Yes

Release Overview

"Going For The One" is the eighth studio album by the British progressive rock band Yes. Released in July 1977, it was recorded over several months, from late 1976 to spring 1977. The album was issued under the Atlantic label, catalog number K 50379 in the UK and SD 19106 in the US. It features a tri-fold gatefold cover designed by Hipgnosis, showcasing the Century Plaza Towers in Los Angeles.

Production and Recording

The album was recorded primarily at Mountain Studios in Montreux, Switzerland, with some parts laid down in St. Martin's Church in Vevey, Switzerland. The church provided a unique setting for the album's sound, particularly for Rick Wakeman's contributions on the pipe organ. Wakeman returned to the band for this project after a hiatus, bringing his extensive keyboard skills back into the mix. He recorded the pipe organ tracks using a direct telephone line to Mountain Studios, a technical feat that enhanced the album's auditory depth.

Musical Composition

"Going For The One" features five tracks, each showcasing different musical styles and themes. The title track is driven by pedal steel guitar, adding a distinct edge to the hard-rocking sound. "Turn Of The Century" is a romantic ballad that highlights the band’s softer side. "Parallels," written by Chris Squire, features a prominent church organ sound and maintains a rock energy. The single "Wonderous Stories" achieved Top-10 status in the UK charts with its acoustic sensibility. Lastly, "Awaken" is a 15-minute symphonic piece that encompasses the band's progressive rock essence.

Chart Performance

"Upon its release, "Going For The One" reached No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart, where it remained for two consecutive weeks. In the United States, it peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard 200. The album's diverse musical offerings contributed to its success in both markets.

Cover Art and Design

The cover art for "Going For The One" was crafted by the design group Hipgnosis, known for their distinctive visual style. The artwork features a nude male figure gazing toward the Century Plaza Towers, adding a layer of intrigue to the album's presentation. Roger Dean designed the Yes logo, maintaining the band’s recognizable branding.

The album was recorded at Mountain Studios and St. Martin's Church in Vevey, Switzerland, between 1976 and 1977.