Alongside the in-depth reviews and classic interviews, this new edition features extensive new material. There’s an exclusive new interview with Steve Howe, Geoff Downes and the other members of the band about how they manage their present-day aspirations with their classic back catalogue. The band also take us through their personal picture gallery, commenting on their extensive guitars, early bands, and historic trousers (“spectacular”, in case you were wondering) as they go.
Fragile marked the moment when Rick Wakeman joined Yes, bringing his unique mixture of classical allusion, sensitive arrangement, and rock ‘n’ roll chops to the band. Rick, of course, is one of the voices in the new feature we have for you detailing the making of the Fragile classic “Roundabout” but is also on hand to provide a thoughtful introduction to the magazine. Who aged 21 would perceive the downside of being invited to join David Bowie’s band? Interestingly, Rick did – and his wry account of his subsequent ascent to the top with Yes is a vindication of his decision.
As far as ambitions for his solo career went, however, they seem to have been limited to the acquisition of a spectacular American car.
“My solo work wasn’t planned,” he tells us. “That was a no-choice syndrome. When A&M signed Strawbs, they signed us individually – I didn’t know what I’d signed. Anyway Nov 1971 off Yes go to America playing all sorts of places, 5th on the bill, driving round in an estate car, life is a ride…I was with an amazing band. We were at the Hyatt House in LA, [Yes/Wakeman manager] Brian [Lane] said we need to go to A&M records, because Jerry Moss wants to see you.
“We go down there, and he said, “We think Yes is going to be a substantial band in the years to come, so we’d like to take up the option of you doing a solo record for us…What do you think?” Brian, typical manager, said, “Does he get an advance?” Jerry said, “How about we give you a gift? What would you like?” Brian said “How much can he spend?” “How about $1000?” I said, “There’s a car lot on Sunset Strip, and in there there’s a 1957 Cadillac limousine and it’s $975.” So in the space of an hour I now owned a 1957 Cadillac limousine…”
