Yes Immortalized at the House of Blues
John A. Bertels | Cortlandt Manor, NY United States | 11/24/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Though not the latest of "live" Yes shows and not the true classic lineup, this DVD represents an important period in the history of one of the most famous and influential progressive rock bands of all time.
Recorded at the House of Blues in Las Vegas during "The Ladder" tour in 1999, the staging provides an intimate setting for a classic performance. Igor Khoroshev (keyboards) and Billy Sherwood (guitar/vocals) were present in the Yes lineup at this particular point in time and each fills his role with classic Yes virtuosity.
In the absence of Rick Wakeman, some Yes fans might "snub their noses" at watching it, however, it is STILL Yes in one of their finest recorded performances. All of the old classic Yes tunes, e.g. "Yours Is No Disgrace", "Perpetual Change", "And You and I", "Your Move/I've Seen All Good People" as well as "Roundabout" are covered in classic Yes style. Although ALL of the concert was excellent, a nice surprise for me was watching "Awaken" performed "live"; Igor Khoroshev clearly demonstrated his ability by filling the stage with the presence of his various keyboards during this entire song. While it is true that stepping into the legendary shoes of Rick Wakeman is an impossible feat that virtually no one can approach, Mr. Khoroshev played all of the parts with exceptional ability.
I highly recommend this DVD. This smaller venue enables the viewer to see all of the Yes members more closely, as well as appreciate each one of their individual performances without missing any action. Some of my favorite footage during this:
-Steve Howe playing no fewer than three guitars during "And You and I".
-Chris Squire playing the triple-neck during "Awaken".
"