Yes, “Heart of the Sunrise” from Fragile (1971): YESterdays
Is “Heart of the Sunrise” about the power of the sun – or being lost in a city? Whatever the concept, this represents Yes at the peak of their powers.
Spotlight
Chicago, “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?” (1969): Saturdays in the Park
“Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?” is one of the great triumphs of Chicago’s 1969 debut, ‘Chicago Transit Authority.’ Here’s why.
Rob Mazurek Quintet’s hypnotic, diverse Sound Is rewarded close listens
‘Sound Is,’ released in March 2009 by the then-newly formed Rob Mazurek Quintet, remains a treat for those with big, open ears.
Toto, “I Won’t Hold You Back” from Toto IV (1982): Toto Tuesdays
Up until ‘Toto IV,’ the vast majority of Toto ballads had been written by David Paich. Steve Lukather’s “I Won’t Hold You Back” changed the paradigm.
The Beatles, “Piggies” from The White Album (1968): Deep Beatles
As politics continues to dominate the news in this U.S. election season, the Beatles’ “Piggies” resonates stronger than ever.
Chicago, “Introduction” from ‘Chicago Transit Authority’ (1969): Saturdays in the Park
Where better to begin a multi-writer, song-by-song examination of the music of Chicago than the aptly named “Introduction” from their debut release?
Yes, “Mood for a Day” from Fragile (1971): YESterdays
Yes’ “Mood for a Day” probably isn’t the first Steve Howe solo guitar composition that comes to mind – but maybe it should be.
Toto, “Make Believe” from Toto IV (1982): Toto Tuesdays
“Make Believe” is one of the reasons I’m still longing for the day that Toto and Chicago tour together.
Did Emerson Lake and Palmer almost lose Keith Emerson to Yes?
“I got back to England, after a very successful tour – and my phone rings at 11:30 at night,” Keith Emerson remembered. “It was their then-manager Brian Lane.”
George Martin built his legend with the Beatles, then branched out
The records, those sounds – even in George Martin’s awful absence – will remain, forever.
