______ ______ ____________ _________ / \ | \ __/ \ __/ \__ | \| \ / |/ _ \ | // _____ || / \_/ \ // / \ \\_ \___ \ || _____ ___\ \ \_ \ \ || / --/ ______| \ \ ___\ || | | - /______ __/ \ ___/ \ \\ \_ \_ // | / ___\ _/ \_ \ \_ _// | \__ \__/ ___/ \_ \____ | \_/ \__ ___/ \___ _/ \__ \__/ \ \_________/ \_____/ \_ \_____/ \ \_ | \_ | \__ __/ \_____________/ N o t e s F r o m T h e E d g e #89 THE Internet Magazine For YES Fans (Copyright) December 22, 1993 ______________________________________________________________________________ | nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ IN THIS ISSUE ============= Steve Howe Live - - Los Angeles - - Washington D.C. - - New York City Lyric Discussion - - Compromise Yes - - 1976 Live Show ABWH Live - - Moves To Caroline Run With The Fox - - Lyrics Anywhere? Various and Sundry - - Questions and Opinions What Is It... - - Biotron, Birotron? Big Generator - - Revisited Howe and Wakeman - - Views Yesoteric - - Some Feedback Rick Wakeman - - Greatest Hits Paul Simon - - The Yes Connection Steve Howe - - Ticket Prices Howe And Kaye - - Tapes and The Other One Turn Of The Century - - A Short Story Adaptation Sound Chaser - - Year's End From The Editor - - Til Next Year ______________________________________________________________________________ | nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ STEVE HOWE IN L.A. ================== From: IN%"edju@scf.usc.edu" Mike Tiano (miketi@microsoft.com) already covered 3 Southern California shows Howe played, so I will avoid any repetition here. His set list was very complete, but in the L.A. show Steve did not play Wayward Course, which was a bit disappointing since it's my favorite track from Grand Scheme. Steve was in good humour at the L.A. show. Between songs he would tell some jokes to entertain the audience, which was rather surprising to me because my impression of him is very serious. After the intermission, Steve returned to the second set with a very flashy, colourful jacket. Someone from the audience yelled "Hey Steve, nice jacket!" The only electric Steve played was a Steinberger with body. He didn't really rock out with distortion on that Steinberger, though. For all its worth, he could have played these tunes acoustically, I think. Another comment yelled out from the audience was rather rude, I thought. Someone yelled at Steve "Will you be on the next Yes album?" between tunes, to which Steve ignored. For an evening of solo guitar, I was surprised to find that programs were available for sale, along with t-shirts. The program features a new painting by Roger Dean, but it's a steep $15 for 8 pages! Overall it was quite a unique concert, highly recommended for all Yes/ Howe fans AND guitar lovers everywhere! * * * * * * * * * * STEVE HOWE IN D.C. ================== From: IN%"71334.332@CompuServe.COM" "Jimmy Jones" Hi, here's a quick note on the Washington D.C. Steve Howe concert. First of all, I am a hard core YES fan since 1971, and truly admire Steve for the virtuoso that he is. However, I cannot understand at all why he chose to sing on this gig. I know he wrote most of the music, and I know it was an 'informal' show, very intimate and fun. But the singing almost ruined it for me. Anyway, I won't dwell on it, obviously his voice didn't deter other fans, the show was sold out! He played lots of pieces of tunes from all his groups and solos albums, the last NFTE had a list that was the same as the washington show. Much emphasis on classical guitar - he didn't really go electric until the very end with things like the Starship Trooper intro, My White Bicycle, Heat of the Moment...etc. All the while his running banter and elf-like visual performance kept us all enthralled. The sound people gave him fits (The Bayou in Georgetown). First too soft, then too loud, then too much reverb and feedback, then...well in Steve's own words: 'WHAT'S HAPPENING???' I sure wouldn't want to have been in their shoes after the show :) I was there early enough to get a table up front, and after an hour wait in rapidly dropping temperatures outside Steve rushed by into the club. He said 'hi' to us in line, but nothing else, seemed a little rushed and anxious. (When Rick Wakeman came he talked to just about everyone, but then he didn't have to tune his keyboards!) I really enjoyed his solo work, was very happy to see him out there playing his heart out and showing those who may have forgotten that he indeed does 'still have it', but I wish, I wish, I wish, oh how I wish he had asked Jon, Chris, Trevor(?!), Frank Sinatra, Bono, ANYONE to sing instead of trying to do it himself...oh, the horror.....(he said with a disarming grin)... * * * * * * * * * * HOWE IN N.Y.C. ============== From: IN%"phil@sonosam.wisdom.bubble.org" I saw Steve at the Bottom Line on Wednesday night, the early show. What can, I say, he was fantastic. The set was pretty much the same as mentioned in NFTE 87. I had a great seat. I was on the right side of the stage, with the soundboard/lightboard immediately on my right. I was initially worried about not being able to hear everything, being positioned on the right side, but this was no problem. The sound was flawless and fantastic. I was able to read his setlist from his notes if I squinted. I remember when people were naming songs, someone mentioned a track off of the AWBH 2nd album bootleg, and he chastised them for having the album. Notes for anyone seeing him later: 1) If you want autographs, and it's a 2 show night, if you're seeing the first show, try and see him before it starts. As it turned out, he didn't sign autographs between the first and second shows (from what I was told), which is understandable seeing as he would want to rest his fingers. 