CLOSE TO THE EDGE

This album is truly timeless. It is as impressive now as it was back in the early 70s. But despite that, I am not willing to give it the full five stars. I am stingy with my stars and I really have to be BLOWN AWAY by an album in order to label it "essential." (I have been told to have quirky tastes anyway, but I digress.)

"Close to the Edge" is a mesmerizing composition in many ways. It ebbs and flows and sucks you in before you know it. (Having spoken American English all my life, what in the world does "total mass retain" mean? Again, I digress.) Obviously, this first track is considered to be one of the cornerstones of progressive rock and rightfully so. Stunning guitar work layered on top of keyboard riffs combined with Jon Anderson's entrancing vocals create an auditory feast.

"And You and I" really is a wonderful song, but often gets overshadowed by its greedy predecessor. Do not overlook this tune as it has all of the great components of "Close to the Edge" but isn't quite as catchy.

"Siberian Khatru" is my least favorite song on the album, but I still think it is a decent song. However, compared to the first two, it is easy to forget. In fact, I would be willing to bet that if this song were on a different album, it would be a great song. But it always leaves me feeling disappointed after relishing the first two tracks of the album.

To summarize, I think this is a very strong album and would certainly be considered a classic of the genre. However, at no times am I "blown away." For that, I give this album 4 stars and highly recommend it.