Back catalogue: Progressive Rock

Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***


Yes are back with its second collection of singles release with yessingles2. Progressive rock, known for its complex compositions and fusion of jazz and classical elements, has always maintained a cult status, challenging mainstream tastes. The genre's elaborate, lengthy arrangements often clash with the commercial demands of record labels. As a result, studio engineers and producers frequently faced the task of trimming down ten minute epics into radio-friendly, four minute versions. For many new listeners, this serves as an accessible introduction to the world of prog rock. Yessingles 2, released as part of Rhino's Rocktober series, offers a collection of these radio-friendly edits from the legendary band Yes. While diehard fans might prefer the original, uncut versions, this compilation provides a convenient entry point for those looking to explore Yes's intricate soundscapes without committing to the full-length compositions. It's a nod to the balancing act between artistic integrity and commercial appeal that has defined progressive rock since its inception.

Review: Canon-busting prog rock band Yes unleashed their fifth studio album Close To The Edge via Atlantic Records in 1972, at the height of the band's return fame after some initial flops - as well as of the prog rock genre's mutation out of prevalent styles such as import psychedelia and hard rock. Riffing on the many Orientalisms suffusing the music at the time, this record's centrepiece is its 18-minute title track, which takes its lyrics from Herman Hesse's novel adaptation of the story of the Siddharta Gautama. Yes would positively affirm their deservingness of inclusion among the prog rock greats with this record, with a crystalline live sound thoroughly improving upon their earlier, less sonically developed full-lengths. Also famous for its Roger Dean album cover, which established Yes' trademark bubble text logo, you can now enjoy this quality repress from Rhino, which contains remix fragments and bonus tracks by band member Steven Wilson.

Review: Yes are back with its second collection of singles release with yessingles2. Progressive rock, known for its complex compositions and fusion of jazz and classical elements, has always maintained a cult status, challenging mainstream tastes. The genre's elaborate, lengthy arrangements often clash with the commercial demands of record labels. As a result, studio engineers and producers frequently faced the task of trimming down ten minute epics into radio-friendly, four minute versions. For many new listeners, this serves as an accessible introduction to the world of prog rock. Yessingles 2, released as part of Rhino's Rocktober series, offers a collection of these radio-friendly edits from the legendary band Yes. While diehard fans might prefer the original, uncut versions, this compilation provides a convenient entry point for those looking to explore Yes's intricate soundscapes without committing to the full-length compositions. It's a nod to the balancing act between artistic integrity and commercial appeal that has defined progressive rock since its inception.

Review: Steven Wilson's remix job injects new clarity into this iconic 1971 album, enhancing its already intricate compositions. The dynamic interplay of soaring vocals, textured guitar and Chris Squire's unmistakable bass lines feels revitalised, while Bill Bruford's drumming gains a sharp, articulate edge. The production balances the band's sprawling progressive rock vision with a modern, polished presentation, amplifying the complexity of the arrangements without losing their original charm. It's an experience that allows listeners to rediscover familiar layers while uncovering details previously buried in the mix.