The world’s greatest progressive rock band takes on the Beatles with a 1969 update of the John Lennon, Paul McCartney composition “Every Little Thing.”
Peter Banks even adds a lick or two from “Day Tripper.” The addition seems very appropriate, as Yes’ trippy version of “Every Little Thing” seems ready to almost fly off the rails at any second. Here, Banks shines in a way none of his successors could, with a bluesy, yet psychedelic storm coming from his guitar. Peter Banks’ flash is undeniable and fitting.
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Jon Anderson, meanwhile, provides an almost tender reading of “Every Little Thing,” which is propelled by an aggressive backbeat from Bill Bruford and the maestro, Chris Squire. While this is a great interpretation of a good song, it also points out the power of the group’s original compositions.
“Every Little Thing” was recorded several times for Yes projects such as their 1969 and 1970 BBC sessions, and 2004’s 35th anniversary tour (captured on Songs From Tsongas), which featured Steve Howe, Alan White and Rick Wakeman. The latter, while good, shows how unique original guitarist Peter Banks was, and how important his contributions were to the early Yes sound.
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