CLOSE TO THE EDGE

Of all of the masterpieces of progressive rock, Close to the Edge is the king of kings, the pinnacle of musical achievement. Genesis had Selling England by the Pound, King Crimson had In the Court, Pink Floyd has Wish You Were Here, but none of those hold a candle to Yes' quintessential work.

From start to finish, you will never hear a more complete album. The title track sets a high standard, representing perhaps 18:45 of the closest man will come to musical perfection. From the frantic intro courtesy of Wakeman and Howe to the soaring melodies of Jon Anderson, from the solid rhythms of Squire and Bruford to the powerful solo capabilities of Wakeman, the epic captivates from start to finish; once you turn it on, you can't turn it off until it ends.

And You and I and Siberian Khatru are much more than filler after the suite-long title piece. And You and I represents a shorter Close to the Edge in a slightly less frantic form, but no less powerful. Whereas Close to the Edge belonged mostly to the instrumentalists, Anderson's vocals really take over the middle track. Khatru was a playground for Steve Howe; he must have have had a good deal of fun playing this piece. The song is catchy as heck and you will often find yourself singing along with Jon.

Anyway, if you are reading this on this website, you surely must have heard this album already. But, if you haven't, drop whatever you're doing and get on it. You're denying yourself a listen at immortality.

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