Yes- Awaken (First Listen)
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- Опубліковано 12 бер 2020
- Hey there, welcome to my channel! I hope you enjoy my clean content as I listen to music and bands I'm unfamiliar with, or digging deeper into. Stick around with me and maybe we can all discover some new music together. Let me know YOUR thoughts on the song and leave me your suggestions as well.
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Song Link: • Awaken (2003 Remaster)
Have a great weekend everyone!
😴🛌😯❗
If you missed it, heres the playlist of all the first listens for Yes' Album "Going for the One"!
ua-cam.com/play/PLk5U1pT6RIR0vxEH6KVOUxgxhtGmTJmCc.html
Dont forget! If this video gets 10K views in 2 weeks (March 27th, 2020), I'll record Close to the Edge within a few days afterwards.
If you have time I would highly recommend the video performance of Awaken with Jon Anderson and Todmobile. Many including myself think it is the definitive version (even better than the original). Although it is not Yes this "live" performance is astounding to watch. If you liked the original I can assure you will like this one too. Maybe even better: ua-cam.com/video/d_Va3e_52TE/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/BkmfOIvHzD4/v-deo.html "Woman In Chains," by Tears For Fears....Incredible group!!!! Incredible Song!!!!
@@anthonyblakely399 Really? you think they're in the same league as YES.......you need some musical education my friend.
I love that awaken took you over the edge and that up to now you'd only ever been close to the edge
Can we all take a moment and reflect on just how good Steve Howe is and how important he was to the Yes sound.
What do you mean WAS?
Yep !! The guitar work on this is masterful !!
To demonstrate Steve Howe's musicianship, I saw Steve play with the group about 5 or more years ago when Chris Squire was still alive (another great player). Steve was, in that same year, touring with Yes, but during that same year, he did another tour with his other group Aja!
Chris Squire is (was) also a monster
Steve Howe is a somewhat bitter as$hole. But he’s also my favourite guitarist, bar none.
My favorite Yes song. Actually, my favorite song.. The song continues to grow the more I listen to it.
Perfect in form and arrangement.
Absolutely!
Their last great long song.
"Like the time I ran away. Turned around and you were standing close to me".
Damn.
Love that ending
"Can you imagine seeing that live?" Well. My first ever concert, age 16 - 1978, Yes live at Wembley arena and, for me, Awaken was definitely a highlight. Rick Wakeman was a music God for me, and he killed it. Way to set a high bar, guys. And, yeah, I still get emotional listening to it.
Perfection!
I've seen Yes live many, many times. "Awaken" almost always elicited the most emotional response from the audience. I can to this day see in my mind's eye Jon swaying to the "all is left for you" section. He did it every time.
I was at the same concert. Saw them four times during that tour! Not only is their music so intricate, they replicated it on stage too. I've seen few bands better on stage. And Steve Howe was my music god.
Saw them in Frankfurt that same year. Amazing show.
I got to see them do this live on the Union tour in 91. Totally awesome!
I've heard Awaken before, but a long time ago. What JustJP has done here has awakened me to the deep soulfulness and brilliance of this song. There is not a reactor anywhere on UA-cam, that I know of, who can do such an intelligent, honest, analytical break down of a song.
Thats amazing rbu, thank you for that. And for enjoying the video
This was one of those songs that I knew Yes felt strongly about (especially Jon Anderson), but it didn’t really speak to me until seeing it live. Now I think it is truly their masterpiece, taking everything they had developed and learned from ‘The Yes Album’ through ‘Relayer’ and distilling it into the essence of Yes. Sure, ‘Close to the Edge’ is up there, but they had grown as musicians by ‘77.
And while the latter-era Yes doesn’t have quite the fire they did in ‘77, what they do even better is that grandeur. The Union tour version of Awaken, especially that moment JP is talking about was stunning. The same as those big moments in ‘And You And I.’
I'm never able to talk about this song. Only thing I can say is that every time it brings tears to my eyes. I was forever changed when I first listened to this album when I was 13 and absolutely every time it moves me like no other thing.
Mar , it does the same thing to me because of the last to phrases , unexplainably touching
Agree entirely, it's such a spiritual piece of music and like so many, every time I listen, the tears come to my eyes. Why, I just don't know. Awesome!!
YES has some of the most technically difficult music to play... they do this thing were they all play in different time signitures , but somehow it all fits together …. where I work, we have bands, really good ones, old studio musicians that just wanna play music …. one time, while setting up the guitar player did a YES riff, so I ran into the room and asked if they did any YES …. they all stopped, and looked at each other and then at me and kinda laughed... and said Noooo, YES music is to difficult
they don't play in different time signatures but their music is often highly syncopated.
