Magnification

Amazon.com
Who'd have thought it? Magnification is the strongest, freshest set of new Yes material in a long time. Having thoroughly exhausted the world's supply of classically inclined rock keyboard players, the four remaining members of Yes have dispensed with that perennially bothersome ivory-tickling slot altogether. And so Messrs Jon Anderson, Alan White, Chris Squire, and Steve Howe have enlisted the temporary services of soundtrack composer Larry Groupe, whose cinematic orchestrations lend a thoroughly modern aura to the band's sonic palette. Anyone expecting smugly complacent, stagnant, stuck-in-the-1970s prog rock will be thoroughly disappointed by the emotionally engaging ambition, revised logic, and sensibly channeled material. "We Agree," "Dreamtime," and, particularly, the melodic "Give Love Each Day" are standout tracks on an album that--as the title suggests--really does hold up well to close scrutiny. --Kevin Maidment

Magnification,Yes,Beyond Records,Album Rock,Pop,Pop/Rock,Prog-Rock/Art Rock,Rock,Rock/Pop

---

Magnification

Average customer rating: 3 1/2 Stars (for Disc One Only) Yes orquestal New Yes is as good as older Yes Magnifying the Way for a Better World... Magnification

Magnification Yes Manufacturer: Eagle Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Ladder Keystudio Time and a Word Going for the One Tormato ASIN: B00069FKFA Release Date: 2004-11-16

Tracks:

1. Magnification
2. Spirit of Survival
3. Don't Go
4. Give Love Each Day
5. Can You Imagine
6. We Agree
7. Soft as a Dove
8. Dreamtime
9. In the Presence of: Deeper/Death of Ego/True Beginner/Turn Around ...
10. Time Is Time

Tracks:

1. Close to the Edge [Live][*]
2. Long Distance Runaround [Live][*]
3. Gates of Delirium/Soon [Live][*]

Customer Reviews:

3 1/2 Stars (for Disc One Only).......2007-07-24

Yes's "Magnification" is a pretty solid album, its just a shame that there aren't more songs that a outstanding such as "Magnification, Spirit of Survival, Dreamtime, Can you Imagine, This is the time, and In the prescence of:". SO thats six solid tracks, but the others seem to really kill the album. I am sure that there are those that like the slower, more ballady side of the band, but I enjoy the uptempo, classic rock vibe songs, and even some of the songs that use the classic early 80's heavy synth sound. Its good, but fails to fall from OUTSTANDING! Enjoy

Yes orquestal.......2007-03-24

Los tipos de Yes ya no son veinteaneros. No son los mismos de antes. Tampoco lo somos nosotros, asi que los que anden esperando que a estas alturas del juego Yes siga creando piezas en la vena de Fragile o CTTE, mejor que vayan viendo para otro lado. A nosotros lo que nos importa es que la musica y las canciones sean buenas, y en eso este cd cumple. Siguen siendo progresivos, hay su par de canciones largas, y aunque algunos de los numeros acusticos y mucho mas cortos se pudieron haber movido del camino, que Yes sea capaz de sacar algo asi a la luz luego de casi 40 anos es de admirar. Long live Yes.

New Yes is as good as older Yes.......2007-03-17

Yes, is one of those rare groups of talented musicians that when combined is greater than the some of other groups. Their range of musical styles is seen on this album. Even though the songs are long from a time point of view, it does not seem so when your listening to it because they have a unique way of blending different styles, rhythm, and tempos throughout a song. Their harmonies are always pleasent to listen to. Through the 70s different music styles were being experiented on by a few talented musicians (ELO, Eagles, Led Z). Yes is one of the few groups that was able to find a blend that has survived to this day. They still produce CD as is heard with this collection and perform together; whereas other groups have faded into a distant memory.

Magnifying the Way for a Better World..........2007-02-27

Say what you like about Yes. Say what you will about Jon Anderson and his obvious spiritual path. It doesn't change the fact that Yes has and always will be about promoting change for the better. The music manifested in this 2001 recording re-emphasizes what Yes was about in the 60s and 70s.

