YES - MIRROR TO THE SKY (2023)

Yes has, like Jethro Tull, been enjoying a renaissance. Following ‘The Quest’ which entered the UK chart in the top 20, but disappointed some Yes purists, Yes fans will be happier with this one, especially opener ‘Cut to the Stars’ taking us back to the ‘Going for the One’ era, and the ambitious title track on which the lyrics approach the cryptic style of Jon Anderson. The themes that inhabit the album also occupy a similar space: look to the sky; are we alone? The striking Roger Dean cover reinforces the concept. Steve Howe’s guitar is the dominant musical force, but the others play a significant part in a unified project. There is also some orchestration, most effective in the cinematic denouement of the title track.