Yes- Ritual (First Listen)

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Song Link: • Ritual (Nous Sommes du...

[@duanesmith1523]

Masterpiece. I never get tired of it. Alan kicks ass on this Of course Chris too

[@nickavenoso7851]

Some of my favorite rhythm section work from Chris and Alan on this album and song. Just incredible!

[@latheofheaven1017]

One thing I love about this era of Yes's music: They really knew how to end a song. Of course the album needs a big crescendo to finish (and they really deliver), but the genius I think is the quiet chords right at the end that seem to be like tranquil sighs from the relief of all tension. Perfect.

[@jimhardiman3836]

It's like they are gently laying your head on the pillow after taking you on a rollicking cosmic journey.

[@latheofheaven1017]

@Devoid Freud I suppose that there's 'good silence' and 'bad silence'. Good silence would be when the entire audience is just hanging on to the die-away of the last note, trying to hold on to the moment for as long as possible. Bad silence would be more like a crowd of people staring at you, thinking 'WTF was that?' :0)

[@latheofheaven1017]

@Devoid Freud They did from me!

[@jeffschielka7845]

@Devoid Freud After more than 200 shows i learned years ago that you sit and watch in silence. After the song you stand and applaud. The band will tell you when they want audience participation during a song.

[@porflepopnecker4376]

In the middle instrumental section of this song, Yes succeeds in doing what few bands (such as Tears For Fears) can do, which is make upbeat music played in major chords rock. I love the way each band member gets his showcase, starting with Chris' great bass solo, joined by Steve, and then going into that heavy section with Alan and Rick pouring it on. The critics may have wanted Yes to sound more like other bands, but I for one am glad that they didn't sound like ANY other band. And even within their own discography, this album is a truly unique piece of work. One last point--even the most ardent prog fans don't always "love" something like this on first listen. In fact, it's pretty much expected that this kind of music takes multiple listens to properly assimilate. That's one reason it's so fascinating and involving.

[@joemaurone7923]

Re: "Disjointed" : Yes, but as the lyrics say in "Revealing": "Disjointed, but with purpose..."

[@Lightmane]

The music of YES summed up in 4 words

[@joemaurone7923]

Re: that drum section in the middle: Saw Yes do this live on the MASTERPIECE tour in the early 00's. Everyone in the band on percussion, it was amazing. And the SYMPHONIC LIVE DVD version, with the orchestra, well, you gotta see it.

[@theAsterisk]

Some of the orchestra from Symphonic Live vacillate between looking like they're having an absolute ball, and casting harsh stares upon their instruments and sheet music, as if the performance is out to get them. It's pretty amusing. German bow, indeed. The combination of lead and backing vocals on the concert recording are absolutely immaculate, too. I'm fussy about vocals, and Symphonic Live may be the best overall that Yes has ever been presented vocally on a live recording.

[@dana_brooke_27]

I saw it in NY by the beach..Oustanding Performance!

[@jeffschielka7845]

@@raeTM LOL! I was there. Pine Knob or DTE.

[@langobard5546]

@@theAsterisk was there in Amsterdam both nights😊

[@nancymjohnson]

Justin, this is a masterpiece, and the fact that you said you would listen again is great. It took me several listens to completely fall in love with this. It just gets better every single time I hear it. Thank you so much for all of your hard work. Your channel is one of the best! Peace and Love. That is what Yes is about. And that is the impression I get from you as well. :-)

[@JustJP]

Thanks so much Nancy!

[@stagnation9114]

This album is a transcendental journey

[@JustJP]

Indeed it is!

[@nickavenoso7851]

Yes and it’s a great one!

[@bubsy5170]

I love that little hint of close to the edge at 6:23

[@gordonpsmith]

Steve also quotes Close to the Edge in The Ancient, at 5:09

[@davidyoung7418]

TFTO was Yes's most ambitious album. When it comes down to my favourite Yes albums, I find it hard to distinguish between this album and CTTE and Relayer. So much great music. Ritual was the perfect way to end this album. The live version on Yesshows takes the whole thing to a new level. Jaw dropping!

[@tobylogan7219]

The Yesshows version blows my mind, that live track is the best song they ever did imo

[@Rowenband]

I agree. For me the best two yes albums are Tales and Relayer, with no doubt. And they complete each other so well.

[@davidyoung7418]

@@tobylogan7219 I'd probably have to agree. Squire's finest moment, in my opinion. He play's like he's possessed! And the intensity of the percussion part. It's like they are calling up something utterly demonic.

[@davidyoung7418]

@@Rowenband Yup. I've lost count, the amount of times I have listened to them, And they continue to hit the spot! Favourite band & favourite bass player. ;)

[@Galahad-hk4bb]

AGREE 100% I love the studio version. BUT… The YESSHOWS ‘live’ version is much better if you can believe it !! RIP Chris and Alan. 🥲

[@majorgruber5925]

Wakeman was wrong. This album was a masterpiece in totality. The proof lies in this final song.

[@joemaurone7923]

To quote Jim Morrison from "The Soft Parade", "This is the best part of the trip, this is the trip, the best part..."

