@@SarahDengler let me suggest you a couple of italian prog gems.......Impressioni di Settembre by PFM (better if live version) and Profondo rosso byGoblin from the homonym movie soundtrack...and if you want i could suggest you many other gems from my country
The amazing thing about this song , is that it was put out in 1977 , 45 years ago , and it's still fresh and exciting . Nothing outdated about the song . It is more relevant now in 2022 , than it was in 1977 . Great music never goes out of style. Way ahead of its time . And you can always discover little nuances in 2022 !
This is one of my absolute favorite songs. For me it is always like a big prayer. It is remarkable how Yes managed to create a song with these weird rhythms and across the keys, which exudes so much harmony and passion and at the same time calmness.
No matter how many times I have listened to Awaken since 1977 I am still out of my body by the end. Maybe tearing up, too. So beautiful so see the young lady tearing up as well.
Thanks for reacting to Awaken. I think not many reactors listen because of the piece's length, but boy is it worth it! I've been listening to it for 40 years and it still gives me goose bumps. Rick Wakeman and Chris Squire at their very best Its best listened to in the dark because you need to absorb it I think you all got it!
It is truly a masterpiece. 5 virtuoso musicians and poets with otherworldly vocals. Music like this requires multiple listens and like fine wine will seem better every time. I think it's a difficult first track if you're unfamiliar with long form progressive rock. I recommend Roundabout as an intro to Yes.
Jon Anderson is a cosmic lyricist who spins mere words into stories of another dimension. His album Olias of Sunhillow is like a musical Alice in wonderland.Saw Yes 3 times. They. Were.Unbelievable.
I love "Awaken" by Yes. For me, this work sums up Yes's approach to music. A masterpiece. But some people find progressive rock uncomfortable, perhaps because it's so different from popular music on the radio.
Hi Sarah. Awaken was the most amazing piece of music i had ever heard when i first played "Going for the One" 1982 ish. Seeing yes perform it 20 years later was unbelievable.
Well I said it was good lol.A great reaction. have a look at turn of the century from the same album.Thank you and all the best from England and stay safe young lady.
Just to see you younger guys embrace and takin in this masterpiece makes me cry, I was 14 when this album was released... In thoose days this was mindblowing as well,,,
It is a masterpiece. Yes started in 68', they are still together, though members leave and come back, etc. This type of music is so complex, intense, wild and unique that you need to hear it many times to really appreciate it. Not familiar with Goblin, but a lot of bands are influenced by Yes (Rush, Dream Theater, etc). Check out anything from the same album (Going For The One) such as Turn Of The Century, or go back and start with Roundabout, I've Seen All Good People, Starship Trooper. They have music that really jams, and really mellow beautiful stuff, and catchy stuff like from the 1980's album 90125.
I so loved all ya all's reaction to my favorite band. I have listened to Yes and gone to their concerts for 50 years. When I watched you I felt like I was listening again as a young teenage boy. Thank you for the memories. Love to you all.
What a fanatasic way to wake up this morn, to Awaken... It is indeed a spiritual tune, with lyrics inspired by the great book Autobiography of a Yogi. Although it may seem hard to believe, the album that this gem is on (Going for the One) marks the shift of Yes from their peak prog platform -- found in Tales of Topographic Oceans and Relayer lps IMO -- to a somewhat diminished pop band in the 1980s and beyond. Thanx for the collab reaction, which added a fine dynamic.
My daughter is 23 and this is her favorite Yes song. The first time she saw the ocean was when she was in Hawaii and she had this playing. She knows this is my favorite band and has been since 1976 so a couple of years ago she surprised me with tickets to their 50th anniversary tour. We both cried. I've seen them countless times and they never disappoint.
Once again, your reaction takes me back to the first time I heard this incredible piece of music. Thank you so much for posting this! Every time I watch one of your reaction videos, it's like hearing it again for the first time and sharing it with another fan, just being blown away by how amazing this piece is. I still get goosebumps hearing it, picking things out with each listen, marveling at how these five men worked together and brought the world such a masterpiece of beauty. Watching your reactions (if you'll forgive an unintentional pun) awoke all the amazement and wonder I felt the first time I heard it. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Ladies and gentlemen Chris Squire and Yes the greatest show on earth. Excellent Sarah, I'm so proud of you, you truly understand the presence of the divine in Yes music. You have listened to 3 of their masterpieces so may I suggest a love song called Turn Of The Century or my favorite South Side Of The Sky. Saw Yes 36 times.
The song sounds "churchy" because the organ parts were played on the organ at St. Martin's in the town of Vevey Switzerland. Parallels was done over a phone line live while the band played back at the studio. Awaken was an overdub recorded at the church. I remember it well from when the album came out because it was impressive to get such high fidelity over a phone line. Listen again and enjoy the echo's reverberating through the building. What a great sound. The album was not well received at the time since it was so different than the previous couple of albums and had a number of short songs. I always liked it, and as with all YES music it grows on you. I enjoy watching these first takes with Yes because it tend to blow peoples minds, but the reality is that with all of the best music from this band it takes time to fully appreciate it. Perhaps the rest of your life. Yes was my first concert and always one of my favorites.
