Yes-Time and Word (1970)

Yes' second album represented their firm musical proposal based on orchestral arrangements, predominant keyboards and an eclectic mix of sounds that distanced themselves from the classic rock of the time, which was based on the thousands of volts of distorted electric guitars and powerful hard rock. Recorded with the same lineup as their self-titled debut (Anderson-Squire-Kaye-Bruford-Banks), the album's repertoire consists of covers and original compositions. Among the former are Richie Havens' iconic "No Opportunity Necessary, No Experience Needed", a Woodstock anthem, and Stephen Stills' "Everydays". On the other hand, the songs written by Jon Anderson and Chris Squire are the album's highlights, such as the atmospheric "Astral Traveller", the celestial and complex "The Prophet", and the deeply poetic melodies of "Clear Days" and "Time and Word". Anderson's emotionally charged vocals, along with Squire's aggressive bass, Bruford's persistent and jazzy drumming, Tony Cox's precise orchestral arrangements, and Kaye's baroque keyboards, are the most noteworthy aspects of an album that, despite its undeniable quality, was still far from Yes's best work.