2) He was fairly talkative with the audience, responding somewhat to comments, I was going to ask "Between Bruford and Anderson, who has the bigger ego?" but I didn't. Give it a shot. 3) Enjoy yourself!! * * * * * * * * * * LYRIC DISCUSSION ================ From: IN%"sharth26@ursa.Calvin.EDU" "Steven P Harthorn" It seems many people are in favour of discussing Yes lyrics in Notes From The Edge. Although I'm not into them, I would not want to unduly censor them from NFTE either. Might I make a suggestion, though? Please keep the lyrics explications as short as possible. They can get a bit lengthy at times and this takes up valuable space in people's mailboxes. Also, perhaps you may only wish to call certain excerpts to attention or discuss only parts of the song's lyrics. This is another way to encourage discussion without turning "Notes" into "Dissertations" :) Thanks Steve Harthorn * * * * * * * * * * 1976 BOOTLEG? ============= From: IN%"ponder@killdozer.sps.mot.com" 1976 2CD Bootleg? ----------------- I saw this posting on "rec.music.cd" (article 6336) a few days ago: > > From: gjs2@ns1.cc.lehigh.edu (GEORGE J. SCHLOGL) > Subject: YES --1976 LIVE BOOTLEG > Organization: Lehigh University > > Some songs sound different due to the fact, patrick Moraz is playing > keyboards. And you and I and Ritual and Sweat deams sounds great. I cant > get the first cd to play on my disk player - sony d5 first generation, but > I have been having problems with other cd's that played before on my player. > Well I guess it is time for a new cd player. But I think this bootleg is > better than most that are out there. The main problem was paying 50 doolars > for it and can only listen to disk 1 until I get a new cd player. > > YOURS TRULY > THE YES FAN > GEORGE SCHLOGL > 40 N 14 ST > ALLENTOWN, PA. 18102 I sent a letter to the author but have had no response so far. My very first concert was Gentle Giant, Gary Wright, Peter Frampton, and Yes at the Anaheim Stadium 1976, so a recording from this tour has a special significance to me. I am also interested in getting recordings of Relayer and Tales material as well as alternate arrangements of material from Yessongs. I have a couple specific questions about this disk, if any of you can answer them: 1] What is the name and serial number of this disk, and who is selling it? My usual sources don't have anything like this listed. 2] When/where was it recorded? Is this a transcription of the 1975 Queens Park laserdisk? How is the sound quality? 3] Has anyone else had problems playing these disks? If a run of defective (and essentially non-returnable) disks is on the market, we should be made aware. Carl Ponder (Yes fan since 1976) * * * * * * * * * * ABWH LIVE ========= From: IN%"dtratt@voyager.Jpl.Nasa.Gov" "David M. Tratt" >From the Jan. '94 issue of "ICE" newsletter: " 'An Evening of Yes Music Plus', the double live CD from ABWH previously available only as an import, will now be distributed by Caroline through the Herald label. The new edition, due in early March, carries one additional track, 'Starship Trooper'..." Is anyone else on NFTE as miffed as I am at this? Anyway, if anyone wants my present copy of the Griffin Music production, then it's available. I also have 'Rick Wakeman's Greatest Hits' that I'm wanting rid of, if anyone's interested. * * * * * * * * * * RUN WITH THE FOX LYRICS? ======================== From: IN%"CAPRICE@UNCVX1.OIT.UNC.EDU" "Elizabeth Marrin" Hey, I just bought the box set for $25 dollars (isn't that amazing?) and I really like the song _Run with the Fox_ ... Where can I find the lyrics to this song? I have searched all around. * * * * * * * * * * A FEW NEW QUESTIONS =================== From: IN%"BWorkman@space.honeywell.com" "Workman, Brian" Wow! I've only discovered NFTE a few weeks ago. I had no idea there were so many of us out there that also have access to the net. Being new to NFTE, and not having fully explored the server and all of the back issues, I have a few questions. Forgive me if they've been answered before. Just how many of us are there? (on the subscription list that is). I was interested to see that the lyrics are available from the server. Who does them? Are they official or submitted by subscribers? I have a "complete" set of lyrics that I've put together myself. You can imagine how much more difficult this is when an album like union comes out without the lyrics enclosed. Anyway, has anyone translated the Cambodian poetry in Angkor Wat? Does anyone know how one might go about having it translated? Has anyone deciphered the ramblings of rick in the background of Money? I've tried. [Ed. - Many of your questions can be answered by looking through back