Ellen Weissbuch - Citrus College Clarion

Monday, May 30, 2022 5:51 PM

"Yes a cosmic quality with Wakeman's return"

by Ellen Weissbuch
Citrus College Clarion
October 5, 1977

Yes embarked on a world-wide tour at the Forum Sept. 24 with returning keyboardist, Rick Wakeman, and a new album, Going For The One. From the opening number, “The Venture,” the energy of the foursome could be felt throughout the auditorium. The show came off cosmically with a dazzling light show and animated films of space set to the music. The films, which were shown on a huge screen above the stage, were a new addition to the Yes stage presentation. One film of a dancer gave the music extra life. Yes played five songs from Going For The One including the title track, a hard rock number. The rest of the evening’s material was taken from The Yes Album and Close To the Edge, with the exception of the second encore number “Roundabout” from Fragile. Vocalist Jon Anderson enlarged his contribution to the show by playing guitar, harp, and percussion instruments throughout the evening. As usual Chris Squire and Steve Howe harmonized beautifully with Anderson as well as showing their talents on guitar. Alan White played synthesized drums. Wakeman was in high spirits the entire evening. He re-joined the band just prior to the recording of the latest album. Wakeman replaced Patrick Moraz who had taken Wakeman’s place after he left in ’74. Moraz may be the better player of the two but Wakeman’s style is more complementary to that of the band. Donovan Leitch opened the show with his 60’s balladeer and flowerchild tunes. About half the audience really got into his music and the other half didn’t come around until he played some of his older hits: “Hurdy Gurdy Man,” “Mellow Yellow,” and an encore of “Atlantis.” I admire Donovan for persisting in the industry but I doubt he will go very far with his newer compositions.

Steve

This was my first experience of Yes live, and only the third rock concert I'd ever attended. We were seated near the front, just off the performers' right side of the stage, and Steve Howe was just a few feet in front of us. Doesn't seem at all like 30 years ago; a very memorable and fulfilling experience for me, and surely a defining moment in my now 35-year admiration for Yes and its music.

I once acquired a bootleg recording of this show and regret that I have lost track of it over the years.

Sonny G.

This was a great concert. I had second row seats at this show. They are, YES, all amazing musicians. Thanks for putting this site together it is awesome. Donavan was great. Does anyone remember the song intergalactic laxative? I went to the 91 show in San Diego. I didn't have great seats but what a performance. That was the beginning of a disability that put me in a wheel chair. The band gave gifts to all those that were disabled because they showed up.
Thank you Yes.
Regards, Sonny