When a band surpasses their 50th year of making music together, it’s a milestone that demands attention. YES, the legendary progressive rock group, has achieved just that, and their recent performance at Vicar Street Dublin proved they’re still a vibrant and compelling force. The venue was packed, a testament to the enduring appeal of this iconic band, with only a few balcony seats unoccupied.
The evening began with a poignant video tribute to the band’s late drummer, Alan White, a moment that resonated deeply with the audience and set a respectful and appreciative tone for the night. This tour marks the 50th anniversary of their seminal album “Close To The Edge,” and the setlist was structured to honor this landmark.
YES band members performing on stage at Vicar Street Dublin, showcasing Steve Howe's guitar skills and Jon Davison's vocals
The concert was intelligently divided, with the first half building anticipation before the band played “Close To The Edge” in its entirety after a short intermission. This approach allowed YES to showcase the breadth of their catalog, giving the Dublin crowd a rich and varied performance before even reaching the album centerpiece. While a longer show would have been welcomed to delve even deeper into their vast discography, the setlist curated for the night was undeniably strong.
Audience enjoying the YES concert at Vicar Street Dublin, focused on the stage and the band's performance
Vicar Street is renowned for its excellent acoustics, and tonight was no exception. The sound was impeccably clear and crisp, allowing every nuance of YES’s intricate music to shine. The first half of the show highlighted the remarkable diversity within their progressive rock framework. From the delicate fingerstyle guitar of “Clap,” a nod to Steve Howe’s virtuosity, to powerful rock anthems and even hints of pop sensibility, YES demonstrated the wide spectrum of their musical palette.
Geoff Downes playing keyboards during the YES concert at Vicar Street Dublin, with stage lights enhancing the atmosphere
Tracks from their latest album, “The Quest,” were seamlessly integrated into the set, proving their new material holds its own alongside the classics. These songs served as a powerful showcase for the exceptional musicianship within the band. Jon Davison’s vocals were outstanding, capturing the spirit of YES’s vocal legacy while adding his own flair. Steve Howe and Geoff Downes, as expected, delivered masterful performances on guitar and keyboards respectively. Billy Sherwood provided a solid foundation on bass, while drummer Jay Schellen was simply phenomenal, driving the band with energy and precision. Witnessing YES live is a reminder that they are more than just a band; they are a true institution in rock music.
Close-up shot of Jon Davison singing during the YES performance at Vicar Street Dublin, highlighting his vocal delivery
Beyond the exceptional music, YES has always been known for their captivating visual presentation. The backdrop screens at Vicar Street displayed a mesmerizing array of images, from stunning landscapes to intricate animations. These visuals weren’t mere decoration; they were carefully curated to enhance the performance, adding another layer of depth and immersion to the overall experience.
While choosing highlights from such a strong set is subjective, “The Icy Bridge” stood out as particularly powerful, deserving to be mentioned alongside their most beloved classics.
Steve Howe playing guitar solo during the YES concert at Vicar Street Dublin, with stage lights and visual backdrop
As the first set concluded, the audience erupted into a standing ovation, a premature but heartfelt acknowledgment of the band’s performance even before they left the stage. After a brief exit, YES returned for a fantastic encore, leaving no doubt about the Dublin audience’s appreciation. Another extended standing ovation followed their final bow, a clear indication of the deep connection YES forged with the crowd at Vicar Street.
The full YES band taking a bow at the end of their performance at Vicar Street Dublin, acknowledging the audience's applause
The blend of “Close To The Edge” tracks, classic YES anthems, and newer material created a perfectly balanced and engaging setlist. While the future touring prospects for a band with members of such tenure are uncertain, YES shows no signs of slowing down. Their passion for performance and the audience’s unwavering enthusiasm suggest there’s still much more to come from this legendary group. As long as they continue to enjoy creating music and sharing it with their fans, and as long as audiences continue to respond with such fervor, the legacy of YES will undoubtedly endure.
Audience at Vicar Street Dublin applauding YES after their encore performance, showing appreciation for the band
For those in Cork on June 29th, seizing the opportunity to see YES live is highly recommended. This Vicar Street Dublin performance was a truly exceptional event, encapsulating the brilliance of YES throughout their remarkable history. They are, without a doubt, brilliant musicians who continue to deliver outstanding entertainment to audiences worldwide.
Setlist –
On The Silent Wings Of Freedom
Yours Is No Disgrace
No Opportunity Necessary, No Experience Needed (Richie Havens cover)
Does It Really Happen ?
Clap
Wonderous Stories
The Icy Bridge
Dare To Know
Heart Of The Sunrise
Close To The Edge
Close To The Edge
And You And I
Siberian Khatru
Encore
Roundabout
Starship Trooper
Review and Photography : Stephen Brophy for MPM
