I love the way the song comes out of the first huge instrumental section to reduce down to the 12-string acoustic guitar and voice with absolutely no reverb. Just gorgeous.
Awesome Alivia The look of pure joy in time signature changes, instrument introduction, and your absolute grasp of musical genius is so refreshing. Modern day 70s girl at heart 👍
Ladies and gentlemen Chris Squire and Yes the greatest show on earth. Tears of joy are the highest form of flattery 🙏🍁 A song called Turn Of The Century is a beautiful love story give a spin
The symphonic bridge at 6:45 feels like I'm dreaming of flying above the heavens with the love of my life in my hand, embracing each other in blissful peace
My favorite song by Yes! Love your reaction! The lyrics for a lot of Yes's music from this time are intentionally open ended. The beauty of that, I'd say, is that you can find your own connection to them!
Enjoyed your reaction so very much! First, I want you to know that this music DID get played on major FM radio stations in the 1970's in it's full versions. I remember hearing Yes for the first time as a young teenager in the mid 70's. It stopped me in my tracks and I was instantly taken away to a musical world I didn't know existed. Many years later, I come back to yes and it still feels new.
True, but that's only because those (locally owned) FM stations were free to play what their DJs wanted. Even the mainstream Top 40 stations allowed for much more deviation from national playlists than any broadcast format today will permit, and that led to greater variety even on AM. One result was the radio edits we despise now but which, back then, gave "album bands" wider exposure.
@@Yaktahbay Shout out the late great, Ed Sciaky a Philadelphia radio legend. Chris Squire of YES credited Ed this way: "Ed was very helpful to our band in the early days of Yes, being one of the first DJs in Philly and the U.S. to adopt Yes music". If I close my eyes I can still hear Ed's voice telling stories and adding context around all my favorite Artists, especially on WIOQ. RIP Ed.
I've had many moments in my life when I've been down because of life's traumas: emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Over 20 years ago, I had cancer, and I was alone at my home most of the time with family far away and friends busy with their lives most of the time. I listened to a lot of uplifting music. It was Yes that really lifted me. As I had cancer, I didn't even have the energy to watch television or read a book. It was Yes that lifted me. There is a divine element to their music that cannot be denied. It is here in that majestic, lifting, slow section that one can touch grace and feel the power of the universe lifting within. God bless.
The Close to the Edge album is where Yes went full on peak Prog. Which continued heavily through the next two Tales From Topographic Oceans and Relayer to make up the holy trinity of their catalog. The songs were made up of orchestrated movements that tell a story like an opera. As for some seeming gibberish in the lyrics others have given good explanations for that. Otherwise, the lyrics do have meaning, but I have always thought you have to feel them rather than hear them. Dad, I think, had a good feel for them at the end. It's a love story ultimately. You have humanities struggles and spiritual journey through time, but in the end, all of that doesn't matter. The only thing that matters is the love between he and his partner.
For me, Fragile has a really special place in my heart. Both Fragile and Close to the Edge are Yes' peak IMO. Once Bruford left, it wasn't the same. 90125 is another I love but it's a different band to me.
You sit open-mouthed at the virtuosity of the guitar, bass and drums. With Jon's voice leading you away, and then Rick Wakeman tears out your heart with sublime soundwaves from his keyboards. Can music be any better than this?
I was WAITING for Alivia's reaction and knew it was going to happen at 6:45 in this video when they hit the first instrumental passage theme. That moment is one of the most beautiful pieces of music ever created, and Alivia's reaction was almost rapturous in nature. She had already heard the amazing vocal harmonies prior to this a minute before and reacted well, but then THAT moment hit and it took her to another level, just like it continues to take me over 40 years later. Bravo.
Yes. Top 5 favorite bands. And You And I. Top 3 Yes Songs. Easy math. For me, And You And I is one of the best Rock Symphonies ever written and performed. There are 4 parts to it. A love story.
Absolute Masterpiece. Glad you love it. I’ve only been listening to it for 51 years. I saw this whole Album Live in 1973 and I saw it Live just 4 weeks ago, (July 2023), in London. Yes Founder Jon Anderson, performing with the ‘Paul Green Rock Academy’, from the US. Absolutely magical. 🎶❤️🎶
Thank you for that lovely reaction. Many Yes songs “hit me in the feels” - this one especially often gets me tearing up with grateful thoughts for my wife as well. Hopefully Silas will also get a chance to experience “And You & I” - one of my favorite Yes songs from one of my absolute favorite albums ever. 🤘🏼🎧🤟🏼
Thank you Alivia for your reaction which reminded this 66 yr old what it was like to first hear the astonishing synergies of this song. Yes music is thematic & emotional with surprising dynamic shifts that left the 16 yr old me with the same facial expressions you had. But that was 50 yrs ago, so thank for this delightful reminder!!
I like the lyricism because, like the music, they're art. There are words that hint at a meaning or a mood, and the listener is free to interpret for themselves.
Anderson often talks about the books and other sources that have inspired his lyrics.For example, Close To The Edge was inspired by the Herman Hesse novel, Siddhartha. So, no it isn’t just gibberish.
