What a pleasure this DVD is. First off, any live Yes performance is usually a joy to watch, as they are normally a band that almost never fails to impress on the stage. Add the European Festival Orchestra to the mix and you have an interesting mix- the progressive rock music of Yes with a classical orchestra. Well, the "symphonic Yes" really works, especially with the songs the band chose to perform for this show. Honestly, this set is worth the price of admission for "Close to the Edge" and "Gates of Delirium" alone. "Gates of Delirium" especially is just beautiful, exploratory and soaring throughout the first three-quarters of the tune, with Steve Howe's guitar runs and Tom Brislin's keyboards perfectly meshing with the majestic orchestral accompaniment. When the "Soon" section begins, it's just wonderful, and one of those magic moments. Howe's pedal steel guitar lines weeping, Jon Anderson's gorgeous vocals, and the crowd singing along and waving their arms, it will almost bring tears to your eyes, especially seeing the long standing ovation and the band truly soaking it all in. It's also interesting to see how well young keyboard ace Brislin fits in with the band. He hits all the right notes and textures, and proves to me a pretty flashy player in his own right. Check out his note for note coverage of Trevor Rabin's original guitar solo on "Owner of a Lonely Heart", which is actually all the more fitting as Steve Howe can then perform one of his trademark solos at the end of the song instead.
Many of the bands signature tunes are here, as well as some songs from Magnification, the orchestral album that was just then released in 2001 when this show was recorded (in Amsterdam by the way). The 2nd DVD contains a bonus video of "Don't Go", as well as a documentary that explains the making of the Maginfication album and planning of the Symphonic tour. All in all, it's a classy package from one of the most prolific and best loved prog rock bands of all time.
Track Listing
Close to the Edge
Long Distance Runaround
Don't Go
In the Presence Of
Gates of Delirium
Steve Howe guitar solo (Vivaldi lute concerto in D 2nd movement, Mood for a Day)
Starship Trooper
Magnification
And You and I
Ritual
I've Seen All Good People
Owner of a Lonely Heart
Roundabout
"Dreamtime" documentary (DVD 2)
"Don't Go" bonus video (DVD2 )
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