issues on the server. On the subject of Symphonic Yes: it's the first time that I really really didn't like a "Yes" album. The most disappointing thing about it is that for years I've imagined how this project could be done with great beauty and force and now that it's been botched, they'll never go back and do it right. Nothing was added to Roundabout and Owner of a Lonely Heart doesn't lend itself to the symphonic medium and should never have been attempted. I like parts of Close to the Edge, Heart of the Sunrise (which is pure Stravinsky anyway) and Soon, but rather than develop the themes naturally David Palmer is like a child with crayons for the first time, he has to try *all* of the colors. I don't think anyone is a better drummer than Bill but I don't think a large rock kit of drums has any place within the format. Tempo and rhythmn should be provided by the orchestra without the rock beat overlay. I would have preferred an almost entirely symphonic production. No drums, minimal or no guitar, and no chorus. NOT done a la muzak mind you but with the strength and conviction that classical music of the romantic and modern eras share with Yes music. Anyway, that's how I feel. Anyway, I'm very glad to have found you, and I look forward to the next issue. I'm also going to have to compare my rarities collection with NFTE's to see if there is anything I can contribute. I'm also going to need to get a set of Yesoterics. Who's the closest duplicator to Phoenix? How many are there? 16? WOW! * * * * * * * * * * BIOTRON, BIROTRON? ================== From: IN%"John.Lukes@EBay.Sun.COM" Mike: The Steve Howe interview was excellent -- thanks for posting it. I paraphrased the portion about the practical joke on Rick Wakeman for a discussion on the Gilbraltar Digest because they have been discussing the Biotron keyboard device. Your interview listed it as a Birotron...but I'd be willing to bet this should read Biotron. Can you verify? [Ed. - I believe it is "birotron". * * * * * * * * * * BIG GENERATOR ============= From: IN%"sharth26@ursa.Calvin.EDU" "Steven P Harthorn" Greetings! I was just listening to Big Generator again the other day. I remember how, when this album came out, it took me a while to get used to the sound...it seems that Alan White's drum sound is different on this album, for one. And, especially noticeable to me, Chris Squire seems to use his Tobias basses almost entirely on this album--nothing sounds like Rickenbacker to me. Does anyone have an accurate instrument listing for the recording of this album? Any insights?? I'd love to know. At one time somebody mentioned (with a bit of disgust, if I recall) that at some time a side-long track was rumoured to be on BG, and that this track would have actually been the last four songs mixed together. To me, this idea doesn't seem all that repulsive. For one, the tracks do seem to flow together rather nicely, to my ears. If we had never heard them as singles, we may have never thought twice about it!! And, why should such a thing be a travesty when the whole Close To The Edge album was recorded in minutes and seconds at a time, with no real direction?? What's wrong with a little composition skill?? It will be interesting to see how the new album comes out; Jon & Trevor seem to have reached a point where they can comfortably compromise a bit more. And as long as this compromise is within the group--not with too many cooks outside--I think we can expect good stuff. Just some food for thought while we're (still!) waiting for the album. Steve * * * * * * * * * * HOWE IN S. CAL. AND WAKEMAN =========================== From: IN%"John.Lukes@EBay.Sun.COM" I'm a relatively new subscriber, but not a new YES-fan (21+ years!) and I appreciated Mike Tiano's review of Steve Howe's Solana Beach show. I saw him at the Cabaret in San Jose on this tour and loved it, but didn't take notes (as I sometimes do) -- decided just to be there and enjoy. But I am glad others are getting the set lists and sharing sources and such. Thanks again, Mike. Hey, I'm unashamedly a big fan of everyone who's every been involved with this band -- I'm sorry I missed Rick Wakeman's last show here in our area. I'll try not to let it happen again. I hear it was great. Does anybody have tapes of either guy's recent shows? (Oh, did I say that?! Audition-purposes only, of course.) -JOHN * * * * * * * * * * YESOTERIC FEEDBACK ================== From: IN%"peterg@RedBrick.COM" "Peter Guilhamet" >R.u S.Hartnett writes: >I was just wondering ,what people think of the tapes. I received my copies of the Yesoteric Tapes the day before my Thanksgiving vacation, a road trip from S.F. to SoCal. I listened to nothing but these tapes for the entirity of the journey (which included seeing Steve Howe in San Juan Cap !!), and was loving it all the way ! As a matter of fact, I heard "My White Bicycle" for the first time on the tapes just hours before hearing it for the first time played live, and it made so much more sense knowing it's historical importance ! I would like to thank Jeremy W. for compiling this fantastic collection, Jeff H. for publicizing it in "Notes", and Eddie J. for duplicating a set for me ! The on-line index and labels are very