Eyes of Love

The song Eyes of Love from Trevor Rabin's 1989 album Can't Look Away is a vibrant blend of pop rock and arena rock, showcasing Rabin’s knack for crafting emotive melodies. In a review on Vocal Media, writer Steven Shinder notes that the song’s lyrics pose introspective questions about seeking love and freedom, with lines like, “Are you waiting for your freedom / Or a love you just don’t know?” The track features Rabin’s signature guitar work, though Shinder points out a slight misinterpretation in the outro, where Rabin sings “Open my” (possibly referring to eyes) rather than “Open wide,” adding a layer of ambiguity to the song’s romantic theme. This subtle lyrical nuance has sparked discussions among fans about whether it reflects a call to vulnerability or a literal reference to perception.

Another tidbit about Eyes of Love comes from its live performance history. According to Prog Archives, the song was part of a medley with Etoile Noir during Rabin’s 1989 tour, captured on the 2003 release Live in LA. Reviewers praised the live rendition for its faithful reproduction of the studio version, with Rabin’s vocals and instrumentation described as “note-perfect.” This performance highlighted his ability to translate the studio energy of Can’t Look Away to the stage, a feat not always achieved in his earlier work with Yes. Fans on Last.fm have also shared how the song’s soaring guitar solos and heartfelt delivery make it a standout track for those diving into Rabin’s solo catalog.

Trevor Rabin, born on January 13, 1954, in Johannesburg, South Africa, began his musical journey in a family steeped in music. His early exposure to piano and guitar led to a career as a session musician, as detailed on his Wikipedia page. By his teens, Rabin was already producing and playing with local artists, honing his multi-instrumental skills. In 1972, he joined the rock band Rabbitt, which gained significant popularity in South Africa, releasing hits and earning Rabin a SARI Award for production on their album A Croak and a Grunt in the Night. His first solo album, Beginnings, recorded in 1977 over just six and a half weeks, showcased his raw talent and set the stage for his move to London in 1978 to expand his career.

Rabin’s relocation to London and later Los Angeles in 1981 marked pivotal moments, as noted in a 2023 Sonic Perspectives interview. There, he worked as a solo artist and producer before joining Yes in 1983, transforming their sound with the iconic album 90125. His role in crafting hits like Owner of a Lonely Heart cemented his reputation, but Rabin’s solo work, including Can’t Look Away, allowed him to explore a more personal musical identity. His career later expanded into film scoring, with credits for blockbusters like Armageddon and National Treasure, reflecting his versatility.

Fans can connect with Trevor Rabin through his official website, trevorrabin.net, and social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X. The official Yes Facebook page also shares updates related to Rabin’s contributions to the band. For fan communities, the Yes Fans Facebook Group is a lively space where enthusiasts discuss Rabin’s work, including his solo albums and time with Yes. Additionally, Prog Archives serves as a fan-driven hub with detailed reviews and forums dedicated to Rabin’s discography, making it a go-to for Zoo Freaks digging deeper into Eyes of Love and beyond.