Blue Prints On Buggies

Circa

2007

(2007)

Anglo-American

I think this record will turn-out to be a nice surprise for Yes fans. Composed of two Yes members - Tony Kaye and Alan White - a semi-member/associate, Billy Sherwood on bass, and finally Jimmy Haun on vocals and guitar, who evidently played on the Union tour, but I have my doubts. What the hell did he play? They had two of everything, Jon Anderson being the exception, Anyway, I digress. I didn't really expect much out of this record initially, 'cos the Sherwood/Squire collaboration was pretty lame, and during the short time that Sherwood was in Yes, they seemed to be treading water. Turns out this record is very rewarding - lot of nice thick organs from Kaye's initial turn in Yes, classic pounding rhythm section, and Haun's amazing Howe-like guitar work. The vocals are very pleasing, combining Yes-like melodies and harmonies, although Haun really has more of a Phil Collins-like voice. Makes for an interesting sound. Songs are good, nice production, ocassionally a little slick, but for the most part, a very enjoyable listening experience. I wouldn't call this record a classic, but it is a very good representation of Classic Yes, which is a sound many of us hold so dear. Recommended.