The Drama album was my introduction to Yes. Oh sure, I’d heard the seventies FM radio cuts, but never was a huge fan until Michael D. got me listening to this album in college.
For many years, it stood as the only album in Yes' career that did not feature lead singer Jon Anderson, and after Jon rejoined, Yes did not perform any of the songs from Drama, as Jon refused to sing them (although Anderson would sing the token words "yes, yes" during the instrumental portion of "Tempus Fugit", included in Squire's "Whitefish" medley).
After the lackluster Tormato failed to live up to expectations and Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman left the band, Yes made the unlikely move of adding singer Trevor Horn and keyboardist Geoff Downes from the two-man new wave band the Buggles (of "Video Killed the Radio Star" fame) for this 1980 album. The result was a modern sound that still carried all of the Yes trademarks, and the high points far outshine the lows.
Despite how some Yes fans feel about this album, Drama is a brilliant effort that rocks heavier than any other Yes album. Horn makes an attempt at Anderson's vocal style (though he strains at the high notes) and contributes his excellent production skills, with Downes adding keyboard wizardry. Their new-wave sensibility and dash of pop in the mix set the stage for the impending "90125" success.
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I just listend to "Tempus Fugit".
ReplyDeleteWhich singer did "Owner Of A Lonely Heart"?
Very similar sounding vocals to my ears.
~ D-FensDogg
'Loyal American Underground'
Some of Yes's best songs are the ones that don't get radio airplay. Awesome album!
ReplyDeleteStephen-
ReplyDelete"Owner" was Anderson back on vocals, but the album was produced by Trevor Horn (who sang on Drama).
Horn was going for an Anderson sound when he sang these songs.
Alex-
This one really does hold up (well, except for the camera song)-Tempus Fugit is a classic.
LC
One of my college roommates was obsessed with Yes.
ReplyDeleteM Pax-
ReplyDeleteNo so bad an obsession!
LC