"Fragile," by Yes released in November 12, 1971

"Fragile," is the fourth studio album released in 1971, is a classic progressive rock album by Yes. Here are some thoughts on the album:

Instrumental Mastery: "Fragile" is notable for the instrumental prowess of the band members. Each member, including Jon Anderson (vocals), Steve Howe (guitar), Rick Wakeman (keyboards), Chris Squire (bass), and Bill Bruford (drums), showcases exceptional skill and creativity.

Keyboards Dominance: Rick Wakeman's contributions on keyboards are particularly prominent and add a rich layer of complexity to the album. His use of various keyboard instruments, including the iconic Mellotron, is a defining feature of Yes's sound.

Dynamic Song Structures: The album features dynamic and intricate song structures. Tracks like "Roundabout" and "South Side of the Sky" showcase the band's ability to seamlessly blend different musical sections, creating a progressive and adventurous listening experience.

Vocal Harmonies: Jon Anderson's distinctive vocals, characterized by his high tenor voice, contribute to the overall lush sound of Yes. The vocal harmonies, a trademark of the band, add a celestial and ethereal quality to the music.

Eclectic Influences: Yes draws from a variety of musical influences, including classical, jazz, and folk. This eclecticism is evident in the diverse range of musical styles presented on "Fragile," creating a fusion of genres within the progressive rock framework.

Album Art: The album cover, designed by Roger Dean, is iconic and synonymous with Yes's visual identity. Dean's fantastical and surreal artwork complements the otherworldly and progressive nature of the music.

Cohesive Flow: While each track on "Fragile" stands out individually, there's a cohesive flow to the album as a whole. The way the tracks are sequenced contributes to a unified listening experience.

Impact on Progressive Rock: "Fragile" is often regarded as a cornerstone in the progressive rock genre. Its success helped propel Yes to the forefront of the prog rock movement, influencing countless bands in the process.

"Fragile" remains a landmark album in the progressive rock genre and a testament to Yes's innovative approach to music.