Artista: Yes Album: Going for the One

Anno: 1977
Tempo: 38:42

Going for the One: l'album dei Yes che ha segnato la storia del progressive rock

If you're a fan of progressive rock, you've probably heard of the legendary band Yes. This British group was founded in the 60s and soon became one of the most popular bands in the genre. Their music is characterized by complex arrangements, virtuosic musicianship, and epic song structures. However, even among Yes's impressive body of work, there's one album that stands out: Going for the One. In this blog post, we'll explore the context in which this album was created, the standout tracks, and some of the criticism the band and the album have received.

To understand the impact of Going for the One, it's important to look at the context in which it was created. By 1977, Yes had already released several critically acclaimed albums, such as Fragile and Close to the Edge. However, the band's popularity had started to wane, and they were looking to reinvent themselves. Going for the One was their attempt to do just that. They recruited new keyboardist Rick Wakeman, reinvented their sound, and worked on creating their most accessible album to date.

So, what are the standout tracks on this album? There are several. Turn of the Century is a hauntingly beautiful song that showcases the band's harmonies and lyrical skill. Awaken is an epic, 15-minute long track that features some of the band's most complex arrangements. Parallels is a more upbeat track with a memorable guitar riff that will stick with you long after the song has ended.

Despite its critical acclaim, Going for the One has received some criticism over the years. Some fans and critics argue that the album lacks the complexity and virtuosity of the band's earlier work. Others claim that some of the tracks, such as Wonderous Stories, are too commercial and don't fit with the band's overall sound. However, these criticisms are in the minority, and the album remains one of the defining works of progressive rock.

In conclusion, Going for the One is a masterpiece of progressive rock that still holds up today. Its accessible, melodic sound marked a turning point in the band's career and helped solidify Yes as one of the most important bands in the genre. If you haven't given this album a listen yet, it's definitely worth your time. Who knows, it may become one of your favorites too.