For me, a person who has never had the grand privilege of seeing these musical masters (Anderson and Squire, in particular) in live concert action, the whole album is like a personal concert, the title track, "Magnification," setting the tone for the whole album, and the final track, "Time is Time," is like a "Goodnight everyone" blessing.

As for favorite tracks? I think 1, 2, and 8 bear that standard because of the superb lyrics that speak to what topics have been occupying my brain of late.

To sum up, this album not only is the classic picture-frame of prog-rock, it speaks to the core of me: the child of parents who were hippies in the social activist sense, and because I choose to carry that same torch for positive change, as always, I say "yes" to "YES."

Magnification.......2007-02-19

This album is super. Jon Anderson's vocals, the band members harmony, all of the band members skills are a pleasure to listen to. The orchestra component is nice. If you like Yes, this is a good album to buy. Also try The Ladder.

Average customer rating: A different avenue, still a good one Magnification, magnified in my opinion.... You Can't Please Everyone... So Don't Try! I bought this for $2.99 Could Have Been...

Magnification Yes Manufacturer: Beyond Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Ladder Union Open Your Eyes Drama Talk ASIN: B00005NWMK Release Date: 2001-12-04

Tracks:

1. Magnification
2. Spirit of Survival
3. Don't Go
4. Give Love Each Day
5. Can You Imagine
6. We Agree
7. Soft as a Dove
8. Dreamtime
9. In the Presence of: Deeper/Death of Ego/True Beginner/Turn Around ...
10. Time Is Time

Amazon.com

Who'd have thought it? Magnification is the strongest, freshest set of new Yes material in a long time. Having thoroughly exhausted the world's supply of classically inclined rock keyboard players, the four remaining members of Yes have dispensed with that perennially bothersome ivory-tickling slot altogether. And so Messrs Jon Anderson, Alan White, Chris Squire, and Steve Howe have enlisted the temporary services of soundtrack composer Larry Groupe, whose cinematic orchestrations lend a thoroughly modern aura to the band's sonic palette. Anyone expecting smugly complacent, stagnant, stuck-in-the-1970s prog rock will be thoroughly disappointed by the emotionally engaging ambition, revised logic, and sensibly channeled material. "We Agree," "Dreamtime," and, particularly, the melodic "Give Love Each Day" are standout tracks on an album that--as the title suggests--really does hold up well to close scrutiny. --Kevin Maidment

Customer Reviews:

A different avenue, still a good one.......2007-03-07

This album is one of its kind in the Yes catalogue. You can't compare with any other I think. It sounds more mature and I think this is a great cd that prove that prog music can naturally be mixed with symphonic music.
Congratulations to the band for their musical exploration, even after all those years. I remember hearing "In the presence of" in concert for the Symphonic tour. That was the first time I heard it and it was clear in my mind, that was a new Yes classic. Now that I have the cd, I can tell that I wasn't wrong ! Beautiful album !

Magnification, magnified in my opinion...........2007-02-01

I purchased this for an alarming 1.96 in a retail chain so I would assume the sales of this cd were not spectacular. As a consumer value a steal of a deal. I enjoy this and still return to it from time to time which says something.

The use of symphony to fill the space left by the keyboard seat in the band is an easy transition for a band that has always sported music that could easily be defined as orchestral. They have always found a way to temper a line up of fantastic musicians into songs that still happen without becoming a vehicle for too many cooks in the kitchen.

You will find some great songs on this. You aren't listening to Fragile or 90125 on this. Some refreshing Howe acoustic guitar will take you back to some of the earthiness of their 70s prog outings. While Squire sticks to laying down some streamlined bass grooves that hold these tracks together you will hear him deliver a vocal intro on Can You imagine that is a good contrast to Jon Anderson's unmistakeable voice which is as good as ever.

