"Fragile" is the fourth studio album by the English progressive rock band Yes, released on November 26, 1971. It was the band's first album to feature keyboardist Rick Wakeman, who replaced Tony Kaye. The album marked a significant development in the band's sound, featuring more complex arrangements and a blend of rock, classical, and jazz influences.
"Fragile" is known for its distinctive structure, consisting of nine tracks: four group compositions and five solo pieces by each band member. The album's group tracks include "Roundabout," one of Yes's most popular songs, renowned for its intricate guitar work and dynamic shifts. Other group compositions include "South Side of the Sky," "Long Distance Runaround," and "Heart of the Sunrise."
The solo pieces allowed each member to showcase their unique musical abilities. For example, Chris Squire's bass-driven "The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus)" highlights his virtuosic bass playing, and Rick Wakeman's "Cans and Brahms" features an arrangement of Johannes Brahms's Symphony No. 4.
The album cover, created by artist Roger Dean, became iconic and set the visual theme for many of Yes's future releases. "Fragile" was both a commercial and critical success, reaching No. 7 on the US Billboard 200 chart and No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart. It is considered a landmark album in the progressive rock genre and has been praised for its innovative use of technology, musicianship, and ambitious compositions.
