Essential Listening #88: Siberian Katru

My Comments

The entire Close To The Edge Album by Yes could have been on the list. To me the entire album is one continuous story. It is better to listen to the entire album. I saw Steve Howe (billed as Yes but he was the only original member) last week in concert at Cynthia Woods Pavilion in The Woodlands. He still sounds great. I saw Steve Howe and Steve Hackett this year in what I consider to be my farewell tour. I doubt I’ll ever see them live again. They made great music all these years during my life time. I am eternally grateful to them.

Details

“Siberian Khatru” is a track by the British progressive rock band Yes, featured on their 1971 album Fragile. The song is known for its complex structure, intricate musicianship, and influential role in the progressive rock genre. Here’s a detailed look at “Siberian Khatru”:

Song Details

• Artist: Yes
• Album: Fragile
• Release Date: December 7, 1971
• Genre: Progressive rock
• Length: 5:58
• Label: Atlantic Records
• Producer: Yes

Band Members

• Jon Anderson: Vocals
• Steve Howe: Guitar
• Chris Squire: Bass guitar
• Rick Wakeman: Keyboards
• Alan White: Drums (replaced Bill Bruford, who left the band before the recording of Fragile)

Composition and Structure

“Siberian Khatru” is characterized by its progressive rock elements, including complex time signatures, shifting rhythms, and intricate arrangements. The song’s structure is non-traditional, reflecting the band’s innovative approach to songwriting.

Musical Structure

1. Introduction:
   • The song opens with a dynamic guitar riff from Steve Howe, accompanied by a rhythmic pattern that sets the stage for the rest of the composition.
   • The introduction features a blend of rock and classical influences, with Howe’s guitar work showcasing his technical skill.
2. Verse and Chorus:
   • The verses are marked by Jon Anderson’s ethereal vocals and Chris Squire’s driving bass lines.
   • The chorus transitions to a more upbeat and expansive section, featuring harmonized vocals and intricate guitar and keyboard arrangements.
3. Instrumental Sections:
   • The song includes several instrumental passages that highlight the band’s virtuosity. These sections often feature complex time changes and thematic variations.
   • Rick Wakeman’s keyboard work is prominent, providing both melodic and harmonic support throughout the song.
4. Guitar Solo:
   • Steve Howe’s guitar solo is a key feature of the song, showcasing his ability to blend technical proficiency with emotional expression.
   • The solo is characterized by its melodic phrasing and rapid changes in dynamics.
5. Conclusion:
   • The song concludes with a return to the main themes, bringing the various musical motifs together in a cohesive and climactic ending.
   • The final section features a powerful combination of vocals, guitar, and keyboards, creating a dramatic conclusion.

Lyrics and Themes

Mystical Imagery

• Lyrics: The lyrics of “Siberian Khatru” are known for their abstract and mystical quality. They reflect themes of exploration, adventure, and the search for knowledge.
• Imagery: The song’s lyrics incorporate imagery related to Siberian landscapes and mythical elements, adding to its enigmatic and expansive feel.

Conceptual Approach

• Progressive Rock Themes: The song fits within the broader themes of progressive rock, including complex musical structures and lyrical content that encourages interpretation and reflection.
• Exploration: The concept of exploration and discovery is central to the song, aligning with the progressive rock genre’s emphasis on pushing musical boundaries.

Critical Reception

• Acclaim: “Siberian Khatru” is often praised for its intricate composition and musicianship. Critics and fans alike regard it as one of the standout tracks on Fragile.
• Influence: The song’s innovative structure and technical complexity have influenced many progressive rock bands and musicians.

Influence and Legacy

Progressive Rock Genre

• Innovation: “Siberian Khatru” is a prime example of Yes’s contribution to the progressive rock genre, showcasing their ability to blend various musical styles and techniques.
• Impact: The song’s influence extends beyond its original release, with its innovative approach to composition and arrangement continuing to inspire musicians and bands in the progressive rock genre.

Live Performances

• Concert Staple: The song has been a staple of Yes’s live performances, often featuring extended instrumental sections and improvisational elements.
• Adaptations: Over the years, “Siberian Khatru” has been adapted and reinterpreted in various live performances, demonstrating its enduring popularity and versatility.

Album Context

• Fragile Album: Fragile is considered one of Yes’s most influential albums, featuring a mix of original compositions and individual member contributions. Other notable tracks from the album include “Roundabout” and “The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus).”
• Band Dynamics: The album marked a period of transition for the band, with Alan White joining as the new drummer and Rick Wakeman contributing his distinctive keyboard work.

Trivia

• Title: The title “Siberian Khatru” is often interpreted as a play on words, with “Khatru” possibly being a fictional or symbolic element related to the song’s mystical themes.
• Recording: The song was recorded at Advision Studios in London, reflecting the high production values and attention to detail characteristic of Yes’s work during this period.

Conclusion

“Siberian Khatru” is a testament to Yes’s innovative approach to progressive rock, blending complex musical structures with abstract and mystical lyrics. Its intricate composition, skilled musicianship, and thematic depth make it a standout track on the Fragile album and a classic example of the genre. Whether experienced through its original studio recording or live performances, “Siberian Khatru” continues to captivate audiences with its musical sophistication and artistic vision.