This song has everything in it that could make a song great,it’s the best , most complete song ever in modern rock , any genre included, you can literally listen to it for forty years and hear new nuances every time you hear it,a unique masterpiece
Yes at their best isn’t music. It’s magic. And this song is a wonderful magic trick. Throughout the song they spin several seemingly unrelated musical yarns, and at the end they masterfully weave them together into a breathtaking climax.
Josh, Rick Wakeman is the keyboard player here, not Tony Kaye. But most important, you might be blown away to learn that at this stage in YES development. It's known as the classic Line up. Singer/lyricist Jon Anderson has been quoted the lyrics here (and many otherworks) don't mean ANYTHING. He was experimenting with an artform where the lyrics are chosen for the sound of the words rather than their meaning. He confesses that there must have been something swimming around in his head, but there was nothing intentional. He is also VERY pleased that fans like to draw their own conclusions as to what it means and share it. Josh, I simply cannot express what an incredible beautiful world you have entered with this album. Don't over analyze, simply sit back, close your eyes, and let YES take you on a beautiful journey.
@chrisboylan416 True, I heard Jon Anderson say that quite a while ago. I also agree that people should free there mind up and just enjoy it, not overanalyze.
I disagree about the words not meaning anything, Jon has said that he often paid more attention to the sound of the words than the meaning, but that is not saying they don't mean anything. He has also clearly stated it was based on Hesse's novel Siddhartha. The words are impressionistic but the life journey, it's ups and downs and search for enlightenment are clearly elements expressed in the lyrics and Hesse's book.
I know - it’s the greatest thing ever - a miracle of a song, there are no words to do it justice. Do feel free to interrupt all you want, IMO - we out here have heard the song a million times, the interesting part is your reaction! It’s nice to see someone who truly gets it. As for recommendations for where to go next… the Yes catalog is long and deep, but I’d suggest you simply flip the record over and listen to side 2. The three tracks on the album are completely different from one another - yet, equally great, in their own way. More mind to be blown.
@@joshrisakotta3730 Yes please do. I have been begging every reactor on the net to listen to Siberian Khatru on the B side of this album and have yet to see anyone do it. It is such a great track.
So I believe yes music will be studied 100 years from now, like we listen to Mozart and Bach today. These musicians truly caught lightning in a bottle, there is nothing in the world like this ever. To think they were all like 22 and 23 years old. Truly truly amazing.
@@jamesw.5855 Disagree about Kaye. He wasn't as creative as Wakeman or as dynamic a player (few rock keyboardists were), but Kaye could definitely play a credible version of CTTE.
The members are Jon Anderson, Chris Squire, Steve Howe, Rick Wakeman and Bill Bruford. This IS by far their finest work; it is the most beautiful piece of music that will ever come out of popular music...or any other music...it has EVERYTHING! It's primarily most understood by those who are musicians, themselves, but ANYONE who's connected to their heart will feel it. I wept when Chris Squire died and I still grieve over his passing. Gladly, he was the musician on bass on all of Yes' records, and it (Yes' music) could not have been what it is without him...I love you, Chris...rest in peace, you made this world so much better for having done what you did on bass in Yes.
Chis Squire sold MILLIONS of sets of Round Wound Bass Strings!! Every Bass Player in the early 70's was Bustin their arse to buy a Rickenbacker Bass... Most of all Chris was an Original!!
I've been listening to this for over 30 years and still I tear up some times. Especially when the church organ fires up . Also at the end . I never want this song to end.
Me too, the the pipe organ. He used the one at St Giles-without-Cripplegate, the same one he used when he recorded "The Six Wives of Henry VIII" Simply magical.
Watching Josh and his reaction is like looking at myself when I was his age and this album first came out. Back in the 70s. I was in my 20s too. Of course I had already heard the 1st albums. There are folks out there who just don't get it. And they never will. They are in a different frame of mind. But those of us who DO get it, we are the lucky ones. Yes had this ability to bring this beautiful music AND kick ass music into your room and we were as blowed away as you are Josh. And we would, maybe by ourselves or with friends, get high and turn off the lights and crank it up and take it all in. Listening to music back in my youth was the way it was. No computers, Facebook, etc. Nothing but music. I had an 8 track player in my car and I had the Doors, Beatles, Yes, ELP, Cream, Jethro Tull. It was the best ride I ever took. And that is why these reaction shows are so popular right now. We feel vindicated. And it is so much fun watching these folks get blown away!! Great show Josh!!!
You don't need to apologize for pausing. We've all heard it a million times. You're experiencing it for the first time and pausing occasionally to take it all in is perfectly normal. With a piece like this, you'll find it more interesting with each listen, as you'll hear things you didn't hear before, kind of like when you watch a great movie the second time and like it even more than the first time you watched it. You just notice more and are able to take it all in with every future listen, so enjoy.
Your interpretation is so entertaining!!! What an amazing mix of musicians!! And the vocals the way they harmonize. RIP Chris Squire. Brilliant bass!! The song is an adventure!!🎸🎶❤
I love this. The guy is all but freaking out, and then I remembered by the 15 minute mark, "oh yeah, the pipe organ bit is coming. He's going to lose his mind."
This is definitively one of the most sublime prog rock artworks in musical history.... As most of the Yessongs are... Btw. a lot of people discovering this piece today are not even aware of the fact, that Rick Wakeman played the high pitched synth part in the background in the beginning of Close To The Edge himself, I mean, this is no arpeggiator folks, it's all handmade, in realtime!
Bless You, and All of The Reactors to CTTE for the first time. After I suppose 18,000+ minutes of my life listening to this Masterpiece, for 50 years, I get a full recharge of my body, and spirit, every time I get to listen again, while getting to watch yet another Reactors Mind Blown. The Song Never Gets Old. I strongly, strongly, suggest you react to the ENTIRE Yessongs Album. Certainly is you are going to finish reacting to their early albums, then of course, experience all of the studio Goodness first, but please do not leave Yessongs out, the Triple Live Album, has some of the most technically amazing, Extraordinary Musicianship to have ever been captured live. Now I have to take the ride with you, my sub is yours.
When I was first hearing this in the 70's as a 12-13 year old, I found I needed to listen to each song 6 times, once for each instrument and then once for the whole symphony together. I would listen once and just track the bass, again for the drums, again for the guitar, then for the keys, and then the vocals. Each of them are masters, and the way Yes plays, sometimes completely all on different time signatures, it really takes focus to see how it all fits together.
The basis of the song is basically the Herman Hesse book, "Siddhartha." It's about a man searching for the meaning of life in many different paths and finally the book takes place with the protagonist looking in the river and seeing everything..."now that you find, now that you're whole." But actually, there is more to the journey, "Seasons will pass you by, I get up, I get down." It's a quick read and I highly recommend it if you have not yet read it. It's one of those 'change your perspective on life' books, just like this song. I read it every few years and what I get out of it changes as I get older, also just like this song. This song also contains the words that have really helped me when I have felt frustrated in life... "All in all the journey takes you all the way." This very much echoes the basic tenet of Daoism of going with the flow. Waking up to life and rising from the 'depths of your disgrace' will bring you close to the edge, down by the river...Jon Anderson and Yes are telling you, it's alright jump in the river and let it take you where it will because it will take you where you need to go. Just as the ending of the song, you will fade into and become one with nature and the infinite, beyond all the man could invent, including religion (the church organ in the song), no longer subject to the ups and downs of the seasons of our lives. At least that is some of how I take the song, but you may see it differently and that is great, Jon's lyrics are word paintings meant to be ambiguous so let yourself find your own meanings. Btw, there are no strings, that is a mellotron with string samples. And that is quintessentially Rick Wakeman and Steve Howe, not Tony and Peter. :D
Best reaction to this masterpiece I’ve seen. Absolutely ignore anyone who has anything negative to say about this great video. I truly envy the rabbit hole you’re about to go down. I appreciate the Yes you’ve already heard from the ‘80s, but it really a completely different vibe. I seriously doubt that that version of Yes is bringing anyone to tears, but it’s still fine music. Have fun!!! Subscribed.