I heard an interview of Jon Anderson saying that, in his opinion, "Awaken" was the finest track Yes ever recorded. I would not disagree with him.
The return to Switzerland's magical pastoral influence on this music. And Jon's Hippie Christian lyrics. All Awakening the deep metaphysical and spiritual meanings of this song and the perfect symphonic progression of the music. A religious experience.
Its just so perfect.
The gates of delirium 🙏 the best yes song please 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Seconded.
Oh yes please!!!
If you thought Awaken was epic...
I call my wife's lady bits the gates of delirium in honour of the tune
This song didn't do much for me when I first bought this record new early in 1977. Over time it has become a Yes favorite. I guess at 18 I wasn't ready for the pure genius of this song!! Every aspect of Awaken is a spiritual song that hits on all cylinders!!! Each instrument (indeed Jon Anderson's tenor voice IS a valuable instrument) is added and layered to near perfection. A Yes masterpiece!!!! 💚💚💚💚💚
Probably the best song ever from Yes! ❤️🎧
Yeah? What would you say is their second best?😀
@@JustJP Close To The Edge or The Gates Of Delirium.
@@wagnerribeirodesantana1651 same opinion
I would throw And You And I as second best in.
One of the last great long prog tunes by Yes if you ask me. This line-up was just great. One of the great moments is the transition from 4/4 to 3/4
the level of creativity here is just unfathomable. so many themes, melodies, counterpoints, grooves, ripping basslines, rich gorgeous sounds, wide-opened space. a masterpiece.
I was listening to this on acid in my twenties and I met my 3 year old self in that "dream". "Like the time I ran away, turned around and you were standing close to me" has quite a deep meaning for me and I still get a bit choked up when Jon repeats that line.
Such a great line, love the way its delivered
That emotional strain in Jon's voice is what makes him special.
Here we go.......Genesis : Supper's Ready................................Yes : Awaken
Damn, that 3rd section is so moving.
Justin..."that moment" when they played this song live. Mate, it was so powerful, let me try to describe what it did to the audience.
People would stand up cheering, there were folks crying, there were people slack jawed, there were folks shaking their heads in disbelief.
It was like no other live musical experience that I have ever witnessed.
And Chris played a TRIPLE- NECK BASS and massive sounding Moog Taurus bass pedals
Fantastic reply! I agree completely about the effect on the audience! I saw them in Austin on June 1, 1979, and you are so right in your description about people just being completely stunned! They were so shocked that it took several seconds after the soft tinkling end of "Awaken" for the audience to begin to cheer, and then it was deafening and absolutely THE most peak experience of my life!!!
Over The Years and Time of Listening To This Song Has Become More Of A Spiritual Song More Than Anything Else For Me ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
“Master of images, songs cast a light on you” - that’s the cosmic moment
Dude! You get it!
For me, this is the one of greatest pieces of music ever written by anyone ever.
Oh, and that climax at the end? Jon Anderson has stated that he has seen a light appear over the crowd many times when performing it. It's extremely powerful stuff. I'm often brought to tears by the end.
Oh, and just another insight into "Awaken", much of it is based on an allegorical story called 'The Singer' by Calvin Miller. That's where the "Star Song" stuff specifically comes from.
Thanks so much Mark! The ending is absolutely lifted
I believe Rick played an actual cathedral pipe organ on this track.
Yup! And it sounds great
Yes, it was in the town of Vevey in Switzerland, on the banks of Lake Geneva. I've been there many, many times (I worked there).
Rick here plays with angels
@@Jack-D-Ripper They installed a cable from the church in Vevey all the way thru vineyards unto the Studio in Montreux, about 12 km away I guess.
@@ursscherler6059 🤔 or they could have just set up some mics to pick up the sound and record it in the church. 🤔
I was listening to this album back in the 70s. I'm just glad newer generations are keeping this great music alive.
Love many prog bands, especially Genesis. But Yes was extra special. This song is exhibit A, as far as I'm concerned. Yes could reach heights of euphoria in the music that is unmatched in rock music. All the musicians are so incredibly good. And Jon Anderson is a special talent--a totally unique vocalist and songwriter. I really enjoyed your discussion of this amazing song.
Their technicality and emotion comes together wonderfully. Thanks so much Brian!
@@JustJP Hi don't forget to try another British band the name of the band CAMEL.
@@parisstromatias637 He did! You can check it out.
My top yes album is RELAYER, I'm now waiting for the negative comments.
Agree 100%
Roy C as much as I love Wakeman, Moraz brought a breath of fresh air. Gates (with Soon coda) and Soundchaser are in my top 5 Yes songs, so the album almost has to be my favourite just by percentage!