You can pick this up anywhere for the price of a cup of coffee and you should it's well worth it....

You Can't Please Everyone... So Don't Try!.......2006-12-01

It is astounding that I have read a bunch of reviews of this album and hear polar opposite opinions of the same exact lyric or tune!

One person things Jon has gone over the edge or is at his worst, yet another thinks he is at his best (btw, the person who said his 'once-crystaline-now hoarse voice' has no clue what he/she is talking about. His voice sounds exactly the same as it always has). One person thinks "If we were flowers we would worship the Sun...so why not now?" is brilliant (including me) yet another thinks it's the worst thing he's ever written. One says the is their best since Relayer [insert album title here] yet another says it's their worst ever! Someone says Soft as a Dove is the worst thing ever put on a Yes album yet another finds it soothing/sublime/peaceful/lovely, etc.

The bottom line? You can't please everyone. Afterall, there ARE bad reviews of Fragile, Close to the Edge, and The Yes Album out there too people. For people to say that one album is 'their best' and compare it to another is giving an opinion based on nothing other than his/her personal taste. But heck, that's what these review boards are for right?

But the problem is that everyone hears music differently and we can't go by another's opinion at all - and neither should Yes. The fact that I happen to think this IS their 'best since...' only means something to me. The fact that I think everything they've done since GFTO is garbage only means something TO ME. So don't listen to me. Don't listen to others. JUST LISTEN TO THE ALBUM.

That all being said, I personally think it's wonderful because I DON'T compare it to anything they or anyone else has done. You can't compare art with other art. Art stands on its own - regardless if someone thinks it's a masterpiece and another thinks it's trash.

All I know is that every time I take this out of my CD player and put something else on, I can't wait for that something else to end so I can return to this. That's how much this album has touched me personally for what it's worth.

Peace.

I bought this for $2.99.......2006-11-27

When I saw the price tag of $2.99, I figured how bad could it be. Oh my god this disc is tremendous. It's as good as "Close to the Edge, Fragile, Going for the One". or any classic Yes album. This was the steal of the century.

Could Have Been..........2006-11-20

I was pleasantly surprised- as a long time YES fan and a keyboard player I was not too sure I wouldlike this album. When I first played it all the way through I just didn't get a good feeling about the music. It just wasn't an album that gave me the "ebb and flow" I look foward to with YES albums.

When I remixed my favorite songs (FOR PERSONAL USE SO DON'T CALL THE LAWYERS) I had an incredible album on my hands. In these days of CD's- instead of having to fill 40 -45 minutes on a tape or LP like days of old, I think the band had to include "filler songs" that were, in my opinion, very weak and not up to the usual Yes standards.

My problem with tracks 3,,7 and 10 (Don't Go, Soft As A Dove, Time is Time) was that they just didn't fit into the whole. They really were not songs suitable for a symphonic Yes album. They seem like leftovers from previous efforts...Don't Go and parts of the title track seem like old catalogue stuff Squire had laying around from the 80's when Yes was infected with Rabinitis (sorry I just didn't care for the "pop star" Yes line-up and music).

Played individually the songs are ok but I think that it took away from the other tracks- just as the listener is being carried away into a musical journey they are sidetracked with tracks that have Anderson singing without the passion you hear in the other, more powerful tracks.

While I didn't include track 5 in my mix, a lead vocal song by Squire called Can You Imagine, it is still (again played individually) a good track that proves that Chris can do more then sing back up vocals.

So my mix included:

Side One-

Magnification
Spirit of Survival
Give Love Each Day
We Agree

Side Two-

(I mixed this so it is like one complete song- the same as Close To The Edge or Gates of Delirium is)

Dreamtime

In the Prsence Of
(I skipped the droning first section)

ii-death of ego
iii- true beginner
iv- turn around and remember

Were there no such thing as CD's and albums still ran 40-45 minutes this line up of songs...especially the side two mix would have been hailed as the 21st century's classic Yes album. Without this ebb and flow- where one song naturally progresses into the next without a curve ball being thrown in, this album doesn't get the 5 stars my personal mix does.