So enjoyed seeing you all enjoy your first listen to this glorious piece of music. And so pleased you’ve all been ‘Awakened’ 🎶❤️🎶 It’s a Epic Masterpiece indeed, genius. No wonder you’ve a smile on your faces at the end. This wasn’t your first Yes experience Sarah, but you clearly feel it. And as it was your friends first Yes listen, it’s certainly a incredible way to start and you could see they were feeling it too. This Song will be in your hearts for life. Goosebumps every time. I’ve loved this since the day it was released in 1977 and I still get goosebumps now. Yes were formed in 1968 and this ‘Going For The One’ Album, was their 8th Studio Album. You will surely enjoy the journey of listening to them from the beginning, over time, as there are just so many wonderful creations on so many of their Albums. Just my own view, of course. So many of Yes’ epic creations are long tracks, broken down into many ‘Parts or Pieces’, with so many transitions. I’ve always said Yes’ Music is a acquired taste, not for everyone. But I fell in love with them in 1970, after hearing ‘Yours Is No Disgrace’, from their 3rd Album, ‘The Yes Album’. Back to ‘Awaken’ though. If you haven’t seen it, watch the 2003 performance of Awaken at the Montreux Festival, if you’d like to see a stunning live performance. There you’ll see the magical fingers of Rick Wakeman and how he creates those beautiful Orchestral and Choral sounds. Breathtaking to see all the greats of the Band at work. ua-cam.com/video/nDXccU0xgNo/v-deo.html And for another incredible version, Jon Anderson with ‘Todmobile’, in 2013. Amazing. ua-cam.com/video/d_Va3e_52TE/v-deo.html I was also lucky enough to see Live, another incredible version, in both 2017 and 2018. By YES featuring ‘ARW’, (Anderson, Rabin & Wakeman). You should hear Jon’s voice now, in his 70’s. Phenomenal! ua-cam.com/video/EUbIIrTa4xw/v-deo.html Awaken has to be my all time ‘Yes’ favourite. But there are so many that are so close. Speaking of Jon Anderson ‘Epics’. If you haven’t come across it yet, There’s a quite simply, sensational track, to a stunningly breathtaking Video, called, ‘Horizon’, by Jon (Anderson) & Vangelis, from their 1983 Album, ‘Private Collection’. A beautiful piece of music. This is a must for you. It’s 23 minutes long, but I know you won’t regret it. What a journey of emotions. ua-cam.com/video/OSIr5mx3YA8/v-deo.html I’ve been a ‘Yes’ fan since 1970, (Aged 14), so I’ve been blessed to grow up with and enjoy this wonderful music, virtually all my life. Thankfully, you are making sure it lives on forevermore. Hope you don’t mind me sending these links your way and you get to try them. I hope you don’t miss out. Please enjoy and Thank you. 🎶❤️🎶
@@SarahDengler You’re welcome, Sarah. I’m not suggesting you do reaction videos to all these links. (Unless there’s one you choose to). Mainly just for you to experience them and see what you think. Anyway, thank you and enjoy. 🎶❤️🎶
'Reminds me of church'- the organ parts where actually recorded on an organ in St. Martin's church in Vevey, Switzerland. It is a huge old organ, with 3 manual keyboards and over 3500 pipes. Rick Wakeman, considered on of the best keyboardists living, described the experience as "absolute magic". "Parallels" on the same album also use the same organ.
@@doomhunter697 You're, of course, entitled to your opinion. Have you heard the rehearsal session tapes, though, with the much more solid rhythm section, and with the screeching pipe organ mixed much lower? (like could have been done in the room with Rick's C-3 instead of a telephone connection?) It's possible you could could change your mind about this, my friend.
Good old Rick wakeman on keyboards. They are all classically trained musicians. I started listening to Yes when I was about 7. I'm now 60 & still amazed at the journey they take you on.
Recorded in Montreaux, Switzerland from October 1976 to April 1977, this L.P. marked keyboard wizard Rick Wakeman's return to the band after having pursued a solo career after Yes' 1973 'Tales from Topographic Oceans'. Phenomenal L.P. record from a phenomenal band.
Hi Sarah, I first heard this as a 15year old boy and was very lucky to see Yes perform this on their Going for the One tour - the first gig I ever saw. Your reaction is excellent again. You get Yes. I don't think there really is a definitive meaning to the lyrics and I think the band set alot of their music to be personal interpretation. Personally I see it as a journey. I see the first section to be the an awakening (of the spirit) - "awaken gentle mass touch". It then recognizes the "workings of man" then after a period of peace and tranquility Jon Anderson (vocals) summons the "Masters" and in doing so the music takes off, ascending into the higher levels of existence before returning you back to where you came from though now with this new understanding now close to you. But that's the joy of this music. You can interpret it how you want... Try some of the earlier Yes - Anything from 'The Yes Album' is worth listening to but if you're brave go back before then... Top job Sarah...
Actually Andy I like the early Yes albums. Sure they are not way up there as towering mega masterpieces, but a band has to start somewhere. I always like to find out how the band got to those lofty levels and work out what influences there are in the early music. The early albums a good and if any other band made them they would be considered great, because for most bands that level would be their peak. But Yes went so very much further.
Jon Anderson has hinted that it's about revelation. He also stated that it was largely inspired by a Christ allegory he read called The Singer, written by Calvin Miller.
Same experience Andy. Saw the G4TO tour in Philadelphia. My 1st concert & was a present for my 15th birthday. Indelible memory burned into my mind that evening.