Gates of delirium😊
@@jamesleblanc7437 I agree. I also love Patrick Moraz's solo album "Story of I". Some of Moraz's later work is also worth listening to, but only if you can ignore the cheesy lyrics.
@@jamesleblanc7437 I agree 100%
On Awaken Steve is playing an electric 12 string. I haven't heard anyone rip up the strings that way before, and it's probably the only time we ever will. Steve is the greatest guitarists I've ever seen. Long live Steve Howe.
What I love about Jon's voice is he doesn't sing with any vibrato. At least I don't think he does. Maybe he does at times, but in general he doesn't. His voice, with Steve's and Chris's harmonies are just magical, and that's how I'd describe YES music. Magical.
You’re right, the one song I recall a vibrato in Jon’s voice is in the “I get up I get down“ vocals right before Rick Wakeman‘s pipe organ comes in. When Jon’s voice just keeps going higher you can hear a beautiful vibrato when he holds the notes. Amazing, angelic, one of a kind voice.
I was at that concert in Birmingham in 2003, and I can tell you there were grown men crying at the end of this song.
The band got (at least) a 5-minute STANDING OVATION at the end of it.
Possibly my greatest ever time I saw the band (the worst was Wembley 2004) - just to see Chris Squire striding across the stage, strangling that 3-necked bass will live with me forever.
You tell the youth of today HOW that Church Organ was recorded - and they refuse to believe you.
Down a Phone line from the Church in Vevey to the Studio!!!
I'm here entering the below comments regarding 'Awaken', via a just read article - "For many Yes fans, 1977’s Going For The One was the last great creative statement produced by the classic Yes Mk IV line-up, and its crescendo-packed 15-minute final track is its crowning glory.
Refugee keyboard player Patrick Moraz took part in early sessions during the album’s gestation, and told author Jon Kirkman, “I had already exchanged some of the ideas for Awaken”, but it’s the returning Wakeman’s baroque piano parts that open the piece with such a flourish, and towards the end, an extraordinary church organ solo offers a riot of instrumental colour within an otherwise beatific, dreamlike piece.
Anderson told Circus Magazine on its release that the lyric was inspired by Calvin Miller’s book The Singer, which he was reading while recording the album at Mountain Studios in Montreux, Switzerland. “It’s about this Star Song; which is an ageless hymn that’s sung every now and again…” he said.
There’s a distinctly hymnal quality to large swathes of the piece and Wakeman actually played the organ in a cathedral near Montreux. The band took advantage of unusually high-quality telecommunications in Switzerland to record his part over a landline to the studio. And they make out “phoning it in” is a bad thing." www.loudersound.com/amp/features/the-40-greatest-yes-songs-ever/4
1972 - Just a few notes on this most amazing concert. They played two nights (Fri-Sat) and BLEW black Sabbath out of Winterland. I sat right behind the stage four rows over Wakemans shoulder and caught the full affect this entire show had over everyone. People were Amazed that a rock group could do a live show like this and actually be great at it. We stayed for Black Sabbaths first two songs, but by that over half the crowd had left.
Yes is one of those bands where my "favorite" shifts constantly. I can never settle on one album as the "best" for me. Yes Album, Close to the Edge, Relayer, Going for the One, each is exquisite and a jewel in their own way.
My favorite YES song is the one I'm listening to.
5 yrs ago my daughter saw the ocean for the first time from a beach in Hawaii. Awaken was playing. She still cries when she hears it.
They've been my favorite band since 76.
That's a perfect and wonderful memory
Hi JP, so you finally did my favourite Yes song, that organ crescendo is out of this world. Thanks for the great video. I don’t really have time to watch the video 10,000 times, but I’ll try my best! (lol). There is a fantastic live version of Awaken on UA-cam that you’d love, it’s Jon Anderson performing with Todmobile (with a full orchestra and a massive choir), it’s awesome. Check it out. Cheers Justin! :)
Haha, ty Andy! I actually watched the Todmobile version shortly after this one; its perfect. Jon sounds even better in that one imo!
@@JustJP i was just about to post a link to that video..! the best version ever.. and jons live voice is amazing..!!
@@brushuk As a lifelong YES fan I agree Jon with Todmobile's version is astonishing.
Jon Anderson performing with Todmobile using an actual orchestra and choir adds brightness and adds depth to an already great piece, resulting in a masterpiece.
I just posted a link to the todmobile video in the comments here. Too late it would seem. It is a stunning version
I've been following Yes since 1971, Awaken will always be my favorite. It's Jon's favorite too! To many great songs to talk about.
If you have any questions about Yes, anyone can messenger me, if only to talk about Yes!