By all means get this CD- if you like try listening to the CD all the way through, as it is, one time and then try mixing the songs the way I did and I bet you will have the same reaction I did- absolute amazement...it bacame a different album for me after I gutted out the banal and forced filler pieces. From start to finish the musical journey was complete.

As of the date of this review, Jon Anderson is 62 years old, and who knows if we will see another YES studio album. The band remains on hiatus according to their official website. After his current acoustic European tour with Wakeman, Jon Anderson, as may the other guys, might head to the heart of the sunrise and musical retirement....if they ever remaster this record I hope they do it close to the way I did it- then it will truly be, if this was their final studio release, a grand finale worth keeping in your collection for years to come.

Bottom line is that if you love the art of the music of Yes and really didn't dig the pop rock stuff they did during the Rabin era then you will love this album...especially my side two!

Average customer rating: An exquisitely sensual journey.

15 Levels of Magnification Neotropic Manufacturer: Ntone ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ambient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Techno | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Trip-Hop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Reggae | International | Styles | Music Experimental Music | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music Ambient | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music Reggae | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Mr. Brubaker's Strawberry Alarm Clock White Rabbits La Prochaine Fois Ultra Freaky Orange The K&D Sessions ASIN: B000003S7M Release Date: 1997-01-24

Tracks:

1. Northwest 37th
2. Laundry Pt 3
3. La Centinela
4. Laundry Pt 1
5. 15 Levels Of Magnification
6. Weeds
7. Nana
8. Nincompoop
9. Electric Bud
10. CCTV
11. Neotropic
12. Beautiful Pool
13. Regents Park
14. It's Your Turn To Wash Up
15. Aloo Gobi
16. Frozen Hands

Customer Reviews:

An exquisitely sensual journey........1999-08-06

Riz Maslen's neotropical sense of art is beyond limits. The minimal beat and occasional acid lashes, less frequent and furious than Mr. Brubaker's, enveloped by a functioning visceral mood and a very intimate ambient, make this my favourite. You must listen to Neotropic.

Average customer rating:

15 Levels of Magnification Neotropic Manufacturer: Ntone ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ambient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Techno | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music Ambient | Dance & DJ | Indie Music | Stores | Music ASIN: B00000678U Release Date: 1997-03-18

Tracks:

1. 15 Levels Of Magnification (Remix)
2. 15 Levels Of Dante's Inferno (Remix)
3. 15 Levels Of Your Stealth (Remix)
4. 15 Levels Of The Empire State (Remix)
5. Laundraphonic Pt.4
6. The Older You Get The Smaller You Become
7. 15 Levels Of Magnification (Original Mix)
8. Bonus Track

Average customer rating:

Dormition of the Mother of God Manufacturer: The Orchard ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Sacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Vocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Chants | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Similar Items: Chants de la Liturgie Slavonne Russian Divine Liturgy ASIN: B00003ZAJ2 Release Date: 2000-05-10

Tracks:

1. Chants From The Holy Land

Average customer rating:

Thy Lavra is Joyful Today Manufacturer: Russian Compact Disc ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Sacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Vocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Chants | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music ASIN: B000004ASQ Release Date: 1996-09-01

Tracks:

