CLOSE TO THE EDGE

At the time of writing, this is my favorite album of all time. Each song starts and ends on its own terms, so I feel it's fair to review it in segments. Close to the Edge immediately works to build an atmosphere. Its detailed layering hooks you, and keeps you there for the full ride. Followed by another one because, even though you just heard an incredible album with a killer outro, you hear something new underneath the noise. The sounds interact differently, maybe you didn't hear the pulsing keyboard part, not because you weren't listening, just because the music pulled you into a very purposeful, approachable, and grand masterwork on its own right that it made you want to experience on its own terms. What it adds in detail it does not sacrifice in clarity. After a multifaceted introduction the music does not let up, with tasteful performances from Yes' best lineup that all add to a wonderful atmosphere that is just fun to listen to. The catchy grooves, melodies, and fun harmonies all give each other space to breathe while they blur the transition between phases of the song, allowing time to disappear while you appreciate the artistry, all without feeling forced. By the time the Keyboard solo happens not a second is wasted in setting up the finale in the most pleasant way possible. The keyboard solo takes what you've been invested in and enjoying and puts a knife in you adding an unsolvable tension to constantly renew interest. By the time its over you'll beg for it to happen again as the most cathartic release of that tension comes with a reintroduction of elements from the first half. This song will meet you wherever you are and take you on a new journey on each listen perfectly setting up And You And I.

Tightly written towards the same cathartic release, And You And I makes you feel sincerely what would otherwise be deflected by post ironic shields. It opens you up to feel anything and expresses some of the most powerful and complex emotions possible. Siberian Khartu ends the album with a haunting, spacey, rock driven epic. There's plenty to intellectualize here, but so much more to feel, which is this album's main draw for me.