[@pinkaaron398]

unpopular opinion but thats my favorite doors song and album lol

[@joemaurone7923]

@@pinkaaron398 It's one of my top 5 Doors songs.

[@wendellwiggins3776]

I can't even separate the themes. It's ALL just ONE complete UNI-VERSE of perfection!!! interconnected. It took me decades before I actually played one side only. Ritual was designed musically to be final movement, the CLIMAX and it works that way as do all the other sides befitting where they lie within this Odyssey of sonic bliss. BTW the Ritual drum section is Alan taking the lead but all the members are playing drums and percussion. It becomes a ceremonial drum circle. IT IS THE RESOLUTION as shown in Steve blending all the melodic themes from previous movements. This is Chris's moment to shine too. BTW NOTHING IS DISJOINTED WHATSOEVER!

[@damonramirez]

There is a really amazing Live version of Ritual on the "Yesshowes" album with Patrick Moraz. Great sound quality!!! Great version of Gates too!!!

[@jameskasson8484]

This will be a long comment sorry :-). From high school until today yes has always been my favorite band. When I got this album I already knew it would take many listens to understand and appreciate each song. I'm 64 now so I think I have finally arrived at an opinion LOL. The first three tracks have so many good and amazing hearts in them but I still do not feel like they fit as a whole song in their entirety. I know Wakeman thought that they were just adding stuff 2 fill the time to make each song a whole side of a record. Maybe that's true I don't know. Even track 3 which yes stepped over the edge with complete abandon it still doesn't feel like a whole song. But then comes ritual. This is the only song that draws me in takes me on their Journey and leave me satisfied. And please look up the live performances of this song! Almost all of them are so amazing live! Ritual is one of my favorite yes songs

[@jameskasson8484]

also can someone tell me how many times starting in the early Parts when Howe is playing over Squier does he play parts from close to the edge? I love that!

[@Anders2112]

Rick can have his opinion about this album. As far as I know it was mostly written by Jon and Steve. I bet Rick was just bored of playing all 4 20 minute songs every night on tour, lol.

[@Anders2112]

6:17 CTTE theme x3. 6:49 Revealing theme. 10:27 Another Revealing theme with different bassline. 22:20 Hints at the first Revealing theme? 22:35 Yep, Revealing theme.

[@kenmathis9380]

No one does musical euphoria like Yes. No one. I haven't heard this track in a long time, and it really does take you on an amazing journey. Always enjoy your reactions, sir. Keep up the nice work!

[@JustJP]

Couldn't agree more! Ty Ken!

[@ron88303]

That is the perfect description!

[@nintendo64isking]

this is a beauty of track, Squire's finest moment to me

[@jeffk1212]

agreed

[@marcnotelteirs2072]

So, I bought this album on 20 januari 1974 (on vinyl of course) And after all this time, i'm still loving it more and more.. Thank you for your insightfull appriciation of this album. You really have a good ear for this music. But after 20 times or more listening sesions you will like it more... Keep on doing this! Thanks! (All the way from Belgium)

[@Skraboing649]

Marc Notelteirs You bought the album on my first birthday!

[@BaldJean]

Did you notice Steve Howe quoted "Close to the Edge" several times?

[@salsalzman2325]

Keep waiting for Jon to sing "A seasoned witch..."

[@tonyanderton3521]

As well as various sections from parts 1, 2 and 3 of this album.

[@nickmastro6870]

I also love the constant references to melodies from other songs from Tales. That guitar riff from Revealing is even quoted in a crazy warped synth line during the crazy percussion section of Ritual.

[@nickmastro6870]

Around 18:04 in this video

[@nigelcraik2429]

@@nickmastro6870 That’s amazing, after decades of listening I have spotted many of the links between the movements but I have never spotted that one before, very cunning, that is one of the key motifs of the whole work.

[@johnnyquest6115]

The Yesshows live version running at almost 29 minutes is out of this world! The best live version of any rock song I've ever heard!

[@markgatica12]

This song is the crown jewel of the 2 album set. I have to admit it wasn't initially my favorite, but over the years I grew to love it almost on par with Close to the Edge, Awaken, and Gates of Delirium. This song was one of the highlights of their 35th Anniversary tour. During the break in the middle of the song everyone began playing percussion instruments, and Alan pounded his drum kit while some oversized, illuminated toms rose up around him and were playing mechanically. It was one hell of a spectacle. This one is probably my favorite on the album because it is the only song that features Howe aggressively playing electric guitar. His acoustic guitar elsewhere on the album is beautifully played, but this is where he is really unleashed. Great series of videos, Justin. Looking forward to 15 K.

[@TigerMtnKing]

An emotional masterpiece!

[@tobylogan7219]

I highly recommend listening to the Yesshows Live version of the song. That version cements this as my favourite Yes track. Squire's bass sounds unbelievable (probably cos he did the mixing), Jon's singing is far better on the live version, and it has Moraz on keys which is interesting. When I heard that version the song was suddenly so much better.

[@gaiaeternal5131]

You're right. That version is from the Relayer tour that I saw in Manchester, UK. Shame Moraz didn't stay for longer - The Story of I shows the exciting musical ideas he has.

