In a recent interview, legendary guitarist Steve Howe of the iconic progressive rock band Yes, shared his personal favorites from the band's extensive catalog. What makes this particularly fascinating is the insight it provides into the evolution of Yes and Howe's own musical journey.
Howe's choices primarily reflect the band's golden era of the 1970s, with four out of five selections hailing from that decade. This era, as Howe puts it, was marked by a certain "wonderful innocence" that seems to have resonated deeply with him.
The 70s Innocence
Howe's love for the 70s Yes is evident in his choice of 'South Side of the Sky' from the album 'Fragile'. This track, with its three distinct sections, showcases the band's experimental nature and the diverse influences that came together to create their unique sound. Howe acknowledges that while he may not have brought those specific influences to the table, he appreciates how they added a certain lightness to the song.
A detail that I find especially interesting is the use of a spinning microphone to create the "whooshing" live sound for the guitar solo section. It's a testament to the band's innovative spirit and their willingness to experiment with unconventional techniques.
The Magic of 'Turn of the Century'
'Turn of the Century' from 'Going for the One' is another favorite of Howe's. He describes the process of creating this song as a "real vortex", suggesting a deep and intense creative journey. The song draws on the softer side of Yes, reminiscent of tracks like 'And You and I' and 'Wonderous Stories'. Howe's appreciation for this song lies in its magical quality and the way it encapsulates the essence of Yes.
Archetypal Yes
Moving on to 'Siberian Khatru' from 'Close to the Edge', Howe highlights the song's archetypal elements, representing the band's sound during that period. He suggests that the band might have benefited from looking back to this era more often when working on later material. This raises a deeper question about the band's creative process and how they drew inspiration from their own past.
The Drama of 'Tempus Fugit'
'Tempus Fugit' from the album 'Drama' is a standout for Howe, particularly the dynamic and speedy performance of the song. The addition of Trevor Horn and Geoff Downes to the band is seen as a turning point, providing a new direction and ease to their music. Howe's personal involvement in shaping the structure of the song adds a layer of intimacy to his appreciation for it.
The Challenge of 'The Revealing Science of God'
Lastly, Howe chooses 'The Revealing Science of God (Dance of the Dawn)' from 'Tales from Topographic Oceans'. This double album was a significant challenge for the band, and Howe's description of the construction, rehearsal, and studio process highlights the intense dedication and belief required to bring such a project to life. The song represents the beginning of the album, and Howe's choice reflects his belief in the power of starting strong.
In conclusion, Howe's favorites offer a glimpse into the heart of Yes' music, showcasing the band's experimental nature, their ability to draw from diverse influences, and their unwavering dedication to their craft. Personally, I think it's a testament to the enduring appeal of Yes that even after all these years, their music continues to inspire and captivate listeners and musicians alike.
