Gig Review

Yes
Southend, Cliffs Pavilion
30th April 2014


Yes

       

As expected the vast majority of the audience was composed of the "baby boomer" generation.

The atmosphere was buzzing and all tickets were sold. In true YES tradition an except from Stravinsky's Firebird Suite was played as a precursor to the main concert. It was at this point you knew that you were in for a treat anticipating what is to come; a nice serendipity moment.

Tonight’s show was a special night for Yes fans as there was no support as Yes decided to play ‘The Yes Album’, ‘Going For The One’ and ‘Close To The Edge albums in their entirety instead which must have been a tough decision for the band considering their massively impressive back catalogue.

The concert opened with a spectacular rendition of their 1972 album " Close to Edge". The musicianship was second to none, flanked by stalwarts Steve Howe on lead guitar and Chris Squire on bass guitar. The music was delivered with controlled power, sensitivity and clarity, a fusion of the majestic and the esoteric, the hallmark of YES.

Steve Howe's guitar playing (on many different guitars) was simply exquisite and sublime, played with similar passion as the likes of Carlos Santa and Eric Clapton. Chris Squire and the rest of the band all gave a 100% performance with gusto, which matched the master Architect of the band, Steve Howe.

Fortunately, with no disrespect; former front man Jon Anderson was not missed. His replacement, Jon Davison resembled a young Jon Anderson both in stature and style, but more importantly had a similar distinctly high falsetto voice which is essential for the delivery of the unique sound of YES.

The band overall have not lost any of their magic and may they remain at the top table as Aristocrats of "Prog Rock". This was confirmed and reinforced by the long standing ovation at the close of the concert.

Yes 5/5

Review By Nigel Richards

 Yes


Jon Davison
Chris Squire
Steve Howe
Alan White
Geoff Downes

 Band Related Links
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 Review Score Code
- Top Cheese
- Brilliant
- Pretty damn good
- Ok I guess
- What Was That?