By: Yorg
It’s hard to believe that 46 years have passed since I attended my first Yes concert. Back then, I was an exuberant young fan, lost in the energy of the sold-out Montreal Forum. I remember standing in the last row, barely able to see the band through the thick clouds of smoke that engulfed the arena. What an adventure that night was—an unforgettable initiation into the world of live music. Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Yes at least 15 times, even having the privilege of meeting some of the band members on several occasions.
Yesterday’s concert at the Bell Centre in Montreal marked a significant milestone—it was the first time I watched Yes as an opening band. While I was thrilled to see them again, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of disappointment. Their set was just over an hour—far too short for a band of their caliber. I would have been content to see Yes perform for the entire evening. Don’t get me wrong, I have a deep appreciation for Deep Purple and their iconic anthems like “Highway Star,” “Space Truckin’,” and the legendary “Smoke on the Water.” The encore of “Hush” was a thrilling close to the night. But it was Yes that I came to revisit, and I found myself wanting more.
This current incarnation of Yes features Steve Howe on guitars and vocals, Geoff Downes on keyboards, Billy Sherwood on bass guitar and vocals, Jon Davison on vocals and acoustic guitar, and Jay Schellen on drums. While they may not be the original lineup, they delivered an authentic and passionate performance, staying true to the spirit of Yes. This version of the band is just as valid as any that came before. Of course, there will always be those who insist that without Chris Squire or Jon Anderson, it’s not truly Yes—but anyone who witnessed this performance would likely beg to differ. If you’re hoping to catch Yes in person, this tour may not be what you’re expecting—but if it’s their iconic music you’re after, you’re in for a treat.
The hour and a few minutes of music flew by, leaving me with a sense of both joy and nostalgia. I sincerely hope this isn’t the final curtain call for one of my all-time favorite rock bands. Here’s to many more years of Yes, continuing to captivate audiences with their timeless sound.
Yes / Setlist August 27, 2024
Centre Bell,
Montreal, Quebec
Machine Messiah
I’ve Seen All Good People
Yours Is No Disgrace
Clap
Going for the One
Siberian Khatru
Encore: Roundabout, Starship Trooper
A bit over an hour
Deep Purple Setlist August 27, 2024
Centre Bell,
Montreal, Quebec
Highway Star
A Bit on the Side
Into the Fire
Guitar Solo
Uncommon Man
Lazy Sod
Lazy
Show Me
Portable Door
Anya
Keyboard Solo (Bonus played Leonard Cohen’s “Suzanne”)
Bleeding Obvious
Space Truckin’
Smoke on the Water
Encore: Hush
Ended
