CLOSE TO THE EDGE

Close to the edge was my introduction into progressive rock, this album led me into the world of yes and later on, other prog giants such as Jethro tull, ELP, Genesis etc. but nothing, nothing! has ever come close to this record. Made up of three very balanced pieces, every track has its own unique identity and overall this record is widely believed to be the pinnacle of yes' career and even the pinnacle of progressive rock in general. I cannot disagree.

There is not much more I feel I can add to what has already been said about this record, but every track on this album could be described as "epical". It is hard to put into words what yes do on this record, close to the edge is an experience, it just demands your attention, its raw power, blistering energy and its otherworldly atmosphere make it a pleasure that is beyond almost everything in the genre.

Side A consists of just one track, the constantly changing, frenetic musical interplay of the same title as the album. Powerful guitar lines from Howe, wonderful organ and keyboard work from Wakeman, Squires usual propulsive bass, Bruford being the usual jaw dropping Bruford, and some of the best vocal harmonies put to record. Sure if you were to analyse Andersons lyrics you would probably end up lost in another country, but just the flow of the unusual lyrics he uses just seem so perfect, so enjoyable to listen to, it is one of the most unique tracks ever created, and more importantly, has stood the test of time.

Side B is just as innovative and wonderful. Again, it is difficult to put in words what yes accomplished and how they work but there are moments that are just beautiful. There is rich acoustic guitar on "And you and I", separated into four different sections, the song never seems to go over the top and never loses its spark, in fact I believe that this track is a great spirit lifter, there is a lot of emotion in and you and I, as can be seen in Andersons lyrics "And you and I climb clearer towards the movement, And you and I called over valleys of endless seas", It is one of yes' finest tracks. The closing track on the album "Siberian khatru" almost comes as a bit of a surprise, the track is much livelier than the two beforehand and sees yes in an almost funky, less serious mood, and it may just contain Howes greatest riff, it also has an excellent rhythm, its a one of a kind type track, at least in progressive rock.

This album recieves a lot of scolding from critics and music listeners, something this ambitious and this powerful will never be accepted by everyone, but when it clicks, it clicks. A true masterpiece and a highlight among the greatest records of the progressive movement of the seventies. A five star classic.