Yes

Yes, the iconic debut studio album by the renowned English rock band Yes, was first released in the UK on 25 July 1969 and later in the US on 15 October 1969 by Atlantic Records. This seminal work marked the beginning of a remarkable journey for the band, which had formed in the summer of 1968. After an extensive touring schedule across the United Kingdom, performing a mix of original material and rearranged cover versions, Yes signed with Atlantic in March 1969 and entered the recording studios at Advision and Trident.

The album 'Yes' is considered one of the first progressive rock albums, showcasing the band's unique sound and style. Vocalist Jon Anderson and bassist Chris Squire, the founding members of Yes, had a clear vision for their music, which was evident in this debut release. The album features a collection of eight short, pop-like tracks, including a cover of The Beatles' 'Every Little Thing', demonstrating the band's ability to reinterpret and make classic songs their own.

The tracklist includes 'Beyond and Before', 'I See You', 'Yesterday and Today', 'Looking Around', 'Harold Land', 'Every Little Thing', 'Sweetness', and 'Survival', all of which have been remastered in 2003 to enhance the listening experience. With a duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, this album is a testament to the band's innovative approach to music, blending elements of progressive rock, symphonic rock, art rock, and album rock.

Yes's debut album received a positive reception from critics and audiences alike, with 'Sweetness' being released as the lead single. Although guitarist Peter Banks disagreed with this choice, feeling it did not accurately represent the band's style, the album has stood the test of time, remaining a beloved and influential work in the progressive rock genre. Released on the Rhino/Elektra label, 'Yes' is an essential listen for fans of the band and the genre, offering a glimpse into the early days of one of the most iconic and enduring rock bands of all time.