Symphonic Live

iTunes Review

This epic live recording was tracked in 2002 when Yes toured in support of their 17th album, the symphonic Magnification. The band traveled and performed alongside the European Festival Orchestra with conductor Wilhelm Keitel waving the wand, and the result unfolds fathoms of stormy textures, lilting soundscapes, and classical accompaniment to songs from Magnification (as well as beautifully enhanced versions of old prog staples). Tom Brislin had some big shoes to fill in Rick Wakeman’s absence, but his ivory manipulating prowess plays confidently enough that it’s difficult to imagine anyone else subbing for the caped keyboardist. Not to mention that guitar innovator Steve Howe almost makes up for Wakeman’s wake with superhuman dexterity and a gorgeous classical guitar solo in the middle of the album. 21st-century compositions like the melodically catchy “Don’t Go” and the enchanting “In the Presence Of” sound as timeless as 20th-century fan favorites like “Starship Trooper,”  “I've Seen All Good People” and of course, “Owner of a Lonely Heart.”