New Voices, New Yes: Inside Drama (1980)

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In this episode, we dive into Drama (1980), one of the most surprising and divisive albums in the Yes catalog. With Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman gone, the band recruited Trevor Horn and Geoff Downes of The Buggles, reshaping the group’s sound for a new decade. We explore the bold risks Yes took during this turbulent lineup shift, the mix of progressive rock tradition with fresh new wave energy, and the album’s long-lasting legacy among fans. From the thunderous opener “Machine Messiah” to the radio-friendly “Into the Lens,” we break down what makes Drama a fascinating turning point in Yes’s history.

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