Yes: Fragile

Progressive Revelations: A Sonic Odyssey

Yes' Fragile stands as a pivotal moment in the evolution of progressive rock—an album that shattered conventional musical boundaries, transforming rock music into a complex, orchestral art form. This is not merely an album, but a musical manifesto that redefined what rock could be.

The Sonic Landscape
Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs' pressing becomes a portal into the band's revolutionary musical vision. Where lesser pressings might flatten the album's intricate sonic architecture, this release reveals Fragile as a living, breathing musical ecosystem.

The pressing uncovers layers of musical complexity that have remained hidden in previous iterations. "Roundabout"—the album's iconic centerpiece—becomes a revelation. Instrumental voices emerge with startling clarity, each musical element finding its precise location within an expansive sonic landscape. The interplay between Rick Wakeman's keyboards, Steve Howe's guitar, and the rhythm section creates a three-dimensional musical experience that challenges the very notion of rock music.

Vocal harmonies possess an almost supernatural presence. Jon Anderson's distinctive voice seems to materialize in the listening space, filling the room with a crystalline purity that defies typical rock vocal reproduction. The multi-dimensional scope becomes more than a technical achievement—it's a portal into the band's artistic vision.

Frequency response demonstrates extraordinary nuance. Low-end frequencies provide a robust foundation without becoming overpowering, while high-end details shimmer with an almost classical precision. The pressing captures the album's unique blend of rock energy and classical sophistication—those "bright colors" that owe more to Sibelius and Stravinsky than to traditional pop music.

The Vinyl Verdict
This is not merely a reissue, but a sonic restoration. Mobile Fidelity has accomplished something remarkable—preserving the experimental spirit of Fragile while revealing its most intricate musical details. The pressing becomes a testament to Yes's remarkable musicianship, capturing the inventiveness, sweetness, and wistfulness that defined their groundbreaking approach. A vinyl pressing that doesn't just play music, but resurrects a moment of pure musical revolution. If you're looking for a less expensive option, Analogue Productions' Atlantic Records 75th Anniversary release at 45 RPM is as good if not better due to its all analog approach toward mastering. 💰

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