1. Greek Chant: Troparion For The Pochaev Icon Of The Mother Of God
2. Kiev-Pechery Lavra Chant: Sticheron For The Pochaev Icon Of The Mother Of God
3. Greek Chant: Kontaktion From The Akathistos For The Pochaev Icon Of The Mother Of God
4. Under Thy Mercy
5. Greek Chant: Troparion To St. Iov Of Pochaev
6. Kiev-Pechery Lavra Chant: Sticheron To St. Iov Of Pochaev After Gospel Lesson
7. Pochaev Lavra Chant: Blessed In The Man
8. Pochaev Lavra Chant: After That Thou Hast Fallen Asleep
9. Magnification For St. Iov Of Pochaev
10. O Queen Of The Heavenly Host
11. Thy Memory Day Has Come, Sticheron To St. Iov Of Pochaev
12. Kiev-Pechery Lavra Chant: The Lord Is King, Prokiemenon
13. Kiev-Pechery Lavra Chant: Canon Of The Feast Of The Dormition
14. Kiev-Pechery Lavra Chant: Ektene Of Supplication
15. Easter stchera
16. Trinity Troparia At The Sunday Midnight Office
17. The Christmas Troparion
18. Carols: Carols: Wake up, Wake up, My Master
19. Carols: Carols: Three Glorious Kings
20. Carols: Carols: On Christmas Feast

Average customer rating: Definitely worth picking up Brilliant work from an essential band at its creative peak Magnification is a Must for Die-Hard Yes Fans Magnification is a Must for Die-Hard Yes Fans 3.5 stars

Magnification Yes ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music ASIN: B00005NIDK

Tracks:

1. Magnification
2. Spirit of Survival
3. Don't Go
4. Give Love Each Day
5. Can You Imagine
6. We Agree
7. Soft as a Dove
8. Dreamtime
9. In the Presence of: Deeper/Death of Ego/True Beginner/Turn Around ...
10. Time Is Time

Album Description

Following the success of their last studio album 'The Ladder' (critically acclaimed as their best in ten years), 'Magnification' will be remembered as one of the finest & most natural collaborations between a rock band & an orchestra. U.S. release date is scheduled for December 4th 2001.

Customer Reviews:

Definitely worth picking up.......2001-11-15

THe first track I heard from this album was "In the Presence of", and I cringed when I heard it. I was looking forward to Yes' orchestral collaboration, but if this tepid work was the product, then count me out! Then I heard the rest of the tracks, and now I know that the first impression of an energyless album was incorrect. I'll go track-by-track in review, and give each a rating out of five..

(1) Magnification (4/5)- a great way to start off the album. Perhaps just a touch long (about 7 minutes), but it's catchy, and you'll be singing along to it in no time.

(2) Spirit of Survival (5/5) - the second-best track on the album, and a classic Yes song in its own right. Starts out with Jon in depths-of-space mode, then rocks hard for the next 8 minutes or so. Strong backup vocals from Chris.

(3) Don't Go (4/5) - This is getting some mixed reviews from fans, but I think it's an excellent song. We won't hear it on the radio, but it's a catchy song, and is more down-to-earth than Jon's usual lyrics.

(4) Give Love Each Day (3/5) - This is where things start to go downhill a bit. The orchestral intro is beautiful (on par with some of the best movie score arranging in the past few years), but the song really doesn't go anywhere. Pretty, but it won't stick with you for long.

(5)Can You Imagine (3/5) - Chris originally wrote this song in the early 80's, if I remember correctly, and it shows. It would have been an excellent addition to BIG GENERATOR, and here it's a great showcase for Chris' distinct vocal style, but it's a waypoint, not a destination.

(6) We Agree (3.5/5) - I just can't get into this song. I have a feeling it's one that will grow on me, but for now, I can't give it a higher rating.

(7) Soft As a Dove (2/5) - Ugh. The lyrics are somewhat touching, but it's like cotton candy - it melts away, leaving nothing behind. On the wrong side of sappy.

(8) Dreamtime (5/5) - NOW we're talking! Instant classic Yes track. Driving, vigourous, the orchestra keeping up - when Jon arpeggios down with the violins following, it brings a chill to the spine. Chris sounding like an avenging spirit. A Quality 10 minute piece, right up there with recent Yes classics like Homeworld and New Languages.

(9) ITPO (3.5/5) - Not so much as a comedown as a change of pace, it loses a half-point for letting the sappy gremlin to get ahold of Jon's pen. Musically, it's very textured and interesting, not as monotonous as on first hearing.