informative. If you don't yet have a copy, and love YES, then don't delay in signing up for a set of your very own. later -pg- "We love when we play" * * * * * * * * * * WAKEMAN'S GREATEST HITS ======================= From: IN%"mcglincj@bcvms.bc.edu" Hello! I would just like to say that for those of you who don't like or are avoiding Symphonic Yes, you might possibly enjoy the first disc off of Rick Wakeman's Greatest Hits (2 discs) CD. He covers: "Roundabout", "Wonderous Stories", "Don't Kill the Whale", "Going for the One", "Siberian Khatru", "Madrigal", and "Starship Trooper"--all on keyboard! In many cases, he has really changed the arrangements, and although sometimes it gets a bit repetitive, I've got to say that I really especially like his rendition of "Starship Trooper". He adds a beautiful D major section in between the first two parts which isn't on The Yes Album (or any other version I've heard), and does some wicked soloing throughout. I find this album a neat alternative to Symphonic Yes, which isn't to my taste. Joe McGlinchey Boston College * * * * * * * * * * PAUL SIMON AND YES ================== From: IN%"mcglincj@bcvms.bc.edu" I think the link between Paul Simon and Yes you've discovered is probably a reference to Yes' cover of "America" (originally done by Simon & Garfunkel). It's about ten minutes or so (released in shorter form as a single) and you can find it on "Yesterdays" in its complete beauty! Joe McGlinchey Boston College * * * * * * * * * * HOWE TICKETS ============ From: IN%"hackett@gaul.csd.uwo.ca" "Mike Hackett" Well, I finally got around to picking up my tickets for Steve Howe in Toronto on the 18th, and man was I pleasantly suprised at the price! Only 6 bucks (Canadian)! Even with the service charge and tax, the total for 2 tickets was just $15.50! If this is the case everywhere, none of you have any excuse to not go! :-) You can even afford to drive a little farther if he's not playing locally. I thought that the $12 I paid for Steve Hackett tickets last month was fantastic, but this is mind-blowing. I hope this is trend that will continue. A friend of mine who's also going said, "I guess he (Mr. Howe) figures he has enough money, and he just wants people to hear his music." Wow, what a radical concept! :-) With the price of most concert tickets going up and up (I paid $45 for Gabriel tickets this summer!), I have to say I am very pleased that these less popular, but no less talented artists are willing to put on their shows for us at these prices. Plus, it leaves us with more money that might just go towards buying their CDs! Mike Hackett St. Catharines, Ontario * * * * * * * * * * STEVE HOWE AND TONY KAYE ======================== From: IN%"ripken@aol.com" I was wondering if anyone who is going to see Steve Howe on this tour was planning on taping the show. It would certainly be something for others who can't make the show can hear. (Such as myself :( ) As for the Tony Kaye directing a video, I seem to remember a Tony Kaye who did the cover layout for Roger Waters' last album "Amused To Death." It was not the same Kaye as the keyboardist. This leads to the assumption that the video director is in fact the cover artist, and not the Yesman. It's a good likelihood, since Kaye is a somewhat common name (not as common as White or Anderson, but you get the picture). Finally, I want to wish all a (probably late) happy holidays. Later. --Jeremy * * * * * * * * * * TURN OF THE CENTURY - THE SHORT STORY ===================================== From: IN%"RVHD09A@prodigy.com" TURN OF THE CENTURY adapted from a song by Jon Anderson/Steve Howe/Alan White By Robert E. Starnes III (copyright) The chips fell from the chisel, making a mound of marble bits at his feet. The sweat mixed with tears in his eyes, so as to make him blink hard and wipe away the pain. "Now, Roan, no more tears. Set to work." He said aloud as he moved back to the stone figure he had labored long and hard on for the last weeks. His mallet swung again, striking the chisel just so, causing another rain of dust and bits to fall onto the pile beneath. He worked on a statue, a figure of great importance. This would be his most beautiful, for there could be no other more beautiful than his model, his late wife. She was his one true love, the only being so perfect in his eyes that even religion had become less important to him. If there were a God, why would he deem it necessary to take her from him so early in their lives? He stepped back once more to survey his latest changes. His gaze rested on her face, the features so exact, so perfect. Could She see him? He wondered. He looked into the marble eyes that seemed to look right into him. They were Her eyes. Able to see just what he needed to make him happy. Able to soothe his angers, calm his worries, ignite his passion. Could She see him? His gaze went lower, to her torso, to her arms, the left one already done, swept up, arcing over her head, as she so often did while dancing. This took him back... ...The New Year's Eve gala was in full swing. He was in great demand by most of the guests, as his work was becoming more well known. His latest had only just been placed in a prominent square off the