Hi Sarah you are right this song is about spirituality one of Jon Anderson's favorite topics. In this song you can hear so many different genres of music and influences from Eastern and Western themes. For sure the pipe organ does put that Western church influence in there but also puts a classical Bach sound in there too. The emotions, energy and life they build into the crescendo are totally off the scale. I have not heard anything like it elsewhere, it is one of pieces that sounds perfect no matter how loud you play it. This is truly a masterpiece and I can tell you those emotions and feelings it gives will get stronger with each listen. It is one of the best song ever. You will always enjoy the magic it can deliver even after 45 years. I can say that because us Yes fans know that as fact because it is still absolute emotional magic for us. Thank you for taking this journey and sharing it with us. You should go back to "The Yes Album" and "Fragile" and pick any songs and discover how Yes developed their music and got to this level. Finally, it was great to see this song was magical for you too, that is the key.
IF I remember correctly the keyboardist recorded the organ parts in a church in Switzerland. The first time I heard this, in 1977, it brought me to tears. Thanks for reacting to one of my favorite bands.
It's never gonna be a ' this is a tad wearing, if not old ' when I'm able to witness individuals here some masterful yes for the first time. It's always such a gift to see the joy crash the various central nervous systems. The 70s yes were simply one symphony after another. Sublime.
Once you know this song ( five or six listens at the very least) and understand what’s coming, it still catches your emotions every time . Love it ! ✌️
An absolutely magnificent piece of music I listen to this virtually every week , my favourite Yes track by far I wouldn’t say I’d listen to it trying to go to sleep it’s to energise my spirit , love it ❤️
Very good way of interpreting the lyrics 👏 Sarah. I completely agree. "Awaken" really soars above inspired by the human spirit and all the wonder that it beholds. Great review 👏
Great review Sarah. Know this review is a couple of years old but I really enjoy listening to reviews of music from my era (1970-80’s). This is indeed a masterpiece by Yes. You sell yourself short on the interpretation. It is up to the listener to decide what the message is but it is truly spiritual as you suggest. Thanks again. Really enjoyed watching!
Similar to “Close To The Edge,” I think “Awaken” is one of the more challenging songs from Yes, and may require several listens to really comprehend all of the changes and surprises that occur. I’ve listened too many times to count, and I’ve never fully comprehended all the lyrics, I prefer to just absorb the poetry, but you are right on track that it is about spirituality and enlightenment. The music connects right into that - it lifts you and soars if you are prepared for it - and I’m glad that you are! There is another Yes song that I think will have this same uplifting effect on you - one that is rarely, if ever reacted to for some reason, but it’s another masterpiece, and it’s my recommendation as you continue on your Yes journey: “To Be Over” from the Relayer album.
You ladies are not only very beautiful but seem to be very open minded willing to listen to brilliant and out of the box music that I love and grew up with. I really enjoyed your reactions and your comments. Stay safe and keep on jamming to old Yes classics.
Ich bin seit 1972 von YES ergriffen begeistert inspiriert und je länger ich diese Musik in mir tragen darf immer wieder neu entdecken darf, umso mehr bin ich überzeugt dass diese Musik größer ist als die Band selbst und immer größer werden wird. ❤❤❤
Thanks Sarah! Try Jon Anderson's Olias of Sunhillow, another masterpiece of an album, in which he plays all the instruments and sings all the vocals. I've known Jon for many years, and he always makes everyone he meets feel special. Also his music with Vangelis [Jon & Vangelis] is astounding!
So cool you found your way to the YES rabbit hole....... Enjoyed the collaborative exchange...but Yes offerings sort of beg to get lost in..... I would suggest "Turn of the Century" from the same album ...just for it's beauty....Keep enjoying the experience.....
Excellent reaction. You got it totally. Their lyrics are better understood in real time together with the music, you get the feeling, and more exactly is having a spiritual experience. Yes are the best. And you got me subbed now. Thx 👍💪🤙.
Love the commentary/reaction while the music plays. Some don't like that, but I actually prefer it. I like watching and listening to people react to music while it's playing, especially the incredible music of YES
Rick Wakeman plays a real cathedral pipe organ on this track and does things with it that you will NEVER hear from anyone else, and I doubt we will ever hear anything like this from a rock band ever again.
I had to look up Goblin, but on their Wikipedia page it says that Goblin;s influences were Yes, Genesis, King Crimson, and Emerson,Lake and Palmer.. I must see if I can find any of their music!
Goblin is still together and will be performing on "Cruise to the Edge", a charter cruise out of Florida with 35-40 progressive rock bands sailing from May 2-May 7, 2022. I will be on board!
Their most famous song is 'Roundabout' you should check it out. There are not many songs in prog rock that are short. That's the progressive part of progressive rock. Story telling & amazing musical prowess. Been listening to Yes since I was about 10 years old. I'm now 60. Having played drums in rock bands since I was 12 I really appreciate the odd timing but give up trying to make sense of it and just enjoy the track. ❤ to you guys
Sarah, you obviously became emotional at the interlude segment. Yes music evokes so many feelings and is just one of the wonderful things it brings out of the listener. You have only scratched the surface of the band. The only prog band from the 70s still recording. 50 years and counting. Look at their 35th aniversary videos. Enjoy!
Really enjoyed the video. One of the greatest pieces of music ever recorded, for sure. Sarah, you need to go back to the Close To the Edge album to hear the final song "Siberian Khatru". They used to open their shows in the 70s with it. You really can't go wrong with Yes music.
Rick Wakeman played the Vevey Church Organ and that was relayed to the recording studio in Montreux. Both Vevey and Montreux are on the banks of Lake Geneva, in Switzerland.