Love this song, I'm so glad you appreciate it, Alivia! As a high school kid in the 80's, I only knew the 80's Yes, which is much different than their 70's work. I bought Classic Yes on cassette tape and used to listen to it during my drive to and from college and it made me appreciate this and other early Yes songs.
I have been listening to music of all genres very intensively for 50 years. Two things manifested themselves with me: 1. the Beatles are right at the top, untouchable and unrivaled. 2. Yes is afterwards the best rock band of all time.
I have 9 bands, in any order you like, right after the Beatles: The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, The WHO, YES, ELP, Black Sabbath and Queen. They all are equally good for me and will always be heard.
It is such a joy watching people - younger and "more mature" - discover this genre of music (Rush/Yes/ELP; etc.). I truly can't remember a time when I didn't have this music in my soul (it was certainly before middle/high school. Someone mentioned earlier that Turn of the Century was important; absolutely. Any of their albums are a great starting point. The only real radio song from the earlier Yes catalog was Roundabout (in an edited version). They were inducted into R&RHOF by Alex and Geddy. Ged played bass on the induction concert as Chris Squire has passed away and was one of his major influences.
The 1st video I ever caught was "My Girlfriend (Alivia) And I React To Yes - Roundabout For The First Time!!!" - 9 Months ago. It's been a trip or two since then. It's nice to see Alivia & Pop's keepin' the lights burning while Silas is away. He's going to be bummed that he was not there for that song, but I guarantee he will enjoy watching it. God Bless You All - Billy T
PS back in the 70's with the NEW FM Radio Band. They played the entire song both sides full length. Reason being the music headed in the prog direction and everyone was making album side version of their own music. ELP King Crimson Genesis etc... So radio had to follow or get left behind. Quick story I was born and raised in Philadelphia FM radio station WMMR 93.3 had a DJ named Ed Shockey . When he heard YES for the first time he promoted them and played all their music regardless of length of song. This got back to the young YES musicians. They came to Phila and told everyone that Philadelphia is their home. And Thanked Ed for believing in them. And from that show on they always had signs in the crowd saying WELCOME HOME. Jon Anderson at one point renamed Roundabout and called it The Philly Shuffle. True story heard it with my own 2 ears. Thanks for bringing these memories back to me. Tears of Joy roll down my face seeing YES music alive and kicking all these years later. They were way ahead of their time.
OK, a perfect example of the mindblowing power of YES. They were the GODS of overlaying melodies & sounds. Each member, including drummer here were together MASTERS of interweaving sonic patterns. DONT BELIEVE the generic noise from fans & critics. THE WORDS DO HAVE MEANING, though often metaphoric, pictorial, and symbolically abstract. He did use the sound and chants brilliantly as another instrument, which enhances the unconventional structure of the songs. YES were the greatest even amongst other Prog Elites. I was 16 in 72 when the full possibilities of Music were revealed to me thru YES especially LIVE in stadium venues with incredible 70s set designs
Watching them live in concert they sounded exactly like you hear it on the album, very master musicianship, very professional in concert and they always had the best sound system. An amazing concert, amazing group.
So satisfying to see Alivia's appreciative reactions during the dreamy, cosmic parts with the half beats (never knew that's what they were called) because that's long been my favorite part of this, my favorite Yes song, along with the four phrase vocal ending which is emotionally poingnant. Pleased to know John? was touched as I really couldn't tell (or notice) until he actually said so.
Possibly most people may have attention spans of gold fish (or, more probable, radio stations wrongfully assume they have), but around december 27th every year the full18+ minutes of the title song of Close to the Edge will be played on our national radio. Because it is still around place 1800 in the Dutch top 2000 and every song will be played in full in the last week on the year.
O just turned 79 been listening to prog all my life saw every tour they did fantastic musicians never stop listening to music art of recipe for long life
Oh man, "this is SO good." That warms my heart because this music will live forever. Yes, doesn't matter what time or background you come from, including professional music teachers. (I try to play drums) Almost everybody loves it. Now that makes me want to get the Deluxe Edition. I say this being probably one generation older than Dad. Believe me, back in the day (70's) this would have been more common on radio. This is real music. Today's music is processed crap. Most of it.
I was born in 1965. I bought my first yes album at a flee market around Atlanta because of the beautiful album cover. When I laid the needle down I feel so in love with this most beautiful, sometimes aggressive, most fucking awesome music I have til this day ever heard. Thank you for the best feelings I've ever felt threw my eats straight to my heart ❤❤
Something of a love song IMHO, but to what/whom is moot. I love this piece in particular as a great intro to Yes for the uninitiated or just after a 1st hearing of Roundabout. Every musician in the band was a master of their instrument and the group dynamic present in the composition here is astounding. The real deal prog-rock. It takes thousands of listenings before you get bored of it.
Absolutely good choice❤. I can listen to the album Close To The Edge in any mood and it puts me in a good mood. As a youngster, the three long "journey" songs I had first only on the subsequently released triple live album Yessongs, so brilliant. Relayer is a fantastic album, but I have to adjust and let myself go, can't just listen to it casually e.g. drivving. I also love #3/The Yes album, Fragile and the more commercial Going For The One. I can only say Yes, Yes, Y....