Champs-Elysees. His commissions were growing by leaps and bounds. This made things easier financially. Still, he tried not to put on aires, as he knew himself better than that. From meager stock he had sprung, and it was only his talent that brought him to where he was now. Talent was superficial at times, as it was always in the eye of the beholder. Eyesight goes bad with the changing of the times. While he had been mingling among the other guests, he had noticed her dancing with several different partners at several differing places during the evening. There she was again. So beautiful! Her gown was a silken-lace in a shade that defied definition. The way the lights played on it, with each new twist of her body, the hue shifted in its intensity, causing it to either grow darker, lighter, or change a shade altogether. At this moment it was a lavenderish-blue. No, a light rose. No, there, it changed again. Reddish now. Her hair was so blonde it was nearly white. Lips so red they perfectly framed her smile, which was so sincere he knew she was totally enjoying herself. He found he couldn't keep his eyes off of her. The way she pirouetted with her left arm over her head, her fingers in perfect plumb with her nose. The music stopped as he politely excused himself from the group of well wishers who had steadily grown and changed with each passing minute. He wanted to get closer to her. He lost her! Where had she gone! The crowd had shifted to allow him passage, and he suddenly lost sight of her. He circled about, scanning the room for her blonde hair. There! In the midst of a group of young men, she sat with a glass of champagne, looking up at each as he spoke to her. Charming was an understatement. She truly seemed to enjoy each encounter. He walked over to the little gathering, his eyes firmly fixed on her, so as not to lose her again. Just then, their host began to call for everyone's attention. Roan noticed her stand to see what was happening, and followed her gaze to the bandstand in the corner of the room. There, the host held his pocket watch just below his face, a half-drunken smile affixed thereon. "One minute 'til the 20th Century!" Roan turned to find her again. He moved closer, not knowing if he should eavesdrop or not, but wanting very much to learn what the conversation was about. He was within earshot as he slowly turned, not wanting to look too eager to overhear. "...not alone. I'm here with someone." It had to be her voice. How much like an angel it was. How it captivated him. "I've seen you with several gentlemen, but not one in particular, my lady," one young man said. "I'm sorry if you've been mislead by my apparent lack of a constant escort, Messieurs. I assure you it was not intentional. My escort has been busy with business talk, and I dislike those conversations. I do, however, love to dance. If you'll excuse me." She turned away from them with a smile. He looked over at her as she made her way in his direction. "Ten seconds!" The host was nearly beside himself as he watched the second hand on his chronometer tick down to the last seconds of the century. Suddenly he threw his hands in the air, "We have turned the century!" Just then, the band struck up La Marseillaise, and she was next to him. Smiling, he turned to her, "Happy New Year, Soleil!" "Happy New Year, Roan!" she said as she kissed him. It was a warm, soft kiss, only a second in duration, but a lifetime in his heart. "Would you care to dance?" She looked at him again, causing his eyes to blink uncontrollably, as if he were staring into the sun. He gained control of them as she answered him. "I would gladly accompany you at the next dance." She smiled. "They've seen your sculpture, Roan," she said as she looked about the room. "The work is magnificent. I wish I had talent, to be able to make a thing of beauty for the world to marvel at." He couldn't believe his ears. Here this woman of infinite beauty and grace wished she had talent. "I may shape stone, Soleil, but it's still stone. My wish is to someday create something as beautiful and alive as yourself. However, I'm afraid my talent is far too minuscule for that." She only smiled as they waltzed across the floor... ...He had to wipe his eyes again. The memories had flooded back into him, making his work seem distant. He stepped back again, looking over his creation. He traced the line of the statue's garment with his finger. This part had already been polished. He wanted to make it as perfect as Soleil. After each section was finished, he polished it, leaving only the unfinished sections rough. Soon he would be polishing the right arm and hand. Just a few more touches here and there. He took the hand in his, how rough it felt, but how he longed to hold it. He remembered how they had held hands on the bank of the Seine, so long ago, so far away... ...They walked among the artists hawking their wares. Paintings; jewelry; pottery; sculpture. Several of the artists acknowledged him, acting glad to see him, butjealous of his fame. He had been there with them not so long before. Her hair had a touch of yellow from the sun, and the parasol spun on her shoulder, not really shading her. He walked beside her, and taking her