"Close To The Edge" [I The Solid Time Of Change] A seasoned witch could call you from the depths of your disgrace And rearrange your liver to the solid mental grace And achieve it all with music that came quickly from afar Then taste the fruit of man recorded losing all against the hour And assessing points to nowhere, leading every single one A dewdrop can exalt us like the music of the sun And take away the plain in which we move And choose the course you're running Down at the edge, round by the corner Not right away, not right away Close to the edge, down by a river Not right away, not right away Crossed the line around the changes of the summer Reaching out to call the color of the sky Passed around a moment clothed in mornings faster than we see Getting over all the time I had to worry Leaving all the changes far from far behind We relieve the tension only to find out the master's name Down at the end, round by the corner Close to the edge, just by a river Seasons will pass you by I get up, I get down Now that it's all over and done Now that you find, now that you're whole [II Total Mass Retain] My eyes convinced, eclipsed with the younger moon attained with love It changed as almost strained amidst clear manna from above I crucified my hate and held the word within my hand There's you, the time, the logic, or the reasons we don't understand Sad courage claimed the victims standing still for all to see As armoured movers took approached to overlook the sea There since the cord, the license, or the reasons we understood will be Down at the edge, close by a river Close to the edge, round by the corner Close to the end, down by the corner Down at the edge, round by the river Sudden call shouldn't take away the startled memory All in all, the journey takes you all the way As apart from any reality that you've ever seen and known Guessing problems only to deceive the mention Passing paths that climb halfway into the void As we cross from side to side, we hear the total mass retain Down at the edge, round by the corner Close to the end, down by a river Seasons will pass you by I get up, I get down [III I Get Up, I Get Down] In her white lace, you could clearly see the lady sadly looking Saying that she'd take the blame For the crucifixion of her own domain I get up, I get down I get up, I get down Two million people barely satisfy Two hundred women watch one woman cry, too late The eyes of honesty can achieve (She would gladly say it amazement of her story) How many millions do we deceive each day? (Asking only interest could be laid upon the children of her domain) I get up, I get down I get up, I get down In charge of who is there in charge of me (She could clearly see the lady sadly looking) Do I look on blindly and say I see the way? (Saying that she'd take the blame For the crucifixion of her own domain) The truth is written all along the page (She would gladly say it amazement of her story) How old will I be before I come of age for you? (Asking only interest could be laid upon the children of her domain) I get up, I get down I get up, I get down I get up, I get down I get up, I get down I get up, I get down [IV Seasons Of Man] The time between the notes relates the color to the scenes A constant vogue of triumphs dislocate man, so it seems And space between the focus shape ascend knowledge of love As song and chance develop time, lost social temperance rules above Ah, ah Then according to the man who showed his outstretched arm to space He turned around and pointed, revealing all the human race I shook my head and smiled a whisper, knowing all about the place On the hill we viewed the silence of the valley Called to witness cycles only of the past And we reach all this with movements in between the said remark Close to the edge, down by the river Down at the end, round by the corner Seasons will pass you by Now that it's all over and done Called to the seed, right to the sun Now that you find, now that you're whole Seasons will pass you by I get up, I get down I get up, I get down I get up, I get down
Listening to this song for over 30 years. It is still my favorite of all time. I could listen to it five times a day everyday and never become bored with it. It is simply an amazing piece of music
“Sorry, I wasn’t ready for that!” and the first interruption you told us weren’t going to take. I’ve listened to probably a dozen Close to the Edge reactions, and those first few words are so far my favorites. Welcome to the early Yes rabbit hole!
Your reaction reminded me of my 1st time hearing this: 1979 age 14, with headphones. The next song on that album should be YOUR next...I GUARANTEE you will like it even better! If you think I'm exaggerating, after you finish THIS one (AND YOU AND I) only one word will suffice: YES. The song starts off with engineer Eddie Offord saying(Barely audible) "Tape's rolling..." Steve Howe answering "Okay" and continues to tune his guitar. It was left in, to everyone's benefit! I envy what you're about to experience...
This is, perhaps, the first time I've actually teared up a bit watching and listing to a reaction video of music from my junior high school days when this came out. My friends and I use to get stoned and listen to this over and over again (along with Genesis). So happy to see a young person getting into what we knew was pure genius. When you are laughing and in disbelief...all of us Yes fans from that era are going..."we know!".
I was 17 in '72 when this came out and I and most of us had same reactions as you! Seriously! LOL! (Still do actually.) That's progressive rock at its finest. There's a lot more Yes to experience and other bands that will also have the finest you've heard. I suggest going to the next song on the album "And You and I" then "Siberian Khatru". Can you believe only 3 songs on an album?! And I know what you mean by "frustrated"! LOL! This is one of their early best, but after it you should go back to their big, seminal album 'The Yes Album' (1971) and it's first song "Yours Is No Disgrace", then do each song in order as their concept albums were meant to be heard. If you can, as many songs blend into following ones on concept albums for a very cool effect. The next awesome album is 'Fragile' (1971) another excellent concept album out a year before the one you started here. One other excellent and early studio album to check out is "Relayer" (1974) and is similar to "Close To..." in that it has only 3 songs too. And do some more Pink Floyd! ✌️😎
Hard to believe that this was recorded 50 years ago with pretty primitive recording equipment compared to now, Yes are still touring now albeit with some different band members and they’re releasing a brand new album in the Autumn.
It is a faded version of the original. YES as they were, are gone.I saw the current lineup after Squire passed and I am done! Saw them over 40 times. There are no original members left and there is too much missing. It was great run, but it's over.
Band Geek featuring Jon Anderson are touring soon. If you haven’t checked out any of the Geek’s Yes covers, you need to. They are now unofficially part of the Yes rabbit hole.
@@staskozak8118 No not Jazz. I mean they have plenty of elements of Jazz. They basically have elements of everything. But this piece as well as plenty others they have have the movements structure of classical music.
Such a joy watching your first taste of this! Ya brought tears to my eyes, my friend... I'm 65, have seen Yes live 4 or 5 times. Have always been one of my favorites. I'm so glad you enjoyed this. Side two is also killer. Next, try Fragile, and the Yes Album. Also, Magnification is a real treat. Enjoy!
Great reaction, you made me laugh for all the right reasons, like many, I know this album inside and out. Great musicians with the highest of standards, don't hesitate to finish the album, you'll be glad you did.
If you have the capacity for the breadth and depth of emotions that are required to really love a Yes song like this AND you give yourself the permission needed I believe this is a transcendental and transformative experience. I am not saying it will cure disease or something on that scale but I believe the work is wonderful enough that you can go from frustrated to blissful, angry to content. A song that you can add to the foundations of your musical journey in your life, a way to guide you to a better understanding of the potential for the role music can play in your life. I believe it is a masterpiece.