I dont know if it was because the 70's were such a turbulent time in my life, but still each and every time I hear this song [or this album] I get instantly flooded with memories, and I feel like both laughing with joy and crying at the same time. Truly powerful music.
YES was a great group, I seen them in concert in 1976 (in Philadelphia) with Peter Frampton; The Yes album, Fragile and Close to the Edge are definitely my favorite albums and this song is a masterpiece
This song made me cry live, the girls next to me started it, you are just astounded that they could actually do this live just as if they are in the studio. They did the entire Close to the Edge album that night, unreal band, progressive champions.
Okay let me do this again! Love this song!!! I have the album playing.......right now....and this song always makes me cry...it is so beautiful!!! It is like you and your partner are being lifted into the Heavens....so good....Yes are the pioneers of Progressive Rock....They are the gods of Progressive Rock!!!! No doubt!!!! Good reactions!!! Knew you guys would like this song!!!!
You just can't get better than 70s YES and the Album Close to the Edge, which this came from, is their pinnacle for me and many millions more. Just a special album, sound and considering how great the individual players are, they are actually greater than the sum of their parts. Along with ELP and Pink Floyd were always my favorite prog rock bands. They just have a massive, cosmic, orchestral sound and I could see in your faces how we have felt since the early 70s. Saw them a bunch of times with various lineup but the early to mid 70s was utter magic! You should do Close to the Edge and Siberian Khatru, the other epics from that album. All 3 of those songs made it on FM radio and still can be heard at times. Being rediscovered by new generations, this music will never be forgotten. Enjoy! 🎵🎸🎤🎹🎶🎵
You said it, Dad: "It transports you." Prog intrepidly takes you on a journey. I adore these courageous young sojourners in an era - only one decade - that celebrated such pioneers.
The way it used to be done: No auto-tune, no samplers, no sequencers. Just a 12 string guitar, a slide gutar, a Rickenbacker bass, a hammond b3, piano, 2 Minnimoogs and 2 Mellotons. That was 5 guys playing way, way above their pay grade or body weight.
This song does actually happen to have meaning behind it! The lead singer Jon Anderson said it portrays a mother/wife who has passed away and a father who talks to their daughter about her mother and the journey of life. Enjoy the rabbit hole!
Even with your information, it's very hard to read that. However, I came to the same conclusion it is about a life's journey. Clearly he was struggling at first "I listened hard but could not see". Needing a preacher and a teacher to make some sense. And it ends well with the lovely "and you and I's". Still, it's a mystery who the "you" is. I thought it was the world we live in, but if Jon says it's about a daughter, I can't disagree. It's just, that there's no reference.
I’ve seen MANY concerts but seeing YES in 1982 (Cleveland, Oh) was one of those “life-altering” shows. Pink Floyd, Frank Zappa, The Allman Brothers, Miles Davis, were a few that had similar impacts. Great pick! ❤️👍🏼🫡
Amen to that man, seeing YES do Close to the Edge live, Pink Floyd twice in the 70s and the original WHO do it for me. The shows we saw were on another level compared with anything happening in this century!
@@vicprovost2561 Amen to that! (I was at the Cincinnati show in 1979 where 11 kids got trampled trying to get through the ONE door the idiots decided to open. Me and my two buddies made it through quickly and had no idea what had happened until after the show.)
@@gregusmc2868 Utter tragedy, we had a similar, general admission show for the WHO in Springfield MA, they opened one bank of 4 single doors so it was a tight squeeze but no one was trampled. Great gig!
At times, Jon Anderson needed a certain number of syllables to complete a line. Many times opting for syllables/words that made no sense. "Battle ships confide in me and tell me where you are". "How can the wind with its arms all around me". "Dreamer easy in the chair that really fits you" etc etc.
Yes, they are the 'adults' in the room! Silas does bring a unique enthusiasm to his vids and just glad young people are discovering this timeless music.
I've been a dyed in the wool Yes fan for most of my life. I attended the Close to the Edge concert tour in 1973, at the age of 11. It's hard to pick, but I think this was probably their best album ever. Fragile, Close to the Edge, and Relayer. Prog rock at its finest.
Yes composed so many wonderful sonic journeys. Their musical vision is emotional and ambitious in a way that the composers of the past would approve. I'll recommend that Alivia hear Starship Trooper at some point, and imagine the engines of a mighty starship firing up to transport her to alien worlds and bittersweet adventures.
Favorite band, favorite song, favorite album. Can't go wrong. The lyrics actually do have meaning. Deep meaning. Just listen to them as being adjacent to the spirit of the music. It's more about the associative, and less about the literal. Rinse and repeat and and you'll start to get it.
After loving the song for decades, I was pleased to learn that the main riff is quite easy to play on guitar. The three chords anyway. The other side is the profound masterpiece, but this is in their top 5. Great share y'all, thanks! Dhanyavada.
Your reaction to the section at 6:44 is exactly the same as mine when this record came out. It inspired me to persue my career in music. I too have had tears in my eyes from this piece.
