------------------------------------------------------- APRIL 9, 2004 ------------------------------------------------------- Source: Seattle Pi http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/pop/168273_yes09.html Elaborate $4 million set plays an ultimate role in Yes tour By Gene Stout Yes' legendary stage designer is at it again. For the veteran progressive-rock group's six-month "Ultimate Yes" tour, which opens in Seattle Thursday night at KeyArena, designer Roger Dean has created a $4 million set with an oceanic theme. "It's very organic, very under-the-water, very surreal," singer Jon Anderson said in a phone call on his way to rehearsals in Seattle. "It's classic Roger Dean," he added with a chuckle. "The whole thing moves like a giant sea anemone." Concertgoers can only hope that none of it spills into the audience, a la "Spinal Tap." During the group's 1970s "Tales From Topographic Oceans" tour, one of the Dean- designed fiberglass pods surrounding drummer Alan White failed to open. White had to be pried out with crowbars. "Please, everyone, come and witness the return of Spinal Tap vs. Yes," Anderson said with a hearty guffaw. The "Topographic Oceans" tour inspired the mockumentary "This Is Spinal Tap," a sendup of mammoth rock 'n' roll tours. Anderson recalled seeing the movie during the group's resurgence in the early '80s, while Yes was on tour in support of the album "90125." "It was perfect timing because I couldn't stop laughing the whole tour," he said. "I just saw us doing Spinal Tap doing Yes. But all bands are like that to a degree. It was one of the great movies of all time for me." Formed in 1968, Yes is celebrating its 36-year career with the "Ultimate Yes" three-CD set and tour, which feature such classic songs as "I've Seen All Good People," "Roundabout" and "Owner of a Lonely Heart," as well as the new Anderson-penned song, "Show Me." The tour includes songs the group hasn't performed in years. The "Ultimate" tour features a classic lineup of musicians as well. In addition to Anderson, the band features guitarist Steve Howe (later of Asia), bassist Chris Squire, keyboardist Rick Wakeman and drummer White. "We're a bunch of guys who love making music," Anderson said. "We've been a brotherhood for 36 years now, on and off. We're very mature about who we are and we've learned to live and work with each other so well. The chemistry is just right. And it helps that everyone is playing so damn well." Close Window YesInThePress.com For site comments, inquiries, corrections, or additions, contact yitp@yesservices.com