This week marks five decades since progressive rock band Yes released their 5th studio album Close To The Edge.

When it was released in September 1972, Close To Edge was the band’s biggest commercial success peaking at No. 4 on the UK album charts and No. 42 on the Billboard Hot 100. The record was not the typical hit success considering its lengthy tracks. Only three songs make up Close To The Edge with the title track marked at 18 minutes and 42 seconds. Yes proved that short, catchy pop songs were not the only way to succeed.

Close To The Edge would be Yes’s final album of the 1970s to feature original drummer Bill Bruford, who would be replaced by Alan White starting with the 90-date tour supporting the album. The rest of the record’s lineup included lead vocalist Jon Anderson, guitarist Steve Howe, bassist Chris Squire, and keyboardist Rick Wakeman.

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Close To The Edge by listening to its title track here: