A three-disc collection of Yes concert performances dating from the early 1970s to the late ’80s, THE WORD IS LIVE presents the pioneering British prog-rock group in its various incarnations. The first disc features live tracks from ‘70 and ‘71, when organist Tony Kaye’s distinctive Hammond lines figured strongly into the band’s performances, which here include a jam-heavy take on “America” that precedes its studio version. The second and third discs are filled with concert appearances that have Kaye’s replacements, either keyboardist Rick Wakeman or Patrick Moraz, surging through classics such as “Sweet Dreams” and “Roundabout.” The set goes on to include Kaye’s return to the fold, most notably on the high-energy medley of “Make It Easy” and “Owner of a Lonely Heart.” While hardcore, bootleg-seeking Yes fans have undoubtedly heard some of these recordings before, THE WORD IS LIVE performs a great service by compiling these era-spanning tracks, making the set essential for any enthusiast.

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