Search - Yes :: Close to the Edge

Good entree into the world of SHM-CD

William R. Bettler | Indiana | 09/17/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you're like me (god help you) and you found the Led Z

eppelin box from Japan that came out two years ago in the SHM-CD format to be lackluster ("overly bright" is the phrase that comes to mind)this classic album by Yes might restore your interest in this format.



I won't go into details about the quality of "Close to the Edge"--for those who like 1970s prog-rock you probably already know that this was a high watermark.



What you need to know is that the SHM-CD is a revelation. The density of the original production of this album has led to some muddy-sounding Cds in the past, even the domestic releases of the early 2000s. I'm thrilled to say that this problem has been eliminated witht his SHM-CD release.



Individual instruments are clearly defined; textures can now be fully appreciated.



Further, this disc has an incredibly wide dynamic spectrum--the quiets are ultra-quiet and the louds are very loud (but not distorted). Also, the low-end is just superb. Chris Squire's innovative bass-work, long obscured by muddy mixes, is now glowing, funky, and radiant.



Another fun thing I noticed is that Rick Wakeman's stately pipe organ on the title track (long a demonstration disc dating back to the vinyl era) reveals that this disc is not only "wide" in its mix but "tall." The spatial qualities of a church/pipe organ are thrillingly recreated.



In summary, give SHM-CD a chance. I picked this up used on the Amazon Marketplace for about $25 and count it a real bargain. In the past I found a Yardbirds SHM-CD ("Little Games") and Emerson, Lake, and Palmer's self-titled debut for good prices ($16 and $40--ouch, that wasn't such a good price, but I do love the album). These are also good examples of how effective and magical the SHM-CD format can be.



I can't wait to try out the new SACD SHM-CD format cds but am waiting for prices to come down. In the meantime, you might want to treat yourself to this Yes classic."