Yes produced their greatest live album ever this year. It’s a remarkable feat, considering this is the first not to feature founding member Chris Squire. Topographic Dramadocuments, in amazing clarity and without overdubs, Yes’ tour for two very different albums. What’s even more surprising is that both albums sound better live than they ever did on record. The two sides of Tales From Topographic Oceans (with the inclusion of “Leaves of Green” from Side Three’s “The Ancient“) are stunning. This stripped-down Tales rocks with a mystical fury not thought possible. Drama, by contrast, isn’t as dark yet is no less challenging. The bass playing and harmonies of Squire’s chosen replacement Billy Sherwood are easily up to the task, as he stands toe to toe with an invigorated Steve Howe and a rhythm section of Jay Schellen (mostly) and Alan White (who was recovering from back surgery). Geoff Downes gets to play some of the most memorable Yes keyboard parts with the enthusiasm of a 20-year old and the accuracy of the professional he is. Add to that Jon Davison tackling the mind-bending words of Jon Anderson from Tales and the unique timbre of Trevor Horn on Drama, and it’s easy to see why this album succeeds on a level unlike another live album by the world’s greatest progressive rock band. “Does It Really Happen” and “Starship Trooper” are easily worth the price of admission alone.