A person can only listen to an album for the first time once. My first time for this was back in 1975. I just discovered Rick Wakeman but I already had both (at the time) of his albums and I wanted more, so I turned to Yes. Never heard them before and I'm not sure why I picked this one but I'm glad I did. These are great musicians at the very height of their creative genius putting out one of the greatest tracks ever produced. I keep watching reactions to this album trying to relive that moment - oh so long ago. I thank you for this. This song is a masterpiece. :)
Beautiful sight! A young lad discovering the greatness of one the greatest band ever. Prog Rock was a gift to rock music. I just get so happy when new generations discover these masterpieces from the early 70s
I was so happy for you to have such an extreme reaction to the masterful layers of composition at play here. Incredible. Imagine if this was available as a ride at an amusement park. No one would need to go on any other rides. I'm always left stunned and dizzy after this piece, in a great way.
First time I sat down and truly listened to this classic, I was a teenager sitting in the forest next to a stream in the high altitudes of the Colorado Rockies. The 1980's panasonic jam box (with eight new D-cells and a maxell gold cassette I recorded from vinyl) was jamming and the water bong was bubbling. An event from my youth I will always treasure. It was a perfect moment of musical bliss.
A short list of suggestions which just scratches the surface. Yes started in 1969, but this list begins with Steve Howe and Rick Wakeman joining in 1971. X=You already heard it. Early Yes Period (EYP 1971-1973) X 1)Roundabout 2)I've Seen All Good People 3)Starship Trooper 4)Perpetual Change 5)Heart of the Sunrise 6)Siberian Khatru (Yessongs version is best) 7)And You And I Middle Yes Period (MYP 1974-1980) 1)Gates of Delirium 2)Turn of the Century 3)Going for the One 4)Wondrous Stories 5)Don't Kill the Whale 6)Tempus Fugit 7)Machine Messiah Late Yes Period (LYP 1983-2001) X 1)Hold On X 2)Our Song X 3)Hearts 4)That That Is 5)Mind Drive 6)Homeworld 7)Dreamtime
I would add from Early Period (what I call Classical Period) Yours is no Disgrace from The Yes Album, Southside of the Sky from Fragile, and for Mid-Period I would add Awaken from Going for the One.
I wouldn't use the word frustrated I would use the word mesmerized! Because this song puts you in such a beautiful trance! This whole album will mesmerized you! Please do the other 2 songs on this album. After that we can move on to other great albums by them!
Dude, this is the defining song of prog rock. It’s the freaking Mona Lisa! You won’t hear anything better by any band. Yes set the standard with this song. I have listened to this song for over 25 years now and still hear things I didn’t hear before. You need to get to the point where you can focus one 1 instrument thru the whole song, especially the bass. When you can hear each one by itself, that my friend is when you really HEAR what’s happening and it is just insane! It does my heart well to know there are younger people like you picking up the torch with music like this. THANK YOU! There is so much GREAT music for you to find. Keep going down the rabbit whole, it is DEEP!
I still tear up after a few hundred listenings, and have since it was new. Always my favorite. I am currently comparing the varying reactions from other reactor/reviewers...and if you don't get this song, I don't get you. Some gave it a middling score. Unbelievable. Some, like you, and like me, recognize that it is an objective art masterpiece, built to move you, and it will move you. Peace and love. db
Exactly! You get it. I'm lucky enough to have listened to them since I was 17 back in 84'. Definately react to the other 2 songs on this album, then everything else they did in the 70's and much of what theyv'e done since then.
the truly nuts thing about this is, as formally satisfying as this is it was put together from small pieces the members came up with on tour. one of the most inspired things in all of music IMO
From the same album ...And You and I is a slice of heaven itself. If you like this one, you'll undoubtedly also love Relayer. It's another 3 song album withe the epic being The Gates of Delirium. In fact, many, including myself look at Gates as just as good, and possibly even slightly better, mostly because of the full storyline, and particularly the spine tinglingly gorgeous final movement. On Relayer you also have Sound Chaser, perhaps the best foray into their incredible rythym section, and one of their only jazz fusion based pieces. And finally the mini epic To Be Over, which is a Steve Howe steel guitar and lead guitar master class. So, Relayer and the rest of Close to the Edge will keep you busy for a while on the Yes front. Oh.....also....you noted you are already familiar with 90125. If you like that one, my favorite statement by that line up was 1994's Talk. Top to bottom a Rabin/ Anderson masterpiece. Even contains an epic Yes piece called Endless Dream, which is definitely 90s sounding, but just dripping with call backs and tips of the hat to the 70s lineup devices. An amazing album, and has some of Jon' s peak vocal work.
@Satanic Panic Fun and Games The recording / performance of gates at cobo hall (yesshows) is the greatest piece of music I've ever heard. I listen to it almost every day :)
Josh you really get it! So much to say...the older you get the richer this and so many other Yes songs will become to you. I am 62 and have been enjoying Yes since the very early 70's. I love watching the reaction videos of all you wonderful young people being blown away by the music of my era. In fact, I may start doing reaction videos of the REACTION VIDEOS! HA! I watch videos of the young ones hearing for the first time artists like Yes, ELP, Queen, The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Pink Floyd, Jethro Tull, Elton John, CCR, CSNY, Neil Young, The DOORS, etc. etc. ETC. The list goes on and on. Imagine being 12 years old and turning on the radio and hearing Dylan, flipping the station and hearing The Beatles, flipping the station and hearing The DOORS, flipping the station and hearing Pink Floyd, flipping the station and hearing Neil Young! It was like Macaulay Culkin in Home Alone ..."AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!" No wonder so many comments from young listeners these days write things like "Damn, you guys grew up with the best music ever...our music these days is lame as..."
Steve Howe-Guitar/Vocals Rick Wakeman-Keyboards Chris Squire-Bass/Vocals Bill Bruford-Drums/Percussion Jon Anderson-Lead Vocal/percussion Eddie Offord-Studio/Live Show Producer-Engineer
I think you got infected now ;-) It started for me in 1974 ... with the album Yessongs. (I can only recommend). There is a little music universe, waiting to be discovered by you. Since you have to start somewhere, discovering ... maybe with "Heart Of The Sunrise" from the album Yessongs.
Great reaction, the next track on the album, 'And You and I', followed by 'Awaken'. You know Rush were massive Yes fans, along with Tool and Dream Theater.
@@joshrisakotta3730 ditto, it was Yes first for me. Then early Genesis and then Rush. I also listened to 90125 for years, I never heard Close to The Edge or anything else by Yes until I went to the ABWH concert in 1989. The only exception being 'Awaken' which remains my favourite piece of music by anyone ever 😊
I saw my first YES concert 1973 at college....Seen them another 30+ times since. Thanks for keeping the music alive, it's very important that this genius production never fades away.
My wife and I Vacationed in Germany and the travel agent booked us through SeaTac to LAX them Germany. I found out the Yes was going to be in San Diego the day before we would fly out of LA. So we were able to set thing up to drive to Dan Diego and back to LA the neat morning. What a great show. Alan Parson project was the worm up group.
I was looking for Yes reactions and found your channel! Excellent video and I made sure to subscribe to your channel after seeing it! Greetings from Brazil! 🇧🇷
"Close to the Edge" both the song and the album are masterpieces no doubt. It literally brings you 'close to the edge' When you are ready to go beyond the edge, listen to "Awaken" from "Going for the One". From there, you can see beyond the edge in all directions, including up and down.
I am SO HAPPY you listened to this! Older songs by yes are beyond unbelievable!! Thank you thank you thank you for turning on your audience to what kind of brilliance existed beyond comprehension. The band themselves said that they thought the perfect song expressing who they really were was HEART OF THE SUNRISE. I would love you to react to that one. It’s glorious! OH! You DID I just saw. OK, just subscribed 😍
For an old guy who's listened to many of these songs a hundred times, watching an enthusiastic and open minded young person experiencing it for the first time let's me have that feeling again. Please, do more Genesis, King Crimson and Yes!
