In a recent interview with Prog magazine, renowned guitarist and founding member of Yes, Steve Howe, revealed his favorite songs from the band's extensive catalog. Interestingly, Howe's top picks predominantly hail from the 1970s, a period he fondly describes as having a "wonderful innocence."
Howe's appreciation for the 70s era is evident in his choice of songs, each showcasing the band's unique style and creativity during that time. One of his favorites, "Turn of the Century" from the album Going for the One, showcases the band's ability to create deep and magical music. Howe praises the song's connection to Jon Anderson's lyrics about a sculptor, and the project-like nature of its creation.
Another standout track, "Siberian Khatru" from Close to the Edge, is a testament to the band's innovative approach. Howe reflects on how the song's elements resonate with the band's earlier work, particularly during the Close to the Edge era. He suggests that they could have explored these ideas further, indicating a missed opportunity for experimentation.
Howe also highlights the dynamic nature of "Tempus Fugit" from the album Drama. He recalls the intense process of creating the song before the band met Trevor Horn and Geoff Downes, who significantly contributed to its direction. The song's speed and the band's drive to keep pushing forward are notable aspects of this era.
The 70s also brought forth the iconic "South Side of the Sky" from Fragile. Howe reminisces about the experimentation during the guitar solo section, where Mickey Tait's innovative use of a microphone created a unique live sound. This era's innocence and creativity are what Howe cherishes, setting it apart from later albums.
Lastly, Howe's favorite, "The Revealing Science of God (Dance of the Dawn)", from Tales from Topographic Oceans, is a powerful track that embodies the project's essence. He reflects on the challenges of creating a double album and the initial skepticism from band members. However, the song's impact and the band's perseverance ultimately led to its success.
Howe's deep connection to the 1970s era of Yes is evident in his choice of songs, each holding a special place in the band's history and his personal musical journey. His insights provide a fascinating glimpse into the creative process and the enduring legacy of Yes during this period.