Ty Matt! Definitely, they're amazing!
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I love that you get Yes and truly appreciate this song. Especially in light of some of your previous comments about being 'selective' in you keyboard likes and dislikes, I was really happy to see you really appreciate Rick's pipe organ work here. He definitely nailed it on this. The crescendo, where he literally 'pulls out all the stops' is absolutely amazing (trivia: referencing a pipe organ is where that phrase comes from). You should listen to that on a good stereo system some time with speakers and amp that are capable of going down to 20 Hz - it will blow you away even more! The POWER of that moment is truly felt. And you also touched on another important part of Yes' music in the arranging and the interplay between the keyboard and guitar parts especially, but also the bass. Steve and Rick worked so well together - it really created some of the magical moments of Yes. Sometimes it's almost a straight call and response type of interaction and sometimes it's more subtle but it always adds to the overall impact of the music. Rick sticks to the grand piano and the Polymoog on this, in addition to the pipe organ. Steve creates a lot of the ethereal effects with his Sho-Bud pedal steel guitar run through a flanger and using an E-bow on his Martin 00-18 acoustic to create a droning sound. The solo's are on his Fender Tele Custom, but he also plays a Rickenbacker 12-string electric throughout a lot of the song (info from his guitar book). I also love the middle section where it goes quiet, to create contrast and allows the music to slowly build to a crescendo. Probably, or rather almost certainly, the only rock song to ever contain a section with just pipe organ, harp, and crotales (tuned percussion)! Also, in the refrain at the end, I love the way Allen plays a tympani (kettle drum) and tunes it up with the foot pedal while he plays it. Very cool sound that adds to the wonderful ending. So glad you have gotten into Yes! I have to admit to being a little discouraged by some of the reactions on your other channel with your friend who was obviously not a Yes fan. That's fine. They aren't a band everyone gets. But I'm REALLY glad you switched to doing Yes by yourself. Can't wait for you to do Close to the Edge! If you liked this, you should love that too. Also, the other two songs on Close to the Edge are awesome too, especially And You and I.
Cheers - stay safe and healthy in these trying times!
Peace from SF
Thanks so much Bud! Appreciate your comment and you watching me here. Oh trust me, the climax has been blasted quite a few times since this video :D
Wow. I had forgotten how good this song was. I bought the album when it first came out and loved it, played it a lot, but over the years (decades) I forgot about it. Thanks for bringing it (and the album) back to life for me.
Happy to bring it back :)
This channel is destined to grow pretty big. Your personality is infectious and the format is just so simple and good. It looks like a bad radio show/podcast thing and I love it.
Thank you for that Bone
As a teen I devoured this album in my room, lights dim, laying on my back, eyes closed... and just floated into the ceiling. Never took any drugs, ever...never needed them with perfect wormholes into the universe like this. It shaped me and defined “good music” for me. Now I’m 53 and this is the 3rd reaction to this song I’ve watched tonight and it never gets old watching others smile and gasp at musical perfection like this. Awaken is Yes’ apex, as was this album, imho.
Ty so much varsity! Its really a 9ne of a kind song
I'm pretty sure this is the song I heard live 8/27/78 in Kansas City that convinced me that the structure of the stadium was about to liquify and collapse around us. Granted, the Maui Wowie probably contributed, but it was devastating trying to comprehend that they had "one more notch" when upping the intensity. Breathtaking!
I've seen live in concert many times and every time it is the same--the audience loses its collective mind and you kind of get lulled into a trance. It's amazing. One of my favorite Yes songs!
Howe and squire , what a duo. Superb Wakeman keys and white on drums. Everyone on top of the game. Masterpiece
How on earth did I miss this episode Justin?? ‘Going for the One’ is my second favourite YES album after ‘Close to the Edge’. Love the others especially ‘Relayer’ but these two hold a special place in my heart and memory. And a huge Thank You for covering Olias. Jon’s an absolute genius! Another special album for me as my husband (boyfriend back then) and I were huge Yes fans and unfortunately many of our friends just couldn’t/didn’t understand them. Those that did were extremely close mainly for being similarly minded. Thanks again and take care. 🙏
I just realized how the opening piano bit reminds me of Jethro Tull's 'Locomotive Breath.' As I said on your 'Parallels' reaction if you like the organ then listen to Yes' earlier 'I've Seen All Good People.' It's long been my favorite by them and the organ is used well there.
'Awaken' is a great piece by the band, I love how it swells and ebbs, always interesting. Wakeman does shine on this one.
As for 'Close to the Edge' yes it's a fine piece, you'll enjoy and I look forward to your reaction; however I've heard it many many times, the group played it in concert frequently over the years so it's on a lot of their live albums.
