CLOSE TO THE EDGE

Without a doubt the most essential of this legendary group's releases, "Close to the Edge" not only stands as the peak achievement of YES's entire long career but also perhaps as the most succinct (a word rarely associated with progressive rock) and holistic singular musical statement of the entire progressive rock genre. All the expected elements are here, and they're better than they have ever been: lengthy songs, compositional complexity, virtuosic musicianship, and esoteric conceptual pretensions. The title track moves effortlessly and beautifully between the four (five? six? does it matter?) movements. Steve Howe was never more explosively creative or virtuosic as he is here in the intro, Chris Squire provides his most pummeling and intricate bass guitar contributions outside of Roundabout, Bill Bruford plays like a jazz musician from the eighth dimension, Rick Wakeman plays not only his greatest organ solo but also delivers the most varied and colorful keyboard accompaniments found on any YES record, and Jon Anderson's sense for melody was never equalled, much less bettered. The only thing lacking are any sensible lyrics, but I'm not complaining. Are you? Anyone who likes YES isn't there for the thoughtful lyrics or great message. That's why we have Pink Floyd. Anderson's lyrical talent lies totally within the pure sonic characteristics of his poetry, with lines like "the time between the notes relates the colors to the scene." Meaningless, and altogether wonderful. Every note of this track is essential, and even the meandering middle section is unabridgeable in all it's psychedelic and spacey glory. "And You and I" is a beautiful acoustic number, showcasing Steve Howe's 12-string chops, which I wish he brought out more, and "Siberian Khatru" remains perhaps the best introduction to YES's overall sound. This album is perfect in every sense of the word, and if you consider yourself a lover of this music, as I'm sure we all do, this record needs to enter your collection immediately if it hasn't already.