Back in October 1969, during a pivotal moment in their early career, Yes performed live at the Grugahalle in Essen, Germany. This was just days before they released their self-titled debut album, which had hit the shelves in July of that year. The live recording captures a band on the cusp of their artistic evolution, where their unique blend of progressive rock was just beginning to take shape. An interesting tidbit here is that this performance featured "Dear Father," marking its first recorded performance ever. It’s fascinating to think how this under-the-radar show, happening just after their debut, was part of their burgeoning identity. Often, those early gigs were raw, filled with passion and experimentation—perfect for a band still finding their footing. Seeing them in live action during this formative period offers insight into the seeds of creativity that would eventually lead to their enduring legacy in the rock world.