Tales From Topographic Oceans is Yes’s first double album, and their first concept album, based on the four shastras of Hinduism: the sruti, the smriti, puranas, and tantras. It was the first studio album to feature Alan White, who replaced Bill Bruford during their tour for Close to the Edge, and some of his performances were included on their first live album, Yessongs. Rick Wakeman left the band due to frustration during the recordings, beginning his solo career with Journey to the Center of the Earth. The album went to #1 in the UK, and #6 in the US.
Members:
Jon Anderson: vocals, harp, percussion
Steve Howe: guitar, electric sitar, lute, backing vocals
Chris Squire: bass, backing vocals
Rick Wakeman: keyboards
Alan White: drums, percussion
The Tracks:
- “The Revealing Science of God (Dance of the Dawn)”: Six minutes were originally cut from this song to make it fit on the vinyl. It’s got some awesome soloing from Howe.
- “The Remembering (High the Memory)”: Some beautiful lute and sitar passages on this, and great bass pumps.
- “The Ancients (Giants Under the Sun)”: Howe and Wakeman rule on this track.
- “Ritual (Nous Sommes du Soleil)”: This is White’s time to shine, with some great rhythmic flushes.
Review: I don’t get the reception for this album. I agree with Rolling Stone, but seriously, a paltry 2.2 from Pitchfork? (What kind of rating is a .2? ) The album is definitely among Yes’s best, and I love Dean’s stunning artwork.
Grade: A
Aspie Catholic 