"Sound Chaser" is BETTER because it is followed by "To Be Over." The contrast between the two songs elevates the whole album. I believe Yes of the 1970's focused solely on creating "Albums," as opposed to simply "songs." Whereas other bands were attempting to write the next big hit, Yes attempted to create Albums that flowed both in symphonic composition and emotion. Therefore, "Sound Chaser," while chaotic, is the perfect counterpoint to "To Be Over."
Yeah, I also agree. I think with prog albums of that era they were made to be whole album compositions, but back then you'd have to divide it into two sides to produce an LP, record, which was the standard. So they are written to work as two 25" - 30" min. sides as well. Pink Floyd and Genesis albums were the same, I notice that many Yes sides follow roughly the same pattern as each of Relayer's. Close to the Edge is another that starts in chaos and ends in tranquility. When I hear folks determined that one has to listen to the entire album through, I'd say that half at a time will work great, and is advised to new listeners of Yes's peak music
You said "Yes always makes little climaxes that are so uplifting..." Wait till you hear the "Soon" section at the end of Gates of Delirium - you'll love it!
When I was in college, I had a music professor that said that there was no good music other than classical or jazz. She challenged us to bring in a recording of a "good" song that was not classical or jazz; I chose To Be Over. I analyzed the song to death and wrote a form and analysis paper about it. I played the song for the class and pointed out all of the compositional techniques and nuances that were used in the song. At the end of my presentation, the professor simply said, "that was a good song". It was the only song in the class she gave props to. 👍 One thing that Yes does well in this song compared to others of theirs is transition from one section to another; it's the difference between music composition and simple songwriting. One of my favorite compositional techniques happens at 7:19. During the repeat of the third section (this song is close to sonata form which is used in classical music) the bass and guitar play a counter melody to support the chord progression played by the mellotron and vocals; top it off with that slight pause before the final chord... mmmmmmm. I think Dream Theater took this idea and used it in Part 2 of In the Presence of Enemies during the coda section; there's a lot of similarities. Anyway, that's just one moment from a song that's FILLED with interesting compositional techniques. Thanks for the review, JP! AWESOME!!!
Could you make your full analysis available, whether PDF or otherwise? Would love to read it. Use my contact page, if you are up for it. markandrealexander.com/contact/
Jon Anderson didn't want to just say "la la la" at the end of the song, so he wrote this chant: New som du lay Sah du rah Sah du lay Tu sah rah Du sah dulay Sah du rah Tey tu santeh
You’ve done 2/3 songs of this album “Relayer” and you got the huge 22 minute Masterpiece epic “The Gates of Delirium” which is about a huge battle and I think you would love it probably better than Sound Chaser and To be Over But Anyways To be Over is a Beautiful song
Oh man, I remember listening to this song on a rock by the seaside in Oulu, northern Finland. Chris Squire's passing had just been made public a couple of hours prior. A few solemn tears ran down my cheek in appreciation of an amazing musician who gave nothing but joy and inspiration to the world through his art. He was and still is one of my biggest influences on bass, when it comes to tone and arranging parts for songs. This song in particular is a great showcase of his more subtle playing. Everyone else in the band are also giving their very best on this one. The outro still gives me shivers to this day.
Matias Ärrälä I ❤️ your comment. My grandparents immigrated to the US from Vaasa. I'd love to go to Finland and walk the places my ancestors did. I have a cousin who goes every few years to visit distant relatives along with churches and other places where my ancestors were. ✌️
Such a nice comment! It really moved me. Yes and Chris Squire was a perfect match. As we know, he was also the only member of Yes that played, and sang beautifully too, on all of their albums until he passed away. I also love the outro especially with the added "vocal chant" version of the melody. Nice to see a fellow Finn here and also a musician who is very talented. I chose to watch your bass cover of National Acrobat first and immediately subscribed. Anyone who is reading this, go and check out his Yes and Rush bass covers too.
I lived in Kangasala just southeast of Tampere from 1990 - 1998. I loved Finland and I miss it very much. I also lived in Peltolammi off Sastajankatu from 1998 to 2000. I had to come back to the US due to both of my parents being diagnosed with health-related problems.
Hi Justin. To Be Over is the complete opposite to Sound Chaser, a rather calm and beautiful hymn. I totally get your response to Sound Chaser. It is chaotic but captivating. During that time YES really explored the bounderies of rock music. They created sounds that really moves you on an emotional and intellectual level. I didn’t get the album at first but I was drawn to it, because something called me back and I had to listen to it over and over. Again regarding Gates of Delirium: I first heard Gates Of Delerium on the Yesshows live album, which is still my version to go. You should really listen to this version on your own after reacting to the studio version. It is utter mindblowing how the band pulling this of on stage. The Yesshows version is building up more naturally and you can really hear and feel that they are really „in the zone“ while playing the battle sequence. It‘s a real steamy performance and the end section is heart wrenchingly beautiful. The album Yesshows and especially the performance of Gates and Ritual completely changed my perception of music and live performances in general. These huge audiences, the long intricate epic songs, the absolute frantic playing, the athmosphere of the whole performance. Wow. The studio version is nevertheless a total jaw dropper. You will never hear anything like that again😉
This song is the perfect complement to 'Sound Chaser.' Hard to imagine that it was created by the same people. Moraz is so perfect for this album, it's as if he was sent to them by God to create this extraordinary piece of art.
Next time you listen to this song, keep in mind that it's about the wondrous journey into the afterlife which awaits us all--"to be over", to "wander true pathways away", "after all, your soul will still surrender", "don't doubt your part, be ready to be loved." It's such a beautiful, uplifting song that the first time I listened to it after discovering what the lyrics were about it actually brought tears to my eyes, which a song very rarely does for me. I think it's incredibly profound both lyrically and musically, and definitely one of Yes' most deeply moving works.
I've been listening to this song for more than 45 years and it never occurred to me that "To Be Over" meant life being over, at least life in this dimension. Thank you, that's great. I'm sure you are right about that.
Your comment brought (happy) tears to me as I thought about the pets, family, and friends I've lost. Very beautiful interpretation of a beautiful song. 🙏❤️
Makes me wonder if Mr. Squire recalled this song in his final hours. I'd like to think so, and that he was able to be comfortable as he slid away from this life. Comfortable, meaning certain things to certain people, probably to Mr. Squire, too....
"To Be Over" is very underrated. One of my favorite Yes songs. Lyrically, the songs have themes but Jon Anderson has said that he just likes the way some words or phrases sound. Therefore, to a certain degree the interpretation is up to the listener. For a long time I thought there was a lyrical message in the chant at the end of "To Be Over". When asked, Anderson said it was "just some nice vibes" :-)
I didn’t even know about this song until like a month ago. It became an instant classic in my book, each time I hear it, it just gets better and better
To Be Over takes me right back to my stoned teenage years, looking out my bedroom window over the white, frozen landscape of Cherry Hill, NJ. While high, did I mention that ?...😎
You know how some roller coasters are exciting but bang the heck out of your body, they take you to high and low places but when you are done you know that you have been beat up and want to do it again... then you find that one roller coaster that is amazing, but instead of throwing your body around, it is completely smooth, you feel the G-forces but you never once hit your body or come out bruised. To Be Over is that amazing roller coaster of the smooth type. Each ride of this song will make you appreciate it more until you find, it will be the comparison for all future songs.
