Machine Messiah

Experience the power and complexity of "Machine Messiah," the epic ten-minute opening statement from Yes's 1980 album Drama. Kicking off with an unexpectedly heavy, almost metallic riff from Steve Howe, the track unfolds through dynamic shifts in tempo and mood, showcasing intricate instrumental interplay. Featuring the distinctive vocals of Trevor Horn and keyboards from Geoff Downes, this ambitious piece proved Yes could tackle challenging progressive rock with a new lineup and a sound updated for a new decade, making it a standout track for fans of the Drama era.

Released in 1980 on the album Drama, "Machine Messiah" firmly belongs to the Progressive rock genre, even representing a bold evolution within it for Yes. At a time when many prog bands were simplifying, Yes, with new members Trevor Horn and Geoff Downes joining stalwarts Chris Squire, Steve Howe, and Alan White, delivered this complex, multi-part suite. It demonstrated their continued commitment to intricate arrangements and extended compositions, albeit with a heavier, more modern edge reflecting the changing musical landscape.

"Machine Messiah" (1980) is a showcase of Yes's instrumental prowess during the Drama sessions. Steve Howe's aggressive guitar work spars with Geoff Downes' layered keyboards, while Chris Squire's thunderous bass and Alan White's powerful drumming (he was heavily involved in structuring the piece) provide a complex rhythmic foundation. Trevor Horn's unique vocal delivery adapted surprisingly well to the band's Progressive rock style on this track. Its dynamic shifts and intricate structure make it a challenging yet rewarding listen, embodying the ambitious spirit of the genre.

Big hair, synths galore, and love soaring high like shoulder pads. 80s ballads promised forever in neon, whispered secrets over sax solos, and danced 'til dawn with a touch of heartbreak. From Whitney's power anthems to Michael's smooth whispers, every beat pulsed with passion, chasing dreams on roller skates and holding love closer than a Rubik's Cube solution.

The love songs of the 80s, where big hair met big emotions! These sonic valentines throbbed with synthesizers, soaring power ballads, and a touch of neon-tinged optimism.

First love, innocent and electric, pulsed through songs like Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" and Michael Jackson's "The Girl Is Mine." Synthy anthems like Duran Duran's "Hungry Like the Wolf" and Bon Jovi's "Livin' on a Prayer" promised forever young devotion, while the power ballad kings like Foreigner ("I Want to Know What Love Is") and REO Speedwagon ("Can't Fight This Feeling") belted out their hearts in epic choruses.

For a touch of melancholy, there were break-up bangers like Cyndi Lauper's "Time After Time" and Tears for Fears' "Shout," where wounded hearts raged against betrayal. But even heartbreak shimmered with hope, exemplified by Phil Collins' "Against All Odds" and Tina Turner's "Simply the Best," anthems of resilience and finding love again.

Beyond the mainstream, alternative love bloomed in The Cure's introspective "Lovesong" and The Smiths' Morrissey crooning about rainy day romance. And who could forget Prince's purple reign of sensuality, from the simmering "Kiss" to the playful "Raspberry Beret?"

Love in the 80s was big, bold, and sometimes cheesy, but always passionate. These songs were the soundtrack to first kisses, prom nights, and mixtapes passed between lockers. They captured the era's vibrant spirit, reminding us that even shoulder pads and leg warmers couldn't contain the power of a good love song.