IMHO "Classic" YES ends pretty much with Going For The One. Tormato was a mixed bag, and after that I really struggle to enjoy their music, which by now is the majority of their catalogue. Probably my loss, but that's the way it goes. It's a joy to see a young whippersnapper really appreciating YES. Helps me hear it fresh as an added bonus Thanks, man!
"Close to the Edge" is one of the all time classic masterpieces of Prog. It blows me away every single time I hear it and I've been listening to it for the past 40 years. Congratulations on your experience. At the time of this recording the members were: Jon Anderson - vocals Steve Howe - guitars, vocals Rick Wakeman - keyboards Bill Bruford - percussion Chris Squire - bass, vocals
Nothing comes CLOSE to " Cloe to the Edge". Immaculate musicians. I was 12 when this came out and then I saw them at 15 years old with my "catholic HS teacher". Greatest band ever. JON ANDERSON is an ANGEL ! STEVE, CHRIS, RICK AND BILL are too!
Welcome to Prog’s cloud eleven tune! Notice they don’t play gazillion notes from start to finish (as in ‘Look what I can do!), no triple bassdrums, but a superb way to carry a 28:40 tune without a weak moment, even finding a way to slip in a psychedelic part ‘à la Echoes’.
it's just a masterpiece- no pro-tools, no pitch correction, and no "gridding" (notice how all the stop hits are all "ritarded"- wouldn't happen on today's recordings...)...
Years of playing together, Bruford and Squire are “beyond counting” and while you can describe many songs as the band pushing the beat or laying back, they are in a whole different reality, you don’t get that with drum machines and sequencing. It’s like Michelangelo sculpting or Richard Feynman doing physics, you can’t explain it.
Apart fron that bezerk intro, that crazy ‘counterpoint’ between 8:32 and 9:13 is so amazing. CTTE is the epitome of Prog Rock, never been equalled, certainly never topped.
Another discovers the amazing journey that is Yes. This masterpiece is the greatest example of prog rock known to date. After listening to this magnum opus for more than 40 years I am still saddened when it ends.
I dig your enthusiasm bro. I have heard this song many times and it seems normal to me, but when I see someone discovering it for the first time and enjoying it so much I suppose I remember what drew me to their music in the first place. I have seen so many of you reaction guys get blown away by this song that it might be the top song ever in reaction world. Personally I like The Gates of Delirium as much or maybe even a little more.
I first saw YES on Dec 16 74 I was 16. They blew my mind. I have never missed them since.82 times so far. I tear up every time for CTTE. As well as many others. I loved watching you enjoy this so much.
@@llibzlov I'm asking because I saw the "Tales" Tour with Yes in February that year with Rick Wakeman. I still have my program! 😊 Must have been a busy year!
@@kathy2trips I remember our tickets kept getting rescheduled, finally we got the Dec 16, and Relayer had not been released yet. Minds were blown that night in Chicago. I was 16.
the first time I've seen you on RUclips. I am impressed. It's like it was a kid again listening to this album for the first time. I can see the Joy on your face. I first saw Yes in 1971 they were the unknown backup band for Jethro Tull
This was fun, watching you get close to the edge! You'll grow from this. King Crimson is another relative band, the same drummer. There is a bit of a prog revival right now. The new stuff is decent. Based on the videos you have posted, you may appreciate "Halcyon" by Elder. It's hard to imagine that it came out last year, it has a classic-prog feel. "This Visual Hex" by Vulkan has some nice keyboard parts.
Your reaction is the exactly same reaction I had a 16 in 1972. There's not enough ways to try to explain this visceral sonic experience. Creme du jour.
The line up for this album is "the classical one" Ion Anderson vocals. Steve Howe guitars. Chris Squire bass, Bill Brudford drums and Rick Wakeman on keyboard/tangents
Your reaction makes me smile! This song..This group does the same for me! I’m a huge fan! I’ve seen Yes many times..(55+ times)😄 and I’m not even considered a die hard! This song Live Front Row is an Experience!! Memories Forever!❤️✌️🤘
He is a very clever young man. I'm hooked on his channel. The final minute or two, before the birds & water fade, he's waving his hands like he can't take any more. It has helped me re-appreciate this classic which I've taken for granted for decades.
![Twenty One Pilots - The Line (from Arcane Season 2) [Official Audio]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/XCz7WUotXs8/mqdefault.jpg)
Maybe the best song ever written in rock history.
I wish I could give you a hundred thumbs up
Beyond compare
This song has everything in it that could make a song great,it’s the best , most complete song ever in modern rock , any genre included, you can literally listen to it for forty years and hear new nuances every time you hear it,a unique masterpiece
50 years! Still does it to me every time!!
Keyboards were played by Rick Wakeman who was awarded a prize as Best Keyboard Player in Progressive Rock history a couple of years ago.
Yes at their best isn’t music. It’s magic. And this song is a wonderful magic trick. Throughout the song they spin several seemingly unrelated musical yarns, and at the end they masterfully weave them together into a breathtaking climax.
I looked up the word "masterpiece" in the dictionary and it just had a picture of the Close to the Edge album cover.
You win.
Yes, you are right
Well played.
Josh,
Rick Wakeman is the keyboard player here, not Tony Kaye. But most important, you might be blown away to learn that at this stage in YES development. It's known as the classic Line up. Singer/lyricist Jon Anderson has been quoted the lyrics here (and many otherworks) don't mean ANYTHING. He was experimenting with an artform where the lyrics are chosen for the sound of the words rather than their meaning. He confesses that there must have been something swimming around in his head, but there was nothing intentional. He is also VERY pleased that fans like to draw their own conclusions as to what it means and share it. Josh, I simply cannot express what an incredible beautiful world you have entered with this album. Don't over analyze, simply sit back, close your eyes, and let YES take you on a beautiful journey.
@chrisboylan416 True, I heard Jon Anderson say that quite a while ago. I also agree that people should free there mind up and just enjoy it, not overanalyze.
I disagree about the words not meaning anything, Jon has said that he often paid more attention to the sound of the words than the meaning, but that is not saying they don't mean anything. He has also clearly stated it was based on Hesse's novel Siddhartha. The words are impressionistic but the life journey, it's ups and downs and search for enlightenment are clearly elements expressed in the lyrics and Hesse's book.
I know - it’s the greatest thing ever - a miracle of a song, there are no words to do it justice. Do feel free to interrupt all you want, IMO - we out here have heard the song a million times, the interesting part is your reaction! It’s nice to see someone who truly gets it.
As for recommendations for where to go next… the Yes catalog is long and deep, but I’d suggest you simply flip the record over and listen to side 2. The three tracks on the album are completely different from one another - yet, equally great, in their own way. More mind to be blown.
Thank you very much!! I'll check them out!😁🙏🏽
Solid advice.
@@joshrisakotta3730 Yes please do. I have been begging every reactor on the net to listen to Siberian Khatru on the B side of this album and have yet to see anyone do it. It is such a great track.
Definitely listen to side two
@@kenmolinaro oh, they’re out there on YT.
So I believe yes music will be studied 100 years from now, like we listen to Mozart and Bach today. These musicians truly caught lightning in a bottle, there is nothing in the world like this ever. To think they were all like 22 and 23 years old. Truly truly amazing.
students at music schools already studying this masterwork.