hand in his, stopped. "Soleil, are you happy?" She seemed a bit taken aback at this question, but smiled back. "Of course, Roan. I'm always happy when with you. Why do you ask?" "I know that since meeting you, I, too, have been happier than I can ever remember. I want to ask for your hand, and will approach your father, but only with your permission." He was aware that she loved him, but wanted her to say it again and again. He loved her beyond words. She blushed, but the smile never faded. "Oh, yes, Roan. I'm happy!" She kissed him sweetly. This was his defining moment in life. An angel was going to marry him! He squeezed her hand, bringing it to his lips and kissing her fingers... ...The tears made steady streams down his face. Looking up into her eyes, he asked aloud, "Was the sign with a touch as I kissed your fingers?" Memories when we're young, he told himself, love lingers so. Could She hear him? Just then, a clap of thunder sounded, startling him. He turned to the windows, tall and undraped. A flash of lightning shown through, and another clap of thunder shook him. Another autumn storm. The leaves blew about outside the windows. He turned back to the statue. Winter called. He had not left the studio in days, sleeping little, and with no appetite. He would starve all but to see the stone become life. He felt the rough stone arm, all the way up to the shoulder, and then to the polished breasts. They showed their silkiness. The shape of his heart was there, in her bosoms. He could almost see them rising and falling, as if she were breathing. Oh, how they used to shake as she laughed. She laughed so easily. Life was her joy. But he could remember times when joy escaped her for the moment... ...He melted when she wept. "Soleil, what is the matter?" She had been to see the doctor. Their marriage was two years old, and no children. She had gone seeking advice. Her mother had passed away years before, and no other close female relatives were available to consult about such a topic. Her tears told him more than he wanted to know. "No children, Roan. I'm barren." She collapsed against him, crying uncontrollably. They sat in the sitting room of the doctor's house. He was a kindly middle aged man with a heavy mustache. He too wiped a tear from his eye. "Here, Monsieur, give her two pills to calm her until this passes. If she is still despondent in the morning, give her two more. No more." He patted Roan on the shoulder. "I'm sorry, Monsieur." Roan helped Soleil to her feet. "Come, darling." They returned to their apartment, where he put the little bottle of pills on the bedside table. "I don't need them, Roan. I'm just sad. I'm so sorry," she sobbed. He bent to her, taking her chin in his hand, making her look into his eyes. "Soleil, I love you as much as I ever did." "I'm afraid you won't look at me in the same light, now that I'm unable to provide you with children like other women could." She stifled another sobbing attack. "My love, if children are what you want, we can always adopt. There are many waifs to choose from in Paris and beyond. I love you, barren or not. You will always shine in my eyes, Soleil." She wiped her eyes and nose with a kerchief. "I love you, Roan." He bent and kissed her mouth, the taste of her tears on her lips. The two embraced and fell together on the bed. The next day, as he was getting ready to open his studio, the doctor appeared. "If I may have a moment of your time, Monsieur Trouffe`. I have news of your wife. I didn't want to tell her, for it would only make her more despondent." "Doctor, she is aware of her barrenness. She has already recovered from her depression. We are thinking of adopting a child. Thank you for your attention." "Monsieur, her barrenness is only a symptom of what is really wrong with her." The doctor was nervous. "What are you talking about? She's in perfect health other than being barren." He was getting scared. "Is there some place where we can sit down and talk, Monsieur?" "Come in, Doctor," he said, opening the door, and leading the way into the studio strewn with clay and marble. It was a mess, but he knew where everything was. He lead the doctor to a small chair he kept for his models. "Have a seat." "I think you should be the one to sit, Monsieur," the doctor said gravely. "I wish you'd get on with it, doctor. My wife is fine, I tell you!" He was getting angry with the little man. Soleil was the picture of health, and for this quack to come and say anything different was ridiculous. "Fine, Monsieur. Your wife is barren because she has a consumptive disease. She is unable to sustain a pregnancy because of this, and I fear she has not long. Maybe a year, not more. I'm sorry." Roan slumped down into the chair. "How...?" "No one knows, Monsieur. But I do know that she suffers from it, and will die. I wanted to tell you privately to prepare you. I don't like to tell my patients they are going to die to their faces. I know it is a hard blow to take, so I merely told her she couldn't have babies. She will remain outwardly well for a while longer, but will deteriorate slowly until she dies of the disease. There is little else I can do for her except sedatives at this time. Come see me when