Fragile
Yes · 1971
41 min · 9 tracks · progressive rock · art rock · symphonic rock
A kaleidoscopic blend of intricate harmonies and symphonic textures that define progressive rock's early 70s sound.
Why this album works
- Best for
- long, immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys layered, dense sonic textures
- Context
- Released on November 26, 1971, 'Fragile' was Yes's fourth album and marked their first with keyboardist Rick Wakeman, establishing a signature sound. This album followed the band's previous release, 'The Yes Album', which had solidified their growing reputation in the progressive rock scene.
- If you like
- progressive rock, art rock, symphonic rock
Fragile is an album by Yes, released in 1971. A kaleidoscopic blend of intricate harmonies and symphonic textures that define progressive rock's early 70s sound. 'Fragile' reached No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart and introduced the iconic track 'Roundabout', which became a staple of classic rock radio. Its innovative use of classical influences and complex arrangements significantly impacted the progressive rock genre, influencing countless musicians and bands that followed. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Fragile sound like?
A kaleidoscopic blend of intricate harmonies and symphonic textures that define progressive rock's early 70s sound. Rooted in progressive rock and art rock.
What makes Fragile by Yes notable?
'Fragile' reached No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart and introduced the iconic track 'Roundabout', which became a staple of classic rock radio. Its innovative use of classical influences and complex arrangements significantly impacted the progressive rock genre, influencing countless musicians and bands that followed. Released on November 26, 1971, 'Fragile' was Yes's fourth album and marked their first with keyboardist Rick Wakeman, establishing a signature sound. This album followed the band's previous release, 'The Yes Album', which had solidified their growing reputation in the progressive rock scene.
Who is Fragile for?
Fragile works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and layered, dense sonic textures.
How many songs are on Fragile?
Fragile has 9 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Roundabout Standout 8:35
- 2 Cans and Brahms (extracts from Brahms’ 4th Symphony in E minor, Third Movement) 1:42
- 3 We Have Heaven 1:39
- 4 South Side of the Sky 7:56
- 5 Five Per Cent for Nothing 0:37
- 6 Long Distance Runaround 3:30
- 7 The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus) 2:42
- 8 Mood for a Day Standout 3:02
- 9 Heart of the Sunrise Standout 11:24
Release Date
November 26, 1971
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
41 min 10 sec
Learn More
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.