My slightly older girlfriend introduced me to Yes, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppellin & others back in ‘77. She had wanted to be a Recording Engineer and described her love of the multi-layered instruments in the same way. Good for you for keeping this music out there and heard among your age group.
Seen Yes umpteen times, they never cease to amaze - re 'lyrics' - I always think of Yes lyrics a bit like those pictures made up of hundreds and hundreds of little photos, each bit makes sense, but they don't really have much to do with the overall message. As you said, part of the 'trip' was having the freedom to tag onto odd lines, phrases, expressions - and (as you said) somehow they make the words fit the tune. Great reaction (from an OLD hippie!) :)
The words are like abstract art. Upclose they are splotches of paint. Taking at a distance they are beautiful art. Welcome to YES. Saw them in 71 and became an immediate”Yes Head”.
As a Yes aficionado, I really enjoyed and appreciated both of your reactions and insights. Thank you!! You should listen to the whole album. The title song, "Close To The Edge" is the whole first side of the album. Side two is two songs.
My favorite song by yes!!! If I ever do go to another planet I have to have "Yes and "Pink Floyd's" full catalogs and I'll be fine!!!! They're both from another galaxy and not the Milky Way!!!!
1972 as a 12 yo was already familiar with YES thanks to my brother bringing home Fragile. The sound world blew me away Close To The Edge took things to another level. It was lovely to see Alivia's reactions 51 years on. Loved Dad's response too! The only downside was that you didn't immediately go on to Siberian Khatru because in my mind that's what happens from listening to the whole album so many times
So glad you took the time to listen to this musical masterpiece. Yes truly was the model for all the forthcoming progressive bands that sprouted up during the late 60's, early seventies. Also very few bands had so many different musicians in their line-up that contributed to the huge fantastic musical discography of Yes. Don't Stop listening!
I find this reaction really great. Dad has heard this before and is nodding and "mouthing the lyrics". While she is wide eyed and excited about what she is hearing.
Dad nailed it in his summation - well done! Terrific reaction from you both. Keep going - Close to the Edge (the song) is magic...18 minutes of magic to be sure! Yes was one of those extraordinarily distinct bands, in the same way as, for example, System of a Down - there's just nobody like them. But if you're looking for more prog beyond Yes, maybe try Roxy (Viva Roxy Music is a masterpiece) next... In Every Dream Home a Heartache or If There is Something from Viva Roxy - wildly underrated prog tunes...
Great prog band, my favourite tracks are; Close to the Edge, The Gates of Delirium and Awaken, all will take to you a space where you really feel like you are on a true journey, and come out wanting more. I hope you do listen to one of these in your future adventures, they are worth the time. I look forward to more heart felt reviews.
Kid, congratulations for becoming a Yes fan. They will serve you well. Welcome.
Could not agree more. They will serve you, your outlook, spirit, heart so well. A beautiful band. Yes, cosmically delicious. 😊
Well Said 😂❤❤🎉🎉🎉
I’ve been listening to this whole album all morning as I clean house. Super thankful that this artwork exists on our planet and in my life.
Yes is the greatest band of them all.
^ This.
1. The most heartbreakingly beautiful acoustic intro, and revisited.
2. Every time it feels like I'm flying off a cliff.
I love the way the song comes out of the first huge instrumental section to reduce down to the 12-string acoustic guitar and voice with absolutely no reverb. Just gorgeous.
Awesome Alivia The look of pure joy in time signature changes, instrument introduction, and your absolute grasp of musical genius is so refreshing. Modern day 70s girl at heart 👍
Close to the Edge (the song), Gates of Delirium and especially Awaken. Just perfect. Thanks for the great reaction. You were obviously loving it. 👍
Ladies and gentlemen Chris Squire and Yes the greatest show on earth. Tears of joy are the highest form of flattery 🙏🍁 A song called Turn Of The Century is a beautiful love story give a spin
Bring a box of tissues!
The symphonic bridge at 6:45 feels like I'm dreaming of flying above the heavens with the love of my life in my hand, embracing each other in blissful peace
My favorite song by Yes! Love your reaction! The lyrics for a lot of Yes's music from this time are intentionally open ended. The beauty of that, I'd say, is that you can find your own connection to them!
I can't tell you how happy it makes me to see you enjoying this song.
Enjoyed your reaction so very much! First, I want you to know that this music DID get played on major FM radio stations in the 1970's in it's full versions. I remember hearing Yes for the first time as a young teenager in the mid 70's. It stopped me in my tracks and I was instantly taken away to a musical world I didn't know existed. Many years later, I come back to yes and it still feels new.
True, but that's only because those (locally owned) FM stations were free to play what their DJs wanted. Even the mainstream Top 40 stations allowed for much more deviation from national playlists than any broadcast format today will permit, and that led to greater variety even on AM. One result was the radio edits we despise now but which, back then, gave "album bands" wider exposure.
@@Yaktahbay Shout out the late great, Ed Sciaky a Philadelphia radio legend.
Chris Squire of YES credited Ed this way: "Ed was very helpful to our band in the early days of Yes, being one of the first DJs in Philly and the U.S. to adopt Yes music".