[@jimschroeder1176]

Yes, I just wrote this review inspired me to listen to the live version from Yesshows today. This is a great song.

[@Rowenband]

I love that version too. On the Symphonic Yes DVD it's great too.

[@jimschroeder1176]

@@Rowenband I saw that tour live. Phenomenal!

[@neilanderson7669]

I listened to the Yesshows version long before I heard the studio version, and it is amazing indeed!!

[@battmale]

The drumming in the middle is spectacular, seen them live, Alan encircled with Timpani's, the entire band playing the drum.

[@meistergedanken4790]

Alan White's drumming here and elsewhere on this album is absolutely primal; it calls to mind dark, mysterious jungles. That, coupled with the lyrical themes makes the music seem to hearken back to long-ago epochs, at the time of the very dawn of mankind.

[@hansvandermeulen5515]

One of my favorite Yes albums and the song with some of my favorite moments of the album. Early in the song, the repeating vocal line with the accompaniment constantle changing through all those variations and later in the song where Jon repeats 'at all, at all', totally awesome.

[@salsalzman2325]

Every time I listen (and it's about 8 times in the last year alone) a different song wins as best. Ritual takes it this time! It's Jon's amazing "At all" and Steve's incredible guitar work. I did enjoy watching your eyes twinkle a bit during the percussive chimes section, that really comes out of left field! This song "brings it home" the themes of struggle, and warfare are resolved by coming home to loved ones. Dreams are said to blossom courage, constant to the soul.

[@christopherpiccirillo8020]

That section - the 'At All' - vocals plus incredible bass runs just gets me in the feels every time, and I've heard this song hundreds of times. Just the best.

[@git606]

Got to hear the live version on Yesshows, Allan gets an extended drum solo. Always sounds more cohesive live. Glad you got to hear this album. Some people love it, some hate it but it is a fantastic piece of work. 👍

[@seansheppard8635]

Agreed! Pretty intense!

[@johnsoltesz7393]

I agree about the Yesshows version, it’s near perfection. The symphonic version is also great.

[@justineapril7922]

I first saw Yes in 1976 and this was the only track off Tales Yes played. I do recall Alan's percussion! 💙

[@ChromeDestiny]

The Blu-Ray version of the Steven Wilson edition includes a live version with the same lineup as on the original album from 1974, it's a good version.

[@shirleymental4189]

Anyone who likes this should watch the orchestral version from 2004. Its on KZbin in 3 parts. Its amazing.

[@neighborbruce]

Totally agreed!

[@joemaurone7923]

Re: The sitar sound: Howe uses an electric sitar. They didn't have sitar pedal effects then. But, they do now! EHX has a "Ravish Sitar" pedal; I'd love to get my hands on one...btw, their MEL9 mellotron pedal is great. (But you can't sit a bowl of curry on it, though...)

[@shyshift]

I own a Ravish Sitar Pedal. Under $300 and Sweetwater Music offers a 3 month payment plan if you qualify. I also bought the Mel9 and I am in line for the Danelectro Sitar guitar with a 6 month plan. Anything over $400 is 6 months.

[@yes_head]

A Danelectro Coral Sitar guitar, to be specific. Same thing you hear on Steely Dan's "Do It Again" and other songs from this era of the 1970s.

[@stephendennis8739]

This is my favourite track from topicgraphic oceans

[@richardthresh3587]

Mine too

[@zex7689]

Same

[@chrislegner4816]

Ditto here. But quite a bit even.

[@jimschroeder1176]

Me too.

[@wendellwiggins3776]

I can't even separate the themes. It's ALL just ONE complete UNI-VERSE of perfection!!! interconnected. It took me decades before I actually played one side only. Ritual was designed to be the CLIMAX and it works that way as do all the other sides befitting where they lie within this Odyssey of sonic bliss

[@sublimehypocrisy]

We receive all we venture to give. It's difficult for me to listen to this song without crying. Literally.

[@jimschroeder1176]

And this song is as good as anything Yes ever wrote. In fact, your review has inspired me to listen to the live version from Yesshows today. I love this song.

[@tonyanderton3521]

Thanks again, Justin, for your fascinating thoughts. I've only ever got positivity and hope from listening to Yes (since '72). Their music is uplifting and eternal. Unique. Some would say spiritual. Order out of chaos. Good over evil. I heard someone say that Close to the Edge and other Yes albums are for playing every year or so, while you'd return to the full Topographic Oceans only once every few years. That's been true from my own experience. But it's a sound strategy. In that way, in allowing the music to unfold and reveal itself slowly, you will carry it with you to the end of our lifetime. Now that's a long attention span. For me, for Topographic Oceans, that now makes 48 years and counting.

[@cybore213]

I can't quite recall what year I first listened to Yes. Probably 1971. The first album I bought was Switched on Bach in early '71. I was 12 and for some reason, I wanted to buy a record of electronic music. The guy at the local record store recommended Switched on Bach. After that, a friend turned me on to Tarkus. Following this, we and others friends quickly got into Yes, Genesis, King Crimson and many other prog bands. The 70's, what a time to discover great music!.