15:10 was the payoff. I had that same reaction when I first heard it in 1977.
😁
check out Jon with Todmobile performing Awaken. The 15.10 moment is shattering. Enjoy
the power of major chords :)
For the most part reactors seem to have a tendency to focus on the lyrics alone and if by chance the lyrics don't sit right with them then the piece of music is usually dismissed,
Not here, every constituent element of the piece is analysed and given it's due credit (or not) in the part it plays in the whole and that's why I believe "JustJP" is the best music reaction channel on UA-cam, and by some margin.
Another excellent reaction/review Justin, I thoroughly enjoyed this, you picked up on all the moments that those of us that fell in love with this piece way back when picked up on, Steve's guitar, Jon's vocals, the quiet bells/harp/ Organ section, the ebb and flow of the Church Organ and the choral voices, so majestic and of course the impact of "That Moment", ...... loved it ! is this the best Yes epic ? I'm not sure, it's right up there ! most of the early Yes albums have some form of longer track on them, not always "epic" and some of the newer albums too,
The Yes Album - Yours Is No Disgrace / Perpetual Change
Fragile - South Side Of The Sky / Heart Of The Sunrise
Close To The Edge - Close To The Edge
Tales from Topographic Oceans - The Revealing Science Of God / Ritual
Relayer - The Gates Of Delirium
Going For The One - Awaken
Tormato - On The Silent Wings Of Freedom
Drama - Machine Messiah
90125 - Hearts
Big Generator - Shoot High, Aim Low
Talk - The Endless Dream parts 1,2 & 3
All of these great tracks would make excellent reactions for some time in the future,
great work Justin .....
Thank you so much Robert!
Robert, what you've just illustrated is why the question "What is the best Yes epic?" cannot be answered.
love coming back here every now and again just to see your face the moment you realize that Awaken is a masterpiece. A piece of music as good as any Mozart , Bach, Beethoven or Brahms.
Haha ty! Sometimes I watch again myself
Yes considered Awaken their "master work." I have always agreed.
It feels like iv'e just heard this track for 1st time, each time I hear it, it still gives you chill's, it's overwhelming, bewildering, monumental, it's on a different plane! Don't know what teenyboppers of Justin Bieber would make of this strange beautiful sound? I understand the feelings this gives you, it touches the core of your inner person, simply majestic!!
Its just one of those songs that is so detailed and well constructed, it never gets old or boring
This Song comes from heaven
"Like the time I ran away turned around and you were standing close to me" Very spiritual lyric meant to lift the soul. Jon's lyrics are healing and encouraging.
Yes! Its a powerful line
Being a lifelong Yes fan, I do appreciate your interpretations and analysis of Awaken. There are so many elements to this masterpiece. The one thing I didn't hear you notice was the scorching Steve Howe guitar that travels, weaves and binds throughout this piece (in usual Yes style.) It truly is another bond that brings it all together. Also, forget about the literal understanding of Jon's lyrics. To me they have always been a musical tool to only provide positivity and love. Hear the words but understand that they are wavelengths. Rick Wakeman once said of him.."Jon is the only man I know trying to save the world and doing it from a completely different one." I'm glad you enjoyed this work😊
Ty so much! Steve is just a force of nature in everything he does lol
I can absolutely imagine how this song sounds and feels live. I have been to two Yes concerts where it was played. Absolutely spiritual! The bit in the middle with harps and organs was especially beautiful. This is one of my favourite songs of all time.
Yes!
The first time I heard the organ hit that “climax,” my world stopped … I desperately had to hear that again on REAL speakers.
I have a friend with a JBL Paragon (original, the price of a luxury car) … I can’t WAIT to hear this on that.
The fact that you so get "that moment" with the organ climax JP! OMG! It is possibly my favourite 'massive' moment in the whole of prog. You have all my gratitude and respect for doing this song - and so getting it!
Ty Chris!😃
I have watched most of your videos but recently I have felt that you have found a great way to reach out to us viewers! I really like your attention to small tonal and structural differences! Great job sir!
Thanks Michael! I'm trying to narrow the gap between me and you all little by little
Wow. Best breakdown I've ever heard on a music reaction. This video and reaction should deserve college credits. I subbed before the music started because I'm a Yes fan, but now look forward to exploring your channel. Thankyou for everything.
That means a lot to me James, thank you for that. I hope you enjoy the other videos I have as well :D
Your reviews I actually enjoy so I subscribed. You describe well the music you listen to and why you enjoy it.
I appreciate that skunk!
Dude I keep coming back to this video. The expression on your face when that whistling organ hits will always fill me with joy
Hahah ty Will! It was just overwhelming!
