CLOSE TO THE EDGE

For my first reveiw i though i would go with an undisputed classic. This album, probably the most influental and classic progressive rock album of all time, is of course, Close To The Edge by Yes.

This album opens up with the title track, which takes up the whole first side on vinyl LP's. This epic, clocking in at over 20 minutes, is a true masterpiece of progressive rock. Starting out with a loop of birds singing, it the goes into the songs opening riff. Followed by numerous riffs, verses, and choruses, this surprisingly long song somehow stays interesting the whole way through. Not to mention Bill Bufords drums! In my view, his drums are the highlight of the track, keeping up with the fast pace of the song perfectly, spitting out complex rhythms and drum patterns, all perfectly keeping up with the instrumentals in an almost liquid rhythm. Rick Wakemans keyboards shine on this track, including several powerful synth solos, and, my personal favourite part of the song, the beautiful yet powerful sounding organ chords during the 'I Get Up, I Get Down" section. Anderson's vocals are spot on throughout the whole song, with his catchy melodies and soft vocal sound permeiating through the liquid flowing rhythm of the instrumentals. In my opinion, the Close To The Edge title track is one of the greatest prog rock pieces of all time. Side two of the record starts out with the soft ballad, "You And I". The track begins with a short guitar harmonics section, then moves into the main chord progression. Andersons vocals on this track are clear and precise. Though the song clocks out at roughly 10 minutes, but, just like the title track, is well worth every second.

Finally, the album closes with "Siberian Khartu". The shortest song on the album, this song clocks out at an easy to swallow 7 minutes. It opens up with a rockin Eric Clapton/ Jimi Hendrix esque guitar riff, but it only lasts for a few bars before going into the synth line, then the first verse. Rick Wakemans keyboards are stellar on this track, creating some of the most beautiful sounds you could ever imagine to hear from any keyboard section. Andersons vocals effectively deliver the catchy melody. All in all, "Siberian Khartu" is worth every second it takes to listen to it.

In conclusion, This album is a gem and a masterpiece of unprecidented effect. In my opinion, Close To The Edge is one of the greatest albums of all time, and would make a great addition to any collection.