T. Rex and Yes make a comeback on vinyl: Rhino brings back the ultimate analog experience
Rhino Records is bringing back a classic listening format in the music world by releasing two iconic albums, Electric Warrior by T. Rex and The Yes Album by Yes, on reel-to-reel tape. With the resurgence of vinyl and cassettes, the label is taking a step further to reintroduce reel-to-reel for a new generation of music enthusiasts who crave the most authentic analogue sound.
These releases mark significant moments in British rock history, both from 1971 and both shaping the trajectory of popular music in unique ways. Electric Warrior by Marc Bolan propelled T. Rex from an underground folk-rock band to global superstardom. Bolan’s fusion of raw rock’n’roll with glitter and swagger, as reflected in hits like Get It On and Jeepster, marked the beginning of the glam rock era. Produced by Tony Visconti, the experimental production of Electric Warrior was groundbreaking for its time, incorporating techniques like flanging, backwards guitars, tape loops, and layers of reverb that created a cosmic yet carnal sound. Featuring talented musicians like future Yes keyboardist Rick Wakeman and King Crimson’s Ian McDonald, the album, with its unforgettable tracks like Mambo Sun and Cosmic Dancer, left a lasting impact on music, inspiring artists from David Bowie to Primal Scream.
On the other end of the spectrum, The Yes Album by Yes showcased the band’s musical prowess and ambition in 1971. This record, which introduced guitarist Steve Howe to the lineup, pushed the boundaries of rock musicianship. Produced by Eddie Offord, The Yes Album delved into sonic complexities with Jon Anderson’s ethereal vocals blending harmoniously with Chris Squire’s melodic bass and Bill Bruford’s intricate drumming. Tracks like Yours Is No Disgrace and Starship Trooper solidified Yes as a technically innovative and musically adventurous group, setting the stage for their later masterpieces like Fragile and Close To The Edge. Steve Howe’s acoustic showcase, Clap, and the intricate layering in Perpetual Change captured the band’s exceptional musicality and time-shifting interplay.
The reel-to-reel reissue of both Electric Warrior and The Yes Album allows listeners to experience the warmth and authenticity of the original analogue masters, offering a premium listening experience for audiophiles and music collectors alike. These albums are not simply nostalgic throwbacks but a reconnection to the essence of recorded music, where the physical and emotional qualities of the music come alive. By embracing reel-to-reel technology, Rhino Records is providing a unique opportunity to immerse in the sound quality that defined high fidelity, whether for those familiar with vinyl or those new to the tape experience.