(10) Time is Time (?/5) - Perhaps it's bad that this song doesn't even make an impression. Sounds like the closing credits for a TV show.

Even though I've given short shrift to some of the songs above, this is still one of the best albums this year. In short, if Yes wants to be heard on the radio, they should lead off with a four-and-a-half minute edit of Magnification, then follow up with Don't Go. Not that that will happen, but it's too bad that an album this good will undoubtedly disappear into the back bins of record stores.

All in all, it's great that a band with Yes' longevity is still trying new things and making new music. Keep it up, guys!

Brilliant work from an essential band at its creative peak.......2001-11-14

This isn't something to compare with past Yes albums. That would miss the point of this one. This is the future manifest. This is the best of what Yes has become. Just as you couldn't compare "Sgt. Pepper" with "Meet the Beatles", you can't compare this album with anything else that came before it. Just let go and listen!

Yes has long been considered "The Musician's Band". Well, fasten your seat belt. The somehow-always-divinely-inspired voice of Jon Anderson has never sounded clearer or more precise; Alan's drumming and Chris' bass are razor-precise and in perfect synch; Steve's guitar playing stretches at last into less technical and more heartfelt territory; Jon's lyrics are rich and thought-provoking; and the writing and arranging are solid and interesting, directing each song to soar like a flaming arrow through a complex maze of cooperating and interrelated themes toward its intended mark.

And the orchestra! This is not just another rock album with an orchestra pasted into the background for effect. Larry Groupé's instrumentation is a seamless, integrated expression of some of the most absolutely brilliant, lyrical, rhythmic, perfectly mixed, and musical work in years, if not ever, and it expertly, perfectly helps to manifest the best of what Yes has become.

As is usual with their most brilliant, complex, and musically risky works, there's so much going on at once that a full apprehension of their sonic tapestry begins to make full sense only after a few dozen listens. This may someday be considered the "Pet Sounds" of Yes. It doesn't replace anything in their repertoire, but rather takes their music to new depth and height. These are not tired old guys churning out a pop album sound-alike, but rather, fresh and energetic musicians at their creative peaks.

Let go and listen. It's a fantastic ride.

Magnification is a Must for Die-Hard Yes Fans.......2001-10-28

If you love to love Yes, you'll love this album. If you love to hate Yes, you'll hate it. For a long-time die-hard fan like me, Magnification has all the right ingredients for an enjoyable recording. Jon Anderson's clear voice (which just gets better with age), Chris Squire's punchy and melodic bass, Alan White's precise drumming, and Steve Howe's phenomenal multi-faceted guitar playing sound just as fresh as ever. Instead of trying to find yet another keyboard player, they used an orchestra, which really complements the band's sound. There are soaring melodies, gentle ballads, and driving rockers. The lyrics are as deliciously esoteric as they've ever been and the music has the usual well-crafted finesse. I bought the import off of Amazon and I'm glad I got it early. Rather than compare it to other recordings, it's better listened to on its own terms.

Magnification is a Must for Die-Hard Yes Fans.......2001-10-28

If you love to love Yes, you'll love this album. If you love to hate Yes, you'll hate it. For a long-time die-hard fan like me, Magnification has all the right ingredients for an enjoyable recording. Jon Anderson's clear voice (which just gets better with age), Chris Squire's punchy and melodic bass, Alan White's precise drumming, and Steve Howe's phenomenal multi-faceted guitar playing sound just as fresh as ever. Instead of trying to find yet another keyboard player, they used an orchestra, which really complements the band's sound. There are soaring melodies, gentle ballads, and driving rockers. The lyrics are as deliciously esoteric as they've ever been and the music has the usual well-crafted finesse. I bought the import off of Amazon and I'm glad I got it early. Rather than compare it to other recordings, it's better listened to on its own terms.

