I think that Yessongs is one of the best live albums of all time. Like you, my first version was an 8 track and I was grateful to move on to the LP so that there was no "click click" in the middle of the long songs. The musicianship, and particularly Jon Anderson's voice, are what separates this version of Yes from all other prog wannabes. Yes has been criticized through the years for being pretentious with their long solos, light/lazar shows, and Rick Wakeman's silver sequined cape. As far as I am concerned, the Roger Dean imagery, huge stage shows, and complex arrangements combined with the unique talents of the band members to set the standard for the progressive rock genre. Yes knows how to entertain live and Yessongs captures that spirit.
In Awe of "Yessongs" Forty Years Later
Began listening to "Yessongs" on 8 track back in 1973, the year after I graduated high school. A friend of mine who lived in the neighborhood brought this 8 track along when we were riding around in my car. I had never heard of "Yes" or their music. I was immediately mesmerized. I proceeded to buy the 8 track the same day. Since then I re-purchased the recordings many times as they were damaged, wore out, lost, or stolen (once). Over the years bought and re-bought Yessongs at least twice on 8 track, twice on album, once on cassette and twice on CD. Was fortunate to see Yes perform material from Yessongs at the "World Series of Rock" Cleveland Stadium, 1975. What a wild concert that was, a rush running from the gates when they opened to get to the stadium floor. Over 40 years later, and here I sit listening on new headphones (Creative Aurvana Live 2) to tracks from Yessongs on my PC, still in awe of the music! Close to the Edge and Jon Anderson are still chilling. Yours is No Disgrace, Perpetual Change, Siberian Khatru, all still incredible musical performances! Anderson, Squire, Howe,Bruford,White, and Wakeman, all exceptional! Listening on the Creative Aurvana's is the best I've heard Yessongs in many years! (I'll be 60 in 5 months). It has always been a very compromised recording that does not sound nearly as great as the performances, even after a remastering. It's amazing that Yessongs has stood the test of time and after 40 years is still an awe-inspiring performance. Other recordings of Yes that I like exist, but this one is unique.