Oh indeed. This is high art ❤
Yeah... I don't doubt it. It's a masterpiece... It's a symphony... It's Rock art if there was ever something to be called High Art of Rock...
This song made a classical composer so confused, he said “ I have to study this”
Peter Banks & Tony Kaye weren't on this, Steve Howe and Rick Wakeman had replaced them.
Banks and Kaye couldn`t handle this song. No disrespect meant.
@@jamesw.5855 sad but true
@@jamesw.5855 Disagree about Kaye. He wasn't as creative as Wakeman or as dynamic a player (few rock keyboardists were), but Kaye could definitely play a credible version of CTTE.
The members are Jon Anderson, Chris Squire, Steve Howe, Rick Wakeman and Bill Bruford. This IS by far their finest work; it is the most beautiful piece of music that will ever come out of popular music...or any other music...it has EVERYTHING! It's primarily most understood by those who are musicians, themselves, but ANYONE who's connected to their heart will feel it. I wept when Chris Squire died and I still grieve over his passing. Gladly, he was the musician on bass on all of Yes' records, and it (Yes' music) could not have been what it is without him...I love you, Chris...rest in peace, you made this world so much better for having done what you did on bass in Yes.
Chis Squire sold MILLIONS of sets of Round Wound Bass Strings!! Every Bass Player in the early 70's was Bustin their arse to buy a Rickenbacker Bass... Most of all Chris was an Original!!
I am so glad that you are musically trained and have an ear. Many people find the introduction to this song jarring and discordant. I find it genius.
I've been listening to this for over 30 years and still I tear up some times. Especially when the church organ fires up . Also at the end . I never want this song to end.
It's Rick's piano, at the end, that gets me every time.
Me too, the the pipe organ. He used the one at St Giles-without-Cripplegate, the same one he used when he recorded "The Six Wives of Henry VIII" Simply magical.
excited and frustrated - translation: you got up, you got down
A masterpiece of Prog Rock ! Yes the greatest prog band
Watching Josh and his reaction is like looking at myself when I was his age and this album first came out. Back in the 70s. I was in my 20s too.
Of course I had already heard the 1st albums. There are folks out there who just don't get it. And they never will. They are in a different frame of mind. But those of us who DO get it, we are the lucky ones. Yes had this ability to bring this beautiful music AND kick ass music into your room and we were as blowed away as you are Josh. And we would, maybe by ourselves or with friends, get high and turn off the lights and crank it up and take it all in. Listening to music back in my youth was the way it was. No computers, Facebook, etc. Nothing but music. I had an 8 track player in my car and I had the Doors, Beatles, Yes, ELP, Cream, Jethro Tull. It was the best ride I ever took. And that is why these reaction shows are so popular right now. We feel vindicated. And it is so much fun watching these folks get blown away!! Great show Josh!!!
You don't need to apologize for pausing. We've all heard it a million times. You're experiencing it for the first time and pausing occasionally to take it all in is perfectly normal. With a piece like this, you'll find it more interesting with each listen, as you'll hear things you didn't hear before, kind of like when you watch a great movie the second time and like it even more than the first time you watched it. You just notice more and are able to take it all in with every future listen, so enjoy.
Thank you very much!!😁🙏🏽
finally someone said that
Jamel AKA Jamal.
Been listening to it for 50 years, and it never gets old.
@@aprilstewart5929 🙂
Your interpretation is so entertaining!!! What an amazing mix of musicians!! And the vocals the way they harmonize. RIP Chris Squire. Brilliant bass!! The song is an adventure!!🎸🎶❤
I love this. The guy is all but freaking out, and then I remembered by the 15 minute mark, "oh yeah, the pipe organ bit is coming. He's going to lose his mind."
This is definitively one of the most sublime prog rock artworks in musical history.... As most of the Yessongs are... Btw. a lot of people discovering this piece today are not even aware of the fact, that Rick Wakeman played the high pitched synth part in the background in the beginning of Close To The Edge himself, I mean, this is no arpeggiator folks, it's all handmade, in realtime!
Bless You, and All of The Reactors to CTTE for the first time. After I suppose 18,000+ minutes of my life listening to this Masterpiece, for 50 years,
I get a full recharge of my body, and spirit, every time I get to listen again, while getting to watch yet another Reactors Mind Blown. The Song Never Gets Old.
I strongly, strongly, suggest you react to the ENTIRE Yessongs Album. Certainly is you are going to finish reacting to their early albums, then of course, experience
all of the studio Goodness first, but please do not leave Yessongs out, the Triple Live Album, has some of the most technically amazing, Extraordinary Musicianship
to have ever been captured live. Now I have to take the ride with you, my sub is yours.
When I was first hearing this in the 70's as a 12-13 year old, I found I needed to listen to each song 6 times, once for each instrument and then once for the whole symphony together. I would listen once and just track the bass, again for the drums, again for the guitar, then for the keys, and then the vocals. Each of them are masters, and the way Yes plays, sometimes completely all on different time signatures, it really takes focus to see how it all fits together.
Very sophisticated choice for such a young person. My compliments. I just turned 16 when this came out, but I resonated with it right away.
The basis of the song is basically the Herman Hesse book, "Siddhartha." It's about a man searching for the meaning of life in many different paths and finally the book takes place with the protagonist looking in the river and seeing everything..."now that you find, now that you're whole." But actually, there is more to the journey, "Seasons will pass you by, I get up, I get down." It's a quick read and I highly recommend it if you have not yet read it. It's one of those 'change your perspective on life' books, just like this song. I read it every few years and what I get out of it changes as I get older, also just like this song. This song also contains the words that have really helped me when I have felt frustrated in life... "All in all the journey takes you all the way." This very much echoes the basic tenet of Daoism of going with the flow. Waking up to life and rising from the 'depths of your disgrace' will bring you close to the edge, down by the river...Jon Anderson and Yes are telling you, it's alright jump in the river and let it take you where it will because it will take you where you need to go. Just as the ending of the song, you will fade into and become one with nature and the infinite, beyond all the man could invent, including religion (the church organ in the song), no longer subject to the ups and downs of the seasons of our lives. At least that is some of how I take the song, but you may see it differently and that is great, Jon's lyrics are word paintings meant to be ambiguous so let yourself find your own meanings. Btw, there are no strings, that is a mellotron with string samples. And that is quintessentially Rick Wakeman and Steve Howe, not Tony and Peter. :D
Rick Beato did an excellent interview with Rick Wakeman. Highly recommend it. Warning: It's 90 minutes. But 90 minutes well spent.
Jon Anderson, Chris Squire, Bill Bruford, Steve Howe, Rick Wakeman with producer Eddie Offord.
Best reaction to this masterpiece I’ve seen. Absolutely ignore anyone who has anything negative to say about this great video. I truly envy the rabbit hole you’re about to go down.
I appreciate the Yes you’ve already heard from the ‘80s, but it really a completely different vibe. I seriously doubt that that version of Yes is bringing anyone to tears, but it’s still fine music. Have fun!!!
Subscribed.
