Yes, one of the icons of the progressive rock movement of the 1970’s, played last night at the Lifestyles Community Pavilion in Columbus, Ohio. Simply put, it was probably the best concert I’ve ever seen. They started with “Firebird Suite” leading into “Siberian Khatru.” I thought I was back in high school listening to my YesSongs live album. From there they went into “I’ve Seen All Good People” and just kept rolling. Steve Howe’s acoustic work was ridiculous as was Chris Squire’s bass guitar solo on “The Fish”. They finished the evening with an unbelievable rendition of “Starship Trooper” and the encores were “Owner of a Lonely Heart” and finally “Roundabout”.
Jon Anderson (lead singer) has been seriously ill and was replaced on this tour by an understudy – Benoit David, who was the lead singer in a Yes tribute band. He was remarkable. He sounded like Jon… He looked like Jon.
Rick Wakeman, Yes’ keyboard virtuoso was replaced by his son Oliver Wakeman, who did an admirable job – particularly on Starship Trooper.
Alan White was on drums and was excellent – as usual.
Chris Squire on bass is something every musician should see. He is amazing, and while showing his age, is having a blast on stage. He acts like he’s 25 again.
And then there is Steve Howe. Anyone who has ever thought of playing guitar MUST see Steve Howe in concert. Guitar Player Magazine voted Steve the Best All-Around Guitarist 5 years in a row in the 1970’s. He still is. He makes the most complex music in rock look simple. He is perfect. From classical guitar to bluegrass, to pedal steel, to straight ahead rock – Steve Howe is fantastic.
Together – the band sounded great and seemed to have a lot of fun on stage. The highlight for me was that they played the entire “Close to the Edge” album, which, in my opinion, is one of the greatest pieces of music ever recorded – even Rolling Stone Magazine gave it 4.5 stars…
Yes has two dates left in Ohio. They play at the Hard Rock Café in Cleveland and the Taft Theatre in Cincinnati. They are playing small venues everywhere. You don’t need the higher priced ($65) first 10 row seats in these small places. Take the time to see them – I think I will again.