[@tonyanderton3521]

@@cybore213 Oh, yes, Switched on Bach, wasn't that the Wendy/Walter Carlos LP? That's an interesting starting point. There was also the Snowflakes are Dancing, by Tomita (released in '73 or '74, from memory) of music by Debussy. My friend bought it. So you were pretty much straight in to prog rock, a couple of years before me. I started with the heavy rock Fireball LP, Deep Purple, of course, in '72 at age 13. Then Machine Head and Pilgrimage. Then Close to the Edge which was my first prog LP. Same as you, I was off in to another world. Never to look back. I missed out in Genesis until Trick of the Tail was released. But the band I really regret missing out on at that time was The Moody Blues. You're right though, the '70s was an incredible time to be a teenager. “Bliss it was in that dawn to be alive But to be young was very heaven.” (Wordsworth).

[@alejandrok734]

Spiritual, that's why this album will be eternal. Journey of life accompaniment

[@tonyanderton3521]

@@alejandrok734 Yes, so true, Alejandro. You put it beautifully. Best wishes.

[@TacomaPaul]

Alan White was their drummer.... BUT ! He played on drums in John Lennon's "Imagine", and "Give Peace a Chance", and many more songs. And Alan played on "Double Fantasy". 1980. And George asked Alan for drums on "All Things Must Pass".

[@glenndespres5317]

Yes. This is how you finish an epic 4 part double album! They were firing on all cylinders and the song just delivers on all levels. We LOVE when we PLAY! It’s my DNA! That drumming was so primal and visceral. Intense soooo cool to see LIVE! Just an experience. Now to course my way back home......

[@nimoysrazor]

I always found this the most accessible section of the album, with its contrast between gentle, sweet vocals and guitar (interesting to note Howe's completely different tone here compared to the previous track The Ancient), Squire's strong bass lead parts and Alan's incredible drum workouts. And its easy to see why this one was played live more than the other sections.

[@anselbuhrman7419]

I remember Chris playing the tympani in concert while performing this song. 1974

[@joemaurone7923]

RE: How the drum section fits into the whole: Listen to what Wakeman and White are playing, melody-wise; it's not obvious, but the rhythm is playing the rhythm of the melody after the intro where Jon is doing the vocalise part.

[@bellodrade]

"We receive all we venture to give." No truer words... Epic song. Could be my favorite lyric progression from this unbelievable band.

[@RickBenbow]

Lovely moment when the piano comes in on that last verse. This mix is, to my ears, the most different to the original so you might want to explore other versions in order to decipher better what is going on. It was always amazing to watch this live - all the frontmen joined in on drums for that percussion section.

[@bjwnashe5589]

I remember camping at Joshua Tree National Park, tripping all night listening to Yes music. This song came on just as the sun was rising. It was magical.

[@markspooner1224]

Jon thinks: first some some heavy bass driven powerful vibe then when my voice comes in it will sound all the more beautiful. I reckon he knows what he's doing. Great track btw.

[@mattwilliams3903]

I've been with Yes since 72. Saw them do Tales and CTTE in 73 or early 74 in the same show. It actually changed my life and viewpoint of life. Been a devoted fan ever since. I love them as much as ever, maybe even more as I've gained some wisdom along with grey hair over time. Enjoy your show, keep it up.

[@andrito1000]

"Ritual" is a great piece. Live it is even better. The version off of the double LP "Yesshows" with Patirck Moraz on synth is great. It was my first introduction into Yes. The album version is very composed, it sets up it's themes directly and has a great steady rock feel. "nous sommes du soliel" is a gorgeous section. It's first introduction slows things down and Anderson kicks it in. The band start to "soar" again. Great late night listening. The stand-out is Squire's bass playing when the band reapeats it' opening section and rock out again. Then the percussion section which builds to a climax. Great drumming to showcase White. That he's no slouch in the drummers stool after Bruford. Tribal. And the track finishes with "nous sommes" to carry it to the end. Again, the band repeat a section off of "The Revealing" to quote the first track and end it off. A real powerhouse of a track to end the album. This track is usually the one featured on live album re-ssues and compilations to represent "Tales" An afterthought, I would recommend hearing the live version of "Ritual" from "Yesshows", released in 1980, put together by Squire to run out contractual obligations to Atlantic Records. The band had split and no one could decide on which live tracks to release. Originally to be a triple album, they released it as a double with only Squires selections of mixes and versions.

[@jkmenegay]

It gets better over time. Keep listening. Been listening since it was released. We had a "new Yes release" party at a friend's house when this was released. What a day that was!!

[@sylvanm4216]

That whole "daybreak" section after the dark & shrill percussion/keyboard duet, with the reprise of the "Nous Sommes du Soleil" refrain, would probably be my pick for the most beautiful thing Yes ever recorded.

[@mauriceforget7869]

It is an affirmation; "nous sommes du soleil"; should translate by: "we are from the sun", I believe. So it refers prob. to the fact that all life on earth is dependant of the power of the photosynthesis from the sun.

