Yes’ “Sweet Dreams,” co-written by Jon Anderson and his former Warriors bandmate David Foster, may have a decidedly non-progressive rock feel, but it is one of the stronger compositions on 1970’s Time and a Word.
“Sweet Dreams” incorporates the uplifting lyrical elements Anderson became known for as a member of the world’s greatest progressive rock band, and effectively utilizes stop-time passages in addition to soaring Tony Kaye organ passages. Even the legendary Yes choir touches are here, though with a different feel than listeners are accustomed to — thanks to the blend Peter Banks and Chris Squire bring.
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Peter Banks’ contributions should not be overlooked. This is one of the few Yes songs that Steve Howe didn’t originally play on, yet has covered on several tours. However, the original Banks guitar passages seem to blend well. Perhaps it’s Banks angular tone which makes a difference.
Another plus of the original recording of Yes'”Sweet Dreams” is the restrained production. The song is not weighed down by an orchestral arrangement, or a Rick Wakeman-like keyboard onslaught. Unfortunately the song, released as the second single from Yes’ Time and a Word, failed to chart.
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