You have just listened to one of the greatest musical experiences imaginable. This song reaches deep into a person's spirit. The only thing that concerns me about the lyrics is that it seems to indicate sun worship in several places. Other worldly for sure.
you have only scratched the surface...every song of theirs from the 1970s...and there are many...is a masterpiece...not all of them are relaxing, they can rock out with the best of them
Sarah, I spent just over a decade in West Africa - Mauritania, S W Algeria, Mali, Senegal - it took me two years as a drummer to change my ability to play a la mode Afrique. I was introduced to Bach aged five and when The Yes arrived in my life aged 13, it was a modern extension of the complicated music of Bach and the reason I can never listen to pop music.
This song is like a journey in heaven, jon is an angel, Rick the master of the church organ of Vevey, Steve is still in the gate of delirium with his guitars, Chris and Alan are already in heaven really, Alan from few days,
Mmmmm a beautiful piece of music. I love the combined reaction. Also by Yes, Try "Going for the One" “Close To The Edge,” or "Yours is no Disgrace" Love&Light
I have loved Yes since the early 1970s and this is, perhaps, my favorite song. Jon Anderson is an amazing singer and songwriter. He’s said that he writes lyrics based on the sound and feeling of lyrics, not necessarily the meaning of them Rick Wakeman played a pipe organ in a church in Switzerland. Check out Jon Anderson and Todmobile play it live on UA-cam. It is the best version I have ever experienced.
🙏🏼 Too too cool! 3 of my favorite reactors digging beautiful composition by YES, who happen to be one of first bands I got into as a teenager. Thank you to all of you! 🤘🏼🎧🤟🏼 - Love the reactor collab idea - do it again sometime please 🙏🏼
I have been listening to this song for twenty years and I still love it. You seem to be very sensitive to the sound - it's beautiful. Could you tell me what is the music after "Awaken", in the background, when you're expressing your opinion?
Hi Sarah, if I could choose one song to take with me through eternity it would be this one. I fell in love with it when it was released in 1977 & it just keeps growing stronger. Jon Anderson once remarked that he thought it was their greatest work, it seems incredible to think they could top Close to the Edge which is so revered, of course it's a matter of personal opinion. Their other great work you must listen to which I consider completes the holy trinity of Yes epics is "The Gates of Delirium" from the previous album Relayer, very different again but another masterpiece, keep enjoying the Yes journey, best wishes
YES, another masterpiece from the most creative prog rock band ever. I really enjoy your reaction. I's so great to see your emotions come out. By the way what's that background instrumental music playing at the end while you were talking, it really catched my attention. Thanks!!
3 people are discovering prog rock of 70s🤣🤣🤣 great reaction. You can't even imagine how much there are masterpieces from prog rock of that era. Awaken is not in my top 50, but it's really good, than you!
Thanks Sarah for hosting us on your channel, we had a great time hanging with you.🙏♥️
Hope she pins your comment : )
It's a pleasure to have you guys 🥰
@@SarahDengler I loved your reactions during the song. You get YES Sarah, your two friends not so much.😊
@@SarahDengler let me suggest you a couple of italian prog gems.......Impressioni di Settembre by PFM (better if live version) and Profondo rosso byGoblin from the homonym movie soundtrack...and if you want i could suggest you many other gems from my country
Awaken to me is the highest point in YES musical journey and one of the highest point reached in music history
Agreed
You have to understand that these guys are amongst the finest musicians, and at the top of their game.
Have been a fan since 1970, over 50 years.
The amazing thing about this song , is that it was put out in 1977 , 45 years ago , and it's still fresh and exciting . Nothing outdated about the song . It is more relevant now in 2022 , than it was in 1977 . Great music never goes out of style.
Way ahead of its time . And you can always discover little nuances in 2022 !
This is one of my absolute favorite songs. For me it is always like a big prayer. It is remarkable how Yes managed to create a song with these weird rhythms and across the keys, which exudes so much harmony and passion and at the same time calmness.
Total calmess in the chaos!
Not just any guitar player, but Steve Howe, voted five consecutive years "World's Greatest Guitarist" by the readers of Guitar Player magazine.
I can't help not tearing up every time that I hear it, it'a so beautiful and powerful.
I do too Walt-to be playing at my funeral for sure!!
You have witnessed one of the masterpieces that emphasize what makes Yes Yes. No other like it. Master musicians
Yes did not break rules, they simply had none!
No matter how many times I have listened to Awaken since 1977 I am still out of my body by the end. Maybe tearing up, too.
So beautiful so see the young lady tearing up as well.
Thanks for reacting to Awaken. I think not many reactors listen because of the piece's length, but boy is it worth it!
I've been listening to it for 40 years and it still gives me goose bumps.
Rick Wakeman and Chris Squire at their very best
Its best listened to in the dark because you need to absorb it
I think you all got it!
Thank you Richard for watching!
It is truly a masterpiece. 5 virtuoso musicians and poets with otherworldly vocals. Music like this requires multiple listens and like fine wine will seem better every time. I think it's a difficult first track if you're unfamiliar with long form progressive rock. I recommend Roundabout as an intro to Yes.
Jon Anderson is a cosmic lyricist who spins mere words into stories of another dimension. His album Olias of Sunhillow is like a musical Alice in wonderland.Saw Yes 3 times. They. Were.Unbelievable.
Well spoken. "Cosmic Lyricist". Transcendent. Ever ascending.
_Olias of Sunhillow_ was a great album. Jon is a treasure.
One of the greatest songs in rock history,absolute work of art!!