JustJP live version from 1975, close to studio, but more useful to see the transition of instruments by Steve Howe. ruclips.net/video/0Lh-pee0ccg/видео.html
Definitely, you should go for “The Gates of Delirium” now -- well, this is the last one left for you to do on this album. Are you keeping the best for dessert ?
@@JustJP ... Justin is right. Leave GATES for last. It's a real brain frying epic. He'll need some time to recover. As for TO BE OVER... it's a truly beautiful song. Very pleasing to the ear.
It's nice ending to Yes's most aggressive and experimental record. Fun fact, all the keyboards used on this record belong to Vangelis. Jon Anderson invited him to audition after Wakeman left. Vangelis still had his rig in the studio when Patrick Moraz came in and started killing it.
Only the intro to Sound Chaser was used on the album from that session, as far as I know. Patrick brought in his own rig after the audition. he had to take some time and write himself a score for Gates before recording it.
I really enjoyed this track. Melody is king and boy does this song deliver. Agree, you can definitely get lost in the moments this song gives you. The song had an orchestral feel, with some really cool exotic sounds. Agree, Howe was killer on this track. Enjoyed the ride and the great reaction.
This is such a beautiful song... Very dreamy imho. Jon's voice, and Steve Howe, s guitar work is just sublime. Always loved this song, and yes it takes me to a calm lagoon.. sea.. ❤️. Yes, to me, were always about Emotional content.. How they make you feel, where they take you... Magic stuff... Thanks Justin for doing this song, album... Its a masterpiece IMHO ❤️ Take care, and THANK YOU for this fab channel Justin 👍👍👍👍👍♥️
Yes. Steve Howe! His writing can definately be heard throughout this song. Howe's first solo album Beginnings (1975) continues where To Be Over ended. Moraz, White and Bruford (!) also play on the album. It's worth a listen, after you have recovered from Delirium 😆.
I'm so glad you're listening to my favourite Yes album. I love the contrast between the fast paced, chaotic Sound Chaser and the beautiful and mellow To Be Over, and not to mention the incredible Gates of Delirium which speaks for itself.
Great reaction. Impressive that you recognized the steel guitar, took me many years. I have always hated how country music uses it in a cliche way on those crying in your beer songs, so was amazed to hear how Steve Howe used it to such wonderful effects--the end of "Gates of Delirium" is even better. In this song too is what gives it that atmosphere you commented on. As far as lyrics, I think it is about one's personal life's journey and reflecting on getting to the end of it. Dreams are a part of that but, "After all your soul will still surrender". I think this song will have more meaning to you after you listen to "Gates of Delirium". My opinion it was put at the end of the album intentionally, wraps up the experience of listening to the album as a whole. Maybe even what it's like for the album to be over.
I agree, this section exposes the listener to an expanded range of sound that was not present ( and not missing ) from the earlier sections of the song. It was almost like the old quadrophonic switch was suddenly flipped and you heard clearly for the first time...becoming orchestral. Great moment in a great song that remains present to the end.
Agree with Keith's comment just now, "To Be Over" is the best ending as it elevates the whole album. Ever since my first listen and then subsequently listening to it over the years I always listen to it as a whole. Back in the day of buying the album and listening to it as a whole I felt they structured the album superbly. It is my favourite Yes album believe it or not.
Rundgren defies categories. Composer, arranger, producer, singer, guitarist, keyboardist -- and a pioneer with video. His work could support entire reaction channels.
The soul/R&B medley from the same album. Sidewalk Cafe/Izzat Love/Heavy Metal Kids from Todd. Anything at all from Initiation - mind you, one of the tracks would make for a bloody long video.
Todd, (and Utopia) is a HUGE AND DEEP rabbit hole! But, with him/them, there is something for everyone! I am a huge Todd fan - but I don't like everything he does!! "Zen Archer" is one of my favorites of his more "eclectic" songs!
I think my favorite song on Todd's Wizard album is "Sometimes I Don't Know What To Feel". He's got lots of nice soulful feel good songs, like "Real Man", and "Love of the Common Man".
@@bobholtzmann You have just named 3 of my faves! "Sometimes I Don't Know....." still gets to me. Another one of my faves is "A Dream Goes On Forever" and "The Verb To Love". And how about "Only Human"?? Todd was always so in touch with human frailty and deep emotions.' "Fair Warning" still knocks me out!!! OMG!!! One of my favorite things of all time is the "Healing" 3 part suite! And I'm still crazy about "No. 1 Lowest Common Denominator"!! ;) So damn much to love from Todd and from Utopia! Such a huge variety of genres and styles! ;)
Sublime. Five masters at work. I love the positive message and yes Steve Howe is a force of nature. Now prepare to have your face melted and say thank you for it. Haha
"Relayer" is the most extreme Yes album, it's simply amazing. No other Yes album has such harmonical and rhythmical complexity. But as usual, Yes can give you deep and natural emotions even in complex compositions. Most of progressive bands can't do it so well. Great review, bravo!
Wow! Haven't heard this for years. So love that anticipation to what is going to follow next around 5 mins in to your video and then the brakes full on to the slow build up that still sends shudders up my back to something not fast but dramatically slow. "Childlike soul dreamer one journey . One to seek and see in ev'ry light do open". True pathways away
Just wait until you hear "The Gates of Delirium". I think you will understand why they did Sound Chaser and To Be Over. It was probably because they thought the listeners could only support so much and needed to calm down a little. Without giving too much away, much of what sounds like synth in Gates is actually guitar. It is mind blowing.
Howe's said this is one of his favourite YES songs, and he does an instrumental version of it on a solo album from 2001 with him playing 11 guitars/mandolin/bass/banjo (and not singing, so don't worry). He says in the liner notes that "this song has remained unplayed since 1975": ruclips.net/video/DGGzTK7qTJE/видео.html
this is brilliant.I love this track. I'm a 54 year old weirdo who loves 80s weirdness like Cocteau Twins and Danielle Dax, but I also love this 70s album, it's beautiful.
This song just makes me smile. I love the tone of it. You're so right about getting so lost in the music you forget to listen to the point of the lyrics sometimes. Thanks again JP
The Gates of Delirium = Sound Chaser + To Be Over --- Gates is the lead to the battle, the battle, and then the wrap. In other words, the battle is the chase for peace, and "Soon" is the peace. Chasing the "sound" is the battle in life, and To Be Over is catching the sound, peace.
Glad that you enjoyed the song! As everyone will tell you, Gates of Delerium is a song to be experienced. I’m so jealous that you’re going to hear it for the first time! As I said in my comment for Sound Chaser, to truly appreciate all three songs you should listen to them back to back in order. That puts the second side into perspective, and I think you’ll appreciate Sound Chaser even more when heard as the second of three. Stay safe, regards, Derek
Very Well Stated, I have listened to Yes from their beginning. The musical excellence of Yes captured me and has yet to release me.Steve Howe is why I started playing at 12 years old. To Be Over, when we become transformed into pure energy, After All Your Soul, Don't Doubt Your Part Be Ready To Be Loved. Gates Of Delirium is also a Masterpiece.
