Close to the Edge
Yes · 1972
37 min · 3 tracks · progressive rock
Expansive soundscapes weave intricate melodies with dynamic shifts, creating a transcendent journey through time and consciousness.
Top tracks — play these first
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Close to the Edge: I. The Solid Time of Change / II. Total Mass Retain / III. I Get Up I Get Down / IV. Seasons of Man — The title track encompasses the album's ambitious scope, featuring shifting time signatures and philosophical lyrics that explore existential themes. Its intricate structure serves as a perfect representation of Yes's ability to blend technical prowess with lyrical depth.
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And You and I: I. Cord of Life / II. Eclipse / III. The Preacher the Teacher / IV. Apocalypse — This track showcases emotional intensity through delicate melodies and harmonized vocals, illustrating Yes's capacity for both grandeur and intimacy. Its thematic progression mirrors a spiritual journey, connecting deeply with listeners.
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Siberian Khatru — With its driving rhythm and soaring guitar solos, Siberian Khatru exemplifies Yes's fusion of rock energy with complex musicality. The song stands out for its dynamic shifts and vibrant instrumentation, making it a concert favorite.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's intricate compositions and distinctive sound solidify its place in progressive rock history.
What we noticed
- The album consists of three extended tracks, each over eight minutes, allowing for complex musical development and thematic exploration.
- The use of layered instrumentation, including keyboards, guitar, and orchestral elements, contributes to the expansive soundscapes characteristic of progressive rock.
- Composition 25% of the score
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9/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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9/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Defined its genre or moment. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — Often cited as a defining work of progressive rock, showcasing artistic ambition.
- Themes
- spiritual journey· philosophical exploration· expansive soundscapes
- Career context
- Released on September 13, 1972, Close to the Edge marked Yes's fourth studio album and solidified their status as pioneers of progressive rock. Following the commercial success of Fragile and The Yes Album, this work showcased a more ambitious compositional approach, blending complex arrangements with spiritual themes.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Genesis· King Crimson· Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Close to the Edge: I. The Solid Time of Change / II. Total Mass Retain / III. I Get Up I Get Down / IV. Seasons of Man 18:44
- 2 And You and I: I. Cord of Life / II. Eclipse / III. The Preacher the Teacher / IV. Apocalypse 10:11
- 3 Siberian Khatru 8:53
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
In the Court of the Crimson King
King Crimson
Shares complex arrangements and a mystical, expansive atmosphere that invites deep contemplation.
Foxtrot
Genesis
Combines intricate compositions with lyrical themes of mythology and existential exploration.
The Snow Goose
Camel
Features lush instrumental soundscapes and a narrative journey that evokes a sense of spiritual reflection.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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