Songs from Tsongas: Yes 35th Anniversary Concert Blu-ray Review

Yes: Songs from Tsongas is presented on Blu-ray by Eagle Vision with an AVC encoded 1080i transfer in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio. The overall image quality showcases a clean and expansive visual experience, reflecting its origins from an HD master shot back in 2004. Despite the occasional issues with stage lighting, which lead to some obliteration of detail under effulgent purples and blues, the performance maintains a slick and glossy appearance. Black levels experience mild crushing, attributed to the harsh stage lights, but this issue is inherent to the source material.

Clarity is notably high, enabling viewers to appreciate finely detailed close-ups of band members. When cameras zoom in, detail improves significantly, though there are moments where a purplish-pinkish cast creates a milky overlay on wider shots. This effect is somewhat exacerbated by inconsistent contrast. Despite these minor drawbacks, the presentation remains free from noise or distracting artifacts. There were very isolated occasions of minor combing artifacts, but these do not detract significantly from the experience.

Color reproduction on this Blu-ray release is highly commendable. The palette appears rich and vibrant throughout the performance, with no noticeable instances of banding or pixilation. Flesh tones are rendered realistically and consistently convey the lively atmosphere of the concert. Collectively, while there are slight imperfections typical of stage lighting challenges, Yes: Songs From Tsongas delivers a visually compelling and detailed presentation that effectively captures the vibrancy and energy of Yes's 35th Anniversary Concert.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Songs from Tsongas: Yes 35th Anniversary Concert" offers two primary listening options: 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio and LPCM Stereo. Opting for the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track provides a richer and more immersive experience. This mix adopts a laid-back approach with vocals prominently oriented in the front, complemented by low-level ambient sounds bleeding through the rear channels. Backing vocals follow a similar pattern. The instrumentation is artfully spread across the soundstage, providing discernible separation and an open expression that enhances the listening experience.

The audio mix highlights dynamic range and clarity, providing punchy dynamics and smooth vocal reproduction with minimal sibilance. Anderson's voice is superbly prioritized, floating above and in front of the well-layered instrumental textures. This setup yields excellent room penetration and ensures all frequency ranges are cleanly reproduced. The bass, while somewhat reserved, is balanced by Alan White's drum beats, which the LFE channel handles effectively. The surround sound presentation adds depth, capturing the crowd's ambiance without disrupting the main performance.

In contrast to the DTS-HD MA 5.1, the LPCM Stereo option appears anemic and less dynamic, making it a less favorable choice for those equipped to handle surround sound. Ultimately, the 5.1 track amplifies the concert's true essence, offering a well-balanced mix where vocals and instruments are distinct rather than muddled. The overall audio experience is akin to being in the front row, with every detail meticulously presented, ensuring an enjoyable and engaging auditory journey.

The Blu-ray extras for "Songs from Tsongas: Yes 35th Anniversary Concert" offer a robust complement to the main feature, enriching the overall viewing experience with both additional live performances and insightful commentary. A highlight is the bonus track "Ritual," presented in 1080i HD, which was not included in the original program. Furthermore, there's an interview with Roger Dean, the band’s long-time visual stylist, providing a fascinating peek into the creative processes behind their stage designs. The disc also includes a full concert from the band's performance in Lugano, Switzerland in 2004, albeit in standard definition. This bonus concert features a comprehensive setlist that extends the viewing experience by over an hour.

Extras included in this disc:

• Bonus Track “Ritual”: Additional live performance track in HD.
• Interview with Roger Dean: Insightful discussion with Yes's visual stylist.
• Live in Lugano 2004: Complete concert performance from Switzerland in SD.

"Songs from Tsongas: Yes 35th Anniversary Concert" on Blu-ray provides an exceptional audiovisual record of Yes’ 2004 tour featuring the classic lineup of Jon Anderson, Steve Howe, Chris Squire, Rick Wakeman, and Alan White. The primary concert, filmed at Tsongas Arena in Massachusetts, showcases the band's versatility with a mix of their biggest hits rendered in more acoustic-oriented arrangements. Despite the reserved and more intimate setting, the band's complex textures remain evident, albeit with fewer electric and electronic instruments. Anderson's vocals remain clear and resonant, Howe’s guitar work stays intricate and expressive, while Wakeman's keyboard performance varies in consistency. Squire and White maintain a solid rhythm section throughout.

In addition to the main concert, the Blu-ray offers 70 minutes of previously unreleased highlights from the band's performance in Lugano, Switzerland at Estival. This outdoor show captures a stark contrast with a stripped-down stage and full-on rock versions of many acoustic tracks performed in Tsongas. Despite the heavy rain and audiences sporting umbrellas, the live energy remains palpable. Highlights from both settings include iconic tracks such as "Roundabout," "And You and I," and "Owner of a Lonely Heart," interspersed with deeper cuts like "Mind Drive" and "South Side of the Sky."

The dual-concert offering on this Blu-ray enriches the viewing experience, presenting Yes in two contrasting yet complementary modes. The Massachusetts set feels more introspective, with simpler arrangements that allow for nuanced musicianship to shine through. Conversely, the Lugano performance pulses with vibrant energy despite challenging weather conditions, illustrating the timeless appeal and adaptability of Yes' music across different settings and configurations. For aficionados of prog-rock and Yes devotees, this release is an essential treasury of performances capturing a critical juncture in the band’s storied career.

"Songs from Tsongas: Yes 35th Anniversary Concert" on Blu Ray offers an exceptional audio and visual experience, but a few caveats are worth noting. The concert captures an interesting array of arrangements that might puzzle purists longing for the classic Yes sound but will fascinate devoted fans. Jon Anderson's voice remains captivating and versatile, though Rick Wakeman’s performance occasionally falls short of expectations. Visually, the quality is satisfactory, yet it doesn't achieve the high standard set by the audio, which is clear, vibrant, and richly encompassing.

The Blu-ray excels in its technical aspects. The video quality, while not flawless, provides a good representation of the concert atmosphere. The special features included in this edition add significant value, offering deep dives into the band's history and behind-the-scenes footage that enrich the overall experience. The effort to remaster this concert for Blu-ray is evident, delivering a superior home entertainment experience that showcases Yes in all their progressive rock glory.

In conclusion, whether you are a longtime Yes aficionado or a newcomer to their intricate musical landscapes, "Songs from Tsongas: Yes 35th Anniversary Concert" on Blu-ray is a commendable addition to any collection. Its impressive audio fidelity and substantive special features outweigh any minor visual shortcomings. Fans who appreciate the band's evolving sound will find this concert both compelling and satisfying. Highly recommended for enthusiasts of the band and lovers of high-quality concert Blu-rays alike.