[@Rowenband]

I heard it was about the fact that everything and living creature is made from the dust of the stars. So we are made of the sun. We are part of the elements that made the sun. Nous sommes du soleil, nous sommes de la poussière d'étoile.

[@mauriceforget7869]

@@Rowenband The mystery of what life is in the univers, and the conscience, what it represent, the transcendence it suppose to reach at a higher level. The very reason of all forms of art. We must be grateful to artists such as yes to go beyond mear esthetism with courage and faith in their powers.

[@npc8348]

This album, like "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band," "the Dark Side of the Moon," and "the Wall," has great meaning and value when listened to as a whole. It is truly a symphony by YES. Thanks for the great tales! And thanks for posting the reaction video!

[@toshibautoob]

One of the strongest themes of the whole album. Thanks for this gift JP! I've enjoyed it very much, hearing this once again through your ears. And I think you will like it all more as you get a chance to listen to it a few more time.

[@JustJP]

Ty Robert, glad you enjoyed it!

[@Tolemac7]

Hey Justin - I watch a few different reaction channels and I have to say that you and one other (not going to name names here) are my very favorites. Firstly, because you don't interrupt the song. (Thank you for that!!) Secondly, you know how to get your point across and share exactly how you feel about each section of a song or album. You are very real and genuine with your reactions and that makes all the difference. Your ability to break down a song into it's appropriate sections serves you quite well. With YES, this is almost mandatory, as they create multiple sections, even in, for them, relatively simple songs. The Ritual is a massive case in point. Almost a mind boggling amount of sections and you heard each of them perfectly, in my view. I've been listening to Yes for 50 years now, and I love how you allow yourself to truly listen and feel what they are doing with each song. I am very glad that you took on this whole album, and I look forward to your full album review. Keep doing what you are doing. It's working. =)

[@JustJP]

Appreciate that Tolemac!

[@craigfazekas3923]

A shame this is all over now....really enjoyed this foray into the album again !! 🚬😎

[@TrevRockOne]

Check out the version on Yes Symphonic Live. Amazing dvd, and this piece is the highlight of the whole show.

[@tentruesummers9043]

Ritual live is a force of nature...Squire playing kettle drums during the drum solo. I like JP's comments on Alan's drumming, letting the beast out. As much as I love Bruford, he wouldn't have played like that, discovered that same raw energy. Now we wait for The Lamb!

[@Rowenband]

Final episode of greatness. We are of the sun. Pronounce it “Noo sum du so lay“. You now have to watch a life version of that : it's Chris's high moment of the concerts… a real show man. One more thing: Steve Wilson's version is very different from the original especially on Chris's solo… Alan White's solo, on scene they all take percussions.

[@michaelhernandez6446]

Mundo Analogo's Vinyl Recording off of Ultra High-End Gear Recording of 'Ritual',..is Transcendent. His/Her Catalogue is Immense, and Varied. Perhaps explore His/Her Sonic Arrays. I spent four hours last evening exploring it. It will Marvel.

[@raymondfarrell6497]

My all-time favorite Yes song.....thanks for sharing your reaction and comments.

[@JustJP]

Ty Raymond!

[@159awi]

I've really enjoyed your dive into TFTO. After all these years, I still love this.

[@michaelgray5100]

One of my favorite Yes Albums and this is my favorite song on this TFTO album. Simply fantastic to listen to. Never get tired of listening to this.

[@maxcrown2367]

I’m so glad you’ve listened to TFTO now. Your reactions to each song match my own experience hearing this in full many years ago and I suspect you’ll come to love the album more over time, as I have. Even today The Ancient is a song I have to hear as part of the whole album, but the other three songs are far stronger. THIS SONG is one I highly recommend you find Live in 3 parts on KZbin with the keyword Symphonic live where they play with a full orchestra in the Netherlands. You get to see them all do their part and join together for a great percussion section in the middle. Please check it out on your own, as I’m sure it’ll make you happy. Thanks again for the reactions!

[@JustJP]

Ty Max! I'll definitely check them out!

[@dana_brooke_27]

I saw them do this live at Jones Beach ... Omg What an experience! I've seen them do all the songs live but Ancient. This you can't call it a drum solo live cuz ALL PLAYED DRUM! They kicked ass in a big way! They are always unforgettable but OMG that topped it. To be outside by the beach... They rocked! They did The Gates of Delerium on the "Soon oh Soon the Lights" it couldn't be more perfect ... The brightest fullest MOON right over Jon's head it was astounding I can't even find the right words. We all just looked at each and said "Holy Shit! Jon is connected to the Universe!" What show... I've been seeing them for 45 years now. I saw Jon solo in NYC but not since Chris passed away and Steve and Jon fell apart. I hope they pull it together for at least one more after the pandemic is over. They were my second concert I was 15... The Gates of Delerium tour David Bowie my first... Station to Station. Not bad for my first shows that my mother bought my tix drove my there and picked me up. Then I was hit NYC alone... Got a job and went to lots of shows. N.Y....was the place to be!

[@JustJP]

Thats amazing Dana, absolutely memorable

[@jeffschielka7845]

The best of Tales. Ritual is a masterpiece. An outstanding piece of music!