You are listening to the album in my preferred order which, although it starts then with Sound Chaser, resiults in ending with Gates which makes so much sense structurally. Gates has Sound Chaser like moments but ultimately leads to an Awaken like pay off.
Hi, Justin, Relayer is for me one of the best albums of YES, if not the best. I initially saw this album as an album with three single tracks. But after listening to Realyer several times completely in a short period of time, it was clear to me, to listen to this album in this way is the best way to understand which masterpiece YES have created with Realyer. So, make yourself comfortable, put on good headphones and close your eyes. Have fun on this adventurous journey Peter
This song is the slower, mellower song on the otherwise jazzy, frantic Relayer album. You will hear such different approaches from album to album with Yes and you will be really surprised when you hear the Drama album, the first one without Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman; you should listen to Tempus Fugit from it with Chris Squire excelling himself !!
@@porflepopnecker4376 I wouldn't rate /Drama/ *better* than /Relayer/, but /Drama/ is my favorite Yes album. Per track duration, "Machine Messiah" is probably their most complete composition, though there are a few longer Yes songs that reach higher in total. Once he actually gets through "The Gates of Delirium", he should definitely check out some /Drama/ tracks.
I've always found inspiration in this song. It's so easy to lose your identity and dreams as you grow older and get caught up in just trying to get by. However, as it states in the song, your soul will still surrender no matter what you might acquire. On top of that, great music. The lyrics seem like classic Jon Anderson and the instrumental Steve Howe. Bueller? Bueller?
You remind me of my original thoughts when I heard this album and a lot of Yes, there are the obviously beautiful melodies and there are the avante guarde parts, I instantly fell for the pretty tunes but it's the strange that makes them endlessly new to me.
Two other Reviewers here on RUclips, who both reviewed 'Gates', Both at their End of listening of it, were Slack-Jawed, both Astonished, uttered slowly the same Refrain ,... " That was the Best Song I have ever heard ! ". I sense 'Gates' will assurably please .
I put "Like" on the video, thanks! (I forgot to do this before). I noticed there are quite a few melody and instrumental changes on this song, possibly more than Sound Chaser or Gates of Delirium - unusual for a song that closes the album. And Steve Howe changes instruments quite a lot, too. I saw him live up close, and he had his steel guitar and standing beside it, an acoustic guitar propped on a metal stand, while wearing his strapped electric for "And You And I". I don't know where he's going to put the electric sitar, when he plays this live next year for Yes' Europe Tour w/ the full Relayer album - hope it comes to the States.
BTW, I saw a 1974 video of Yes in concert, doing this very song. Steve Howe played the sitar sounds on a Fender Telecaster, but it sounded like a sitar, probably a pedal effect. ruclips.net/video/0Lh-pee0ccg/видео.html
This is a beautiful song that often gets "over"looked from this album. They played it live during the Relayer tour but never played it again until more recently when they did the whole Relayer album live. It is one of the more difficult songs for Howe to pull off live because of the multiple guitar (and sitar) tracks going at the same time, but he does a pretty awesome job of interpreting it live nonetheless. This album definitely has some of Howe's best guitar playing, and I think it helped that Moraz played keyboards on this album. Moraz is a fantastic keyboard player, but he doesn't play as busy or dominating as Wakeman does which gives Howe more room to shine. If you like this song you should check out "And You And I" from Close to the Edge. It kind of has that same relaxed, optimistic, but still epic feel. But unlike this song, it's one that Yes often performs live on nearly every tour.
Excellent commentary on the song. 'To Be Over' is my favorite Yes song, yet ya gave me another perspective to its elegance. I grew up on Yes during my teenage years and it's really refreshing in seeing you young pumpkins relate to it in very concrete ways...
Several other reacters to Yes songs have really suprised me by having the first thing coming out of their mouths as the final note drifts away be how happy the music is. My first reaction is a knee-jerk one, like Joe Pesci in Wiseguys about to plug that unlucky waiter who thought he was a "funny" guy (rather than a very fucking serious and dangerous one). Yes makes "happy music"? Like "Sing Along with Barney the Purple Dinosaur"? WTF! Then I calm down a bit, consider the overall tone of metal, rap, hip-hop, the Dark Batman, and other dreary modes of entertainment, and I realize I'm in agreement with that comment. Yes does make happy music. They chose "Yes" as their name. They have this joyful, gentle little tenor as their main composer and lead singer. He pumped out a long stream of life-affirming tunes that oftentimes put the listener in a pleasant reverie. Even if they occasionally venture into darker moods, those songs gloriously wander back to the positive, life-affirming big finale'. More contemporary art should mirror the overall uplifting mood of Yes music. I have to think it is that mood which attracted me to it in the first place five decades ago, and my immersion within it for so many years afterwards left me somewhat unaware of the extent of unhappy, sullen music dominating the airwaves, and of all the many people who measure "really good, dude" by the extent a song depicts the anger and sorrow of a post-apocalyptic world devoid of love and hope.
To Be Over is transcendental. You are in for a shock with Gates of Delirium. The only comparable piece of music I can think of is 1812 overture by Tchaikovsky. I don't know which is better.
this one has always been a bit of hidden gem because the beginning and right until 5.48 it's a bit non directional almost happy go lucky and then suddenly it changes becoming more serious and focussed and dark - like 'now I have summat to say'
Justin, that’s a pretty good take on To Be Over... after one listen! The lyrics are certainly more direct than many other Yes songs, so that might help. I think the different sections of the song are more closely linked musically as well, so it holds together better. You noticed Steve Howe’s playing. I think this might be his - and perhaps the band’s - most underrated track. Almost impossible to compare it to Sound Chaser, where I think the band went to far with that solo guitar section in the middle.
Great track. The type of song they should have played to finish off our High School dances, because A) This would be way better and B) You'd get to hang on to your gal twice as long!
I have just discover that Yes has a new album quietly released in 2020 and is now out selling on Amazon. I got to hear one of their songs which is quite different from past albums and songs. It does not have as many transitions in the songs and is still quite Lovely. "Words From A Page" is the new song and on You Tube. Check it out!!!!
At 5:50 I am always shocked that the sound transforms to a fuller sound that I never thought was missing up until that point, but from then on I could not do without.
This is almost the total opposite to "Sound Chaser" - waves and layers of ambience and calm, with Jon much more of a participant, along with some delicious harmonies and some wonderful guitar work. The Yang to Sound Chaser's Yin. And as fitting a close to an album as you could hope for after the intensity of "Gates..." and "Sound Chaser"!! Awesome!
I was 15 when this came out. I all most hate to say it, but yes, it did change me. The title track sounded like a bunch of noise at first, but I kept moving the needle back to parts I liked, then I started to like more and more the parts before and after till I realized what I was listening to was a great impressionist piece of music.
Really enjoy your comments on these videos. A lot of channels have quite simplistic things to say about the music they react to, which is valuable and I like them a lot too, but you share a nice mix of thoughtful analysis and music fanaticism combined. Thanks for always going so in-depth; it's fun to explore the many facets of a dense track. I'd appreciate it if you could react to "Don't Bother Calling" by Moses Sumney, I think you'd really dig the landscapes that song paints with the vocal harmonies alone!