You are so right about how great that little pause is just before the big organ climax. It's a very subtle thing, but it so important in heightening the moment to come. Thanks for doing this song. I haven't listened to it in a long time and it was great to hear again. Really enjoying watching your videos. So much great music to appreciate.
Thanks so much James! I LOOOVE the pause; its perfect
Spiritual Masterpiece.
I still come back to this song daily.
It's good to listen to in the early morning with meditation, or a good cup of coffee, or both.
Awaken.
See what is real.
What really matters in life.
Hands down my favorite YES piece. It's such a complex, well composed and performed masterpiece. Their layers and intricate instrumental and vocal harmony delicately building throughout the song is just in a class by itself. This song is a powerful, almost religious experience. You made my day! Thank you for your thoughtful analysis.
Absolutely Linda! Thank you for watching :)
Extremely well done. Thank you. I've probably seen this performed love about 10 times. A blessing. Like the time I ran away turned around and You were standing close to me. The whole time I was running away (severe alcoholism) He was always next to me. So was Yes.
Saw Yes live in 1977 on the tour supporting this album. Awaken was the highlight of the album as well as their live show. Showcased every member of the band. Built to an unforgettable climax as you point out. As good as this is on the record, it was transcendent live in front of a rapt audience.
lucky you
Excellent breakdown JP. I love this song, and was blessed enough to get to see Anderson, Squire, Wakeman, Howe, Bruford, Kaye, White, and Rabin all perform this song together live on 9 July 1991. I still remember it. The whole crowd was being showered in glittering light effects through most of it.
Man, I can imagine how inspiring that must've been..
For me, the word for THAT moment is "Transcendent"
Absolutely Baxter!
Stunning. I heard this for the very first time with you today. Unreal. 🥰💛💛💛🥰
Awesome! Glad you enjoyed it as well :D
You do a great job describing Yes's music! Thanks for checking them out. They were my favorite band growing up. Awaken is one of my favorites.
No problem! Ty Way!
Justin: I recently found your channel and I must say that I have thoroughly enjoyed it. Your choices of music, your insights and your emotional reactions have been a joy to watch, especially on this video.
I have owned this album since it came out in 1977 and it has never been out of my collection. I have been a Yes fan since "Fragile" was released in 1971 (I got started early. Lots of good influences. :) ) "Awaken" is my absolute favorite Yes song and you've helped me increase my appreciation of it. You spoke of "the moment" (15:05). Your reaction to it is the same one I have when I listen to it. The crescendo of the organ and choir takes me back to the years I sang in concert choirs in high school and college and something tells me you've had that experience as well. Thank you for enhancing that memory. I have some catching up to do as far as watching your videos, so I have to get back to work.
P.S. - Your reaction to "Close To The Edge" is a great one, too.
Thank you so so much Tom!
Thank you for highlighting one of the most inspirational songs of my life. Once again, I am deeply impressed on how well you explained all the things about this Yes tune that makes it worth listening to time and time again.
Ty Ralph!
So glad you reviewed this. I don't think any band has been able to tap into that spiritual plan in their music than this phenomenal track. Maybe Yes's finest track ever. 😍😍🙏🙏🙏🙏💫💫💫💫💫
It’s 5 years since Close To the Edge. They lost their collective minds and did Tales From Topographic Oceans and drove Wakeman from the fold. They recruited Patrick Moraz to replace him (having failed to tempt Vangelis to join) and embraced jazz fusion. They pined so much for Wakeman that they invited him back and jettisoned Moraz. Wakeman was surprised at the difference in the band when he came back and said that everyone had grown up a bit , or maybe it was just that he had!
So, it’s the work of a more mature set of musicians than those that made Close To The Edge, even though most of them were still under 30, and you can hear it. It is more cohesive and less a collection of parts, like Supper’s Ready and Close To The Edge, where sometimes you can see the join. It’s still a set of musical ideas that they have put together and made more seamless, with the return to the original theme being done without any hint of clunkiness at all. At the same time, it suffers by comparison, I think, because it is more polished and complete. There is less of the fire in the belly that you’ll find in Close To The Edge. Like many great composers’ works, it is more refined than their youthful efforts but loses something with that transition of time.
Having said all that, it is still pretty damn magnificent.
Very well put!
Thank you, thank you, thank you JP. You got there. And you understood....wonderful to share your “moment”. Such a sacred sound. It takes you higher and higher to the Devine energy source., to higher ground........keep spinning those chakras JP
Thank YOU so much Iona; its just that good!
You're reminding me how to properly listen to music, hanging on every moment! Your joy is contagious!
Ty!
