Yes - Symphonic Live In America

Yes - Symphonic Live In America is a 2002 concert film that showcases the legendary progressive rock band, Yes, as they perform live with a symphony orchestra. The film features band members Jon Anderson (vocals), Steve Howe (guitar), Chris Squire (bass), and Alan White (drums).

The concert was filmed at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California, during the band's 2001 YesSymphonic tour. The tour was a unique collaboration between Yes and symphony orchestras, as they reinterpreted classic Yes songs with the addition of strings, brass, and woodwind instruments.

The movie starts with a breathtaking aerial shot of the Shoreline Amphitheatre, and then cuts to the excited crowd eagerly waiting for the concert to begin. The camera then takes us backstage, where the band members are shown getting ready for their performance, tuning their instruments, and warming up their vocals.

Once the band members are ready, they take the stage, and the audience erupts in applause. The concert starts with an overture that blends various Yes songs, showcasing the symphonic orchestra's sound and the band's ability to harmonize perfectly. The overture then segues into "Close to the Edge," a classic Yes song that is a fan favorite.

Throughout the film, the audience is treated to an array of classic Yes songs that have been reimagined with the addition of the orchestra's instruments. Songs like "Long Distance Runaround," "And You and I," and "The Gates of Delirium" are all featured in the concert, showcasing the band's impressive musicianship and ability to adapt their music to different sounds.

The film also includes solo performances from each band member, showcasing their individual talents. Jon Anderson's performance of "Wakeman Solo" is a highlight of the film, featuring Anderson's ethereal vocals and Rick Wakeman's virtuosic keyboard skills. Steve Howe's acoustic guitar performance is also noteworthy, as he demonstrates his captivating fingerpicking skills.

One of the most impressive moments of the film comes during the band's rendition of "Soon," a song that features delicate vocals and soaring instrumentals. As the orchestra plays a gentle melody, Anderson's vocal performance shines, showcasing the raw emotion and power of the lyrics.

The film climaxes with the band's performance of "Starship Trooper," a classic Yes song that features intricate guitar riffs and soaring vocals. The audience is on their feet, clapping along as the band and orchestra bring the concert to a close with a powerful rendition of the song.

Overall, Yes - Symphonic Live In America is a fantastic concert film that showcases Yes at the height of their musical ability. The addition of the orchestra's instruments adds an extra layer of depth and complexity to the band's classic songs, making for an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a longtime Yes fan or just discovering their music, this film is a must-see.