This is my 2nd favourite song on the album, such a masterpiece. when the "after all your soul is still surrendered" part comes in....fuuuuck goosebumps every time. I agree. Steve Howe is definitely the star on this song and album in general. On Gates of Delirium the whole band really shines equally though, but again I gotta warn you, it is really intense and bombastic at times, and took me multiple listens to fully love. To this day its probably my 4th favourite yes song behind close to the edge, siberian khatru and awaken
The answer to "Sound Chaser" is in the title of the song. They are representing chasing sound with their interplay. All the mood and tempo changes. It's brilliant. I've loved "Sound Chaser" since the first time I heard it almost 40 years ago. Actually one of the few Yes songs that has happened to me with. Anyway, love your review of your first listen of the magnificent "To Be Over". Personally I was not as taken with it in my early Yes fandom days; but, now I consider it a masterpiece and one of the most beautiful and moving pieces of music ever written. In pensive moments I am brought to tears by the end. OK, obviously next is going to be "The Gates Of Delirium". Epic masterpiece, for sure. But please hearken to my words when I say to you that you MUST do a follow up reaction to the live version on the YesShows album. It is utterly amazing. Most Yes fans I know consider the YesShows version of "The Gates Of Delirium" to be the definitive version. It really shows how untouchable Yes were as a live band back in the heyday of the most famous 70's rock bands. Nobody could touch them.
Justin This is one of my all time favorite YES sing from a great record Relayer. Patrick Moraz is amazing on the keys ! the end of the song its may sound like they are singing words which I also thought the same thing for many years but In an interview with Chris squire he said no they were just vocals sounds Jon wanted add at the end. Jon like to use vocals as an instrument.
Great discussion of this track, JP. I knew you'd like this one. This has some of Steve Howe's best work, I think, going back and forth between pedal steel and his main Gibson electric guitar. A very uplifting and spiritual song. I think your interpretation of Jon's lyrics here are spot-on.
love your take on this. Having spent years playing and listening to this track I never really thought about the lyrics. Certain lines of course stick with me especially when I sing them (Yes Tribute) but you really get a great read on this from first listen. The vocal harmonies here are their most dense and some of their best. Moraz really shines and they give him room in the mix to be the star as opposed to Gates where everything is a 10. TO hear Patrick at his best as a composer get The Story of I. Truly monumental album. Like nothing you've ever heard before mixing, Brazilian, Jazz, Classical, Prog and whatever else.
Steve Howe considers this to be the song that best shows what Yes is all about. Chris said _Heart_of_the_Sunrise_ in the same interview. Rick says _Awaken_ (and CttE). Jon has implied in many interviews that _Awaken_ is their best. "Best" is kind of different than showing what best defines the band, but he could mean both. I've never seen what Alan or Bill think.
If you like their lengthy pieces, go for "Mind Drive" from Keys to Ascension 2. It's on the same level as the better-known "Close to the Edge" or "The Gates of Delirium".
Suggestion - do Tales from topografic oceans, even though its only 4 side long songs, and not an easy task. If you do, I promise I will listen 😀. Would like to hear your analysis of it.
Ah...memories of last Summer. Had the ear buds in, and had taken a break from fishing from my kayak Let the boat just drift with the current, floating along past the waterlilies. This song playing in my ear....."We go sailing down the calming streams Drifting endlessly by the bridge..." Okay, Gates of Delirium next. (or whenever) Just to say, it is about a battle, or war, with a feel good ending. But I contend that its actually about a first battle, then the losers lick their wounds and attack back. Hence the middle lyrics after the first battle sounds:: "Listen your friends have all been broken They tell us of your poison Now we know Kill them give them as they give us Slay them burn their children's laughter On to Hell"
This is a fine and beautiful song. It's interesting how this album and Close to the Edge bookend Tales From Topographic oceans and they both have three songs with one a whole album side. Gates of Delirium is one of the pinnacles of progressive rock and you are SO ready to hear it. No spoilers ;-)
"Sound Chaser" is BETTER because it is followed by "To Be Over." The contrast between the two songs elevates the whole album. I believe Yes of the 1970's focused solely on creating "Albums," as opposed to simply "songs." Whereas other bands were attempting to write the next big hit, Yes attempted to create Albums that flowed both in symphonic composition and emotion. Therefore, "Sound Chaser," while chaotic, is the perfect counterpoint to "To Be Over."
I agree, just as much as Gates Of Delirium and Soon cannot be separated, which I am hoping Justin realizes
I think you are absolutely right.
Its true. People today seems not to understand this very good because they are raised with streaming and things like that
Yeah, I also agree. I think with prog albums of that era they were made to be whole album compositions, but back then you'd have to divide it into two sides to produce an LP, record, which was the standard. So they are written to work as two 25" - 30" min. sides as well. Pink Floyd and Genesis albums were the same, I notice that many Yes sides follow roughly the same pattern as each of Relayer's. Close to the Edge is another that starts in chaos and ends in tranquility. When I hear folks determined that one has to listen to the entire album through, I'd say that half at a time will work great, and is advised to new listeners of Yes's peak music
All progressive bands do this create concept records
You said "Yes always makes little climaxes that are so uplifting..." Wait till you hear the "Soon" section at the end of Gates of Delirium - you'll love it!
This song still gives me goose bumps 45 years after I first heard it.
Relayer is a masterpiece. Yes in their prime.
When I was in college, I had a music professor that said that there was no good music other than classical or jazz. She challenged us to bring in a recording of a "good" song that was not classical or jazz; I chose To Be Over. I analyzed the song to death and wrote a form and analysis paper about it. I played the song for the class and pointed out all of the compositional techniques and nuances that were used in the song. At the end of my presentation, the professor simply said, "that was a good song". It was the only song in the class she gave props to. 👍
One thing that Yes does well in this song compared to others of theirs is transition from one section to another; it's the difference between music composition and simple songwriting. One of my favorite compositional techniques happens at 7:19. During the repeat of the third section (this song is close to sonata form which is used in classical music) the bass and guitar play a counter melody to support the chord progression played by the mellotron and vocals; top it off with that slight pause before the final chord... mmmmmmm. I think Dream Theater took this idea and used it in Part 2 of In the Presence of Enemies during the coda section; there's a lot of similarities. Anyway, that's just one moment from a song that's FILLED with interesting compositional techniques.
Thanks for the review, JP! AWESOME!!!
Thanks for your then and now analysis.
Jaybird Beautiful!
Could you make your full analysis available, whether PDF or otherwise? Would love to read it. Use my contact page, if you are up for it. markandrealexander.com/contact/
Mark Alexander I’d have to make it again. It wasn't an assignment so I tossed it away when I was done. I’ll see what I can put together.
