Union Live
Yes · 2011
110 min · 13 tracks · progressive rock
A dynamic live performance blending intricate musicianship with the expansive soundscapes of progressive rock.
Top tracks — play these first
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Yours Is No Disgrace Start here — This track exemplifies Yes's signature blend of complex arrangements and emotive lyrics, serving as a high point in their live performances.
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Awaken — A sprawling epic that showcases the band's technical prowess and thematic depth, 'Awaken' is a centerpiece of their live repertoire.
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Roundabout — 'Roundabout' stands out as one of Yes's most recognizable tracks, featuring intricate guitar work and memorable melodies that resonate with audiences.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The live performance captures Yes's intricate musicianship but lacks the tight cohesion of studio albums.
What we noticed
- Several tracks are medleys, combining multiple songs into cohesive performances that highlight transitions between themes.
- 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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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
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
- patiently unfolding musical landscapes
- engaging live performance energy
- immersive listening for deep focus
- cathartic crescendos throughout
Maybe skip if you
- prefer short, standalone tracks
- seek instant gratification
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Showcases Yes's enduring legacy and relevance after decades in the industry.
- Themes
- progressive rock legacy· live performance energy· musical evolution
- Career context
- Released in 2011, Union Live captures Yes at a pivotal moment, showcasing their enduring legacy after decades in the industry. This album follows a series of lineup changes and reflects the band's ability to adapt while remaining true to their progressive roots.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Genesis· King Crimson· Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Heart of the Sunrise
The shift from reflective verses to soaring choruses emphasizes a journey from introspection to liberation.
This structural choice amplifies the emotional intensity, illustrating how transitions can enhance thematic storytelling within the song.
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Intro / Firebird Suite 3:14
- 2 Yours Is No Disgrace Start here 15:13
- 3 Rhythm of Love 5:12
- 4 Heart of the Sunrise 11:00
- 5 Clap / Mood for a Day 6:43
- 6 Make It Easy / Owner of a Lonely Heart 6:33
- 7 I’ve Seen All Good People 7:22
Disc 2
- 1 Solly’s Beard 6:31
- 2 Saving My Heart for You 5:08
- 3 Whitefish / Amazing Grace 9:58
- 4 Rick Wakeman Solo 4:27
- 5 Awaken 19:26
- 6 Roundabout 9:40
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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