Siberian Khatru

"Siberian Khatru"
Song

"Siberian Khatru" is the third song on progressive rock band Yes' album Close to the Edge and also appears live on Yessongs. It is notable for being the only song on Close to the Edge that is not a multi-part suite. However, Siberian Khatru contains several separate melodies, tones, and sections in the tradition of progressive rock. An interesting live version appears on the groups' 3-disc album set Yessongs which includes excerpts from The Firebird by Igor Stravinsky.

Structure

Siberian Khatru begins with an introductory guitar riff. This section, encompassing the first minute of the track, is in the uncommon 19/4 time signature. The time signature sounds like alternating 4/4 and 3/4, but, due to the progression of the bass line and keyboards, the measures extend to 15 beats. The lyrics start at about 1:05. The song progresses through various sections, featuring solos by Steve Howe and Rick Wakeman. The conclusion is similar to the introduction, returning to the 15/4 time signature.