budgeted for front row, the most memorable was the Bronco Bowl in TX. Curious to hear your opinion of Relayer album when Patrick Moraz replaced Rick Wakeman on keys.
Can't have prog without the masters Emerson Lake & Palmer
I´m glad you guys focus on Squires bass playing because it´s exceptional and totally unique.
Thanks!
Thank you!!
I saw Yes in concert, Chris Squire was a big man with big hands, those strings didn’t stand a chance against his technique!
Yes r the Goat!! All musicians top in their fields of music!! Thanks for Playing this album!! I am glad u r hearing this fir the first time! It blew me away first time I heard it!🔥
I love that you guys are diggin' Yes! My favorite band. Those 70s albums are pure genius... 🔥 All of them are amazing musicians in their own right! Thank you guys!
YES....the greatest progressive rock band in history..or to most of us...the greatest BAND in history
Sending spiritual ripples around the world, I would also say.
A word Squire once used to describe some of the songs was bombastic.When we would go see them do their songs we were always astonished at how perfectly they could execute these arrangements and improvise the hell out of them. They were truly in a league of their own. The only bass players anything like him were in jazz fusion groups. He combined every style known and made up alot himself. He was the most interesting composer bassist, vocalist I have ever seen.
Chris Squire is a legend and put the Rickenbacker stereo bass into a new realm.
There’s so many great bass players and there’s no color to be considered at all. Many greats.
You guys are excellent! Glad you like my favorite band of 50 years. The true meaning of being synergistic - better together. The best, actually. New subsciber. Appreciate what you guys are doing.
Thank you! I love how you have a smooth conversation discussed with expertise and respect. Really cool!
I would love to see your reaction to the music of Jethro Tull starting with the Aqualung album
Another excellent video. Great job guys loving your videos thank you very much!
Chris Squire passed on and so did my favorite bass musician. He was a big dude and had such presence. I truly loved listening to him. There is a video where they do a version of a song “show me” that Squire plays an acoustic bass so nicely and Wakeman plays a beautiful piano! You should check it out even if you don’t react to it!👍🏻👌🏻❤️
You guys should check Larks' Tongues in Aspic by King Crimson - especially side two. Some unique , jamming songs - released in 1973.
Def to that!
This was the first Yes song that really twisted my head back around 1985. It could also have been the acid I dropped before listening to it, but this song really contributed!
I'm sure the acid had absolutely nothing to do with it!
Great song. Every year back in the 70's Playboy mag ( I read it for the articles) would rate musicians. Top guitarist, bass, keyboards, singers etc. Squire was always top rated. As well as Howe, Bruford, Wakeman and of course Anderson. I'm surprised no one has requested Jethro Tull with frontman and flutist Ian Anderson. They were an inspiration to many bands. Geddy Lee of Rush was at the same concert I was at in Toronto back in the 70's and said they were an inspiration to him and his mates. Song to start with would be 'My God' live at the Isle of Wight concert and the album 'Aqualung' a record that's great start to finish. Locomotive Breath, Crosseyed Mary and the title track are standouts. The whole album is. Ian Anderson is one of (progressive rocks) great frontmen. Enjoy your channel. Great stuff. Nice to watch you appreciate this great music...
The best thing about the late 60's early 70's was in my collection was Yess, Cream, Led Zepplin, Marvin Gay, Sly and the Family Stone, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Blood Sweat and Tears, Temptations, Frank Zappa, Janis Joplin, Linda Ronstadt, Ted Nugent, Aerosmith, Three Dog Night, Mott the Hopple, David Bowie, Fifth Dimension, Parliament, War, Hollies, and the man Al Green. The beauty of the age, talented artists, the variety, good music is just plain good music. I really enjoy watch your reaction, your knowledge of how it's done in the studio and on stage, to just your child like wonder at it all. Beautiful.
Love you guys. Welcome to what I've always just thought of as music, without even thinking about how long the song lasted.
Good to see you guys appreciate this music. I very much enjoy watching your experience with it.
You want to take a journey? "Awaken"
I saw Yes and ELP, Yes opened, in November, 1971 at the Spectrum in Philly for $5.50. A hit of Windowpane acid at $2.00. Cannot properly describe the experience but probably about 5,00 of the 28,00 there were in the same frame of mind. Joints and Hashish constantly passed down the aisles.
Thanks guys for covering this classic 1972 progressive-rock masterpiece😊😊😊😊😊😊
It isn't dance music, it's the soundtrack to a spiritual journey.
... Yes fan since 50 y ! I enjoy your journey with Yes !! Go on Men ! 💚💚
The album Close to the Edge only contained three “songs”. But I have spent fifty years loving every beat of them. My favourite record by my favourite band.
It was called Progressive Rock because they were trying to move the harmonic “language” further along. Almost symphonic.