I love "Awaken" by Yes. For me, this work sums up Yes's approach to music. A masterpiece. But some people find progressive rock uncomfortable, perhaps because it's so different from popular music on the radio.
Hi Sarah. Awaken was the most amazing piece of music i had ever heard when i first played "Going for the One" 1982 ish.
Seeing yes perform it 20 years later was unbelievable.
Well I said it was good lol.A great reaction. have a look at turn of the century from the same album.Thank you and all the best from England and stay safe young lady.
Thank you and stay safe too
Just to see you younger guys embrace and takin in this masterpiece makes me cry, I was 14 when this album was released... In thoose days this was mindblowing as well,,,
It is a masterpiece. Yes started in 68', they are still together, though members leave and come back, etc. This type of music is so complex, intense, wild and unique that you need to hear it many times to really appreciate it. Not familiar with Goblin, but a lot of bands are influenced by Yes (Rush, Dream Theater, etc). Check out anything from the same album (Going For The One) such as Turn Of The Century, or go back and start with Roundabout, I've Seen All Good People, Starship Trooper. They have music that really jams, and really mellow beautiful stuff, and catchy stuff like from the 1980's album 90125.
Thank you 🙏
I so loved all ya all's reaction to my favorite band. I have listened to Yes and gone to their concerts for 50 years. When I watched you I felt like I was listening again as a young teenage boy. Thank you for the memories. Love to you all.
Thank you for watching 😊
What a fanatasic way to wake up this morn, to Awaken... It is indeed a spiritual tune, with lyrics inspired by the great book Autobiography of a Yogi.
Although it may seem hard to believe, the album that this gem is on (Going for the One) marks the shift of Yes from their peak prog platform -- found in Tales of Topographic Oceans and Relayer lps IMO -- to a somewhat diminished pop band in the 1980s and beyond.
Thanx for the collab reaction, which added a fine dynamic.
Hi Fred, thank you for watching 😊
My daughter is 23 and this is her favorite Yes song. The first time she saw the ocean was when she was in Hawaii and she had this playing. She knows this is my favorite band and has been since 1976 so a couple of years ago she surprised me with tickets to their 50th anniversary tour. We both cried. I've seen them countless times and they never disappoint.
Once again, your reaction takes me back to the first time I heard this incredible piece of music. Thank you so much for posting this! Every time I watch one of your reaction videos, it's like hearing it again for the first time and sharing it with another fan, just being blown away by how amazing this piece is. I still get goosebumps hearing it, picking things out with each listen, marveling at how these five men worked together and brought the world such a masterpiece of beauty. Watching your reactions (if you'll forgive an unintentional pun) awoke all the amazement and wonder I felt the first time I heard it. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Ladies and gentlemen Chris Squire and Yes the greatest show on earth. Excellent Sarah, I'm so proud of you, you truly understand the presence of the divine in Yes music. You have listened to 3 of their masterpieces so may I suggest a love song called Turn Of The Century or my favorite South Side Of The Sky. Saw Yes 36 times.
Thanks so much
Wow!
What's up 36? 214 here. Imagine that, another reaction to Awaken. Lol!😎
@@jeffschielka7845 it's so cool and the best part is that they get it. The Presence of the Divine
@@lesblatnyak5947 😎
Excellent reaction. I saw this song played live in 1977 when I was 17 years old.
It restores my faith in humanity when I watch young peoples’ reactions to the sounds of my youth.
The song sounds "churchy" because the organ parts were played on the organ at St. Martin's in the town of Vevey Switzerland. Parallels was done over a phone line live while the band played back at the studio. Awaken was an overdub recorded at the church. I remember it well from when the album came out because it was impressive to get such high fidelity over a phone line. Listen again and enjoy the echo's reverberating through the building. What a great sound. The album was not well received at the time since it was so different than the previous couple of albums and had a number of short songs. I always liked it, and as with all YES music it grows on you. I enjoy watching these first takes with Yes because it tend to blow peoples minds, but the reality is that with all of the best music from this band it takes time to fully appreciate it. Perhaps the rest of your life. Yes was my first concert and always one of my favorites.
This is the greatest song.
So enjoyed seeing you all enjoy your first listen to this glorious piece of music.
And so pleased you’ve all been ‘Awakened’ 🎶❤️🎶
It’s a Epic Masterpiece indeed, genius. No wonder you’ve a smile on your faces at the end. This wasn’t your first Yes experience Sarah, but you clearly feel it. And as it was your friends first Yes listen, it’s certainly a incredible way to start and you could see they were feeling it too.
This Song will be in your hearts for life. Goosebumps every time.
I’ve loved this since the day it was released in 1977 and I still get goosebumps now. Yes were formed in 1968 and this ‘Going For The One’ Album, was their 8th Studio Album. You will surely enjoy the journey of listening to them from the beginning, over time, as there are just so many wonderful creations on so many of their Albums. Just my own view, of course.
So many of Yes’ epic creations are long tracks, broken down into many ‘Parts or Pieces’, with so many transitions. I’ve always said Yes’ Music is a acquired taste, not for everyone. But I fell in love with them in 1970, after hearing ‘Yours Is No Disgrace’, from their 3rd Album, ‘The Yes Album’.
Back to ‘Awaken’ though. If you haven’t seen it, watch the 2003 performance of Awaken at the Montreux Festival, if you’d like to see a stunning live performance.
There you’ll see the magical fingers of Rick Wakeman and how he creates those beautiful Orchestral and Choral sounds.