Listened to this song for over 40 years. It has always brought me back to the centre of the happiness it gave me on the first listen. It is a beautiful affirmation of life, of the positive, of Yes.
1971 - review - Wow! Rick Wakeman's first show in the US. Fragile would not be released
in the US until January of 1972, but a number of songs from Fragile were played this night at the Whisky to the amazement of the crowd.Yes opened the concert with Roundabout and Heart of the Sunrise had people gasping for breath. When Yes had finished the first of two sets some soul brothers who were there to see soul singer Mary Wells, who was also on the bill, asked "What's the name of that group?" after i replied Yes one of them said "Man They Is YES!"
Must be my favourite Yes song. That vocal melody is such great. And I love your intro. :-)
Glad you like Yes...I've been all in since 1971. 2 words for you. Sound Chaser. :)
Most of my favorite Yes epics are centered around Anderson/Howe collaborations (ie Close to the Edge, Gates of Delerium, Tales from Topographic Oceans, etc). But this one is definitely more of an Anderson/Wakeman/Howe composition which is why it stands out. And it's also why it's the most spiritually powerful yes song of all. Wakeman was always a devoutly religious Christian, and he brought that epic church organ sound to the band that just made songs like this soar. Anderson was also very spiritual but was more into Eastern religions and philosophies. I just love the way those cultures meshed together into something so grand and uplifting on this amazing work of art (it's not just a song to me).
Yes may have been the most aptly named band ever, because their music is so positive. Contrast that with my other favorite band from this era, Genesis, who liked to explore the darker side of our nature. Two sides of the same prog rock coin if you ask me, which is why both bands often get mentioned together.
although Rick certainly takes the spotlight on this song and did the choral arrangements, the entire chord structure and lyrics were Anderson/Howe except the piano intro. It was written while Patrick was still in the band... they played part of it at the last show of the 76 tour. The Moraz tune "Time for a Change" includes the original Awaken intro.
@@sammarsh3679 Yes, Howe definitely was a big part of the composition of this song (it is credited to Anderson/Howe after all). But regardless of who gets songwriting credit you have to acknowledge that the rest of the band made significant contributions even if they're not listed as songwriters. And in this case an ex-band member (Moraz) made a big contribution as well. Wakeman was a special case though because he was signed to a different record label, he was legally not allowed to put his name on the credits of Yes songs, even though he contributed quite a bit, creatively, to the music ... especially on this song. I have a feeling he would have gotten a songwriting credit on this song if it weren't for the legalese.
@@DrakusRecords like I said, he takes the spotlight. The contractual disputes with A&M actually got settled after Fragile. He gets credit on Siberian Khatru, and all of Topographic, and on Tormato. he just came in very late to these sessions. Writing credit usually goes to the writers of the chord structure and the lyrics. Everyone in Yes makes strong contributions, But Rick in this case was adding his parts to a song that had already been written.
At last, Rick Wakeman back where he should be. ALL the stops were out. The organ was recorded 4 miles away whilst the rest of the band played in the studio. Rick was the piece that they needed to be Yes again. Not dissing Patrick Moratz as I love Relayer but Rick is the keyboard player of Yes, no contest.... - As Justin would say, I don't care what you say.... :) :) :)
I fully agree Rick is the Yes keyboards
This is the best YES song ever!
You're not wrong
My second comment because I'm still listening to you but your view on the production is spot on IMO. As the 70's approached the end and the 80's beckoned, productions became clearer and more sparkling, but that didn't always serve the music. The gutsy, analogue sound of the early 70's (Zeppelin, Sabbath, Focus, Yes, Genesis, Crimson) needed that low mid punch that later productions seemed to try hard to eliminate. I could write an essay on the bad directions 80's production went in but I won't bore or alienate the reading public! For the last Hurrah of tough, 70's sounding Yes I'd recommend you listen to Machine Messiah from Drama. Tougher than Going's successor, Tormato, it has that depth of sound that was to disappear later in the decade.
Totally understand your comment about "the moment". First time I heard time I heard the album, that was my first thought. My favorite Yes song - and again, thanks for your all-encompassing portrait of music you react to. Peace.
Hi JP -first time Ive seen your channel and here you go and do one of Fav Yes songs! I’m a Huge fan of Yes! Been following them for over 45 years! Seen them in concert 45x! Yep! Many front row seats and Awaken live And front row is Amazing! I’ve enjoyed seeing a 1st time listeners experience 👏👏 Sooo many good songs to enjoy!! Woot!
