The latest Yes album, 2014’s Heaven and Earth, started with Jon Davison traveling to collaborate with Chris Squire. Davison’s November 2013 pilgrimage to Arizona produced two songs used for the project. Davison would later apply the same approach to songwriting collaborations with other members of Yes.
“In a World of Own,” the bass maestro’s second collaboration with Davison, continues the common trend of Heaven and Earth: Davison provides direct, effective and well-constructed lyrics. Lyrically, he foregoes mysticism and obtuseness to deliver a focused relationship tale.
As the song progresses, the lyrics also expand in scope, before he brings it back to personal. Davison gamely employs his lower register, and the Billy Sherwood-produced backing vocals and Chris Squire harmonies are among the best on the album.
Touches of Steve Howe’s Stratocaster spice things up a bit, as does Geoff Downes honky-tonk piano, synthesized vibraphone, and Hammond flourishes. Chris Squire’s bass is prominent in the mix too.
Ultimately, however, “In a World of Our Own” is a pleasing middle-of-the-road rock song which needs a few more progressive elements to be memorable.
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