That's awesome Jay, would love to read a bit of what you found in your listening and analysis of the song
Jon Anderson didn't want to just say "la la la" at the end of the song, so he wrote this chant:
New som du lay
Sah du rah
Sah du lay
Tu sah rah
Du sah dulay
Sah du rah
Tey tu santeh
You’ve done 2/3 songs of this album “Relayer” and you got the huge 22 minute Masterpiece epic “The Gates of Delirium” which is about a huge battle and I think you would love it probably better than Sound Chaser and To be Over
But Anyways To be Over is a Beautiful song
I actually got to see Yes play all of Gates of Delirium last year. I also got to meet Roger Dean! pretty good show
Oh man, I remember listening to this song on a rock by the seaside in Oulu, northern Finland. Chris Squire's passing had just been made public a couple of hours prior. A few solemn tears ran down my cheek in appreciation of an amazing musician who gave nothing but joy and inspiration to the world through his art. He was and still is one of my biggest influences on bass, when it comes to tone and arranging parts for songs. This song in particular is a great showcase of his more subtle playing. Everyone else in the band are also giving their very best on this one. The outro still gives me shivers to this day.
Matias Ärrälä I ❤️ your comment. My grandparents immigrated to the US from Vaasa. I'd love to go to Finland and walk the places my ancestors did. I have a cousin who goes every few years to visit distant relatives along with churches and other places where my ancestors were. ✌️
Such a nice comment! It really moved me. Yes and Chris Squire was a perfect match. As we know, he was also the only member of Yes that played, and sang beautifully too, on all of their albums until he passed away. I also love the outro especially with the added "vocal chant" version of the melody.
Nice to see a fellow Finn here and also a musician who is very talented. I chose to watch your bass cover of National Acrobat first and immediately subscribed. Anyone who is reading this, go and check out his Yes and Rush bass covers too.
Thank you so much for that Matias, I love reading comments as personal as yours.
I lived in Kangasala just southeast of Tampere from 1990 - 1998. I loved Finland and I miss it very much.
I also lived in Peltolammi off Sastajankatu from 1998 to 2000.
I had to come back to the US due to both of my parents being diagnosed with health-related problems.
Hi Justin.
To Be Over is the complete opposite to Sound Chaser, a rather calm and beautiful hymn. I totally get your response to Sound Chaser. It is chaotic but captivating. During that time YES really explored the bounderies of rock music. They created sounds that really moves you on an emotional and intellectual level. I didn’t get the album at first but I was drawn to it, because something called me back and I had to listen to it over and over.
Again regarding Gates of Delirium:
I first heard Gates Of Delerium on the Yesshows live album, which is still my version to go. You should really listen to this version on your own after reacting to the studio version. It is utter mindblowing how the band pulling this of on stage. The Yesshows version is building up more naturally and you can really hear and feel that they are really „in the zone“ while playing the battle sequence. It‘s a real steamy performance and the end section is heart wrenchingly beautiful. The album Yesshows and especially the performance of Gates and Ritual completely changed my perception of music and live performances in general. These huge audiences, the long intricate epic songs, the absolute frantic playing, the athmosphere of the whole performance. Wow. The studio version is nevertheless a total jaw dropper. You will never hear anything like that again😉
Ty Frank! I usually watch live versions after I do the studio songs, so I'll definitely remember to check that out
Big fan of Yesshows. It was the 1st time that I heard Gates and Ritual and it was a lot to unpack but so worth it.
If there was one song that demonstrates the amazing versatility and talent of Steve Howe on guitar, this would be it.
This song is the perfect complement to 'Sound Chaser.' Hard to imagine that it was created by the same people.
Moraz is so perfect for this album, it's as if he was sent to them by God to create this extraordinary piece of art.
Definitely! Love Moraz on the album
Moraz never got the right treatment after this album Rick came back, therefore Patrick leaving. Also, how he was never treated well with The Moody's.
These guys have melodies flowing off them every which way. The music is so rich, so full of ideas and hooks and riffs. It's just lovely.
God, I love this band.
😁
Next time you listen to this song, keep in mind that it's about the wondrous journey into the afterlife which awaits us all--"to be over", to "wander true pathways away", "after all, your soul will still surrender", "don't doubt your part, be ready to be loved." It's such a beautiful, uplifting song that the first time I listened to it after discovering what the lyrics were about it actually brought tears to my eyes, which a song very rarely does for me. I think it's incredibly profound both lyrically and musically, and definitely one of Yes' most deeply moving works.
I've been listening to this song for more than 45 years and it never occurred to me that "To Be Over" meant life being over, at least life in this dimension. Thank you, that's great. I'm sure you are right about that.
@@kuhnhan Thanks! I think it's about crossing over into the afterlife ("to be over"), where life is just beginning.
Your comment brought (happy) tears to me as I thought about the pets, family, and friends I've lost. Very beautiful interpretation of a beautiful song. 🙏❤️
Makes me wonder if Mr. Squire recalled this song in his final hours. I'd like to think so, and that he was able to be comfortable as he slid away from this life. Comfortable, meaning certain things to certain people, probably to Mr. Squire, too....
i think it gives you a positive view of what crossing that bridge could be. AIt has really given me comfort and hope when dear ones have passed away
Most people don't realize that many of the guitar notes are coming from Steve's foot.
Through his volume pedal.
He is a master at that
"To Be Over" is very underrated. One of my favorite Yes songs.
Lyrically, the songs have themes but Jon Anderson has said that he just likes the way some words or phrases sound. Therefore, to a certain degree the interpretation is up to the listener.
For a long time I thought there was a lyrical message in the chant at the end of "To Be Over". When asked, Anderson said it was "just some nice vibes" :-)
I didn’t even know about this song until like a month ago. It became an instant classic in my book, each time I hear it, it just gets better and better
And to underline how underrated this song is, half the comments here are anticipating The Gates of Delirium! Everything in time.
To Be Over takes me right back to my stoned teenage years, looking out my bedroom window over the white, frozen landscape of Cherry Hill, NJ. While high, did I mention that ?...😎
You did mention that, in your first sentence.
Yes so often bring me to tears with the climaxes of their songs.
I’m right with you on your assessment.
You know how some roller coasters are exciting but bang the heck out of your body, they take you to high and low places but when you are done you know that you have been beat up and want to do it again... then you find that one roller coaster that is amazing, but instead of throwing your body around, it is completely smooth, you feel the G-forces but you never once hit your body or come out bruised. To Be Over is that amazing roller coaster of the smooth type. Each ride of this song will make you appreciate it more until you find, it will be the comparison for all future songs.
Love the illustration Glenn, thank you
JustJP live version from 1975, close to studio, but more useful to see the transition of instruments by Steve Howe. ruclips.net/video/0Lh-pee0ccg/видео.html
Man, did you get this song. GREAT reaction. And now “The Gates of Delirium” - oh boy. Pack your bags.
You're right about Gates Of Delirium. They go way out of their comfort zone.
Definitely, you should go for “The Gates of Delirium” now -- well, this is the last one left for you to do on this album.
Are you keeping the best for dessert ?
Always🍰
@@JustJP ... Justin is right. Leave GATES for last. It's a real brain frying epic. He'll need some time to recover. As for TO BE OVER... it's a truly beautiful song. Very pleasing to the ear.
Yeh the Gates of delirium is masterpiece
Always recommend Gates be watched with vzqk50's image collage: ruclips.net/video/EdmUAsU2eXI/видео.html - good luck!
I saw another reviewer do GATES a while back. He had to stop to take his Blood Pressure medication.
