CLOSE TO THE EDGE

I don't hand out superlatives very often, but the title track, "Close to the Edge" is, to me, the epitome of prog-rock. It adventures through a variety of moods and atmospheres, from abstract and mysterious, to melodic and anthemic, to gentle and atmospheric, a brain-melting Hammond organ solo, and a spine-chilling climax. Somehow, it remains cohesive, despite the cut-and-paste nature of the composition, and there are tons of little details and flourishes to delight the repeat listener.

Side two is less cohesive, but chock full of classic bits. In particular, I enjoy the recurring theme in a variety of styles in "And You And I," and the ridiculously fun harpsichord-led Baroque bridge section of "Siberian Khatru." Despite the less-than-perfect side two, I've decided to give the whole record five stars, because the title track (taking up all of side one) is *that good*.