Album of the Day

Released in the U.S. 46 years ago today, FRAGILE was the first album from Yes' classic lineup of singer Jon Anderson, guitarist Steve Howe, bassist Chris Squire, keyboardist Rick Wakeman and drummer Bill Bruford (and the first to feature Roger Dean's fantastical cover art). The 1971 Atlantic release serves as a showcase for each of these virtuoso performers, with each member calling the shots on one track plus four group collaborations. The approach proved remarkably effective; the nine songs include such favorites as “Roundabout” and “Long Distance Runaround,” and the collection quickly rose into the U.S. Top 10 on its way to double-platinum status. The progressive rock masterpiece shines even brighter in Rhino's Deluxe Edition, which adds Yes' cover of “America” and an unreleased early rough mix of “Roundabout” as bonus tracks.