Chris Squire – Fish Out Of Water

Jakko Jakszyk proved himself that he is just incompetent as an engineer, spoilng the beauty of the original recording. I don't like his voice as a singer, either.

One of best of the solo albums that the many assorted ‘Yesmen’ cut (along and up there with Jon Anderson’s “Olias of Sunhillow”) wherein CS proves he is not just an exceptional bassist but a good vocalist & credible guitar player. The songs have all the Yes trademarks - orchestral soundscape suites & synthphonic flourishes typical of the genre backed by superb musicianship. A credible Yes album without the rest of Yes (well ok – Bruford & Moraz are there).
A hidden prog gem of the 70’s.

Record is on the pricey side, so it would have been nice if it had proper inner sleeve. It also came a bit dirty and has pops, maybe a bit more than I would like for a new record with that pricetag, but sound quality is nice.

Why is the remastered version of "Hold Out Your Hand" (track 2-1) faded out, when it's supposed to continue directly into "You By My Side?" The remix and the original CD do not have a fade. I have the 7digital FLAC download that contains this error. I assume the CD in the Deluxe Edition release would also be defective.

Faithful packaging, good quality, including the poster. A few pops here and there, but a nice pressing overall. Apparently cut from the digital stereo master for the 2020 blu ray release, but regardless the Audio is fabulous. Instrument separation maybe better than my original copy from 1975. Dynamics and soundstage also impressive, but a moot point to say if these better the original: they are different, so I will leave it at that. Recommended.

1st UK Pressing, Atlantic – K50203 Vinyl, Gatefold. I don't usually comment, but this is a really amazing album. It's rich, interesting and melodic. I'd say it's a must for any fan of Yes, ELP or prog rock generally. Superb. This is the best less than £10 I've spent in a long time.

Why is this unofficial? No explanation is provided? It appears to be genuine Warner Atlantic release made in Germany with a barcode.

Songs and arrangements are really fine but Chris Squire wasn't a lead singer.
New mix from Jakzyk is punchy, the drumming from Bill Brufford is marvellous.

No one will agree but I enjoy this album more than any Yes or Yes related album.

The remix sounds fantastic on vinyl. Highlights are Silently Falling - the climax is incredibly intense here - and Lucky Seven - everything is so clear and punchy. This album has always been a favorite and I've never heard it sound better!