CLOSE TO THE EDGE

It was Christmas Day in 1972 and I received as a gift the Album "Close to the Edge" by Yes. I had already had The Yes Album and Fragile in my collection and I would have classified myself as a little more than a casual fan at this point. After a listen or two, I realized that music could indeed change your life! This recording did just that to me.

Selling England by the Pound, Thick as a Brick, In The Court of the Crimson King, all of these were great. Close To The Edge is a masterpiece. It set the bar so high for others to follow that even Yes could never duplicate it.

The band members here never played so well and Jon Anderson never sang so perfect. The lyrics are out there, but in a strange sort of way, I think each person can take away their own meanings of the lyrics and apply them to their own lives as they may see fit. It is that special of a recording.

Steve Howe is remarkable on this record ( he was rated where on that list of greatest Guitar players???) and Bruford's jazzy and sharp drumming is outstanding. Wakeman well he is Wakeman, no one better in my opinion. In all the mad confusion of progressive chords and twists and turns, the melodies stand out and I think that is what makes this recording so fantastic, the melodies always come through.

This is the one recording that I think everyone who claims to be progressive in musical affection must listen to once. Forget Revolver, forget Thick As A Brick, forget Dark Side of the Moon, forget them all; this is it. Even if you consider yourself just a rock and roll fan, then get a glass or two, or even three of your favorite beverage, put on the headphones and give it a serious listen.

Masterpiece is the word that will come to mind.