It's nice ending to Yes's most aggressive and experimental record. Fun fact, all the keyboards used on this record belong to Vangelis. Jon Anderson invited him to audition after Wakeman left. Vangelis still had his rig in the studio when Patrick Moraz came in and started killing it.
Only the intro to Sound Chaser was used on the album from that session, as far as I know. Patrick brought in his own rig after the audition. he had to take some time and write himself a score for Gates before recording it.
After all
Your soul will still surrender
After all
Don't doubt your part
Be ready. To. Be. Loved.
I really enjoyed this track. Melody is king and boy does this song deliver. Agree, you can definitely get lost in the moments this song gives you. The song had an orchestral feel, with some really cool exotic sounds. Agree, Howe was killer on this track. Enjoyed the ride and the great reaction.
This is such a beautiful song... Very dreamy imho.
Jon's voice, and Steve Howe, s guitar work is just sublime. Always loved this song, and yes it takes me to a calm lagoon.. sea..
❤️. Yes, to me, were always about Emotional content.. How they make you feel, where they take you... Magic stuff... Thanks Justin for doing this song, album... Its a masterpiece IMHO ❤️
Take care, and THANK YOU for this fab channel Justin
👍👍👍👍👍♥️
To be over is one of my favorite Yes songs. That lead guitar is so lifting 🌌
Yes. Steve Howe! His writing can definately be heard throughout this song. Howe's first solo album Beginnings (1975) continues where To Be Over ended. Moraz, White and Bruford (!) also play on the album. It's worth a listen, after you have recovered from Delirium 😆.
I'm so glad you're listening to my favourite Yes album. I love the contrast between the fast paced, chaotic Sound Chaser and the beautiful and mellow To Be Over, and not to mention the incredible Gates of Delirium which speaks for itself.
Happy you're enjoying it!
Steve Howe♥️
This is my favorite song!
Great reaction. Impressive that you recognized the steel guitar, took me many years. I have always hated how country music uses it in a cliche way on those crying in your beer songs, so was amazed to hear how Steve Howe used it to such wonderful effects--the end of "Gates of Delirium" is even better. In this song too is what gives it that atmosphere you commented on.
As far as lyrics, I think it is about one's personal life's journey and reflecting on getting to the end of it. Dreams are a part of that but, "After all your soul will still surrender". I think this song will have more meaning to you after you listen to "Gates of Delirium". My opinion it was put at the end of the album intentionally, wraps up the experience of listening to the album as a whole. Maybe even what it's like for the album to be over.
I like the Steven Wilson mix, but just my opinion. 5:45 is a stunning change and mood in the song, as it opens up and blossoms out. Incredible!
I agree, this section exposes the listener to an expanded range of sound that was not present ( and not missing ) from the earlier sections of the song. It was almost like the old quadrophonic switch was suddenly flipped and you heard clearly for the first time...becoming orchestral. Great moment in a great song that remains present to the end.
Agree with Keith's comment just now, "To Be Over" is the best ending as it elevates the whole album. Ever since my first listen and then subsequently listening to it over the years I always listen to it as a whole. Back in the day of buying the album and listening to it as a whole I felt they structured the album superbly. It is my favourite Yes album believe it or not.
Another good unbiased reaction. Try Zen Archer by Todd Rundgren.. Never gets played... His catalogue of music is unreal..
Rundgren defies categories. Composer, arranger, producer, singer, guitarist, keyboardist -- and a pioneer with video. His work could support entire reaction channels.
The soul/R&B medley from the same album. Sidewalk Cafe/Izzat Love/Heavy Metal Kids from Todd. Anything at all from Initiation - mind you, one of the tracks would make for a bloody long video.
Todd, (and Utopia) is a HUGE AND DEEP rabbit hole! But, with him/them, there is something for everyone! I am a huge Todd fan - but I don't like everything he does!!
"Zen Archer" is one of my favorites of his more "eclectic" songs!
I think my favorite song on Todd's Wizard album is "Sometimes I Don't Know What To Feel". He's got lots of nice soulful feel good songs, like "Real Man", and "Love of the Common Man".
@@bobholtzmann You have just named 3 of my faves! "Sometimes I Don't Know....." still gets to me. Another one of my faves is "A Dream Goes On Forever" and "The Verb To Love". And how about "Only Human"??
Todd was always so in touch with human frailty and deep emotions.'
"Fair Warning" still knocks me out!!! OMG!!!
One of my favorite things of all time is the "Healing" 3 part suite!
And I'm still crazy about "No. 1 Lowest Common Denominator"!! ;)
So damn much to love from Todd and from Utopia! Such a huge variety of genres and styles!
;)
As always, Justin ; a superb reaction.
Ty!
Sublime. Five masters at work. I love the positive message and yes Steve Howe is a force of nature. Now prepare to have your face melted and say thank you for it. Haha
Haha I'm ready!
"Relayer" is the most extreme Yes album, it's simply amazing. No other Yes album has such harmonical and rhythmical complexity. But as usual, Yes can give you deep and natural emotions even in complex compositions. Most of progressive bands can't do it so well. Great review, bravo!
Ty Alberto!
Impatient to hear you comment The Gates… The whole album is my favorite of Yes, and one of my favorite records of all times. Power, beauty, emotion.
Great review Justin! This was a perfect song to end the album. Steve Howe's pedal steel guitar work here is so beautiful.
It really is! Ty
Wow! Haven't heard this for years. So love that anticipation to what is going to follow next around 5 mins in to your video and then the brakes full on to the slow build up that still sends shudders up my back to something not fast but dramatically slow. "Childlike soul dreamer one journey
. One to seek and see in ev'ry light do open".
True pathways away
Great, great, great reaction and lyrical analysis. Another Yes gem that I missed somehow.
HAPPY THE MAN "New York Dream Suite'" that's all I got to say ....then listen to EVERYTHING ELSE by them There most UNDERRATED PROG BAND EVER!!!!
Just wait until you hear "The Gates of Delirium". I think you will understand why they did Sound Chaser and To Be Over. It was probably because they thought the listeners could only support so much and needed to calm down a little. Without giving too much away, much of what sounds like synth in Gates is actually guitar. It is mind blowing.
Looking forward to it😁
Howe's said this is one of his favourite YES songs, and he does an instrumental version of it on a solo album from 2001 with him playing 11 guitars/mandolin/bass/banjo (and not singing, so don't worry). He says in the liner notes that "this song has remained unplayed since 1975": ruclips.net/video/DGGzTK7qTJE/видео.html
Check out Yes live at the Montreal Jazz Festival.
@@MyNameIsBucket Think you may mean the Montreux Jazz Festival from 2003.
this is brilliant.I love this track. I'm a 54 year old weirdo who loves 80s weirdness like Cocteau Twins and Danielle Dax, but I also love this 70s album, it's beautiful.
This song just makes me smile. I love the tone of it. You're so right about getting so lost in the music you forget to listen to the point of the lyrics sometimes.
Thanks again JP
The Gates of Delirium = Sound Chaser + To Be Over --- Gates is the lead to the battle, the battle, and then the wrap. In other words, the battle is the chase for peace, and "Soon" is the peace. Chasing the "sound" is the battle in life, and To Be Over is catching the sound, peace.
Glad that you enjoyed the song! As everyone will tell you, Gates of Delerium is a song to be experienced. I’m so jealous that you’re going to hear it for the first time!