If I close my eyes I can still hear Ed's voice telling stories and adding context around all my favorite Artists, especially on WIOQ.
RIP Ed.
In Chicago it was WSDM - Smack Dab in the Middle of your radio dial. All female DJs.
I heard Yours Is No Disgrace on WMMS in Cleveland one night, and went out and bought the album the next day. I was not disappointed.
I've seen Yes in concert 4 times, and each time I feel like I am floating out of the arena. They are always awesome.
Other worldly musicianship. And they have performed these songs live for over 50 years!
I've had many moments in my life when I've been down because of life's traumas: emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Over 20 years ago, I had cancer, and I was alone at my home most of the time with family far away and friends busy with their lives most of the time. I listened to a lot of uplifting music. It was Yes that really lifted me. As I had cancer, I didn't even have the energy to watch television or read a book. It was Yes that lifted me. There is a divine element to their music that cannot be denied. It is here in that majestic, lifting, slow section that one can touch grace and feel the power of the universe lifting within. God bless.
The Close to the Edge album is where Yes went full on peak Prog. Which continued heavily through the next two Tales From Topographic Oceans and Relayer to make up the holy trinity of their catalog.
The songs were made up of orchestrated movements that tell a story like an opera. As for some seeming gibberish in the lyrics others have given good explanations for that. Otherwise, the lyrics do have meaning, but I have always thought you have to feel them rather than hear them. Dad, I think, had a good feel for them at the end.
It's a love story ultimately. You have humanities struggles and spiritual journey through time, but in the end, all of that doesn't matter. The only thing that matters is the love between he and his partner.
For me, Fragile has a really special place in my heart. Both Fragile and Close to the Edge are Yes' peak IMO. Once Bruford left, it wasn't the same. 90125 is another I love but it's a different band to me.
This is a beautiful piece of music. Yes is definitely worthy of a deep dive...
You sit open-mouthed at the virtuosity of the guitar, bass and drums. With Jon's voice leading you away, and then Rick Wakeman tears out your heart with sublime soundwaves from his keyboards. Can music be any better than this?
No, and most of it isn't half this good.
No. Full stop (or Period, if that’s your thing)
I was WAITING for Alivia's reaction and knew it was going to happen at 6:45 in this video when they hit the first instrumental passage theme. That moment is one of the most beautiful pieces of music ever created, and Alivia's reaction was almost rapturous in nature. She had already heard the amazing vocal harmonies prior to this a minute before and reacted well, but then THAT moment hit and it took her to another level, just like it continues to take me over 40 years later. Bravo.
Yes. Top 5 favorite bands. And You And I. Top 3 Yes Songs. Easy math. For me, And You And I is one of the best Rock Symphonies ever written and performed. There are 4 parts to it. A love story.
I found this album in 1972, I loved it then and love it still, their music is beautiful to me, it brings tears to my eyes..
Absolute Masterpiece. Glad you love it.
I’ve only been listening to it for 51 years.
I saw this whole Album Live in 1973 and I saw it Live just 4 weeks ago, (July 2023), in London.
Yes Founder Jon Anderson, performing with the ‘Paul Green Rock Academy’, from the US.
Absolutely magical. 🎶❤️🎶
Another masterpiece song from that era! So creative - "I've seen all good people"
Steve Howe is an amazing guitar. And Chis Squire is an amazing bass player. Every member is outstanding
My all time favorite Yes song!! Your smile made me as happy as I was when I first heard it. Great reaction.
Thank you for that lovely reaction. Many Yes songs “hit me in the feels” - this one especially often gets me tearing up with grateful thoughts for my wife as well. Hopefully Silas will also get a chance to experience “And You & I” - one of my favorite Yes songs from one of my absolute favorite albums ever. 🤘🏼🎧🤟🏼
The artist for cover art is Roger Dean. He is touring with YES with exhibition.
YES and your appreciation of the band is all we need :)
Thank you Alivia for your reaction which reminded this 66 yr old what it was like to first hear the astonishing synergies of this song. Yes music is thematic & emotional with surprising dynamic shifts that left the 16 yr old me with the same facial expressions you had. But that was 50 yrs ago, so thank for this delightful reminder!!
I like the lyricism because, like the music, they're art. There are words that hint at a meaning or a mood, and the listener is free to interpret for themselves.
Anderson often talks about the books and other sources that have inspired his lyrics.For example, Close To The Edge was inspired by the Herman Hesse novel, Siddhartha. So, no it isn’t just gibberish.
Love this song, I'm so glad you appreciate it, Alivia! As a high school kid in the 80's, I only knew the 80's Yes, which is much different than their 70's work. I bought Classic Yes on cassette tape and used to listen to it during my drive to and from college and it made me appreciate this and other early Yes songs.
Nice reaction guys! YES was way ahead of their time for sure. Great song...thanks for sharing! I love that Alivia gets this song and this band!
I have been listening to music of all genres very intensively for 50 years. Two things manifested themselves with me: 1. the Beatles are right at the top, untouchable and unrivaled. 2. Yes is afterwards the best rock band of all time.
I have 9 bands, in any order you like, right after the Beatles: The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, The WHO, YES, ELP, Black Sabbath and Queen. They all are equally good for me and will always be heard.
