Michael

Well....
That was pretty much the most awesome YES concert I've seen. Although I don't have any 70's experiences.

The orchestra was just the right level last night. They helped colour GOD and Ritual, but took And You And I to a new level of beauty. It was incredible!

Because of last nights concert, I change my vote, the best Yes song ever is Gates. What an outstanding performance.

The entire show was bang on except for a few misshaps. Both Steve, during his solo work (The Clap), and Chris' solo work (Ritual), had a point where the old fingers wouldn't do what they wanted. Steve went back and tried it again, and went well. Chris kind of looked at the audience and laughed a bit at his miss.

Then during the end of cresendo of ST during the encore, as they were "trying" to wrap up, they kind of got lost. Jon, back at his keys, looked at Steve and gave him a look. Steve saw that and nodded over at Chris to say that it was his fault. Chris had his back to both of them jamming and Jon looked out to the audience (probably his wife), and his eyes kind of popped open. It was as if he was conveying, "Oh my, we've blown this a bit". All it meant was we had some extra Starship Trooper, which isn't all that bad.

As for the two new songs, In The Presense Of... is going to rank highly as a good Yes song. It has all of the elements that we look for in a good quality song. I think Steve even has three guitar changes, so it's a keeper.

On the negative side. I'd like to thank the two couples two rows in front of us, who decided to come back during "Soon", although there were only two seats. You all just stood there trying to figure out your tix, meanwhile blocking the view of fans, during one of the most emotional parts of the evening. I know you probably don't care about the song, but most of us did. Thanks again.

But, I don't want to leave the review on a negative note. I saw Masterworks in Reno last year, so it was great to get another chance to see GOD and Ritual, once they got the songs down tight. Last night showed that these guys could go on for a long time.

...and no, once the songs start playing, I do not get tired of I've Seen All Good People, and Roundabout'. I appreciate that they're still around to play them.

Go to the concerts people, and rejoice in the music and musicianship that is YES.