What does Going for the One sound like?

A blend of intricate melodies and soaring harmonies, steeped in the grandeur of progressive rock's golden age. Rooted in progressive rock and art rock. Start with "Going for the One".

Is Going for the One a good place to start with Yes?

Yes, Going for the One is recommended as a starting point for new Yes listeners. A blend of intricate melodies and soaring harmonies, steeped in the grandeur of progressive rock's golden age. Released on July 22, 1977, 'Going for the One' marked Yes's return after a brief hiatus and their first album featuring keyboardist Patrick Moraz. This album followed the ambitious 'Relayer' (1974) and showcased a shift towards a more accessible sound while retaining their complex musical roots.

Who is Going for the One for?

Going for the One works well if you're into steady pacing with gradual builds, immersive journey towards climax and vibrant melodies for focused listening.

How many songs are on Going for the One?

Going for the One has 5 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Going for the One

Yes · 1977

38 min · 5 tracks · progressive rock

A blend of intricate melodies and soaring harmonies, steeped in the grandeur of progressive rock's golden age.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Going for the One Start here — The title track opens with an infectious energy that encapsulates the band’s adventurous spirit while showcasing Moraz’s innovative keyboard work.
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Wonderous Stories — This track blends lyrical storytelling with lush melodies, highlighting Jon Anderson's ethereal vocals and becoming one of Yes's defining songs.
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Awaken — The epic closer combines intricate arrangements and spiritual themes, offering a profound listening experience that epitomizes the band’s progressive ethos.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

68 /100

Alpine

Higher than 93% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and strong performances, though it has some pacing issues.

What we noticed

Each song incorporates multiple sections, often transitioning between softer melodies and more intense instrumental passages.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady pacing with gradual builds
immersive journey towards climax
vibrant melodies for focused listening
reflective moments of expansive sound

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
avoid long, unfolding compositions

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Re-established Yes's reputation after a hiatus and featured popular single 'Wonderous Stories'.
Themes: spiritual awakening· grandiose storytelling· keyboard innovation
Career context: Released on July 22, 1977, 'Going for the One' marked Yes's return after a brief hiatus and their first album featuring keyboardist Patrick Moraz. This album followed the ambitious 'Relayer' (1974) and showcased a shift towards a more accessible sound while retaining their complex musical roots.
Stylistic neighbors: Genesis· King Crimson· Emerson, Lake & Palmer

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Turn of the Century

The narrative shifts from third-person reflections to intimate revelations about personal growth and transformation.

This choice allows listeners to connect deeply with the emotional core of the song, emphasizing vulnerability in the face of change.