It is such a joy watching people - younger and "more mature" - discover this genre of music (Rush/Yes/ELP; etc.). I truly can't remember a time when I didn't have this music in my soul (it was certainly before middle/high school. Someone mentioned earlier that Turn of the Century was important; absolutely. Any of their albums are a great starting point. The only real radio song from the earlier Yes catalog was Roundabout (in an edited version). They were inducted into R&RHOF by Alex and Geddy. Ged played bass on the induction concert as Chris Squire has passed away and was one of his major influences.
The 1st video I ever caught was "My Girlfriend (Alivia) And I React To Yes - Roundabout For The First Time!!!" - 9 Months ago. It's been a trip or two since then. It's nice to see Alivia & Pop's keepin' the lights burning while Silas is away. He's going to be bummed that he was not there for that song, but I guarantee he will enjoy watching it. God Bless You All - Billy T
Really loved your reaction and appreciation for this!! I was fortunate to see Yes on this Close to the Edge tour in 1973! An amazing experience!!
PS back in the 70's with the NEW FM Radio Band. They played the entire song both sides full length. Reason being the music headed in the prog direction and everyone was making album side version of their own music. ELP King Crimson Genesis etc... So radio had to follow or get left behind. Quick story I was born and raised in Philadelphia FM radio station WMMR 93.3 had a DJ named Ed Shockey . When he heard YES for the first time he promoted them and played all their music regardless of length of song. This got back to the young YES musicians. They came to Phila and told everyone that Philadelphia is their home. And Thanked Ed for believing in them. And from that show on they always had signs in the crowd saying WELCOME HOME. Jon Anderson at one point renamed Roundabout and called it The Philly Shuffle. True story heard it with my own 2 ears. Thanks for bringing these memories back to me. Tears of Joy roll down my face seeing YES music alive and kicking all these years later. They were way ahead of their time.
OK, a perfect example of the mindblowing power of YES. They were the GODS of overlaying melodies & sounds. Each member, including drummer here were together MASTERS of interweaving sonic patterns. DONT BELIEVE the generic noise from fans & critics. THE WORDS DO HAVE MEANING, though often metaphoric, pictorial, and symbolically abstract. He did use the sound and chants brilliantly as another instrument, which enhances the unconventional structure of the songs. YES were the greatest even amongst other Prog Elites. I was 16 in 72 when the full possibilities of Music were revealed to me thru YES especially LIVE in stadium venues with incredible 70s set designs
This album is over 50 years old. Came out my freshman year of high school way back in September 1972. Of course I had a copy.
Were there at the same time, same place, same journey.
Just think. In 1972, a 50 year old album would be from 1922!
Watching them live in concert they sounded exactly like you hear it on the album, very master musicianship, very professional in concert and they always had the best sound system. An amazing concert, amazing group.
Excellent! "Yes"
"And You And I" I hope you guys enjoy.
Yes is worthy of a deep deep dive.
So satisfying to see Alivia's appreciative reactions during the dreamy, cosmic parts with the half beats (never knew that's what they were called) because that's long been my favorite part of this, my favorite Yes song, along with the four phrase vocal ending which is emotionally poingnant. Pleased to know John? was touched as I really couldn't tell (or notice) until he actually said so.
Possibly most people may have attention spans of gold fish (or, more probable, radio stations wrongfully assume they have), but around december 27th every year the full18+ minutes of the title song of Close to the Edge will be played on our national radio. Because it is still around place 1800 in the Dutch top 2000 and every song will be played in full in the last week on the year.
O just turned 79 been listening to prog all my life saw every tour they did fantastic musicians never stop listening to music art of recipe for long life
This is my favourite Yes song of all time. Been listening to it for 50 years and it still moves me. Thanks enjoyed your reaction.
As a dad, I love this. I introduced my son to music, and now he teaches it.
Oh man, "this is SO good." That warms my heart because this music will live forever. Yes, doesn't matter what time or background you come from, including professional music teachers. (I try to play drums) Almost everybody loves it. Now that makes me want to get the Deluxe Edition. I say this being probably one generation older than Dad. Believe me, back in the day (70's) this would have been more common on radio. This is real music. Today's music is processed crap. Most of it.
I'm 69 and I missed Yes. So grateful I can hear it today!
I was born in 1965. I bought my first yes album at a flee market around Atlanta because of the beautiful album cover. When I laid the needle down I feel so in love with this most beautiful, sometimes aggressive, most fucking awesome music I have til this day ever heard. Thank you for the best feelings I've ever felt threw my eats straight to my heart ❤❤
Something of a love song IMHO, but to what/whom is moot. I love this piece in particular as a great intro to Yes for the uninitiated or just after a 1st hearing of Roundabout. Every musician in the band was a master of their instrument and the group dynamic present in the composition here is astounding. The real deal prog-rock. It takes thousands of listenings before you get bored of it.
Absolutely good choice❤. I can listen to the album Close To The Edge in any mood and it puts me in a good mood. As a youngster, the three long "journey" songs I had first only on the subsequently released triple live album Yessongs, so brilliant.
