CLOSE TO THE EDGE

I hate to even open the submit window on this one for two reasons one it has been reviewed so much and two I don't feel the same way about as the majority. Yes, to me is an enigma. Brilliant musicians with good songwriting skills, great live show and yet the music or what they are trying to say sometimes seems so empty.

I always felt outside the conversation with Yes. I love the organ in I get Up/ I get Down the guitar intro by Steve Howe on you and I and on Siberian Khatru (I find fascinating that Bill Bruford wrote this according to the liner notes in the re-mastered version), The chorus on And you and I and other such tidbits. What I don't like is the droning vocals throughout Close to the Edge. It just does not fit the rest of the song. It is like having a rock in your shoe. And You and I drags a bit in the middle. Trying desperately to say something it gets lost in the words. Funny, I like Siberian Khatru more than the other two. It has some spirit and energy. One other positive is Bruford's drumming. The man is a rock icon in every way.

OK so what's the bottom line? I am sorry but this obne does not touch me the same way it touches most of you. Still great musicans and some unbelievable tight playing and arrangements. 4 solid stars and not a twinkle more.