Magnification 2001

"I really like this one. I think it bears comparison with classics such as "Relayer", "Fragile", "Time and a Word", "Tales from Topographis Oceans", and "Close to the Edge" without being too similar to them, yet containing elements that long time fans will recognize. The production is top notch and musically, while shorter and simpler than the classics from the 70s, all of the tracks on this release are interesting listens - even the so-called pop-song "Don't Go" which is more reminiscent of "90125" (so there's a link there, too - another link's the guitar pattern in "Soft as a Dove" which vaguely resembles the main riff of "Hearts"). In fact, this album might be an appropriate gateway into the world of prog to "prog noobs"."

"Best Yes album since Relayer?

Sure, "Don't Go" is an out of place pop song where its deep texture can't save it. Other than that, I've never heard the band so inspired since the Machine Messiah composition in Drama. The composition is the best point of the album: the way all instruments and orchestra harmonize is sublime. The only other rock+orchestra effort that is as successful as this one is Rick Wakeman's "Journey". Those two epics might be the best songs they wrote since Machine Messiah (you can tell I love that song)."