Search - Jon Anderson :: Song of Seven

Proof that the 'Whole of Yes' is greater than the sum of its

Jesse Williams | Detroit, MI | 03/19/2009

(2 out of 5 stars)

"What we have here is a tremendously unfocused solo effort from Mr. Anderson. From second-rate Doo-Wop to painful 'prog epics', this album proves that Jon Anderson is at his best when supported and surrounded by other equal contributors, i.e. Yes.



I enjoy my Yes albums as much as the next guy, but frankly, you'd have to be incredibly biased to offer a five, or even four star review to this lackluster record. The opening track alone offer up some of the most laughable, bloated lyrics I have ever heard in my life. If you thought some of the lyrics from Tormato were bad, just WAIT until you hear the inanities Jon comes up with on this puppy. An example from the title track: "In the meeting place I sit beside, betwixt the points of heaven." What in the world?! Maybe Jon's just far more cosmic than I will ever be, but to me, this writing just plain stinks. To counterbalance this lofty drudge, he offer up more straight-ahead pop lyrics on other tunes such as: "Towa taya taka tai, Towa taya taka tai, Towa taya tak, Taya tak, Towa taya taka tai". Please, I could NOT make this up.



The high point of the album is easily the track featuring Jack Bruce on bass and studio legend Simon Philips on drums. Here the playing is tight, focused and enjoyable, even if the music itself is lackluster.



Please don't get me wrong- I'm always one for eclecticism. Todd Rundgren is the perfect example of an artist that can experiment with multiple genres on a record and still make a well-rounded, cohesive statement. Jon Anderson, on the other hand, feels more like a jack of all trades, master of none on "Song of Seven".



I was given this LP on vinyl for free, otherwise I'd probably never listen to it again. That said, I only put it on when I want to give my friends a good laugh. Please avoid!"