Relayer is a fantastic album, but I have to adjust and let myself go, can't just listen to it casually e.g. drivving. I also love #3/The Yes album, Fragile and the more commercial Going For The One. I can only say Yes, Yes, Y....
You are right about it being a love song. He wrote the song about his wife. She traveled with him to every show in every city with him.
I dont know if it was because the 70's were such a turbulent time in my life, but still each and every time I hear this song [or this album] I get instantly flooded with memories, and I feel like both laughing with joy and crying at the same time. Truly powerful music.
Best way to describe these songs, the music and lyrics is with the words ‘evocative-immersive’
YES was a great group, I seen them in concert in 1976 (in Philadelphia) with Peter Frampton; The Yes album, Fragile and Close to the Edge are definitely my favorite albums and this song is a masterpiece
The reaction on your face was priceless. It warms my heart to see this song touching the heart of one so young.
This song made me cry live, the girls next to me started it, you are just astounded that they could actually do this live just as if they are in the studio. They did the entire Close to the Edge album that night, unreal band, progressive champions.
Okay let me do this again! Love this song!!! I have the album playing.......right now....and this song always makes me cry...it is so beautiful!!! It is like you and your partner are being lifted into the Heavens....so good....Yes are the pioneers of Progressive Rock....They are the gods of Progressive Rock!!!! No doubt!!!! Good reactions!!! Knew you guys would like this song!!!!
I've been listening to this for over 50 years and it still gives me goosebumps.
Eclipse captures in music what I felt the first time I saw the Grand Canyon.
You just can't get better than 70s YES and the Album Close to the Edge, which this came from, is their pinnacle for me and many millions more. Just a special album, sound and considering how great the individual players are, they are actually greater than the sum of their parts. Along with ELP and Pink Floyd were always my favorite prog rock bands. They just have a massive, cosmic, orchestral sound and I could see in your faces how we have felt since the early 70s. Saw them a bunch of times with various lineup but the early to mid 70s was utter magic! You should do Close to the Edge and Siberian Khatru, the other epics from that album. All 3 of those songs made it on FM radio and still can be heard at times. Being rediscovered by new generations, this music will never be forgotten. Enjoy! 🎵🎸🎤🎹🎶🎵
That’s right. Never to be forgotten music.
You said it, Dad: "It transports you." Prog intrepidly takes you on a journey. I adore these courageous young sojourners in an era - only one decade - that celebrated such pioneers.
The way it used to be done: No auto-tune, no samplers, no sequencers. Just a 12 string guitar, a slide gutar, a Rickenbacker bass, a hammond b3, piano, 2 Minnimoogs and 2 Mellotons. That was 5 guys playing way, way above their pay grade or body weight.
This song does actually happen to have meaning behind it! The lead singer Jon Anderson said it portrays a mother/wife who has passed away and a father who talks to their daughter about her mother and the journey of life. Enjoy the rabbit hole!
Even with your information, it's very hard to read that. However, I came to the same conclusion it is about a life's journey.
Clearly he was struggling at first "I listened hard but could not see". Needing a preacher and a teacher to make some sense.
And it ends well with the lovely "and you and I's".
Still, it's a mystery who the "you" is. I thought it was the world we live in, but if Jon says it's about a daughter, I can't disagree. It's just, that there's no reference.
I’ve seen MANY concerts but seeing YES in 1982 (Cleveland, Oh) was one of those “life-altering” shows. Pink Floyd, Frank Zappa, The Allman Brothers, Miles Davis, were a few that had similar impacts. Great pick! ❤️👍🏼🫡
Amen to that man, seeing YES do Close to the Edge live, Pink Floyd twice in the 70s and the original WHO do it for me. The shows we saw were on another level compared with anything happening in this century!
@@vicprovost2561 Amen to that! (I was at the Cincinnati show in 1979 where 11 kids got trampled trying to get through the ONE door the idiots decided to open. Me and my two buddies made it through quickly and had no idea what had happened until after the show.)
@@gregusmc2868 Utter tragedy, we had a similar, general admission show for the WHO in Springfield MA, they opened one bank of 4 single doors so it was a tight squeeze but no one was trampled. Great gig!
Very nice!! Enjoyed your reaction and definitely your appreciation for true talent and creativity!!!! 💜😀
At times, Jon Anderson needed a certain number of syllables to complete a line. Many times opting for syllables/words that made no sense.
"Battle ships confide in me and tell me where you are".
"How can the wind with its arms all around me".
"Dreamer easy in the chair that really fits you" etc etc.
A beautiful word salad, open to your interpretation!
Lol, all of those lines make sense.
It's poetry. Use your imagination and Listen..
The two of you have a cool kinda chemistry, so it made the Silaslessness endurable. 😸
Yes, they are the 'adults' in the room! Silas does bring a unique enthusiasm to his vids and just glad young people are discovering this timeless music.
Greatest album ever recorded
Certainly one of them, it can proudly be displayed with Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin and a very select few. The very best.
I've been a dyed in the wool Yes fan for most of my life. I attended the Close to the Edge concert tour in 1973, at the age of 11. It's hard to pick, but I think this was probably their best album ever. Fragile, Close to the Edge, and Relayer. Prog rock at its finest.