Breathtaking to see all the greats of the Band at work.
ua-cam.com/video/nDXccU0xgNo/v-deo.html
And for another incredible version, Jon Anderson with ‘Todmobile’, in 2013. Amazing. ua-cam.com/video/d_Va3e_52TE/v-deo.html
I was also lucky enough to see Live, another incredible version, in both 2017 and 2018. By YES featuring ‘ARW’, (Anderson, Rabin & Wakeman).
You should hear Jon’s voice now, in his 70’s. Phenomenal!
ua-cam.com/video/EUbIIrTa4xw/v-deo.html
Awaken has to be my all time ‘Yes’ favourite. But there are so many that are so close.
Speaking of Jon Anderson ‘Epics’. If you haven’t come across it yet, There’s a quite simply, sensational track, to a stunningly breathtaking Video, called, ‘Horizon’, by Jon (Anderson) & Vangelis, from their 1983 Album, ‘Private Collection’. A beautiful piece of music.
This is a must for you. It’s 23 minutes long, but I know you won’t regret it.
What a journey of emotions. ua-cam.com/video/OSIr5mx3YA8/v-deo.html
I’ve been a ‘Yes’ fan since 1970, (Aged 14), so I’ve been blessed to grow up with and enjoy this wonderful music, virtually all my life. Thankfully, you are making sure it lives on forevermore.
Hope you don’t mind me sending these links your way and you get to try them. I hope you don’t miss out. Please enjoy and Thank you. 🎶❤️🎶
Thank you for sharing 🙂
@@SarahDengler You’re welcome, Sarah. I’m not suggesting you do reaction videos to all these links. (Unless there’s one you choose to).
Mainly just for you to experience them and see what you think. Anyway, thank you and enjoy. 🎶❤️🎶
YES doesn't shy away from surreal lyrics or experimental musicality.
Absolutely not, in their heyday they embraced it.
Love the fact that you get YES!!!Saw them for the first time in 1973 for the Close to the Edge Tour. This song is VERY SPIRITUAL!!!
'Reminds me of church'- the organ parts where actually recorded on an organ in St. Martin's church in Vevey, Switzerland. It is a huge old organ, with 3 manual keyboards and over 3500 pipes. Rick Wakeman, considered on of the best keyboardists living, described the experience as "absolute magic". "Parallels" on the same album also use the same organ.
Wakey overdid it with _Parallels,_ IMO but yeah. Could have stuck to the C-3.
@@rollomaughfling380 Nah, Parallels is unmatched in its musical majesty. Blew me away when I first heard it. one of their top 5.
@@doomhunter697 You're, of course, entitled to your opinion. Have you heard the rehearsal session tapes, though, with the much more solid rhythm section, and with the screeching pipe organ mixed much lower? (like could have been done in the room with Rick's C-3 instead of a telephone connection?)
It's possible you could could change your mind about this, my friend.
He recorded his Solo album "Criminal Record" there around the same time. Chris Squire and Alan White provided Bass & Drums.
Good old Rick wakeman on keyboards. They are all classically trained musicians. I started listening to Yes when I was about 7. I'm now 60 & still amazed at the journey they take you on.
Recorded in Montreaux, Switzerland from October 1976 to April 1977, this L.P. marked keyboard wizard Rick Wakeman's return to the band after having pursued a solo career after Yes' 1973 'Tales from Topographic Oceans'.
Phenomenal L.P. record from a phenomenal band.
Glad you guys discovered Yes - lifelong Yes fan.
Hi Sarah, I first heard this as a 15year old boy and was very lucky to see Yes perform this on their Going for the One tour - the first gig I ever saw. Your reaction is excellent again. You get Yes. I don't think there really is a definitive meaning to the lyrics and I think the band set alot of their music to be personal interpretation. Personally I see it as a journey. I see the first section to be the an awakening (of the spirit) - "awaken gentle mass touch". It then recognizes the "workings of man" then after a period of peace and tranquility Jon Anderson (vocals) summons the "Masters" and in doing so the music takes off, ascending into the higher levels of existence before returning you back to where you came from though now with this new understanding now close to you. But that's the joy of this music. You can interpret it how you want... Try some of the earlier Yes - Anything from 'The Yes Album' is worth listening to but if you're brave go back before then... Top job Sarah...
Thanks a lot 🙏
Actually Andy I like the early Yes albums. Sure they are not way up there as towering mega masterpieces, but a band has to start somewhere. I always like to find out how the band got to those lofty levels and work out what influences there are in the early music. The early albums a good and if any other band made them they would be considered great, because for most bands that level would be their peak. But Yes went so very much further.
Jon Anderson has hinted that it's about revelation.
He also stated that it was largely inspired by a Christ allegory he read called The Singer, written by Calvin Miller.
Same experience Andy. Saw the G4TO tour in Philadelphia. My 1st concert & was a present for my 15th birthday. Indelible memory burned into my mind that evening.
Hi Sarah you are right this song is about spirituality one of Jon Anderson's favorite topics. In this song you can hear so many different genres of music and influences from Eastern and Western themes. For sure the pipe organ does put that Western church influence in there but also puts a classical Bach sound in there too. The emotions, energy and life they build into the crescendo are totally off the scale. I have not heard anything like it elsewhere, it is one of pieces that sounds perfect no matter how loud you play it. This is truly a masterpiece and I can tell you those emotions and feelings it gives will get stronger with each listen. It is one of the best song ever. You will always enjoy the magic it can deliver even after 45 years. I can say that because us Yes fans know that as fact because it is still absolute emotional magic for us. Thank you for taking this journey and sharing it with us. You should go back to "The Yes Album" and "Fragile" and pick any songs and discover how Yes developed their music and got to this level. Finally, it was great to see this song was magical for you too, that is the key.
yeah steve howe is so spiritual. When he threatens to beat up lighting guys its a spiritual thing
Brilliant voice
A masterpiece.
