The pop music axiom is that if something works, then run it into the ground. Many bands feel both external and internal pressure to repeat the formula which they used before to achieve success. Yes seemed immune to the axiom as 1973’s Tales From Topographic Oceans arrived.
One member of the band, drummer Bill Bruford, was especially focused on his muse and the music. His convictions led to his resignation from the group after the recording of Close to the Edge. Bruford has often stated that he was the only member – up until that time – to voluntarily leave the band, and that he just wasn’t moved by Yes’ then-current music-making process. Alan White quickly joined the band for the Close to the Edge tour, and by the time of the recording of Tales From Topographic Oceans was contributing significantly to the music, forging what would be seen as the classic Yes lineup.
“The Revealing Science of God: Dance of the Dawn,” first of just four tracks on the double album, is as complex a piece of rock and roll as you can find. Like the album before it, Tales From Topographic Oceans retained compositions which were intended to represent movements. Unlike the previous album, Tales compositions were written and arranged as complete entities, as opposed to being separate arrangements which were later edited together. “The Revealing Science of God: Dance Of The Dawn” is based on Hindu scriptures and incorporates a lengthy chant like opening by Jon Anderson and extended and potent soloing from Steve Howe.
Alan White’s presence is unmistakable, providing Yes with a more solid rock back beat and foundation for stellar Moog work for Rick Wakeman. Musically and lyrically, the-20 minute “Revealing Science of God: Dance of the Dawn” is miles away from the band that gave us “Owners Of a Lonely Heart” or even “Wondrous Stories.” However, the diversity and depth of the Yes catalogue is one of the many reasons why they are the world’s greatest progressive rock band.
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