"Close To The Edge"
[I The Solid Time Of Change]
A seasoned witch could call you from the depths of your disgrace
And rearrange your liver to the solid mental grace
And achieve it all with music that came quickly from afar
Then taste the fruit of man recorded losing all against the hour
And assessing points to nowhere, leading every single one
A dewdrop can exalt us like the music of the sun
And take away the plain in which we move
And choose the course you're running
Down at the edge, round by the corner
Not right away, not right away
Close to the edge, down by a river
Not right away, not right away
Crossed the line around the changes of the summer
Reaching out to call the color of the sky
Passed around a moment clothed in mornings faster than we see
Getting over all the time I had to worry
Leaving all the changes far from far behind
We relieve the tension only to find out the master's name
Down at the end, round by the corner
Close to the edge, just by a river
Seasons will pass you by
I get up, I get down
Now that it's all over and done
Now that you find, now that you're whole
[II Total Mass Retain]
My eyes convinced, eclipsed with the younger moon attained with love
It changed as almost strained amidst clear manna from above
I crucified my hate and held the word within my hand
There's you, the time, the logic, or the reasons we don't understand
Sad courage claimed the victims standing still for all to see
As armoured movers took approached to overlook the sea
There since the cord, the license, or the reasons we understood will be
Down at the edge, close by a river
Close to the edge, round by the corner
Close to the end, down by the corner
Down at the edge, round by the river
Sudden call shouldn't take away the startled memory
All in all, the journey takes you all the way
As apart from any reality that you've ever seen and known
Guessing problems only to deceive the mention
Passing paths that climb halfway into the void
As we cross from side to side, we hear the total mass retain
Down at the edge, round by the corner
Close to the end, down by a river
Seasons will pass you by
I get up, I get down
[III I Get Up, I Get Down]
In her white lace, you could clearly see the lady sadly looking
Saying that she'd take the blame
For the crucifixion of her own domain
I get up, I get down
I get up, I get down
Two million people barely satisfy
Two hundred women watch one woman cry, too late
The eyes of honesty can achieve
(She would gladly say it amazement of her story)
How many millions do we deceive each day?
(Asking only interest could be laid upon the children of her domain)
I get up, I get down
I get up, I get down
In charge of who is there in charge of me
(She could clearly see the lady sadly looking)
Do I look on blindly and say I see the way?
(Saying that she'd take the blame
For the crucifixion of her own domain)
The truth is written all along the page
(She would gladly say it amazement of her story)
How old will I be before I come of age for you?
(Asking only interest could be laid upon the children of her domain)
I get up, I get down
I get up, I get down
I get up, I get down
I get up, I get down
I get up, I get down
[IV Seasons Of Man]
The time between the notes relates the color to the scenes
A constant vogue of triumphs dislocate man, so it seems
And space between the focus shape ascend knowledge of love
As song and chance develop time, lost social temperance rules above
Ah, ah
Then according to the man who showed his outstretched arm to space
He turned around and pointed, revealing all the human race
I shook my head and smiled a whisper, knowing all about the place
On the hill we viewed the silence of the valley
Called to witness cycles only of the past
And we reach all this with movements in between the said remark
Close to the edge, down by the river
Down at the end, round by the corner
Seasons will pass you by
Now that it's all over and done
Called to the seed, right to the sun
Now that you find, now that you're whole
Seasons will pass you by
I get up, I get down
I get up, I get down
I get up, I get down
Listening to this song for over 30 years. It is still my favorite of all time. I could listen to it five times a day everyday and never become bored with it. It is simply an amazing piece of music
“Sorry, I wasn’t ready for that!” and the first interruption you told us weren’t going to take. I’ve listened to probably a dozen Close to the Edge reactions, and those first few words are so far my favorites. Welcome to the early Yes rabbit hole!
Your reaction reminded me of my 1st time hearing this: 1979 age 14, with headphones. The next song on that album should be YOUR next...I GUARANTEE you will like it even better! If you think I'm exaggerating, after you finish THIS one (AND YOU AND I) only one word will suffice: YES. The song starts off with engineer Eddie Offord saying(Barely audible) "Tape's rolling..." Steve Howe answering "Okay" and continues to tune his guitar. It was left in, to everyone's benefit! I envy what you're about to experience...
I'd never thought of that! He was still tuning the 12-string obviously!
Such a hard intro to learn, just because of all those harmonics
@@trendydelquendy Actually, Steve called it a 'tuning test'. Sounds like it passed the 'tuning audition' considering the results.
This is, perhaps, the first time I've actually teared up a bit watching and listing to a reaction video of music from my junior high school days when this came out. My friends and I use to get stoned and listen to this over and over again (along with Genesis). So happy to see a young person getting into what we knew was pure genius. When you are laughing and in disbelief...all of us Yes fans from that era are going..."we know!".
I was 17 in '72 when this came out and I and most of us had same reactions as you! Seriously! LOL! (Still do actually.) That's progressive rock at its finest. There's a lot more Yes to experience and other bands that will also have the finest you've heard. I suggest going to the next song on the album "And You and I" then "Siberian Khatru". Can you believe only 3 songs on an album?! And I know what you mean by "frustrated"! LOL! This is one of their early best, but after it you should go back to their big, seminal album 'The Yes Album' (1971) and it's first song "Yours Is No Disgrace", then do each song in order as their concept albums were meant to be heard. If you can, as many songs blend into following ones on concept albums for a very cool effect. The next awesome album is 'Fragile' (1971) another excellent concept album out a year before the one you started here. One other excellent and early studio album to check out is "Relayer" (1974) and is similar to "Close To..." in that it has only 3 songs too. And do some more Pink Floyd! ✌️😎
Awaken from Going For The One is also incredible.
and yes...they can play it live
I like the way they change the vocal inflections everytime they sing the chorus. Sometimes it's heavenly others it's mysterious.
Hard to believe that this was recorded 50 years ago with pretty primitive recording equipment compared to now,
Yes are still touring now albeit with some different band members and they’re releasing a brand new album in the Autumn.
It is a faded version of the original. YES as they were, are gone.I saw the current lineup after Squire passed and I am done! Saw them over 40 times. There are no original members left and there is too much missing. It was great run, but it's over.
@@Magnetron33 👍
Band Geek featuring Jon Anderson are touring soon. If you haven’t checked out any of the Geek’s Yes covers, you need to. They are now unofficially part of the Yes rabbit hole.
Genesis- "Supper's Ready"
Early Genesis with Peter Gabriel and Steve Hacket is the perfect compliment to a Yes diet.
Yes are the Rock equivalent to Classical Music.
This is a timeless masterpiece !
not Jazz?
@@staskozak8118 No not Jazz. I mean they have plenty of elements of Jazz. They basically have elements of everything. But this piece as well as plenty others they have have the movements structure of classical music.
Such a joy watching your first taste of this! Ya brought tears to my eyes, my friend... I'm 65, have seen Yes live 4 or 5 times. Have always been one of my favorites. I'm so glad you enjoyed this. Side two is also killer. Next, try Fragile, and the Yes Album. Also, Magnification is a real treat. Enjoy!
Great reaction, you made me laugh for all the right reasons, like many, I know this album inside and out. Great musicians with the highest of standards, don't hesitate to finish the album, you'll be glad you did.
Thank you!😁🙏🏽
I saw them live a few times in the 70s. My sister and I blasted this on the way to gramma's funeral, it's a laugh and cry kinda thing
If you have the capacity for the breadth and depth of emotions that are required to really love a Yes song like this AND you give yourself the permission needed I believe this is a transcendental and transformative experience. I am not saying it will cure disease or something on that scale but I believe the work is wonderful enough that you can go from frustrated to blissful, angry to content.
A song that you can add to the foundations of your musical journey in your life, a way to guide you to a better understanding of the potential for the role music can play in your life.
I believe it is a masterpiece.