IF I remember correctly the keyboardist recorded the organ parts in a church in Switzerland. The first time I heard this, in 1977, it brought me to tears. Thanks for reacting to one of my favorite bands.
It's never gonna be a ' this is a tad wearing, if not old ' when I'm able to witness individuals here some masterful yes for the first time. It's always such a gift to see the joy crash the various central nervous systems. The 70s yes were simply one symphony after another. Sublime.
Once you know this song ( five or six listens at the very least) and understand what’s coming, it still catches your emotions every time . Love it ! ✌️
Thanks, after almost 50 years as a rock n roll I'd never heard this cut.
You should also listen to 'Turn of the Century' from the same album as Awaken.
At Moore Theater...
Said Alan White, "Bollocks !"
And Chris Squire had many, many drinks. 😄
An absolutely magnificent piece of music I listen to this virtually every week , my favourite Yes track by far I wouldn’t say I’d listen to it trying to go to sleep it’s to energise my spirit , love it ❤️
An absolute Masterpiece.
Very good way of interpreting the lyrics 👏 Sarah. I completely agree. "Awaken" really soars above inspired by the human spirit and all the wonder that it beholds. Great review 👏
My friends and I used to call thier music style God Rock.
Great review Sarah. Know this review is a couple of years old but I really enjoy listening to reviews of music from my era (1970-80’s). This is indeed a masterpiece by Yes. You sell yourself short on the interpretation. It is up to the listener to decide what the message is but it is truly spiritual as you suggest. Thanks again. Really enjoyed watching!
Similar to “Close To The Edge,” I think “Awaken” is one of the more challenging songs from Yes, and may require several listens to really comprehend all of the changes and surprises that occur. I’ve listened too many times to count, and I’ve never fully comprehended all the lyrics, I prefer to just absorb the poetry, but you are right on track that it is about spirituality and enlightenment. The music connects right into that - it lifts you and soars if you are prepared for it - and I’m glad that you are! There is another Yes song that I think will have this same uplifting effect on you - one that is rarely, if ever reacted to for some reason, but it’s another masterpiece, and it’s my recommendation as you continue on your Yes journey: “To Be Over” from the Relayer album.
It truly is challenging. Thank you for the suggestion, I will check it out as soon as I can
Listen to it again Sarah it gets better each time.
Listen to it a hundred times!😎
You ladies are not only very beautiful but seem to be very open minded willing to listen to brilliant and out of the box music that I love and grew up with. I really enjoyed your reactions and your comments. Stay safe and keep on jamming to old Yes classics.
Ich bin seit 1972 von YES ergriffen begeistert inspiriert und je länger ich diese Musik in mir tragen darf immer wieder neu entdecken darf, umso mehr bin ich überzeugt dass diese Musik größer ist als die Band selbst und immer größer werden wird. ❤❤❤
Best Yes Song and one of the best songs ever written
With a real church organ, man what else should I say 🥰
Thanks Sarah! Try Jon Anderson's Olias of Sunhillow, another masterpiece of an album, in which he plays all the instruments and sings all the vocals. I've known Jon for many years, and he always makes everyone he meets feel special. Also his music with Vangelis [Jon & Vangelis] is astounding!
Sarah!!!! SISTER! YOU GET IT. I loved watching your expressions...I was right there with you. I know JUST what you're feeling.
Watch YES do this live from Montreux 2003.
So cool you found your way to the YES rabbit hole....... Enjoyed the collaborative exchange...but Yes offerings sort of beg to get lost in..... I would suggest "Turn of the Century" from the same album ...just for it's beauty....Keep enjoying the experience.....
Excellent reaction. You got it totally. Their lyrics are better understood in real time together with the music, you get the feeling, and more exactly is having a spiritual experience. Yes are the best. And you got me subbed now. Thx 👍💪🤙.
A great song behind, there is knowledge here, something in the structure that shows the power of communication through music; crying...
Glad you enjoyed Awaken so much, Sarah! Now tell that guy that there is more in the world of music than whatever Goblin is.
Love the commentary/reaction while the music plays. Some don't like that, but I actually prefer it. I like watching and listening to people react to music while it's playing, especially the incredible music of YES
What's up Lightmane? Guess I'm late to the party.😎
@@jeffschielka7845 she's done several YES reactions. Enjoy 🙂
@@Lightmane You know what I like and don't like. Talking over YES is a no no for me. 1 is bad enough, but 3?😎
@@jeffschielka7845 Well I watch for the reactions. I've already heard the music : )
@@Lightmane You're the one that talks at concerts.😡
Sarah, I love the way you physically rocked out to this - showed you were really getting into it and losing yourself in the music.
Rick Wakeman plays a real cathedral pipe organ on this track and does things with it that you will NEVER hear from anyone else, and I doubt we will ever hear anything like this from a rock band ever again.
I had to look up Goblin, but on their Wikipedia page it says that Goblin;s influences were Yes, Genesis, King Crimson, and Emerson,Lake and Palmer.. I must see if I can find any of their music!
