------------------------------------------------------- 1981 ------------------------------------------------------- Source: Christgau's Record Guide, 1981 -- Archived at SuperSeventies http://www.superseventies.com/yes2.html Yes: Fragile By Robert Christgau I certainly prefer Yes's rock-classical synthesis -- in which tricky intros, swooping dynamics, and intense textures are integrated into a self-sustaining (and -propelling) electric framework -- to ELP's flashy chopsmanship. "Round-About" is a triumph right down to its nature-mystic lyric, the rhythm players each contribute a viable composition, Steve Howe remains a marvel, and even the rearranged Brahms from new keyboard player Rick Wakeman is tolerable. But isn't there supposed to be more to art than great contrivance? B Close Window YesInThePress.com For site comments, inquiries, corrections, or additions, contact yitp@yesservices.com