Part of the joy of being Yes fan is that each album has its distinct feel. As Jon Anderson mentioned to me in an interview a couple of years back, progressive rock is always about progressing.
“Give Love Each Day” shows that this venerable band continued to improve. The orchestral introduction and arrangement by Larry Groupe’ is a stunning way to open the track, and it also enlivens the theme of Jon Anderson’s lyrics.
While Anderson does not break new ground, his words are stellar, and a sharp contrast to the previous song, “Don’t Go.” Steve Howe’s involvement in 2001’s Magnification started late in the production process, but he carves out a niche here with a smart blending of rock and jazz phrases. Always the master of taste and economy with his playing, Howe also benefits from a tight arrangement.
Chris Squire’s bass parts are prominent but never overwhelm the melody. Producer Tim Weider does an excellent job servicing the song, and his use of Protools – a first on a Yes album – seems to allow for subtle editing while allowing the essence of the song to shine.
Too bad Weider was not given the production chair again. He could have made 2014’s Heaven and Earth cohesive. Then again, Yes is always progressing, with each album having its own distinct feel.
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