CLOSE TO THE EDGE

I first heard part of "Close to the Edge" on the radio while I was in Okinawa in 1972. When I got back to the states in January of 1973, I purchased the album. I had a little stereo at the time and I put the record on. It was pretty cool the way you are hearing birds and one note on the organ as it swells into what sounds like chaos. Where did they come up with that at? It was great. I never heard anything like it before. I guess it would be akin to a type of "Canterberry" sound. Then as control takes over, Steve Howe, and Chris Squire are fighting their way through to the first verse. It is wonderful!

John Anderson is at his best. The band sounds hungry and it comes out in the playing. This would be Bill Bruford's last stand with Yes, but he is killing you with his tasteful pounding. He is one of my favorite drummers. It sounds like they are chompin' at the bit to get to the next idea. Just a great prog tune.

"And You and I" takes it down a notch with some wistful and moody acoustic stuff by Steve Howe. Then Rick Wakeman comes in with the keys. It is also a great prog tune. It doesn't get stale and moves nicely through ideas.

Lastly "Siberian Khatru" grabs you by the throat and doesn't let go. Also very good prog. I like the last part the best.

Everything is working here and the whole album is killer. It gets 5 stars from me, period!