Topographic Drama – Live Across America
Yes · 2017
136 min · 13 tracks · progressive rock
A vivid tapestry of intricate arrangements and soaring vocals, blending classic prog rock with a contemporary live energy.
Top tracks — play these first
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Machine Messiah Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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And You and I: I. Cord of Life / II. Eclipse / III. The Preacher the Teacher / IV: Apocalypse — This medley encapsulates Yes's signature blend of lyrical depth and complex musicality, showcasing their ability to weave storytelling into intricate compositions.
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Heart of the Sunrise — An iconic track from their earlier work, its performance here highlights the band's dynamic range and emotional intensity, drawing on rich harmonies and powerful instrumentals.
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Roundabout — As one of Yes’s most recognizable songs, its inclusion serves as a celebration of their legacy while demonstrating the band’s tight cohesion and improvisational skills in a live setting.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album captures Yes's complex arrangements and vocal harmonies, reflecting their legacy while engaging with their live energy.
What we noticed
- The album features extended instrumental sections, with several tracks exceeding eight minutes, allowing for intricate solos and improvisation.
- Vocal harmonies are layered throughout, often featuring multiple members singing in unison or in counterpoint during climactic moments.
- Transitions between songs often include ambient interludes or thematic motifs that connect the pieces, enhancing the live experience.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. 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
- dynamic progression with peaks
- live energy for immersive experience
- extended tracks for deep engagement
- wave-like pacing for journeying
- soaring melodies and intricate musicianship
Maybe skip if you
- prefer short, standalone songs
- seek instant gratification
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Documents a pivotal tour, showcasing the band's enduring legacy and evolution.
- Themes
- American concert halls· progressive rock legacy· live improvisation energy
- Career context
- Released in 2017, this album captures Yes during their ongoing evolution, following their previous studio album 'Heaven & Earth' (2014). This live recording showcases the band's enduring legacy while featuring current members, including singer Jon Davison, who joined in 2012, emphasizing their ability to reinterpret classic material for modern audiences.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Genesis· King Crimson· Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Machine Messiah Start here 11:17
- 2 White Car 1:25
- 3 Does It Really Happen? 7:21
- 4 Into the Lens 9:02
- 5 Run Through the Light 5:08
- 6 Tempus Fugit 5:59
- 7 And You and I: I. Cord of Life / II. Eclipse / III. The Preacher the Teacher / IV: Apocalypse 11:14
- 8 Heart of the Sunrise 12:18
Disc 2
- 1 The Revealing Science of God: Dance of the Dawn 21:57
- 2 Leaves of Green 6:04
- 3 Ritual: Nous sommes du soleil 24:39
- 4 Roundabout 8:35
- 5 Starship Trooper: a. Life Seeker / b. Disillusion / c. Würm 11:45
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Thrak
King Crimson
Explores complex arrangements and live improvisation, capturing a progressive rock essence similar to Yes.
Octopus
Gentle Giant
Features intricate compositions and rich vocal harmonies that resonate with Yes's art rock sensibilities.
Images and Words
Dream Theater
Merges technical musicianship and soaring vocals, echoing the dynamic energy found in Yes's live performances.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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