CLOSE TO THE EDGE

Truly, this album defines progressive rock, no matter what anybody else says! I bought this originally on vinyl from a hole-in-the-wall record shop when I was 15. Man, it blew my $&%#@* mind. The title track, alone is the centerpiece of the entire album. At a whopping 18+ minutes, Yes clearly shows their talent at crafting musical styles ranging from classical to even Indian influence (the first track was actually based on the Herman Hesse novel Siddartha). The song still bring shivers up my spine during the I Get Up, I Get Down section as Rick Wakeman's organ magically flourishes. The transitional And You And I showcases Steve Howe's guitar work (note the first minute sounds like he's tuning up during tape roll) as well as Rick's symphony of keyboards. Oh! And let's not forget Jon Anderson's numerous angelic voices in the final track Siberian Khatru. The CD has a couple of bonus tracks, too. I wasn't too fond of them adding the single edits of America and Total Mass Retain (from Close To The Edge). These two could've been switched for an alternate Close To The Edge version. Stick to the original version of America found on Yesterdays or the expanded Fragile album. All in all, this is an essential album for prog- rock fanatics.