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YesSongs #7: YES – Roundabout

It’s such a stylish touch to use a masterpiece—virtually a monument of progressive rock—as an anime ending theme.

Released in November 1971, this YES track is distinguished by its complex structure and advanced musicianship.

Its poetic lyrics evoke the majestic landscapes of Scotland, blending beautifully with a psychedelic sonic aesthetic.

YES was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017, and thanks to this song, they’ve become widely known among younger generations as well.

It’s an ideal track not only for anime fans but also as an introduction to progressive rock.

Put it on while driving, and you’ll feel as if you’re setting off on a grand adventure.

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YES – Owner of a Lonely Heart (Official Music Video)

This is a superbly danceable dance-rock number by the British progressive rock band Yes.

Its unforgettable sound fuses razor-sharp guitar riffs with the then state-of-the-art sampler’s orchestral hits.

The song is an anthem for those carrying lonely hearts, packed with a powerful message: don’t fear the future—forge your own path.

Its perspective is unique: loneliness isn’t a bad thing; it’s far better than having your heart shattered.

Released in October 1983, the track appears on the classic album 90125 and was also featured in a Toyota commercial.

If you’re looking to surrender to the groove and enjoy a party night, this one’s perfect!

Close To The EdgeYES3rank/position

YesSongs #5: YES – Close To The Edge

When it comes to the pinnacle of progressive rock, no song stands above this one.

Released by Yes in 1972, it is distinguished by its sprawling 20-minute structure and intricate musical development.

The lyrics depict a journey of human spiritual exploration and self-realization, interwoven with reverence for the natural world and references to literature and philosophy, inviting listeners into deep contemplation.

Seamlessly fusing elements of rock, jazz, classical, and folk, its musicality truly reaches the realm of art.

It is a must-listen for anyone who wants to savor the essence of progressive rock or confront their inner self through music.

Lonely Heart (Owner of a Lonely Heart)YES4rank/position

Owner Of a Lonely Heart – Yes (HQ Audio)

Yes, who debuted in 1969, were initially known as leading figures in the field of so-called progressive music—complex and theoretical in nature.

However, with the release of Owner of a Lonely Heart in 1983, their sound took a sharp turn, embracing a richly pop-oriented production that became a massive hit in many countries.

Following this track, Yes went on to produce numerous hits throughout the 1980s.

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Siberian Khatru (2003 Remaster)

Siberian Khatru, included as the final track on the classic 1972 album Close to the Edge.

It’s also known for being quoted in a guitar solo by John Frusciante, guitarist of the American rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers, showing how greatly YES continues to influence contemporary artists.

While it has the complexity characteristic of prog, it also carries the dynamism of a rock band—an energetic track brimming with power!

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Yes – And You And I

And You And I opens with the memorable tones of Steve Howe’s 12-string acoustic guitar.

It’s one of the tracks on Close to the Edge, YES’s landmark 1972 album.

Spanning a little over ten minutes and divided into four parts, the song—enhanced by its literary lyrics—creates an expansive, majestic world.

Centered on a relaxed rhythm, it clearly shows influences beyond rock, such as folk and classical music.

It’s a piece that lets you fully savor the complexity of YES’s sound!

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Yes – Awaken . Studio Version HD Audio

Awaken begins with an elegant piano tone reminiscent of classical music.

It appears on their eighth studio album, Going for the One, released in 1977.

This 15-minute epic was created with inspiration drawn from books about the life of the Dutch painter Rembrandt, among other sources.

With its rapidly shifting tempos and melodies, it blends elements of classical music with an energetic rock sound—quintessentially YES.