VIDEO | Yes – The Gates of Delirium

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BAND | Yes

"The Gates of Delirium"

Experience the epic scope of Yes's progressive rock masterpiece, "The Gates of Delirium," from 1974. Occupying an entire album side on Relayer, this sprawling suite showcases the band's instrumental virtuosity and conceptual ambition, depicting the chaos of battle and the eventual hope for peace.

TITLE: The Gates of Delirium
BAND: Yes
GENRE: Progressive Rock
RELEASEDAY: November 28
YEAR: 1974

Released on the complex 1974 album Relayer, "The Gates of Delirium" is a monumental progressive rock journey inspired by Tolstoy's War and Peace. Featuring extended instrumental passages, intricate time signatures, and dynamic shifts, the track highlights the incredible musicianship of Jon Anderson, Steve Howe, Chris Squire, Patrick Moraz, and Alan White.

This ambitious 1974 composition moves through distinct sections, including a famously chaotic instrumental "battle" sequence followed by the serene, hopeful closing theme known as "Soon." "The Gates of Delirium" remains a landmark achievement in progressive rock, demonstrating Yes's unparalleled ability to create vast, intricate sonic landscapes.

SONG MEANING: Inspired by Leo Tolstoy's War and Peace, this epic track musically portrays the senselessness and chaos of war. Its long, complex instrumental sections depict the build-up, fury, and aftermath of a battle, culminating in the peaceful "Soon" section, which expresses a profound yearning for peace, hope, and understanding following the conflict.

Band

"Yes"

Yes stands as legendary architects of progressive rock, celebrated worldwide for their virtuosic musicianship, complex song structures, and mystical lyrics. Featuring soaring vocals, intricate guitar, distinctive bass, and elaborate keyboards, they pushed rock's boundaries, creating ambitious and enduring sonic landscapes.

TITLE: Yes
ACTIVE: 1968–1981 (1968), 1983–2004 (1983), 2009–present (2009)
BAND: Yes

Their influential catalog spans groundbreaking early epics establishing the genre, to ambitious, multi-part conceptual works like their complex progressive rock album released November 28, 1974, and further intricate explorations demonstrating their instrumental prowess and evolving sound through various lineups over the years...

Go to "Yes" Page

BAND | Yes

"Roundabout"

Experience the intricate genius of Yes's iconic 1972 progressive rock anthem, "Roundabout." Kicking off the landmark Fragile album with its famous acoustic guitar intro, this track became a surprise hit single. Its complex arrangement and driving energy remain hugely influential in rock music.