3.5 stars.......2001-10-09

When I first heard that Yes would be working with an orchestra on this, their new recording, I cringed. I've never been a fan of orchestral work in prog. Still, it's Yes with Anderson, Squire, Howe and White-it seemed worth giving a try. Turns out, this is a good album-not great-but good. There are times when the orchestrations serve the songs nicely there are other times when efforts came up short. Overall, I'd say they have yet to truly learn how to work with the orchestra. In spite of my pre-existing prejudices I'd like to see them continue to work with an orchestra on the next one as long as they commit to developing the sound further. On this recording the band sounds too restrained as if the presence of the orchestra overwhelmed them. I understand that they are getting on in years and that their respective chops just aren't what they used to be but they are capable of more involved and lengthier instrumental passages. Howe in particular missed a wonderful opportunity to work off of the orchestra. Perhaps he should listen to Australian classical guitarist John Williams' most recent orchestral work for inspiration. The focus throughout seems primarily on melody and composition with much less emphasis on musicianship than Yes fans have come to hope for. Anderson's melodic sensibilities are in fine form and he only occassionally delivers the embarassing lyric (Soft as a Dove and Don't Go-two weak compositions). Squire delivers his first solo effort of merit since Fish Out of Water (Can You Imagine). It sounds like a Fish out-take. Pity it wasn't longer. Song's that seems to really hit the mark are Dreamtime, Give Love Each Day and We Agree. It's here that Howe-Squire-White just take off and lift the music to another level. More of this energetic musicianship would have served the project well. Ah well, perhaps next time. Still nice to have the boys around and have them make the effort to try on something new. Where it's no masterpiece, it's still worth getting..Simon

Average customer rating: Muy Bueno

Magnification Yes Manufacturer: Import [Generic] ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music ASIN: B00005UO4S Release Date: 2002-06-25

Tracks:

1. Magnification
2. Spirit of Survival
3. Don't Go
4. Give Love Each Day
5. Can You Imagine
6. We Agree
7. Soft as a Dove
8. Dreamtime
9. In the Presence Of
10. Time Is Time

Tracks:

1. Deeper (In the Presence Of) [Live][*]
2. Gates of Delirium [Live][*]
3. Magnification [Live][*]
4. CD-ROM Track: Jon Anderson Video Interview/Don't Go [Single Video/Gate]

Album Description

Strictly limited & numbered edition 2CD format in a purple embossed case. Disc two has 3 live audio tracks from the 2001 tour - 'Deeper (In The Presence Of)', 'Gates Of Delirium' & 'Magnification' plus 2 videos 'Don't Go' (single version) & 'Gates of Delirium' (live video), plus a video interview with Jon Anderson. 2002.

Customer Reviews:

Muy Bueno.......2003-03-07

Aparte de que el Magnification en sí es una maravilla, el 2do Cd y la caja morada con el logo "incrustado" hacen que esta edición limitada sea una joyita. al parecer soy de los pocos que la tienen.

Average customer rating:

Magnification Yes Manufacturer: Japanese Victor Co. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music ASIN: B00007JMPP Release Date: 2003-04-29

Tracks:

1. Magnification
2. Spirit of Survival
3. Don't Go
4. Give Love Each Day
5. Can You Imagine
6. We Agree
7. Soft as a Dove
8. Dreamtime
9. In the Presence of: Deeper/Death of Ego/True Beginner/Turn Around ...
10. Time Is Time
11. Long Distance Runaround [*]
12. Don't Go [Live][*]
13. Magnification [Live][*]

Album Description

Japanese limited edition reissue of 2001 album includes three bonus tracks, 'Long Distance Runaround', 'Don't Go' (Live Version), & 'Magnification' (Live Version), packaged in a miniature LP sleeve. Beyond. 2003.

Album Details

Japanese Limited Edition in an LP-STYLE Slipcase. Includes Two Bonus Live Tracks.

Average customer rating: Are they getting old? A new Yes. Maybe one of the best ever.