Yes composed so many wonderful sonic journeys. Their musical vision is emotional and ambitious in a way that the composers of the past would approve. I'll recommend that Alivia hear Starship Trooper at some point, and imagine the engines of a mighty starship firing up to transport her to alien worlds and bittersweet adventures.
Great job!
Watching a 20 year old go through what I did at that age, 50 years ago gives me hope.
Favorite band, favorite song, favorite album. Can't go wrong. The lyrics actually do have meaning. Deep meaning. Just listen to them as being adjacent to the spirit of the music. It's more about the associative, and less about the literal. Rinse and repeat and and you'll start to get it.
^ This.
After loving the song for decades, I was pleased to learn that the main riff is quite easy to play on guitar. The three chords anyway. The other side is the profound masterpiece, but this is in their top 5. Great share y'all, thanks! Dhanyavada.
Im 71 years young bought this album when it came out i still dont know what there singing but i love it.
Your reaction to the section at 6:44 is exactly the same as mine when this record came out. It inspired me to persue my career in music. I too have had tears in my eyes from this piece.
And they could reproduce this (indeed, all of their music) flawlessly live. Sometimes even better than the studio versions.
My slightly older girlfriend introduced me to Yes, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppellin & others back in ‘77. She had wanted to be a Recording Engineer and described her love of the multi-layered instruments in the same way. Good for you for keeping this music out there and heard among your age group.
Seen Yes umpteen times, they never cease to amaze - re 'lyrics' - I always think of Yes lyrics a bit like those pictures made up of hundreds and hundreds of little photos, each bit makes sense, but they don't really have much to do with the overall message. As you said, part of the 'trip' was having the freedom to tag onto odd lines, phrases, expressions - and (as you said) somehow they make the words fit the tune. Great reaction (from an OLD hippie!) :)
Yes ( and Jethro Tull) is my favorite band for 50 years. They are remarkable.
The words are like abstract art. Upclose they are splotches of paint. Taking at a distance they are beautiful art. Welcome to YES. Saw them in 71 and became an immediate”Yes Head”.
As a Yes aficionado, I really enjoyed and appreciated both of your reactions and insights. Thank you!! You should listen to the whole album. The title song, "Close To The Edge" is the whole first side of the album. Side two is two songs.
This band was incredible to see in concert back in the early 70's
That pace change is known as a transition.This is one of the all time progressive rock classics!
It’s insane the massive quantity of outstanding Prog Rock was created during the 70s !!!
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
My favorite song by yes!!! If I ever do go to another planet I have to have "Yes and "Pink Floyd's" full catalogs and I'll be fine!!!! They're both from another galaxy and not the Milky Way!!!!
I'm well old and l've l have listened to this album more than any other piece of music and always find something new and fresh in it
1972 as a 12 yo was already familiar with YES thanks to my brother bringing home Fragile.
The sound world blew me away
Close To The Edge took things to another level.
It was lovely to see Alivia's reactions 51 years on.
Loved Dad's response too!
The only downside was that you didn't immediately go on to Siberian Khatru because in my mind that's what happens from listening to the whole album so many times
So glad you took the time to listen to this musical masterpiece. Yes truly was the model for all the forthcoming progressive bands that sprouted up during the late 60's, early seventies. Also very few bands had so many different musicians in their line-up that contributed to the huge fantastic musical discography of Yes. Don't Stop listening!
I appreciate dad's (?) marrital/spiritual sentiments. This song gets me that way, too. This is my favorite Yes album.
I find this reaction really great. Dad has heard this before and is nodding and "mouthing the lyrics". While she is wide eyed and excited about what she is hearing.
You've got a 'musical brain' girl! You know what you like and, more importantly, 'why' you like it - great appreciation of the musicianship, thanks!
Howe & Wakeman son mágicos...!!!!, saludos desde Chile...\../
Dad nailed it in his summation - well done! Terrific reaction from you both. Keep going - Close to the Edge (the song) is magic...18 minutes of magic to be sure! Yes was one of those extraordinarily distinct bands, in the same way as, for example, System of a Down - there's just nobody like them. But if you're looking for more prog beyond Yes, maybe try Roxy (Viva Roxy Music is a masterpiece) next... In Every Dream Home a Heartache or If There is Something from Viva Roxy - wildly underrated prog tunes...
My favorite song from my favorite band, nice.
The Preacher, The Teacher section is a perfect 3 min of music.
1of the 10 greatest albums ever. Period.
Great prog band, my favourite tracks are; Close to the Edge, The Gates of Delirium and Awaken, all will take to you a space where you really feel like you are on a true journey, and come out wanting more. I hope you do listen to one of these in your future adventures, they are worth the time. I look forward to more heart felt reviews.
It was fun coming home from school every day and hanging out with friends smoking weed and listening to Yes.
In your video, 10.49. Chris comes in with a bass line that takes us to another place - sublime!
Great reaction. In the top three Yes songs. It is fantastic from a brilliant album.
You need to see the official music video for this. It is extraordinary
Yes with Master music musicians and and a great lead singer!