Yes Close To The Edge 1972 Gatefold Original Vinyl Record

Yes Close To The Edge 1972 Gatefold Original Vinyl Record

Own a piece of progressive rock history with this original 1972 gatefold vinyl of Yes' Close to the Edge. Featuring epic tracks like the title piece and “And You and I,” this album showcases the band's virtuosity and creativity at their peak. With iconic Roger Dean artwork, this is a must-have for progressive rock fans and vinyl collectors alike!

Cover: VG++ (Nice Cover)
Inner Sleeve: Generic sleeve
Record: VG+ (has a few hairlines) 
SD 7224 
ST-A_722619-SP
We grade our records conservatively.

Yes’ Close to the Edge (1972 Gatefold Vinyl Record) is a progressive rock masterpiece, widely regarded as one of the greatest albums in the genre. Released on September 13, 1972, this album represents the band’s peak creativity and complex musicality. Featuring just three tracks, each epic in scope, the album showcases the virtuosic talents of all the band members, with intricate arrangements, lengthy compositions, and a fusion of rock, classical, and jazz influences.

Overview:

• Artist: Yes
• Album Title: Close to the Edge
• Release Date: September 13, 1972
• Label: Atlantic Records
• Format: Gatefold Vinyl
• Genre: Progressive Rock

Notable Tracks:

1. “Close to the Edge” (18:43) – The title track, divided into four distinct movements, is a monumental piece of progressive rock. It blends complex time signatures, dynamic shifts, and a journey-like structure, making it one of Yes’ most ambitious works.
2. “And You and I” (10:08) – A more melodic and emotional song compared to the title track, it combines acoustic guitar, lush keyboards, and uplifting harmonies in a multi-part suite that explores themes of life and spirituality.
3. “Siberian Khatru” (8:55) – The shortest track on the album but still dynamic, with driving guitar riffs, intricate bass lines, and catchy vocal melodies, it's one of the band's more accessible yet still progressive songs.

Musical Style:

Close to the Edge is quintessential progressive rock, characterized by its elaborate song structures, extended instrumental sections, and fusion of various musical influences. The album showcases Yes at their technical best, with Steve Howe’s intricate guitar work, Chris Squire’s innovative bass playing, Rick Wakeman’s virtuosic keyboard performances, and Jon Anderson’s ethereal vocals. The band’s precise musicianship and complex arrangements helped define the progressive rock sound of the 1970s.

Album Packaging:

The gatefold sleeve is adorned with iconic artwork by Roger Dean, featuring his signature surreal, otherworldly landscapes that became synonymous with Yes’ visual identity. Inside, the gatefold offers additional artwork and album credits, contributing to the immersive experience of the album.

Reception & Legacy:

Close to the Edge was both a commercial and critical success, reaching No. 3 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 4 on the US Billboard 200. It is hailed as one of the greatest progressive rock albums of all time and has influenced countless bands in the genre. Its ambition and execution represent the high watermark of progressive rock, with many considering it Yes’ finest work.

For vinyl collectors, the 1972 original gatefold pressing is a prized item, especially for fans of progressive rock. The combination of intricate music, iconic artwork, and the band’s creative zenith makes this a must-have for any serious collector

Record grading:

• Mint (M): Absolutely perfect in every way, likely never played, and still sealed.

• Near Mint (NM or M-): Nearly perfect. The record shows no obvious signs of wear and looks as if it was just opened. No visible marks or scratches.

• Very Good Plus (VG+): Shows slight signs of use, such as light scuffs or very minor scratches, but plays without any major deterioration in sound quality.

• Very Good (VG): Noticeable wear with some surface noise, light scratches, or groove wear, but still plays through without skipping.

• Good/Good Plus (G/G+): The record plays but with significant surface noise, scratches, and wear. The cover may have visible damage or splits.

• Fair/Poor (F/P): The record may be damaged and is barely playable. Typically used only for highly collectible records.

Cover grading:

• Mint (M): The cover is flawless, with no signs of wear. Often still sealed with no corner dings, creases, or ring wear.

• Near Mint (NM or M-): The cover looks almost new, with only the slightest signs of handling. There may be very minimal wear, but no significant flaws like writing, splits, or tears.

• Very Good Plus (VG+): The cover shows light wear, such as minor scuffing, small corner creases, or slight ring wear. No major damage, but a well-cared-for album with minor imperfections.

• Very Good (VG): Moderate wear is visible, including ring wear, light edge or corner damage, small seam splits, or slight discoloration. Still presentable but clearly used.

• Good/Good Plus (G/G+): The cover shows significant wear, such as noticeable ring wear, seam splits, heavy creasing, or writing. It may still hold together but looks heavily worn.

• Fair/Poor (F/P): The cover is heavily damaged, with major seam splits, tears, extensive writing, water damage, or severe ring wear. It may barely hold together or be incomplete.