Thanks dolfin! :)
Thanks Jp your vid took away the blues of the pathetic weather and this virus taking over. This takes us all to a better place. Keep up the good work jp
Thank you so much for that grey, means a lot to hear that the videos have helped :)
I really enjoyed this reaction. You reacted to all the details I expected you to react to which is great. Awaken is one of the monumental songs of Yes. It has those great build ups, nice contrasts, the gentle soft kind of esoteric parts, the groove, some tention, healthy musical aggressiveness, heaviness and wildeness and also that grand or even monstrous festive kind of feeling. And everything is precisely executed. This to me is one of the most representative Yes songs. Well.....Close to the Edge is another one. So hopefully we´ll get to that soon.
Thanks Back! :D
Super job! Glad you did this one as well and you actually did it BEFORE Close to the Edge. This is interesting because it's a bit later. Like CttE, it's really multiple pieces of music stitched together in one song. Also, like CttE, this one takes you through some feelings and emotions. I think anyone can feel these but maybe no one more than we Yes fans of the world. It's always floating. Sometimes just over ground level and sometimes it feels like it jumps up into the upper atmosphere. Finally and also like CttE, this one really demands your attention. You could listen to it while driving but not as simple background music. You really have to pay attention to it. And not any one thing; everything really and not just the lyrics (although they're wonderful). The way it starts is tied to the way it concludes but the end has that really complete feeling. I always have a very nice feeling when the song ends. A lot of folks out there can't really handle something like this and the attention it demands. For those who do give it a chance and try to get into it, I doubt many have regretted it. IMHO, this is Yes' best epic tune.
Thanks John! Agreed, it all comes together amazingly and takes you somewhere (as good music often does)
Smiles at a Yes concert. Always! The Key of C
Masterpiece :) Yes has some fantastic epics in there cataloge. Also The Gates Of Delirium and The Remembering is also just outstanding.
Really enjoyed your video, especially on one of the greatest prog songs of all time by the best prog band of all time. You've got a new fan!
Ty Ken!
Hi mate... I've watched your reaction to "The Moment" so many times! Love it... And you're right... It is quite something. Best wishes from England👍👍
Justin it’s wonderful to hear you enjoy this masterpiece just a bit of history I saw this tour seeing Awaken performed live for the first time was incredible Chris Squire plays a 3 neck bass one is a standard fretted bass a fret less bass and an 8 string fretted bass with only 6 strings tuned to A he was an amazing musician RIP Chris
I bet it was a once in a lifetime experience!
Such an awesome song. Totally beautiful. Possibly their greatest song.
I had a friend who was not yet too into Yes, But i played him this song and he was enthralled from then after. I'll never forgot watching the transformation in his reaction...enjoyed yours too...
Ty so much Dean. I was just listening to it on the way home yesterday, still get chills at the climax!
Told you it was grandiose! :)
One of the biggest feat of this song is using intervals that don't work well together musically, and make them work more beautifully than anyone could think possible. In many passages, the instruments also play in canon (playing the same lines but with an offset), which is extremely rare in rock , even in prog.
I must admit some of your reactions did send me chills. The song already does this, but seeing someone else react the same adds a lot to it.
And for the Close to the Edge "challenge", my best advice would be to not pressure yourself into it (unless you enjoy that!). Do it when you feel like it. We'll wait!
Thanks Arsenal! :D They know how to bring it all together very very well. Appreciate you watching and enjoying AE
"Can you imagine seeing that live?"
Yes, several times, and it is wonderful. When I saw them at the Royal Albert Hall, at that final Climax you liked; loads of Ticker Tape was dropped from the ceiling... it was a defining and stunning moment.
I can only imagine!
I was waiting for your reaction to “That Moment”, it is such a majestic moment. Sublime music. It has been a New Years tradition to play it as my very first song after New Year has entered.
THAT moment is perfect, so perfect
I have heard this lineup doing Awaken live in a symphony hall. It makes you cry incontrollably.
Oh man, I can imagine
love the opening!!
Saw this show in the round in Vancouver BC in 77 Pacific coliseum...Epic as the fog of cannabis was so thick...no police.. just elevated enlightenment prevailed as the Yes spectacle unveiled itself before us..pure magic. Thanks JP haven't heard this in a long time..lost the LP somewhere years ago.
JP,
OK, I've had in mind to write to you for a while. I've been "Awaken" to write by your review of "Awaken". I have taken delight to your disc-covery of the music of Yes. So many levels at interplay with each other. Working quietly together to portray soft moments or harshly jarring to show the distress of war. And all that is between,
For me the tastes I've had of Yes music are very full, from the tip of my tounge to the back of my throat right on down to to where I digest the music - somewhere twixt heart and soul. I wish you well on your journey! I like the idea that you are well equipped to take it.
Peace, JB
Brilliant song, this when YES new how to crescendo into the fullness sought of like a flower opening to full bloom!