Yes
Drama - Atlantic 1980
Tracks: 1. Machine Messiah / 2. White Car / 3. Does It Really Happen? / 4. Into the Lens / 5. Run Through the Light / 6. Tempus Fugit
Comments:
“Drama” from 1980 was Yes’ first album without Jon Anderson in front as lead vocalist. This is not immediately noticeable as his replacement, Trevor Horn, sounds a lot like Anderson – the vocals are probably sought produced in a way that the shift is as little noticeable as possible; like when Phil Collins took over the lead vocals in Genesis from Peter Gabriel.
On the instrumental side, the group’s backbone is largely intact, with Steve Howe, Chris Squire and Alan White still in the fold, without Rick Wakeman, though, replaced by Geoff Downes. The music is a somewhat logical extension of the predecessors “Tormato” and “Going For the One” – and the album is at least as good as the former.
Most often with Yes, there are several songs of longer duration, with complex compositions with different musical pieces, which in many cases are virtuosically pieced together. The opening track “Machine Messiah” is a fine example of this, with several different parts, several of which are quite melodic / catchy. A nice opening where you are not likely to notice Horn has replaced Anderson.
“White Car” is a short melodic number with folkish vocals. “Has it really happened” is another and longer number pieced together from different parts – may well seem a little loud and for me really a bit disappointing.
“Into the Lens” is another long track, which, unlike its predecessor, is quite catchy; not least the refrain “I am a camera”. The track was the album’s only single and for me a highlight.
“Run Through the Light” is a relatively ordinary rocker and a bit forgettable. “Tempus Fugit” is a hectic track with some wild guitar parts - not unexciting.
Although I personally at this point, 1980, was beginning to lose interest in the group, mostly due to the new wave that at this time offered many new exciting acts. The group did, however, have a brief renaissance (with me) with “Owner of a Lonely Heart” from 1983.
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