A person can only listen to an album for the first time once. My first time for this was back in 1975. I just discovered Rick Wakeman but I already had both (at the time) of his albums and I wanted more, so I turned to Yes. Never heard them before and I'm not sure why I picked this one but I'm glad I did. These are great musicians at the very height of their creative genius putting out one of the greatest tracks ever produced. I keep watching reactions to this album trying to relive that moment - oh so long ago. I thank you for this. This song is a masterpiece. :)
By far the best reaction to this song.
Agreed.
Nice to see one so young enjoying and understanding the music I have been enjoying for most of my adult life. (I am older than I care to say.)
Chris Squire, master of the Rickenbacker. Sadly missing you great man
Beautiful sight! A young lad discovering the greatness of one the greatest band ever. Prog Rock was a gift to rock music. I just get so happy when new generations discover these masterpieces from the early 70s
Welcome to the beginning of a new life for you! Old Yes music is magical! Nothing better!
I was so happy for you to have such an extreme reaction to the masterful layers of composition at play here. Incredible. Imagine if this was available as a ride at an amusement park. No one would need to go on any other rides. I'm always left stunned and dizzy after this piece, in a great way.
First time I sat down and truly listened to this classic, I was a teenager sitting in the forest next to a stream in the high altitudes of the Colorado Rockies. The 1980's panasonic jam box (with eight new D-cells and a maxell gold cassette I recorded from vinyl) was jamming and the water bong was bubbling. An event from my youth I will always treasure. It was a perfect moment of musical bliss.
A short list of suggestions which just scratches the surface. Yes started in 1969, but this list begins with Steve Howe and Rick Wakeman joining in 1971. X=You already heard it.
Early Yes Period (EYP 1971-1973)
X 1)Roundabout
2)I've Seen All Good People
3)Starship Trooper
4)Perpetual Change
5)Heart of the Sunrise
6)Siberian Khatru (Yessongs version is best)
7)And You And I
Middle Yes Period (MYP 1974-1980)
1)Gates of Delirium
2)Turn of the Century
3)Going for the One
4)Wondrous Stories
5)Don't Kill the Whale
6)Tempus Fugit
7)Machine Messiah
Late Yes Period (LYP 1983-2001)
X 1)Hold On
X 2)Our Song
X 3)Hearts
4)That That Is
5)Mind Drive
6)Homeworld
7)Dreamtime
Thank you for all these suggestions! I'll check them out!😁🙏🏽
I would add from Early Period (what I call Classical Period) Yours is no Disgrace from The Yes Album, Southside of the Sky from Fragile, and for Mid-Period I would add Awaken from Going for the One.
What - no Awaken middle period? Jon considers this their best work 🤷🏻 just a simple omission I guess- all forgiven 🥰
Homeworld is a killer song
I wouldn't use the word frustrated I would use the word mesmerized! Because this song puts you in such a beautiful trance! This whole album will mesmerized you! Please do the other 2 songs on this album. After that we can move on to other great albums by them!
I’ve been listening to YES (and really enjoying them) for a really long time. I’m 77. You have a long way to go. Keep listening and keep enjoying.
Dude, this is the defining song of prog rock. It’s the freaking Mona Lisa! You won’t hear anything better by any band. Yes set the standard with this song. I have listened to this song for over 25 years now and still hear things I didn’t hear before. You need to get to the point where you can focus one 1 instrument thru the whole song, especially the bass. When you can hear each one by itself, that my friend is when you really HEAR what’s happening and it is just insane! It does my heart well to know there are younger people like you picking up the torch with music like this. THANK YOU! There is so much GREAT music for you to find. Keep going down the rabbit whole, it is DEEP!
I still tear up after a few hundred listenings, and have since it was new. Always my favorite. I am currently comparing the varying reactions from other reactor/reviewers...and if you don't get this song, I don't get you. Some gave it a middling score. Unbelievable. Some, like you, and like me, recognize that it is an objective art masterpiece, built to move you, and it will move you. Peace and love. db
Exactly! You get it. I'm lucky enough to have listened to them since I was 17 back in 84'. Definately react to the other 2 songs on this album, then everything else they did in the 70's and much of what theyv'e done since then.
Fun reaction! So good music it hurts.
Thank you!!😁🙏🏽
Tearing up is an appropriate responce tomusical excellence of this calibre !!!!!
You have just listened to the greatest song of all time.
the truly nuts thing about this is, as formally satisfying as this is it was put together from small pieces the members came up with on tour.
one of the most inspired things in all of music IMO
From the same album ...And You and I is a slice of heaven itself. If you like this one, you'll undoubtedly also love Relayer. It's another 3 song album withe the epic being The Gates of Delirium. In fact, many, including myself look at Gates as just as good, and possibly even slightly better, mostly because of the full storyline, and particularly the spine tinglingly gorgeous final movement. On Relayer you also have Sound Chaser, perhaps the best foray into their incredible rythym section, and one of their only jazz fusion based pieces. And finally the mini epic To Be Over, which is a Steve Howe steel guitar and lead guitar master class. So, Relayer and the rest of Close to the Edge will keep you busy for a while on the Yes front. Oh.....also....you noted you are already familiar with 90125. If you like that one, my favorite statement by that line up was 1994's Talk. Top to bottom a Rabin/ Anderson masterpiece. Even contains an epic Yes piece called Endless Dream, which is definitely 90s sounding, but just dripping with call backs and tips of the hat to the 70s lineup devices. An amazing album, and has some of Jon' s peak vocal work.
@Satanic Panic Fun and Games
The recording / performance of gates at cobo hall (yesshows) is the greatest piece of music I've ever heard. I listen to it almost every day :)
Josh you really get it! So much to say...the older you get the richer this and so many other Yes songs will become to you. I am 62 and have been enjoying Yes since the very early 70's. I love watching the reaction videos of all you wonderful young people being blown away by the music of my era. In fact, I may start doing reaction videos of the REACTION VIDEOS! HA!
I watch videos of the young ones hearing for the first time artists like Yes, ELP, Queen, The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Pink Floyd, Jethro Tull, Elton John, CCR, CSNY, Neil Young, The DOORS, etc. etc. ETC. The list goes on and on.
Imagine being 12 years old and turning on the radio and hearing Dylan, flipping the station and hearing The Beatles, flipping the station and hearing The DOORS, flipping the station and hearing Pink Floyd, flipping the station and hearing Neil Young! It was like Macaulay Culkin in Home Alone ..."AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!"
No wonder so many comments from young listeners these days write things like "Damn, you guys grew up with the best music ever...our music these days is lame as..."
Steve Howe-Guitar/Vocals Rick Wakeman-Keyboards Chris Squire-Bass/Vocals Bill Bruford-Drums/Percussion
Jon Anderson-Lead Vocal/percussion Eddie Offord-Studio/Live Show Producer-Engineer
I think you got infected now ;-) It started for me in 1974 ... with the album Yessongs. (I can only recommend). There is a little music universe, waiting to be discovered by you. Since you have to start somewhere, discovering ... maybe with "Heart Of The Sunrise" from the album Yessongs.
For me it was also the album Yessongs.
Yess, thank you for the suggestion!😁🙏🏽
Great reaction, the next track on the album, 'And You and I', followed by 'Awaken'.
You know Rush were massive Yes fans, along with Tool and Dream Theater.
Thank you! I actually got into Rush because of Yes haha😆🙏🏽
@@joshrisakotta3730 ditto, it was Yes first for me. Then early Genesis and then Rush.
I also listened to 90125 for years, I never heard Close to The Edge or anything else by Yes until I went to the ABWH concert in 1989. The only exception being 'Awaken' which remains my favourite piece of music by anyone ever 😊
Awaken isn't actually on Close to the Edge, it's on Going for the One. The next track after And You And I is Siberian Khatru.
