SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: YES – MIRROR TO THE SKY

Yes
Mirror To The Sky
Century Media Records

By my count, Mirror To The Sky is Yes’s 23rd studio album since they made their debut in 1969. Since then, the band has been through many changes, but the sound remains the same. Coming very quickly on the heels of their last studio album, 2021’s The Quest, Mirror To The Sky finds the band in a much more prog rock state of mind and this album has the sound and feel of some of their classic albums. Mirror To The Sky features the same lineup as their previous album with one exception. Yes lost the great Alan White, who sadly passed last year, and in his place is Jay Schellen, who has worked with the band in the past.

Yes has come together to produce a strong, uplifting, and very positive album accompanied by some exceptional musicianship. Each member demonstrates what they do best. When you have an album with several songs that are over eight minutes, everyone has the chance to really shine in their own way.

The album opens with the strong “Cut From The Stars”. From the almost classical, albeit brief opening one knows that this will be full of exciting and strong music. Within minutes Geoff Downes comes in with a classic synth sound and Jon Davison’s vocals bring the listener in and along for the ride. From there, the album takes one along on some classic prog-like music. “All Connected” has the feel of classic prog but with an almost futuristic sound. Again, the instrumentation is stunning while Davison’s vocals soar throughout.

But the cornerstone of the album happens midway in the 13-plus minute title track, which is a modern-day masterpiece. It is really what Yes does so well. It is fascinating and takes twists and turns with each member being highlighted. The track opens with Howe’s tasteful guitar and gradually grows. Downes gets his turn with his keyboards, and Billy Sherwood and Schellen make up a solid rhythm backing. The song is, quite simply, outstanding.

Mirror To The Sky is Yes doing what it does best. The band takes its time with each song and lets it take them where it will. The result is a collection of strong and solid songs that come together to create a cohesive and stunning album.

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