[@jameskennedy721]

In the guitar intro , you can hear the musical themes of the earlier songs woven togeather in a beautiful tapestry . On the YESSHOWS album there is a live version with Pat Moraz playing the Wakeman sections . Its surprisingly good .

[@9337sjm]

Thanks for listening to the full album, and giving us a review with fresh ears. I have enjoyed this album since buying it in 1974. So many great interludes, both soft and melodic, then thrashing and dramatic. All five musicians at their peak. Suggestion - If you can find it, please check out Chris Squire’s solo album “Fish Out Of Water”. You really get a realization of how fully Squire’s bass takes center stage and drives each song’s melody.

[@sanddab]

To me, this album rewards the listener over time. Through the years, I always come back to it and it never disappoints. Yes at their most ambitious, daring to fail.

[@MrHisperia2001]

One the greatest Prog bands period with their great musicianship YES ☝️❤️ thanks for the reaction JP ☝️

[@jfergs.3302]

And after yesterday's tiny wobble, we're back for the last side. Loved this since I first heard it. Great track off a fantastic album. All sides excellent, and with their own personality. Well I say all, 1, 2, & 4 definitely excellent. 3, merely really, really, good. Maybe a bit overly percussive imho. I may well cut 'n' paste this on each review, save me some typing. And I did, more or less :)

[@DeodatoMusic]

You need to check out the live version from Symphonic Live

[@nintendo64isking]

hell yes the orchestra swelling, the bass rising, the vocals soaring :)

[@rienvandijk2288]

That's awesome

[@thomassharmer7127]

Whatever its flaws -- and there are a few -- this stands as one of the great milestones of modern music. It's the sound of a band jumping off a cliff (or being pushed by their singer and guitarist 😉) into a vast ocean of unlimited creative possibilities. The result is a wild and wonderful journey, like life itself: some fantastically exhilarating moments, some hair-raising ones, and others of deep calm and sublime beauty. They achieved something even more cohesive and dramatic with Gates of Delerium and even more sublime with Awaken, but this is also a wonderful ride. For me the high points are Squire's blistering bass workout and the daringly gentle and carefully worked out ending. Thanks for the attentive, honest and thoughtful reaction as always.

[@brianalpert2383]

You really have to give credit to Steve Howe's guitar playing here. He has 2 epic solos, once just before the percussion break, which was a climatic build up, and then again at the end, which was absolutely staggering in its drama. As noted below, I love how he quotes Close to the Edge, and also the start of Revealing Science of God. Just an incredible piece of music. Thanks so much for sharing and your insightful commentary.

[@JustJP]

Ty Brian, Steve is amazing

[@ericarmstrong6540]

When I first bought this record in 1979 this was my favorite song. This was my freshman year of college. I had a college pal and we would sometimes spontaneously break into singing "Nous Sommes du Soleil". Everyone looked at us as as if we were nuts.

[@nested_King]

The unison drum line at the end of the percussion section mimics the rhythm of the melody that closes out the instrumental section of "The Ancient". Go back and listen. Themes repeated within songs, themes repeated across the album. Same with the guitar solo section, plus the reference to "Close To The Edge"!

[@mirojr6854]

Hi Justin, I will be here again, Ritual, it is the part of the album that I most like for sure, I ask that as soon as possible, one day you watch this music live, it is simply stunning, especially, the part that you were impressed, that in fact, in addition to Allan White, the other members participate, each playing a percussion instrument, and with an exotic theme on stage, with a very interesting scenario, for the time. The music part, after the turbulence, is very emotional, with the entry into the vocals in an angelic way by Jon Anderson, and an apotheotic and very emotional ending, of the guitar of the monster Steve Howe. Thank you for reviewing this Yes album, which, although long, is really good. See you next time, and always following your channel.

[@Yes_Jorge_Yes]

The drums part was played by Alan, Jon and Chris... Chris playing the Timpani

[@gerald112b]

Congratulations Justin. You've just completed possibly the proggiest album ever made. No more training do you require. Oh wait is that Lamb Lies Down on Broadway down the road. I'm very sure Ritual Will sound better to you after another listen or two :) . Can I nominate War of the Worlds as another subscriber goal. You seemed to like Forever Autumn a lot.

[@realbser1956]

I second War of The Worlds 👍

[@JustJP]

Considered!

[@TacomaPaul]

If you can UNCROSS your eyes, and match up the little blue sailboats on his wallpaper... it's in 3D ! What I mean is, if anyone remembers "Magic Eye" books... you'd have to "uncross" (look THROUGH it and focus PAST it),... those books were great. I remember as a little kid looking at my Gramma's wallpaper, and I'd look through it. "What are you staring at ?"..... "It's twice as much". ;-)

[@IanHillan]

My favorite track on the album. I can really see the seeds of Gates of Delerium here, and the quotes of previous tracks on the album and, as others have said, Close to the Edge are just great compositional elements. It really does get better with each listen, when you realise just how beautifully crafted the architecture of the piece is. Oh, yeah, and Chris Squire so often played like he thought he was the lead guitarist. RIP, you bass genius, you. ❤️

[@canadianstudmuffin]

Great review and YES you will love the album more with every listen.

