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Close To The Edge: Exploring the Musical Masterpiece by Yes

Connor Mitchell

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Released in September 1972, Close To The Edge cemented Yes's status as one of the most innovative and influential progressive rock bands of all time. The album's groundbreaking fusion of intricate compositions, soaring vocals, and virtuoso musicianship has captivated listeners for over 50 years.

Birth of a Masterpiece

The seeds of Close To The Edge were sown during the recording of Yes's previous album, Fragile. Keyboardist Rick Wakeman had joined the band and brought with him a classical music influence that would shape the sound of their future works.

Close to the Edge: In Search of the Global Hip Hop Generation

by Sujatha Fernandes

4.4 out of 5

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In early 1972, the band retreated to a farm in Devon, England, to begin writing and rehearsing new material. Drummer Bill Bruford later recalled, "We were surrounded by countryside and had this tremendous feeling of seclusion. It gave us the freedom to experiment and push ourselves creatively."

The Music

Close To The Edge consists of three extended compositions, each showcasing the band's musical prowess:

"Close To The Edge"

Clocking in at almost 19 minutes, "Close To The Edge" is the album's centerpiece and arguably one of the greatest progressive rock songs ever written. It features soaring vocal harmonies, intricate guitar riffs, and Wakeman's iconic Moog synthesizer solo.

"And You and I"

"And You and I" is a more pastoral and reflective piece, led by Steve Howe's acoustic guitar and Jon Anderson's ethereal vocals. It builds to a powerful climax, featuring intricate interplay between all five band members.

"Siberian Khatru"

"Siberian Khatru" is a high-energy rocker that showcases the band's virtuosic musicianship. It features blistering guitar solos, a complex rhythmic structure, and Anderson's passionate vocals.

Lyrical Themes

While the music of Close To The Edge is undoubtedly impressive, the lyrics also deserve attention. Anderson's lyrics throughout the album explore themes of spirituality, transcendence, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.

"Close To The Edge"

"Close to the edge, down by the river Drifting, drifting further and further Heading homeward to an empty sky A lonely sea Losing count of time alone"

"And You and I"

"And you and I And life and death And time and breath And dreams and truth And love and fear And peace and war And the light And the dark"

Legacy and Influence

Close To The Edge was a critical and commercial success, reaching the top ten in both the UK and US charts. It has been praised by critics for its technical brilliance, musical innovation, and thought-provoking lyrics.

The album has had a profound influence on subsequent generations of progressive rock bands, including Rush, Dream Theater, and Tool. It is considered one of the essential albums in the genre and continues to inspire and delight listeners worldwide.

Close To The Edge stands as a testament to the creative brilliance of Yes. Its innovative compositions, soaring vocals, and virtuoso musicianship have made it a timeless masterpiece. The album continues to captivate and inspire listeners, solidifying its place as one of the greatest progressive rock albums of all time.

Close to the Edge: In Search of the Global Hip Hop Generation

by Sujatha Fernandes

4.4 out of 5