As I said in my comment for Sound Chaser, to truly appreciate all three songs you should listen to them back to back in order. That puts the second side into perspective, and I think you’ll appreciate Sound Chaser even more when heard as the second of three.
Stay safe, regards, Derek
Ty Derek! I'm ready for it😁
Very Well Stated, I have listened to Yes from their beginning. The musical excellence of Yes captured me and has yet to release me.Steve Howe is why I started playing at 12 years old.
To Be Over, when we become transformed into pure energy, After All Your Soul, Don't Doubt Your Part Be Ready To Be Loved. Gates Of Delirium is also a Masterpiece.
I've been a YES fan since 1972 and this song, To Be Over, in my feeling is about exactly that...endings and carrying on with life.
You are listening to the album in my preferred order which, although it starts then with Sound Chaser, resiults in ending with Gates which makes so much sense structurally. Gates has Sound Chaser like moments but ultimately leads to an Awaken like pay off.
Hi, Justin,
Relayer is for me one of the best albums of YES, if not the best.
I initially saw this album as an album with three single tracks.
But after listening to Realyer several times completely in a short period of time,
it was clear to me, to listen to this album in this way is the best way to understand which masterpiece YES have created with Realyer.
So, make yourself comfortable, put on good headphones and close your eyes.
Have fun on this adventurous journey
Peter
Ty! I'm enjoying the journey thus far
From 6:17 on I get weepy...What an sonic emotional overload (in a good way)!
This song is the slower, mellower song on the otherwise jazzy, frantic Relayer album.
You will hear such different approaches from album to album with Yes and you will be really surprised when you hear the Drama album, the first one without Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman; you should listen to Tempus Fugit from it with Chris Squire excelling himself !!
"Drama" is my favorite post-"Relayer" Yes album.
@@porflepopnecker4376 I wouldn't rate /Drama/ *better* than /Relayer/, but /Drama/ is my favorite Yes album.
Per track duration, "Machine Messiah" is probably their most complete composition, though there are a few longer Yes songs that reach higher in total. Once he actually gets through "The Gates of Delirium", he should definitely check out some /Drama/ tracks.
Love Yes. May I suggest anything off of the album “ Crime of the century “ by Supertramp! You will enjoy, I promise.
Oh yes! Perhaps he should start with the title track
That whole record is classic up there with Dark Side of The Mood
On my list😁
Crime of the century, the title track, great choice! Granted
JP just did "School" the other day. Such a GREAT song. Whole album is a masterpiece!
I've always found inspiration in this song. It's so easy to lose your identity and dreams as you grow older and get caught up in just trying to get by. However, as it states in the song, your soul will still surrender no matter what you might acquire. On top of that, great music. The lyrics seem like classic Jon Anderson and the instrumental Steve Howe. Bueller? Bueller?
You remind me of my original thoughts when I heard this album and a lot of Yes, there are the obviously beautiful melodies and there are the avante guarde parts, I instantly fell for the pretty tunes but it's the strange that makes them endlessly new to me.
Extremely underrated track! Looking forward to your reaction to Gates of Delirium!
I find the album as a whole is wonderful and makes more sense. All you have left is. Gates of delirium, I think you will enjoy it. I hope.👍
Two other Reviewers here on RUclips, who both reviewed 'Gates', Both at their End of listening of it, were Slack-Jawed, both Astonished, uttered slowly the same Refrain ,... "
That was the Best Song I have ever heard ! ". I sense 'Gates' will assurably please .
No skin off our backs if you have to listen to a song a second time to analyze it. Go ahead and feel it the first time.
I put "Like" on the video, thanks! (I forgot to do this before). I noticed there are quite a few melody and instrumental changes on this song, possibly more than Sound Chaser or Gates of Delirium - unusual for a song that closes the album. And Steve Howe changes instruments quite a lot, too. I saw him live up close, and he had his steel guitar and standing beside it, an acoustic guitar propped on a metal stand, while wearing his strapped electric for "And You And I". I don't know where he's going to put the electric sitar, when he plays this live next year for Yes' Europe Tour w/ the full Relayer album - hope it comes to the States.
BTW, I saw a 1974 video of Yes in concert, doing this very song. Steve Howe played the sitar sounds on a Fender Telecaster, but it sounded like a sitar, probably a pedal effect. ruclips.net/video/0Lh-pee0ccg/видео.html
This is a beautiful song that often gets "over"looked from this album. They played it live during the Relayer tour but never played it again until more recently when they did the whole Relayer album live. It is one of the more difficult songs for Howe to pull off live because of the multiple guitar (and sitar) tracks going at the same time, but he does a pretty awesome job of interpreting it live nonetheless. This album definitely has some of Howe's best guitar playing, and I think it helped that Moraz played keyboards on this album. Moraz is a fantastic keyboard player, but he doesn't play as busy or dominating as Wakeman does which gives Howe more room to shine. If you like this song you should check out "And You And I" from Close to the Edge. It kind of has that same relaxed, optimistic, but still epic feel. But unlike this song, it's one that Yes often performs live on nearly every tour.
Excellent commentary on the song. 'To Be Over' is my favorite Yes song, yet ya gave me another perspective to its elegance. I grew up on Yes during my teenage years and it's really refreshing in seeing you young pumpkins relate to it in very concrete ways...
Thanks for this JP. i can always get a relaxing picture of the stream when I hear this.. a totally calming piece with a timeless quality.
Yes! Definitely
Several other reacters to Yes songs have really suprised me by having the first thing coming out of their mouths as the final note drifts away be how happy the music is. My first reaction is a knee-jerk one, like Joe Pesci in Wiseguys about to plug that unlucky waiter who thought he was a "funny" guy (rather than a very fucking serious and dangerous one). Yes makes "happy music"? Like "Sing Along with Barney the Purple Dinosaur"? WTF!
Then I calm down a bit, consider the overall tone of metal, rap, hip-hop, the Dark Batman, and other dreary modes of entertainment, and I realize I'm in agreement with that comment. Yes does make happy music. They chose "Yes" as their name. They have this joyful, gentle little tenor as their main composer and lead singer. He pumped out a long stream of life-affirming tunes that oftentimes put the listener in a pleasant reverie. Even if they occasionally venture into darker moods, those songs gloriously wander back to the positive, life-affirming big finale'.
More contemporary art should mirror the overall uplifting mood of Yes music. I have to think it is that mood which attracted me to it in the first place five decades ago, and my immersion within it for so many years afterwards left me somewhat unaware of the extent of unhappy, sullen music dominating the airwaves, and of all the many people who measure "really good, dude" by the extent a song depicts the anger and sorrow of a post-apocalyptic world devoid of love and hope.
To Be Over is transcendental. You are in for a shock with Gates of Delirium. The only comparable piece of music I can think of is 1812 overture by Tchaikovsky. I don't know which is better.
That was nice .... I can hear elements of the Going for the One album here :)
I suspect To Be Over actually began as the acoustic guitar composition that can be heard elsewhere on this platform. It’s worth searching for. Cheers!