[@seansheppard8635]

If you want to hear the percussion section gone wild, I suggest checking out the version of Ritual from the Yesshows live album. It gets pretty intense in that version, from a 1976 show in Detroit.

[@randyhammill9021]

In the "percussion movement" the band is playing a lot of the percussion. I don't know so much about Rick and Steve, as they didn't perform any percussion live. The "breathing sound" is a cymbal, actually. (also, the "sitar" is an electric sitar) The tympani is Squire. Live Jon is playing percussion, Squire is on tympani, and Alan on the drums. I'd recommend the Symphonic tour version over the 35th anniversary tour of you're going to watch a live video. However, the Yesshows version with Moraz is one of my favorite live versions. I highly recommend Gates of Delirum from Yesshows as well. One of my favorite performances, despite the fact that it's a rough mix and Jon's acoustic guitar is missing from Soon. Some of your comments about it feeling disjointed is what I sometimes feel about the album as a whole. Sometimes it doesn't seem to work, yet other times I listen to it, it all comes together. It's one of the few albums that has that effect to me. I do find that with Ritual, The Ancient, and Gates of Delirium the thing that is most amazing is when you get to the "Nous Somme du Soleil," "Leaves of Green", and "Soon" portions, it's sometimes hard to figure out how they got from where the song began to where it ends. In an amazing way. You've made it through most of the classic Yes, but what you need to listen to is the components. Wakeman's "Journey to the Center of the Earth," Howe's "Begnnings," and particularly Squire's "Fish Out of Water," and Anderson's "Olias of Sunhillow." More than any other albums released by them, they will make it clear how(e) they combine to form Yes. And you should really listen to them at the same time. A lot of the material in Yes was also written (often uncredited) by Alan, but his solo album went in a completely different direction. It's interesting, but it really doesn't highlight his enormous contributions to Yes the way those other four do. Oh, and for the next Yes epic? "Endless Dream" from Talk. The Keys to Ascension period is pleasant and the "classic" lineup, but it doesn't push the music like "Endless Dream" does. Like parts of Tales, not everybody likes the direction it takes, but it is truly a progressive Yes epic as far as I'm concerned.

[@theAsterisk]

I will second that recommendation to try "Endless Dream". The album it's from, Talk, is largely the work of Trevor Rabin- writing, producing, playing lots of the keys along with the guitar, singing- but it's still very much Yes. It's arguably the apotheosis of Yes with Rabin.

[@matiasarrala3447]

I’ve always thought the grand finale, the endlessly modulating guitar solo is like the Scouring of the Shire. After such a massive journey, there’s no returning back to normal. The life you knew is gone. The recurring melodic references are like your past replaying before your eyes. Such a chill-inducing moment. I love this album so much. Every damn second.

[@freddiebarber4972]

Justin...your analysis is fair enough. If you recall I mentioned that digesting this album was like eating a whole cake in one sitting. It does take awhile to grasp what just hit you. Myself and many others...it took a few listens to fully appreciate what Yes did here. Note: the impact of this particular song is fully realized when it was performed live. 1. It was very much extended. 2. Squire would go way crazy on the bass. 3. To top it off...They would roll out set of kettle drums and Squire and Anderson would be pounding away with White. It was a percussionist extravaganza.

[@jonsmith9518]

Excellence. I’ll have this in my head when I get up tomorrow morning. Great album. This album gets better the more you listen to it I think. I have it on cassette, Vinyl and CD. Never gets old. RIP Chris.

[@davidbarker77]

I like this song but, more than the other three, this feels to me like a number of different parts jammed together to form a whole. Nous Sommes Du Soleil is pretty. As a whole, instrumentally beautiful and a powerful percussion piece by Alan. Loved the CTTE riff, and brief riff from side 1. Well worth doing the album. I enjoyed all four videos.

[@godbluffvdgg]

:)...You've picked up another hundred listeners since you rocked this album...I hope you get to a million...:)...This is THE song on the album...Everyone hitting on all cylinders...So beautiful and profound.. The end of the song is very emotional when you've loved it for so long...Drive across country have this on your car stereo as you cross into your state in the early morning of your last day on the road...~sigh~ Sublime...:)

[@bazeye]

Another awesome vid JP, I've been like a kid at christmas anticipating and listening to your TFTO reactions. This video has really made me appreciate how great this song is. All you have to do now is react to the live version from Yesshows, Gates from the same album, and Perpetual Change from Yessongs and I'll die a happy man. p.s. love the "Hop on this Eagle's wings" line.

[@TacomaPaul]

At 14:00... Alan White blows a whistle ! ;-)

[@neilanderson7669]

Some of my favorite Jon lyrics of all time on this song. “Dreams are said to blossom courage constant to the soul”, “we drift the shadows and course our way back home”, etc. The most amazing thing about this is how he would use words for both sound and meaning. While they seem nonsensical, there’s still something there. His best lyrics, IMO, in this way were from TYA to GFTO.