I saw Yes in Niagara Falls in ,1974. Such a fantastic band!
2 suggestions the Group is Boston #1 Foreplay/Longtime, #2 The Launch/Cool The Engines. The first Boston LP just like Dark side of the moon with Pink Floyd just listen to side 1 and side 2. It's worth it.
You guys are great, really enjoy your commentary!
Yah, this was early on in the acid trip. Much later on, after further exploration of the Yes universe, The Moody Blues were always a good way to ease on back in to the real world, nice and slow.
This is such a jam! So glad you enjoyed it. How could you not?
My first Yes concert was in 1979--I think--and the first song played was Siberian Khatru--I'll remember as long as I live :)
This was what they opened their show with for years and years. It followed Firebird Suite.
So glad your continuing on exploring YES!!!
Can’t wait til you hear More!
…..Eventually( not yet)…. Getting to Relayer!!! ❤
There is Much more between .. I listed the tunes in CTTE comment!!!
Chris Squire Voted # 1 Bass Player in the world!❤
Great stuff guys! Love your takes. But you MUST check out Yessongs! The live versions of these songs are on a different level.
It was fun....saw them on some good coke. FABULOUS SHOW!!!
Guys your next listen should be song Heart of the Sunrise. You two are amazing. Love your reactions.
note: seen Yes live many many times...lost count. They were GREAT live.
Hey guys! So glad you finished the greatest prog album ever made as I knew you would. YES is the greatest band on this or any other planet!😎
214🎶🙏🍁
@@lesblatnyak5947 36❗️👍😎
Once you listen to these songs a few times you'll get the timing.. you'll know what to expect.. you'll feel it.
Until then.. it's just listening. Once you feel it.. (after many listens) you'll REALLY get it.. you could almost dance to it at that point
Hey great reaction video guys. I’m really enjoying your channel! Just like Pink Floyd, I started list to Yes 50 years ago. You’re right,Chris Squire’s bass drove their music.
Hey Clay. Thanks for rocking with us!! Have a great weekend!!
YES is always a great journey of the mind.....
The best prog band ever. And one of the best prog song ever.
I have to say! You guys are great. I’ve been listening to yes for many years, and have seen them in Concert around 20 or more times. And yes you nailed it on your comment about Chris Squire being the lead player in the band. He got he’s incredible influence from the bass player from the Who and the bass player from Cream. The both had a high scratchy tone from using Rotto Wound Bass strings
And Squire used Marshall Amp heads for that Distinctive Distortion sound. Later he combined Ampeg S V T 2 Pro heads. Listen to the Fragile Album. (South Side Of The Sky) Amazing.
My favorite track on the album. What a groove! BTW that's Steve Howe guitar solo at the end of the track. He gets into some nice jazz licks.
People often criticize prog bands such as yes as being too busy , which reminds me off this scene from the movie Amadeus. Mozart is about to get some feedback from the Emperor, on his latest composition.
EMPEROR: There's too many notes.
MOZART: I don't understand. There are just as many notes, Majesty, as are required. Neither more nor less.
EMPEROR: My dear fellow, there are in fact only so many notes the ear can hear in the course of an evening. I think I'm right in saying that, aren't I, Court Composer?
SALIERI: Yes! yes! er, on the whole, yes, Majesty.
MOZART: But this is absurd!
EMPEROR: My dear, young man, don't take it too hard. Your work is ingenious. It's quality work. And there are simply too many notes, that's all. Cut a few and it will be perfect.
MOZART: Which few did you have in mind, Majesty?
Geddy Lee: "Of course I loved Chris Squire's incredible bass…and am still a huge fan. Quite amazing. But Yes provided an incredible array of intricate arrangements and a musicality beyond belief. They are often knocked for being too complex but I don't agree. There is a simplicity and elegance to the songs. I always found them both accessible and adventurous."
I used to be so judgmental of my music, but listening to progressive music set me free to expand my horizons and realize my potential.
3:50 😂🤣 “they’ll leave u up there” that was awesome man!
To me there is only one yes song AWAKEN. I got to here it live in the early 90's. This track has it all. Epic.
Frequency. It was (and still is) about raising my vibration. Yes, as well as Jethro Tull and Pink Floyd music aided my journey to 5D. A total spiritual experience.
I remember having the album on 8-track tape! I was living at home, and I would close my bedroom door at night, put on my headphones, and get totally immersed in the music! Simply incredible. I listen to it today (not on 8-track!😂) with the same exuberance! You guys are experiencing Yes in their “classic” era. And yes, their music takes you on a journey. But Yes in the 80s were quite different. With new guitarist Trevor Rabin, the music became more rhythm oriented, as opposed to the 70s melody oriented epics. This turned some fans off, but it kept the band relevant as the progressive era was fading out. If you ever get to react to the song “Owner Of A Lonely Heart,” you’ll see what I mean.