In the heart of Kentucky’s vibrant music scene, the iconic progressive rock band YES brought their timeless sound to the Louisville Palace Theatre on October 27, 2025, as part of their celebrated “Fragile” tour. Fans packed the historic venue for a two-part journey through the band’s expansive catalog, blending fan favorites with a complete performance of their groundbreaking 1971 album Fragile. If you’re a longtime Yeshead or a curious newcomer dipping into prog rock’s golden era, this show was a masterclass in why YES remains a force after more than five decades.
A Storied Venue for a Legendary Band
The Louisville Palace, a Baroque masterpiece designed by architect John Eberson, opened its doors in 1928 as a grand movie palace. With a seating capacity of 2,800, it’s become a cherished stop for touring acts, boasting crystal chandeliers, ornate ceilings, and acoustics that wrap around you like a warm blanket. Owned by Live Nation, the Palace has hosted everyone from Prince to modern icons, but on this crisp fall night, it felt tailor-made for YES’s symphonic sprawl. The crowd’s energy—cheers echoing off the gilded walls—added to the magic, making every note feel intimate yet epic.
YES: A Brief History of Prog Pioneers
Formed in London in 1968, YES quickly rose to prominence in the progressive rock movement, blending intricate compositions, virtuosic musicianship, and fantastical lyrics into albums that redefined ambition in rock. Their classic lineup in the ’70s—featuring Jon Anderson’s ethereal vocals, Steve Howe’s wizardly guitar, and the late Chris Squire’s thunderous bass—produced masterpieces like The Yes Album, Fragile, and Close to the Edge. Lineup changes over the years, including the ’80s hit machine with Trevor Rabin, kept them evolving, but the spirit of exploration endures. Today, YES’s biggest hits like “Roundabout,” “Owner of a Lonely Heart,” “Close to the Edge,” and “Long Distance Runaround” continue to inspire generations, proving prog’s power to transcend time.
The Current Lineup: Keeping the Flame Alive
Leading the charge on this tour is a lineup that’s honed its chemistry through years of live fire. Here’s the stellar crew:
- Jon Davison – Vocals, acoustic guitar (channeling Anderson’s soaring spirit with effortless grace)
- Steve Howe – Guitars, vocals (the 78-year-old maestro, still picking with unparalleled finesse)
- Geoff Downes – Keyboards (Asia co-founder adding lush, atmospheric layers)
- Billy Sherwood – Bass guitar, vocals (multi-instrumentalist honoring Squire’s legacy with punchy grooves)
- Jay Schellen – Drums, percussion (dynamic powerhouse driving the rhythms with precision and flair)
This ensemble doesn’t just play the classics—they breathe new life into them, with Davison’s pristine vocals and Howe’s intricate solos shining brightest.
The Setlist: Fan Favorites to Fragile in Full
The evening unfolded in two acts, bookended by a 20-minute intermission that buzzed with anticipation. The first set dived into beloved deep cuts and staples, setting a nostalgic tone. Then, after the break, YES dove headlong into Fragile from start to finish—a treat for purists. The verified setlist from the night captured the band’s range perfectly:
- Siberian Khatru
- On the Silent Wings of Freedom
- Onward
- Madrigal
- Wondrous Stories
- Soon
- Circles of Time
- Tempus Fugit
Intermission
- Roundabout
- Cans and Brahms
- We Have Heaven
- South Side of the Sky
- Five Per Cent for Nothing
- Long Distance Runaround
- The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus)
- Mood for a Day
- Heart of the Sunrise
Encore:
- The Word (Beatles cover)
- Starship Trooper
Highlights? Howe’s acoustic wizardry on “Mood for a Day” had the crowd spellbound, while the thunderous close of “Heart of the Sunrise” built to a cathartic peak. The encores capped it with a nod to the Fab Four and a fiery “Starship Trooper,” leaving everyone on their feet.
A Timeless Triumph
At just over two hours, the show was a testament to YES’s enduring vitality—no filler, all fire. In an era of fleeting trends, watching these veterans weave complexity with joy reminds us why prog rock endures. If the Fragile tour swings your way, grab tickets; moments like this are why we chase the music. Grade: Five Stars! pure bliss.