Goblin is still together and will be performing on "Cruise to the Edge", a charter cruise out of Florida with 35-40 progressive rock bands sailing from May 2-May 7, 2022. I will be on board!
THANKS FOR SHARING SIS! THE GUITAR WAS AMAZING!!
Indeed it was, thanks for watching
@@SarahDengler You're welcome I will be watching more of your videos love them!
“I was looking at the cover, butt…”. That’s a good one Squidward! Thx for posting. Cheers guys!
Favorite piece of music from any genre, any period. Closest I ever get to a religious experience, really.
Their most famous song is 'Roundabout' you should check it out. There are not many songs in prog rock that are short. That's the progressive part of progressive rock. Story telling & amazing musical prowess. Been listening to Yes since I was about 10 years old. I'm now 60. Having played drums in rock bands since I was 12 I really appreciate the odd timing but give up trying to make sense of it and just enjoy the track. ❤ to you guys
A song fit for the gates of heaven
Sarah, you obviously became emotional at the interlude segment. Yes music evokes so many feelings and is just one of the wonderful things it brings out of the listener. You have only scratched the surface of the band. The only prog band from the 70s still recording. 50 years and counting. Look at their 35th aniversary videos. Enjoy!
Rick was indeed on a church organ. He was on a big pipe organ. They pumped the sound into the studio from the church.
Really enjoyed the video. One of the greatest pieces of music ever recorded, for sure. Sarah, you need to go back to the Close To the Edge album to hear the final song "Siberian Khatru". They used to open their shows in the 70s with it. You really can't go wrong with Yes music.
That climax you got is welcome,...it fits. Love you all.
Goblin, mentioned in the comments. An Italian Prog rock band which probably influence from this. Trust me , I have both original albums' A.
Rick Wakeman played the Vevey Church Organ and that was relayed to the recording studio in Montreux. Both Vevey and Montreux are on the banks of Lake Geneva, in Switzerland.
You have just listened to one of the greatest musical experiences imaginable. This song reaches deep into a person's spirit. The only thing that concerns me about the lyrics is that it seems to indicate sun worship in several places. Other worldly for sure.
you have only scratched the surface...every song of theirs from the 1970s...and there are many...is a masterpiece...not all of them are relaxing, they can rock out with the best of them
We love Yes!!!
Takes about 3 or 4 listens to really “sink in “ - but when it does ......wow
Sarah, I spent just over a decade in West Africa - Mauritania, S W Algeria, Mali, Senegal - it took me two years as a drummer to change my ability to play a la mode Afrique. I was introduced to Bach aged five and when The Yes arrived in my life aged 13, it was a modern extension of the complicated music of Bach and the reason I can never listen to pop music.
This song is like a journey in heaven, jon is an angel, Rick the master of the church organ of Vevey, Steve is still in the gate of delirium with his guitars, Chris and Alan are already in heaven really, Alan from few days,
Mmmmm a beautiful piece of music. I love the combined reaction.
Also by Yes, Try "Going for the One" “Close To The Edge,” or "Yours is no Disgrace" Love&Light
I love the “David and Goliath” analysis of the cover. And totally love the song!
I have loved Yes since the early 1970s and this is, perhaps, my favorite song. Jon Anderson is an amazing singer and songwriter. He’s said that he writes lyrics based on the sound and feeling of lyrics, not necessarily the meaning of them Rick Wakeman played a pipe organ in a church in Switzerland. Check out Jon Anderson and Todmobile play it live on UA-cam. It is the best version I have ever experienced.
This is top shelf stuff. Doesn’t get much better.
🙏🏼 Too too cool! 3 of my favorite reactors digging beautiful composition by YES, who happen to be one of first bands I got into as a teenager. Thank you to all of you! 🤘🏼🎧🤟🏼 - Love the reactor collab idea - do it again sometime please 🙏🏼
Now you have reached the ultimate rung on the ladder to the heavens that is Yes. Enjoy.
Yes
The Organ section, played by Rick Wakeman, was recorded in a church in Switzerland.
The organ was recorded in Switzerland, separately from the rest of band. The keyboard player, Rick Wakeman, was living in Switzerland at the time.
I have been listening to this song for twenty years and I still love it. You seem to be very sensitive to the sound - it's beautiful. Could you tell me what is the music after "Awaken", in the background, when you're expressing your opinion?
Hi Sarah, if I could choose one song to take with me through eternity it would be this one. I fell in love with it when it was released in 1977 & it just keeps growing stronger. Jon Anderson once remarked that he thought it was their greatest work, it seems incredible to think they could top Close to the Edge which is so revered, of course it's a matter of personal opinion. Their other great work you must listen to which I consider completes the holy trinity of Yes epics is "The Gates of Delirium" from the previous album Relayer, very different again but another masterpiece, keep enjoying the Yes journey, best wishes
Maravilha
The master chris squire !!!Anyway,there all masters.
YES, another masterpiece from the most creative prog rock band ever. I really enjoy your reaction. I's so great to see your emotions come out. By the way what's that background instrumental music playing at the end while you were talking, it really catched my attention. Thanks!!
Thanks, here's a link to the background music elements.envato.com/mars-guitars-94L3USA
My go to song since I was 11 when I need a reset ...love you guys
The sounds of Angels singing!!
3 people are discovering prog rock of 70s🤣🤣🤣 great reaction. You can't even imagine how much there are masterpieces from prog rock of that era. Awaken is not in my top 50, but it's really good, than you!