[@your_local_dummy4137]

Side 4 of Tales is a masterpiece. It took me several listens to get into side 3. But I have always loved this final song. The lead up to the ritual, the rawness of the ritual, the renewal and the journey home. Really think about it Yes put together an epic, a journey in sound in 4 songs each about 20 mins. There are not many bands who can do that. Do yourself a favor and revisit this masterpiece either while travelling or when you have some time. I can can guarantee that even side 3 will begin to make sense too. It would be interesting to hear your views in a few years time. Thanks so much for taking the journey. It is an epic and I hope this Album stays with you and grows.

[@autoduck]

This must be a remastered (de-mastered) version because it sounds like some things have been muted and some things pointlessly enhanced. The original version was blended perfectly together. I'd recommend to stay away from remasters.

[@artrock101]

Yep, that's what happens when you bring in an "artist" with a big ego to do your remixing for you... "Oh, I can make this better..." No, fuck off, please. This album was just fine the way it was, good enough for people to fall in love with for years.

[@videotape2959]

It's the Steven Wilson remix.

[@artrock101]

@@reinaldofavoreto7160 Unfortunately that isn't always the case (for instance, try getting an original cut of Star Wars without all the cgi added, etc.. you can't. Star Trek is only streaming the remastered versions these days.. etc) Although in this case, thankfully you can still get the original mix.. for now. Does it really matter that much in the long run? No, probably not.. it's only art, after all. Why not let some random guy come along later and change it to his liking? Maybe they'll go back and quantize all those Beatles records, too... the future is awesome.

[@TacomaPaul]

At precisely 6:22... that's from the song "Close to the Edge" !

[@nickj5451]

Ah! I had just noticed that on this listen

[@TacomaPaul]

At 6:07... it's just Steve and Chris... playing together. With noises way in the background. AND at 6:23... Steve is playing guitar part from "Close to the Edge".

[@johngathercole9245]

One of the last times I saw Yes (Sometime in the early 2000s) at the point of the Drum apocalypse Chris Squire took a knee in front of Alan Whites drum kit - arms outstretched in supplication - as Mr White went absolutely Bonkers.... Quite a sight to see, especially given what Chris Had just treated to us. That whole section is my favourite part of Topographic Oceans.

[@paulschumacher1263]

Great choice! Yes is my favorite band, and this is my favorite album of all time. "Nous sommes du Soleil" means "we are from the sun"--that is, we are made of star dust (from exploded supernovae, which is scientifically true). This is Part 4 of the record--2 discs, one piece per side. So it helps to have listened to the other 3 first: themes are picked up, etc. It's like a 4 piece Beethoven symphony; this is movement 4. Glad you picked it.

[@andrewouellette4998]

This song is basically a percussion and bass song which emphasizes Alan White and Chris Squire. In the Symphonic Yes concert when they play this song, there is a large drum bombast where everyone has their own drums. Some part do sound disjointed, but all in all, it is quite the trip. In the end everything comes together.

[@ChromeDestiny]

This is also done at the version in the 1975 Queens Park Rangers concert film and further enhanced by a stage set designed by Roger Dean and his brother Martyn as well as a light show and pyro.

[@nigelcraik2429]

Glad you were able to appreciate the whole thing so much on a first listen Justin. Do keep coming back to it, you are right, it will only get better.

[@jaybird4093]

There are some nice melodies in this track. The whole album, melodically, is strong, IMO.🎵🎶🎵🎶 This album ranks 7th for me in the Yes discography. It’s not a knock, it’s a reflection of how great their output is.

[@tonyanderton3521]

Yes, well put, Jaybird. Personally, I'd put it higher than 7th. But, as you say, with so many great Yes albums to choose from, it makes it difficult to order them.

[@Prog_drummer35]

Please finish reacting to the entire Godbluff album by Van Der Graaf Generator!

[@michaelanzelino5068]

Stating at the 6:48 mark, Steve Howe in fact is playing, what is called an electric sitar. It's called a 'Coral Sitar' and the one Howe plays is made by Danelectro. It can also be seen being played in the concert film Yessongs, when they play the song Close To The Edge. In that song, the sitar enters at the 26:32 and 30:41 mark.

[@williamdrake6226]

I love the "at all" vocal which leads into a groovy jam then into the classic Squire bass solo. The Yesshows version is awesome. The drum and precussion jam is obviously the Ritual, the ritual of life, living out our trials and tribulations. Then in the end, Jon reminds us that we are of the sun, the divine. That we are divine in nature while sailing along the river of life, which is the Topographic Ocean.

[@spazimdam]

"We are from the sun" (nous sommes du soleil). In truth, all of out substance comes from the sun. We are star stuff. Quite a song this is. Progressive rock done right. The section that begins at 16:12 reminds me of ELP, especially cuz of Alan White's drumming, but arrangement wise it also reeks of ELP. Or ELP was influenced by this. Hard to tell, Yes and ELP were contemporaries. Just heard Justin's comment about this section being inspired by ELP: yes, exactly what I was thinking dude! Tales From Topographic Oceans is beautiful and difficult to play, that's why you never hear covers of Yes songs!

[@stephanevilleneuve9450]

More melodic than The Ancient or The Remembering. Nearly the perfection of the Revealing. A great prog song.