Top 20 Yes Albums Ranked Best to Worse

Often cited as the pinnacle of progressive rock, this album is a masterclass in composition and atmosphere. The title track alone is an epic journey that defines the genre’s capabilities.

This record solidified the band’s identity and introduced the iconic keyboard work of Rick Wakeman. It is the perfect blend of high-concept group jams and delicate solo vignettes.

The breakthrough that changed everything, showcasing the arrival of Steve Howe on guitar. Every track feels essential, capturing a band hitting their stride with immense creative energy.

An aggressive, jazz-fusion influenced masterpiece that pushes the band’s technical boundaries to the limit. It is dark, complex, and rewarding for the patient listener.

Returning to a more direct, melodic style, this album features some of the band’s most memorable choruses. It proves they could conquer the arena rock stage without losing their prog roots.

The ultimate test of a Yes fan’s devotion, this sprawling double album is pure, unfiltered ambition. It is an immersive experience that demands to be listened to in one sitting.

A complete pivot into sleek, 80s production that resulted in massive commercial success. It is surprisingly catchy and retains the band’s tight harmonic sensibility.

An underrated gem that features a heavier, more aggressive sound under the direction of Trevor Horn and Geoff Downes. It’s a bridge between the classic era and the modern sound.

The best of the 90s output, bridging technical virtuosity with modern recording clarity. It feels like a late-career revival that actually sticks the landing.

By integrating a full orchestra instead of keyboards, the band created a lush, organic, and truly symphonic sound. It remains one of their most unique and successful experiments.

A feel-good, sunshine-drenched album that leans into world music textures and positive vibes. It’s a surprising turn that feels surprisingly fresh.

It’s a transitional record full of quirky experimentation and interesting synth textures. While polarizing, it captures the band in a truly unique state of mind.

A brilliant mix of live performances and new studio material that brought back the classic sound fans craved. The studio tracks stand as some of their best work from that decade.

While it lacks the punch of 90125, it contains some great hooks and polished production. It’s a solid example of the band leaning into their pop sensibilities.

A solid modern effort that sees the band returning to longer-form compositions. It feels like a respectful nod to their heritage while maintaining current production standards.

A testament to the band’s endurance, this album shows a group still interested in grand arrangements. It holds a sense of scale that fans of the 70s era will appreciate.

This album feels like a comfortable exploration of the band’s core identity. It’s balanced and easy to listen to, acting as a gentle coda to their long history.

The band was still finding their feet here, but the addition of orchestral backing shows their early ambition. It’s a fascinating look at the roots of their later complexity.

Their debut is charming and full of raw talent, leaning more into pop-rock with a twist of psychedelia. It’s essential for seeing where the journey began.

While not the most critically acclaimed, it offers a curious perspective on the band’s later songwriting experiments. It rounds out the list for the completist.