The Ladder cover

The Ladder

Yes · 1999

60 min · 11 tracks · progressive rock · art rock · symphonic rock

A harmonious blend of progressive rock intricacies and melodic accessibility, reflecting Yes's enduring legacy.

Why this album works

Best for
long, immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys gradual builds and payoffs
Context
Released in 1999, 'The Ladder' was Yes's first album after a six-year hiatus, following the less commercially successful 'Union'. This album marked a significant return to form for the band, showcasing a revitalized lineup with vocalist Jon Anderson and guitarist Trevor Rabin returning to their roots in progressive rock while appealing to a contemporary audience.
If you like
progressive rock, art rock, symphonic rock

The Ladder is an album by Yes, released in 1999. A harmonious blend of progressive rock intricacies and melodic accessibility, reflecting Yes's enduring legacy. 'The Ladder' was well-received by critics, highlighted by its chart presence, peaking at number 36 on the Billboard 200. The album is often noted for successfully bridging classic Yes elements with modern production techniques, influencing both fans and newer progressive rock acts during the late 90s. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does The Ladder sound like?

A harmonious blend of progressive rock intricacies and melodic accessibility, reflecting Yes's enduring legacy. Rooted in progressive rock and art rock.

What makes The Ladder by Yes notable?

'The Ladder' was well-received by critics, highlighted by its chart presence, peaking at number 36 on the Billboard 200. The album is often noted for successfully bridging classic Yes elements with modern production techniques, influencing both fans and newer progressive rock acts during the late 90s. Released in 1999, 'The Ladder' was Yes's first album after a six-year hiatus, following the less commercially successful 'Union'. This album marked a significant return to form for the band, showcasing a revitalized lineup with vocalist Jon Anderson and guitarist Trevor Rabin returning to their roots in progressive rock while appealing to a contemporary audience.

Who is The Ladder for?

The Ladder works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and gradual builds and payoffs.

How many songs are on The Ladder?

The Ladder has 11 tracks, running approximately 60 minutes.

Tracklist

11 tracks·60:25

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Homeworld (The Ladder) Standout 9:34
  • 2 It Will Be a Good Day (The River) Standout 4:53
  • 3 Lightning Strikes 4:35
  • 4 Can I? 1:31
  • 5 Face to Face 5:03
  • 6 If Only You Knew 5:42
  • 7 To Be Alive (Hep Yadda) 5:07
  • 8 Finally Standout 6:01
  • 9 The Messenger 5:12
  • 10 New Language 9:19
  • 11 Nine Voices (Longwalker) 3:22

Release Date

September 20, 1999

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

60 min 25 sec