Magnification Yes Manufacturer: Teichiku Japan ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music ASIN: B00005NO45 Release Date: 2001-10-04

Tracks:

1. Magnification
2. Spirit of Survival
3. Don't Go
4. Give Love Each Day
5. Can You Imagine
6. We Agree
7. Soft as a Dove
8. Dreamtime
9. In the Presence of: Deeper/True Beginner/Turn Around and Remember
10. Time Is Time
11. Long Distance Runaround [*]

Album Description

Japanese edition of their 2001 album recorded with a full orchestra with the Japanese only bonus track 'Long Distance Runaround'.

Album Details

Japanese Version features a Bonus Track: 'long Distance Runaround'

Customer Reviews:

Are they getting old?.......2003-11-15

Jon Anderson is my all time favorite singer. His voice is so melodic that music is not even needed in his case. That is very bad to say because musicians (Yes-Vangelis-Mike Oldfield)around him are so good too, they just make a good team together.

Since my college time, I was kind of stuck on Yes until I reach the point to get fed up of them (too much is like not enough). This album I am still listening because I own it only since last year. I am sure I will comeback to older album after a couple of years without hearing them.

This album contain real jewel songs. "Dreamtime" is so incredibly magnificient, all the energy that it drives. Love the violins and brass instruments used. "Spirit of survival" is another good exemple. Some are less energic but excellent songs too "Magnification", "We agree" and "Don't go".

Some song I don't like "Give love each day" is too symphonic and does not represent Yes at all. "Soft as a dove" is too much a baby lullaby and "Time is time" too ordinary.

No, they are not getting old and they still make good music.

A new Yes. Maybe one of the best ever........2001-10-06

I will not criticise every track of this album. You've got others who dunnit better that I should do. But let me tell you that I am very pleased indeed with the new direction the remaining members of Yes have taken.
You will not understand anything of this cd if you try to compare it with recent or ancient productions also. It's quite completely different. With the exception of three poppy songs that remind me Open Your Eyes or some parts of The Ladder the rest is absolutely incredible, and new, and very progressive. Anderson's voice sounds like in Relayer, sweet but strong. Squire and White are also stronger than in recent times and Steve Howe's performing is perfect. This guy should be considered the musician of the year, because of his solo album, his colaboration with Oliver Wakeman and this strange but incredible cd.
What makes Magnification different from Yes albums since... at least Relayer is the constant surprises it gives us; changing moods, instruments, tempos, etc. Like in Tales from Topographic Oceans, but shorter. The inclusion of the orchestra is another demonstration of that. Yes with a violin sounding on the front for a while!... that may be Kansas... but not... it's Yes... and is amazing!.
Buy it, the Japanese copy worth the prize for it's own. You won't be dissapointed.
Thank you again old pals of Yes. You are the best, as ever.

Rap Music:

1. Mega Force
2. Mercy
3. Moonburn
4. Motel Shot [Import]
5. My Morning Jacket/Songs: Ohia [EP]
6. Pickin' on Led Zeppelin, Vol. 1-2
7. Polite Force [Original recording remastered]
8. Rev It Up With Taz
9. Rock & Roll Music to the World
10. Sailing to Philadelphia (CD & DVD Audio)

Rap Music

rap music

Recommended Music:

The Best Of Sharp Hip-Hop Vol.2

Beethoven: String Quartets, Op. 18 [Box set]

Compact Jazz: Oscar Peterson & Friends

Music: Back for Me [CD-single]

Boomerang [Import]

Block Bleeders, Vol. 2 [Explicit Lyrics]

American Tradition

Dawning

Best of Bahia [Import]

Bach: St. John Passion / Suzuki, Bach Collegium Japan, et al

Blues in Summertime [Import]

Birth

Certain Sound

Anne Sofie von Otter - Schubert Lieder (Ave Maria, Im Abendrot, Ständchen, etc.)

The Genius Hits the Road