CLOSE TO THE EDGE

The album begins with the title track, a twenty-minute suite that sweeps listeners away with a rich tapestry of varied musical influences, from classical to jazz to psychedelic rock. The interplay of soothing melodies and roaring crescendo reveals the incredible musical prowess of the band. The arpeggiated guitar melodies spun by Steve Howe, the mesmerizing keyboard wizardry from Rick Wakeman, and Jon Anderson's pure voice create a sonic experience par excellence exposing the listener to aural delights. "The Solid Time of Change", "Total Mass Retain", "I Get Up I Get Down" and "Seasons of Man" are individual masterpieces that together form a thematic narrative within the album, all of them being various sections of the title track. The lyrics are a heady mix of spirituality and existential questions, delivered with a passion that touches the soul. The performers were clearly at the top of their game, as they created rhythmic complexities and harmonies that were unparalled in the genre at that time. In essence, "Close to the Edge" is a testament to the brilliant craftsmanship of Yes, their ability to experiment with different musical styles within a single album while maintaining a cohesive narrative. For any ardent fan of progressive rock, this album remains a cornerstone that set the foundations for a genre that burgeoned into many forms in the years to come. This timeless piece of music is not just "Close to the Edge" but pushes the listener over with its intensity, carrying them through a riveting journey of musical discovery. 😊