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Louder
Louder
Entertainment
Sid Smith

“It’s the moment the cracks appeared and their decline into preposterousness began. It sinks under the weight of its own self-importance”: What members of Marillion, Dream Theater, Asia and more think of Yes’ Tales From Topographic Oceans

Keyboard player Rick Wakeman performing with English progressive rock group Yes, 24th November 1973. (Photo by Michael Putland/Getty Images).

In 1973 Yes launched their sixth studio album, Tales From Topographic Oceans. It contained just four songs, each taking up a full side of the double-vinyl release; and not only did it divide fans and critics – it divided the band, leading to Rick Wakeman’s departure. Following the announcement of a 15-disc super deluxe edition arriving in February 2026, Prog looks back to 2016 when we asked members of Marillion, Dream Theater, Asia and others what they really thought of the album, discovering a range of differing opinions.

Steve Hackett

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