@@yeslyrics8018 Yup, he should listen to AYAI 'followed by' Awaken, not that the track follows on the album. 🙂
@@GlobalWarring ah right, I understand now
I saw my first YES concert 1973 at college....Seen them another 30+ times since. Thanks for keeping the music alive, it's very important that this genius production never fades away.
It made me tear up when i first heard this as a teenager in the mid-70s. Great reaction, young fellow.
My two, legendary, favourite albums are: Yes "Fragile" and Wishbone Ash "Arghus"
My wife and I Vacationed in Germany and the travel agent booked us through SeaTac to LAX them Germany. I found out the Yes was going to be in San Diego the day before we would fly out of LA. So we were able to set thing up to drive to Dan Diego and back to LA the neat morning. What a great show. Alan Parson project was the worm up group.
I was looking for Yes reactions and found your channel! Excellent video and I made sure to subscribe to your channel after seeing it! Greetings from Brazil! 🇧🇷
This song is more modern jazz than rock, I’ve always felt!
"Close to the Edge" both the song and the album are masterpieces no doubt. It literally brings you 'close to the edge' When you are ready to go beyond the edge, listen to "Awaken" from "Going for the One". From there, you can see beyond the edge in all directions, including up and down.
I really enjoyed your reaction. Mind blowing isn't it?
I am SO HAPPY you listened to this! Older songs by yes are beyond unbelievable!! Thank you thank you thank you for turning on your audience to what kind of brilliance existed beyond comprehension. The band themselves said that they thought the perfect song expressing who they really were was HEART OF THE SUNRISE. I would love you to react to that one. It’s glorious!
OH! You DID I just saw. OK, just subscribed 😍
For an old guy who's listened to many of these songs a hundred times, watching an enthusiastic and open minded young person experiencing it for the first time let's me have that feeling again. Please, do more Genesis, King Crimson and Yes!
Anderson, Bruford, Wakeman, Howe, and Squire are the musicians on Close to the Edge.
Alright young man I like your passion and enthusiasm listen to more yes and pink Floyd it's good for your soul😊
Thank you!!🙏🏽😁
Absolutely, without question, the best Prog record ever made.
IMHO "Classic" YES ends pretty much with Going For The One. Tormato was a mixed bag, and after that I really struggle to enjoy their music, which by now is the majority of their catalogue. Probably my loss, but that's the way it goes.
It's a joy to see a young whippersnapper really appreciating YES.
Helps me hear it fresh as an added bonus
Thanks, man!
Agreed
In my opinion this was their finest line up
"Close to the Edge" is one of the all time classic masterpieces of Prog. It blows me away every single time I hear it and I've been listening to it for the past 40 years. Congratulations on your experience. At the time of this recording the members were:
Jon Anderson - vocals
Steve Howe - guitars, vocals
Rick Wakeman - keyboards
Bill Bruford - percussion
Chris Squire - bass, vocals
Nothing comes CLOSE to " Cloe to the Edge". Immaculate musicians. I was 12 when this came out and then I saw them at 15 years old with my "catholic HS teacher". Greatest band ever. JON ANDERSON is an ANGEL ! STEVE, CHRIS, RICK AND BILL are too!
You made my day... this was so fun to watch with you. I saw them perform this live when it first came out and it was sublime and done to perfection ❤️
Good lord young man,your face and silence spoke volumes . fabulous reaction .💎💎👍
Welcome to Prog’s cloud eleven tune! Notice they don’t play gazillion notes from start to finish (as in ‘Look what I can do!), no triple bassdrums, but a superb way to carry a 28:40 tune without a weak moment, even finding a way to slip in a psychedelic part ‘à la Echoes’.
Very gratifying to see someone react so appreciatively to this.
it's just a masterpiece- no pro-tools, no pitch correction, and no "gridding" (notice how all the stop hits are all "ritarded"- wouldn't happen on today's recordings...)...
Years of playing together, Bruford and Squire are “beyond counting” and while you can describe many songs as the band pushing the beat or laying back, they are in a whole different reality, you don’t get that with drum machines and sequencing.
It’s like Michelangelo sculpting or Richard Feynman doing physics, you can’t explain it.
Apart fron that bezerk intro, that crazy ‘counterpoint’ between 8:32 and 9:13 is so amazing. CTTE is the epitome of Prog Rock, never been equalled, certainly never topped.
Absolutely incredible, huh?! Love your reactions to this band. My favorite of all time, btw.
Bill bruford has some of the most kick ass drumming in this song
Another discovers the amazing journey that is Yes. This masterpiece is the greatest example of prog rock known to date. After listening to this magnum opus for more than 40 years I am still saddened when it ends.
I saw them perform this live "in the round" - they were on a revolving stage. A.m.a.z.i.n.g.
I dig your enthusiasm bro. I have heard this song many times and it seems normal to me, but when I see someone discovering it for the first time and enjoying it so much I suppose I remember what drew me to their music in the first place. I have seen so many of you reaction guys get blown away by this song that it might be the top song ever in reaction world. Personally I like The Gates of Delirium as much or maybe even a little more.
I know exactly how you feel, bud.
I love your completely uncensored, unfiltered reaction. Subscribed!
I first saw YES on Dec 16 74 I was 16. They blew my mind. I have never missed them since.82 times so far. I tear up every time for CTTE. As well as many others. I loved watching you enjoy this so much.
Was that the "Tales From Topographic Oceans" tour?
@@kathy2trips No it was the very start of the Relayer Tour. with Patrick Moraz.
@@llibzlov I'm asking because I saw the "Tales" Tour with Yes in February that year with Rick Wakeman. I still have my program! 😊 Must have been a busy year!
@@kathy2trips I remember our tickets kept getting rescheduled, finally we got the Dec 16, and Relayer had not been released yet. Minds were blown that night in Chicago. I was 16.
The level of genius on display here is staggering... what a composition, what an arrangement.
Peter Banks had left the band and the guitarist here is Steve Howe
the first time I've seen you on RUclips. I am impressed. It's like it was a kid again listening to this album for the first time. I can see the Joy on your face. I first saw Yes in 1971 they were the unknown backup band for Jethro Tull
I feel you bro. This song has everything, the transition, the instrumentation and most importantly the BASS!!!
This was fun, watching you get close to the edge! You'll grow from this. King Crimson is another relative band, the same drummer. There is a bit of a prog revival right now. The new stuff is decent. Based on the videos you have posted, you may appreciate "Halcyon" by Elder. It's hard to imagine that it came out last year, it has a classic-prog feel. "This Visual Hex" by Vulkan has some nice keyboard parts.
Your reaction is the exactly same reaction I had a 16 in 1972. There's not enough ways to try to explain this visceral sonic experience. Creme du jour.
Great reaction
Thank you!!😁🙏🏽
One of the truly perfect albums the whole record is perfect with probably my favorite song intro ever.
The line up for this album is "the classical one" Ion Anderson vocals. Steve Howe guitars. Chris Squire bass, Bill Brudford drums and Rick Wakeman on keyboard/tangents
Your reaction makes me smile!
This song..This group does the same for me! I’m a huge fan! I’ve seen Yes many times..(55+ times)😄 and I’m not even considered a die hard!
This song Live Front Row is an Experience!! Memories Forever!❤️✌️🤘
He is a very clever young man. I'm hooked on his channel. The final minute or two, before the birds & water fade, he's waving his hands like he can't take any more. It has helped me re-appreciate this classic which I've taken for granted for decades.