her pain becomes apparent. I am sorry, Monsieur." At that, the doctor let himself out, leaving Roan holding his head in his hands. After sitting for hours in the studio, weeping, he walked home. He wiped his eyes before entering the apartment. There she was, his angel. She rushed to him, "Roan, I talked to Father Jacob today about adoption, and he said..." Turning away, he took out his kerchief and wiped his eyes and nose. "Have you caught cold, darling?" She asked, taking his shoulders. "You must have worked hard today. Your shoulders are so tight. Let me rub them." Be brave for her, Roan, he told himself. Let her be happy... ...He shook the tears from his face, his hands busy with polishing the right arm. The dust fell from the arm, joining the rest at the bottom of the pedestal. The work kept him warm. The fire in the stove was low, and the wind outside was whipping the leaves. He looked up at her face. "Like leaves, we touch. We learn." He once knew the story. He finished polishing and looked at his hands. Helpless hands, soul revealing... ...Soleil lay in the bed for weeks now. Her pain was great, but she tried to keep a smile handy for him. The doctor had left to get Father Jacob. The Last Rites would be needed soon. He sat beside her, stroking her hand and arm. She felt cold already. It was the dark of winter. He had a warm fire in the stove, but it didn't matter how much coal he piled in there, his Soleil was dying. Her eyes fluttered open, and she half turned to him. "Roan, I love you. I'm so sorry for having to leave so soon. I know we'll meet again, Roan, in heaven." He didn't want to speak of heaven or a God who could take her away from him. She was HIS angel. "I know you believe it." He didn't want her to know his feelings. In the still light of dawn, she died... ...He lay on a cot he had put in so he wouldn't have to the leave his work to sleep. The room was as cold as it was outside, the fire long gone out of the stove. He had finished the statue. It stood at the foot of the cot, polished and reflecting the slight glow from the street lights outside the windows. He was too weak to rise, having eaten not much more than a bit of bread and cheese in the last ten days. Realizing a form out of stone, his work, so absorbed him. He looked up into Her eyes, pearl deep. Could She see him? He kept drifting into a sleep, only to wake now and again, but now only infrequently. His eyes were as heavy as stones. Somehow, though, he could see through them now. A bright light shown through. Was it the sun through the haze that made all her looks as warm as moonlight? All aglow was his room, dazed in this light. In his room, his lady danced, she sang so completely. He would touch her. He would hold her. Laughing as they danced, highest colors touching others. Like leaves they touched, they see. They knew the story. As winter called, they both remembered all those many years ago. * * * * * * * * * * SOUND CHASER ============ Notes from the Associate Editor, Mike Tiano (miketi@microsoft.com) NEW YES ALBUM UPDATE I've received an update from Alan White on the progress of the still untitled new album from Yes. According to Alan his parts are all completed; there's just a few guitar overdubs and final mixes that need to be done before the album is finished. The tour is already being worked on; 76 dates so far, most of them in America. Though 'History of the Future' is one of the titles they've discussed Alan says that one is 'on the back burner', i.e. in all likelihood they'll choose another. He says the potential cover looks great but wouldn't disclose any details. That's all for now; details will be posted as they arise. PROGRESSIVE ALBUM OF THE YEAR I may be accused of being less than objective here, and rightfully so, but I would say the album I've listened to most consistently is Steve Howe's THE GRAND SCHEME OF THINGS. Not only is it very creative and has lots of great playing, it's got some of the most memorable compositions from any Yes member(s) in I don't know how long. One indication of the strength of a Yes or Yes- related album has been the depth of the music, if multiple listens reveal themes and parts that weren't immediately apparent, and this one nicely fits the bill. In the tradition of great Yes music the songs have a sing-along quality to them; I find myself singing or humming tunes from the album and enjoy the melodic content of them. Not to forget the range of emotions expressed, from the jaunty 'Blinded by Science' to the expansive 'Beautiful Ideas'. A great mix of instrumental and vocal tracks, the album surpasses TURBULENCE in my mind. I, along with hundreds (thousands?) of other Howephiles were only too pleased to have been privileged to see Steve perform solo in concert, playing a broad range of tunes from his past. He shined on every guitar he played and had lots of fun communicating with the audience as well. It really whetted my appetite for his return with a band late in 1994, and I hope it does come to pass. In the meantime watch out for THE STEVE HOWE GUITAR COLLECTION which should be out soon. Though guitarists will get the most out of this book anyone who is passionate about Steve's music will surely get a lot out of it as well. And support Steve by buying THE GRAND SCHEME OF THINGS if you haven't already; if a friend taped it for you remember that Steve gets nothing out of that, so BUY IT. It would make a great Christmas present, even for someone who isn't a strict Yes fanatic. Give it a try, you may turn on a friend or relative to some great music, and you'll be supporting Steve in the process. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS OF 1993 There were other memorable Yes events in '93. While the band itself meticulously worked on the new album, we saw Jon Anderson tour in tandem with Kitaro, and embark on a South American tour where he acted as kind of a musical emcee for his Latin-based band; unfortunately he stopped Geffen from releasing his new album THE POWER OF SILENCE, but hopefully we'll see it released in 1994. Rick Wakeman came through the States with his very talented son Adam, performing some masterworks that can only be described as awesome while demonstrating his unique sense of humor. Steve and Bill Bruford were major contributors to THE SYMPHONIC MUSIC OF YES and, along with some help from Jon, produced some interesting orchestral versions of classic Yes songs. Trevor Rabin took some time off from producing the new Yes album to assist Paul Rogers in his bluesly lp, even going on the syndicated radio show ROCKLINE to answer calls. And, though it may not have been band condoned, we saw laserdisc releases of the QPR 1975 gig as well as the ABWH Mountainview pay-per-view show. HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND A GRAND NEW YEAR This is the last Notes for 1993, the year in which this little news- letter has gained some clout. Yes members and management have become aware of us, and hopefully with the help of all of you we'll continue to flourish. With more users signing up for services like America Online, with more users getting Notes at home, we can continue to grow, to alert other subscribers to information, and it looks like there will be lots of it in 1994 including a new album and major world tour from Yes and various projects from Steve Howe including the Symphonic tour, a possible stint opening for ELP's summer tour, and a solo tour with his own band including son Dylan on drums. Thanks for contributing, staying with us, and letting others know about us. Merry Christmas/Happy Chanukah and best wishes for the New Year, 1994. Mike * * * * * * * * * * FROM THE EDITOR =============== Mike pretty well summed it up above. It's been a good year. Next year looks to be better. Personally I'm excited about the new album and have high hopes for it. I'm also glad that Mike Tiano joined us this year. He's done a lot for Notes and he deserves our collective praise for it. He's provided me with much creative input and alternate views. I think it helps to balance Notes and make it a better publication. I found the adaptation of Turn Of The Century enjoyable and touching. I was told that Steve Howe was given a copy of this in Detroit. If you liked it let Robert know. I'm sure he'd appreciate some feedback. I just realized that I've been at this a year now....where does the time go? There were 37 issues of Notes this year. Not too bad...that's one almost every week and a half. Keep up the good work, as I've said before Notes is what you want it to be..it belongs to you. I'm officially off the net until 1/4/94 but will check in periodically. Don't wait to send me anything..I have no quotas..;-) Hope each and everyone of you have a peaceful and happy holiday season. "Soon oh soon the time, All we move to gain will reach and calm, Our heart is open, Our reason to be here..." --jeff ______________________________________________________________________________ | nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ THOSE ALL-IMPORTANT ADDRESSES: ============================== New subscribers, contributions, questions/comments/criticism: Jeff Hunnicutt (Editor) hunnicutt@vxc.ocis.uncwil.edu Reviews, Surveys, Etc. Mike Tiano (Associate Editor) miketi@microsoft.com NFTE Server (lyrics, backissues, discography, rarities, surveys, GIFs): Automated. For help send mail with subject line yes-archive@meiko.com "send main help" to NFTE Server problems, additions/corrections to the lyrics & GIFs, and additions/corrections to the rarities list: Mike Stok mike@meiko.com NFTE backissues, lyrics, etc, via anonymous FTP: cs.uwp.edu Directory: /pub/music/lists/yes Contact for helping out with transcriptions: Greg Utas utas@bnr.ca Yesoteric Information : yes-archive@meiko.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |The views expressed within Notes From The Edge are the opinions of individual| |contributors and in no way reflect the views of the editorial staff unless | |otherwise stated. - The Editor. | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ______________________________________________________________________________ | nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ < END OF NOTES FROM THE EDGE #89 > ______________________________________________________________________________ | nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte nfte | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------