Is Yesyears a good place to start with Yes?

Yes, Yesyears is recommended as a starting point for new Yes listeners. A sprawling anthology of intricate melodies and soaring harmonies that encapsulates the evolution of progressive rock. Released in 1991, Yesyears arrived during a time when Yes had seen numerous lineup changes and stylistic shifts. This compilation marked their return to the spotlight after a period of mixed commercial success, showcasing tracks from their early formative years through to their ’80s pop-infused sound. It served as both a retrospective and a celebration of their legacy in progressive rock.

Yesyears works well if you're into dynamic journey with emotional peaks, immersive listening for reflective moments and exploratory sessions with varied moods.

How many songs are on Yesyears?

Yesyears has 46 tracks, running approximately 291 minutes.

Yesyears

Yes · 1991

291 min · 46 tracks · progressive rock

A sprawling anthology of intricate melodies and soaring harmonies that encapsulates the evolution of progressive rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Something's Coming Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Roundabout — This track exemplifies Yes's signature blend of complex arrangements and catchy hooks, making it one of their most recognizable songs. Its intricate guitar work and vocal harmonies showcase the band's technical prowess and innovative spirit.
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Owner of a Lonely Heart — This song marked a significant commercial peak for Yes, blending progressive elements with a radio-friendly sound that helped it reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its distinctive riff and memorable chorus highlight the band’s ability to evolve while maintaining their core identity.
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Heart of the Sunrise — A quintessential example of Yes's early symphonic style, this track features dynamic shifts in tempo and mood, blending powerful instrumental sections with emotive vocals. Its structure and lyrical depth exemplify the band's artistic ambition.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic journey with emotional peaks
immersive listening for reflective moments
exploratory sessions with varied moods
long-form pieces that unfold gradually
engaging crescendos for deep focus

Maybe skip if you

prefer short, standalone tracks
want instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This anthology renewed interest and showcased Yes's influential tracks to a wider audience.
Themes: progressive rock evolution· 80s pop crossover· symphonic complexity
Career context: Released in 1991, Yesyears arrived during a time when Yes had seen numerous lineup changes and stylistic shifts. This compilation marked their return to the spotlight after a period of mixed commercial success, showcasing tracks from their early formative years through to their ’80s pop-infused sound. It served as both a retrospective and a celebration of their legacy in progressive rock.
Stylistic neighbors: Genesis· King Crimson· Emerson, Lake & Palmer

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Tracklist

Disc 1

1 Something's Coming Start here 7:06
2 Survival 6:17
3 Every Little Thing 5:42
4 Then 4:18
5 Everydays 4:08
6 Sweet Dreams 3:48
7 No Opportunity Necessary, No Experience Needed 4:48
8 Time and a Word 4:30
9 Starship Trooper: a. Life Seeker - b. Disillusion - c. Würm 9:25
10 Yours Is No Disgrace 9:41
11 I've Seen All Good People: a. Your Move - b. All Good People 6:53
12 Long Distance Runaround 3:30
13 The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus) 2:36

Disc 2

1 Roundabout 8:30
2 Heart of the Sunrise 10:34
3 America 4:03
4 Close to the Edge: I. The Solid Time of Change / II. Total Mass Retain / III. I Get Up I Get Down / IV. Seasons of Man 18:33
5 Ritual: Nous sommes du soleil 21:32
6 Sound Chaser 9:21

Disc 3

1 Soon 4:06
2 Amazing Grace 2:31
3 Vevey, Part One 1:06
4 Wonderous Stories 3:50
5 Awaken 15:36
6 Montreux's Theme 2:26
7 Vevey, Part Two 0:56
8 Going for the One 5:31
9 Money 3:11
10 Abilene 3:55
11 Don't Kill the Whale 3:54
12 On the Silent Wings of Freedom 7:45
13 Does It Really Happen? 6:29
14 Tempus Fugit 5:14
15 Run With the Fox 4:08
16 I'm Down 2:31

Disc 4

1 Make It Easy 6:08
2 It Can Happen 6:01
3 Owner of a Lonely Heart 4:27
4 Hold On 5:15
5 Shoot High Aim Low 7:00
6 Rhythm of Love 4:46
7 Love Will Find a Way 4:49
8 Changes 7:33
9 And You and I: I. Cord of Life / II. Eclipse / III. The Preacher the Teacher / IV. Apocalypse 10:48
10 Heart of the Sunrise 10:51
11 Love Conquers All 4:57