Every time I listen to this song it sends me drifting down the calming stream.
this one has always been a bit of hidden gem because the beginning and right until 5.48 it's a bit non directional almost happy go lucky and then suddenly it changes becoming more serious and focussed and dark - like 'now I have summat to say'
Justin, that’s a pretty good take on To Be Over... after one listen! The lyrics are certainly more direct than many other Yes songs, so that might help. I think the different sections of the song are more closely linked musically as well, so it holds together better.
You noticed Steve Howe’s playing. I think this might be his - and perhaps the band’s - most underrated track. Almost impossible to compare it to Sound Chaser, where I think the band went to far with that solo guitar section in the middle.
Great track. The type of song they should have played to finish off our High School dances, because A) This would be way better and B) You'd get to hang on to your gal twice as long!
I have just discover that Yes has a new album quietly released in 2020 and is now out selling on Amazon. I got to hear one of their songs which is quite different from past albums and songs. It does not have as many transitions in the songs and is still quite Lovely. "Words From A Page" is the new song and on You Tube. Check it out!!!!
At 5:50 I am always shocked that the sound transforms to a fuller sound that I never thought was missing up until that point, but from then on I could not do without.
This is almost the total opposite to "Sound Chaser" - waves and layers of ambience and calm, with Jon much more of a participant, along with some delicious harmonies and some wonderful guitar work. The Yang to Sound Chaser's Yin. And as fitting a close to an album as you could hope for after the intensity of "Gates..." and "Sound Chaser"!! Awesome!
I was 15 when this came out. I all
most hate to say it, but yes, it did change me.
The title track sounded like a bunch of noise at first, but I kept moving the needle back to parts I liked, then I started to like more and more the parts before and after till I realized what I was listening to was a great impressionist piece of music.
Man, JP teasing us so hard with Gates of Delirium. Can't wait for that vid.
:)
Heard this many times but this is the first time I heard a little Renaissance in there. Good Friday!
Happy Friday!
This is a beautiful crafted and calming Melody
Really enjoy your comments on these videos. A lot of channels have quite simplistic things to say about the music they react to, which is valuable and I like them a lot too, but you share a nice mix of thoughtful analysis and music fanaticism combined. Thanks for always going so in-depth; it's fun to explore the many facets of a dense track.
I'd appreciate it if you could react to "Don't Bother Calling" by Moses Sumney, I think you'd really dig the landscapes that song paints with the vocal harmonies alone!
Thanks so much, I'm glad you're enjoying it :D
"Starshiptrooper" and "And You And I" also great tunes on The Yes Album I believe.
This is my 2nd favourite song on the album, such a masterpiece. when the "after all your soul is still surrendered" part comes in....fuuuuck goosebumps every time. I agree. Steve Howe is definitely the star on this song and album in general. On Gates of Delirium the whole band really shines equally though, but again I gotta warn you, it is really intense and bombastic at times, and took me multiple listens to fully love. To this day its probably my 4th favourite yes song behind close to the edge, siberian khatru and awaken
Dude, you're reviews are quality dissections of the music.........I mean that. Great job.
Hey I appreciate that a lot guym🙂
The answer to "Sound Chaser" is in the title of the song. They are representing chasing sound with their interplay. All the mood and tempo changes. It's brilliant. I've loved "Sound Chaser" since the first time I heard it almost 40 years ago. Actually one of the few Yes songs that has happened to me with.
Anyway, love your review of your first listen of the magnificent "To Be Over". Personally I was not as taken with it in my early Yes fandom days; but, now I consider it a masterpiece and one of the most beautiful and moving pieces of music ever written. In pensive moments I am brought to tears by the end.
OK, obviously next is going to be "The Gates Of Delirium". Epic masterpiece, for sure. But please hearken to my words when I say to you that you MUST do a follow up reaction to the live version on the YesShows album. It is utterly amazing. Most Yes fans I know consider the YesShows version of "The Gates Of Delirium" to be the definitive version. It really shows how untouchable Yes were as a live band back in the heyday of the most famous 70's rock bands. Nobody could touch them.
Yay! I'm glad you gave this song a chance! It's one of my favorites by Yes.
Happy to Adam! Ty
This is you Justin, at your most Lyrical of language and sonorous of cadence. This Song inspired you profoundly. A Young Bard is Born.
Justin This is one of my all time favorite YES sing from a great record Relayer. Patrick Moraz is amazing on the keys ! the end of the song its may sound like they are singing words which I also thought the same thing for many years but In an interview with Chris squire he said no they were just vocals sounds Jon wanted add at the end. Jon like to use vocals as an instrument.
Ahhh interesting, I'll have to give it another listen then!
Great discussion of this track, JP. I knew you'd like this one. This has some of Steve Howe's best work, I think, going back and forth between pedal steel and his main Gibson electric guitar. A very uplifting and spiritual song. I think your interpretation of Jon's lyrics here are spot-on.
Ty Brian!
YES! Good morning 😊 from CT.
Hope you had a great morning/day!
love your take on this. Having spent years playing and listening to this track I never really thought about the lyrics. Certain lines of course stick with me especially when I sing them (Yes Tribute) but you really get a great read on this from first listen. The vocal harmonies here are their most dense and some of their best. Moraz really shines and they give him room in the mix to be the star as opposed to Gates where everything is a 10. TO hear Patrick at his best as a composer get The Story of I. Truly monumental album. Like nothing you've ever heard before mixing, Brazilian, Jazz, Classical, Prog and whatever else.
Ty so much John!
You're exceptionally talented at this reviewer stuff.
Ty for that Adam!
There is no Yes song I could appreciate at all on the first listen. Or the fifth listen. After that, it really begins.
Steve Howe considers this to be the song that best shows what Yes is all about.
Chris said _Heart_of_the_Sunrise_ in the same interview.
Rick says _Awaken_ (and CttE).
Jon has implied in many interviews that _Awaken_ is their best. "Best" is kind of different than showing what best defines the band, but he could mean both.
I've never seen what Alan or Bill think.
If you like their lengthy pieces, go for "Mind Drive" from Keys to Ascension 2. It's on the same level as the better-known "Close to the Edge" or "The Gates of Delirium".
That so song is so underrated and beautiful.
Indeed!
Suggestion - do Tales from topografic oceans, even though its only 4 side long songs, and not an easy task. If you do, I promise I will listen 😀. Would like to hear your analysis of it.
On the list!
Ah...memories of last Summer. Had the ear buds in, and had taken a break from fishing from my kayak Let the boat just drift with the current, floating along past the waterlilies. This song playing in my ear....."We go sailing down the calming streams Drifting endlessly by the bridge..."
Okay, Gates of Delirium next. (or whenever) Just to say, it is about a battle, or war, with a feel good ending. But I contend that its actually about a first battle, then the losers lick their wounds and attack back. Hence the middle lyrics after the first battle sounds::
"Listen
your friends have all been broken
They tell us of your poison
Now we know
Kill them give them as they give us
Slay them burn their children's laughter
On to Hell"
This is a fine and beautiful song. It's interesting how this album and Close to the Edge bookend Tales From Topographic oceans and they both have three songs with one a whole album side. Gates of Delirium is one of the pinnacles of progressive rock and you are SO ready to hear it. No spoilers ;-)
I really liked your review of To Be Over. Astute and accurate.