"The Yes Album" by Yes (released 1971 - remastered 2003)
This is the album that made the fledgling genre of Progressive Rock worth listening to. The triumvirate of ELP, Genesis and Yes had been around a couple years offering a variety of interesting but uneven releases until this master stroke arrived. There are plenty of extended suites featuring quick rhythm and time signature changes but never at the expense of the songs which remain imminently listenable. The album gets off to a brilliant start with the group-penned "Yours is No Disgrace" which allows ample space for each member to shine. Next is "The Clap" a Steve Howe showcase of Chet Atkins style finger-picking before side one closes out with the amazing "Starship Trooper". Composed of 3 parts (each written by a different member) the song soars through each piece culminating with "Wurm" a hypnotic 3 chord instrumental that climaxes amid a splattering of guitar fireworks. Side two is every bit as strong with stirring vocal harmonies and Tony Kaye's majestic B-3 organ propelling the classic "All Good People". The album ends as spectacularly as it began with the driving "Perpetual Change". The musicianship on this album is incredible! As the newest member, Steve Howe's guitar swims in and out of every track (made for headphones) imprinting itself into the band's DNA. Chris Squire is the rare breed of bass player (McCartney, Entwhistle) that can carry a song melodically as well as rhythmically and his work here is nothing short of astonishing! Add Bill Bruford's endlessly creative drumming and Anderson's pure choirboy-like vocals and you have a prog-rock masterpiece!
"Infinite Arms" by Band of Horses (released 2010)
This is the third album by Band of Horses and it follows the template set by their first two excellent releases "Cease to Begin" and "Everything All the Time". Showcasing a mix of big vocal harmonies, gorgeous choruses and guitar driven Americana songwriting, vocalist/guitarist Ben Bridwell leads his band through thirteen songs reflecting the great American landscape. From the opener "Factory" through the final notes of the epic ballad "Bartles & James" this is a release of consistently high quality. A highlight of every song are the lush harmonies reminiscent of "Fleet Foxes (another personal favorite). This is mainly a mellow affair focusing on the beautifully layered harmonies but there is variety here, "Laredo" is a nice rocker and my favorite on the album. "Compliments" and "Northwest Apartment" also amp up the energy level. "Evening Kitchen" features only guitar and vocal to nice effect. The title track uses strings to frame it's laid back vibe and "Dilly" is a pop rocker with chopping guitar and keyboards leading the way. It's always a treat to hear an album that is so well crafted and completely enjoyable. You really can't go wrong with any "Band of Horses" release.
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