Rush

For the people who listen Rush for the first time, this is the Rush album you need, this is a clear example of their best work. The Rush from the 70's and 80's is an example of creativity, passion and variety, and is just one cd with 16 essential songs.

I couldn't stand Rush back in the 70s but now listening to them, I have to wonder what I was smoking back then. Fantastic guitar work and the bass - no wonder I always thought there were more in the band, he plays it like a regular guitar. If you download it into your iPod or MP3, there are only a couple of songs I'd delete which should have been allowed to die a quiet death. That said, be sure to listen to the less well-known songs at the back of the CD, pure genius.

what can i say about this band that hasn't already been said,this is the greatest band canada has ever produced,and arguably,the greatest rock band the world has ever seen.this collection,has all the rush classics on here,such as working man,fly by night,spirit of radio,tom sawyer,red barchetta,subdivisions,etc.a must have for any rush fan,and for those who aren't.great cd.

If you are looking for some of Rush's best's song here they are. there are so many more but it is a very good CD.I would recommend it very much as a 1st Rush CD or just a very good CD to keep in your car if you are "jonesing" for some good music.

Rush was always by far the best of the Gonad Squeezers. I mean Robert Plant was a Gonad Squeezer, but I'm not including Led Zeppelin as a Gonad Squeezer band just because. Maybe Zeppelin was the first Gonad Squeezer band, who cares, for all intensive purposes, Zeppelin was not a Gonad Squeezer, even though Plant was.

Anyway, Rush really wasn't a typical Gonad Squeezer band at all. They were in a different league. They were really good, not as good as Zeppelin of course, but we already maintained that Zeppelin was not a Gonad Squeezer band, even though Plant was. O.K., on with the review. Sheesh.

Now, lets review the bad Gonad Squeezer bands, not like a review review, but lets just review. REO Spunkwagon was the worst of the Squeezers. Journey was tied with Triumph as the 2nd worst of the nad squashers. Now we have quasi-squeezers and semi-squashers like Toto and that kind of junk.

Now, lets review the best of the Squeezers and super-nad squashers, the orignal original Gonad Squeezers. The Stories were excellent, they came from the remnants of The Left Banke, who were really 60's and way before the term Gonad Squeezer was invented. Also, the Raspberries were great, such a great Nard Smasher of a band a ball crunching feast fit for King Arthur of the Round Table.

Now, Rush came in the early 70's and had not so much influence from the Stories and Raspberries, maybe a very little, but really Gedi Lee was influenced by fellow squeezers Robert Plant and Ozzi Ozzborne. I really like Rush, my favorite all time lyric line is "We are the priests from the temples of Sphyrinx" but it should say "We are the priests from the temples of Larynx". I think that Geddi was thinking of the word Larynx when he came up with the word "Syphrinx" or whatever. Then it says "all our great computers or something are held within our walls". I always like that stuff, its very imaginative and creative. Hats of to Geddi and the boys.

Now, Ozzi Ozzbourne was definitely a Squeezer, maybe his range wasn't as high but he definitely squoze. Thats not so much a bad thing, its ok, you're alright Ozzi, but you are a squeezer. Geddi was a Squeezer, a good one. I walked into the 7-11 one day as a little kid in the 70's and even the cashier was a long haired wannabee gonad squeezer. Maybe there was an influx of chemicals back then that made people want to all be nard squashers and talk like they got their cue balls smashed with a handyman vice grip. Oh well, it was a bad trip for everyone and bands like Rush made it slightly better.

But REO superspunkwagon ruined everything. They were horrible. You know when you look at a picture from the 1700's and everyone has that certain outdated look, they look as if they are from a bygone era, they have bigger noses and huge round faces. Well, the singer from REO Spunkwagon has that outdated look also, he always looks outdated even when he was young he already had that "outdated" look. It's funny. What a dirty gonad Squeezer that guy was.

I would say, all in all, the best gonad squeezer of all time would have to be Pavarotti. That guy must have had a gerbal in his tidy whities to hit those notes. Yeah, Pavarotti, what a perfect nard squeeler, squeezer. Oh yeah and after Pavarotti came the Beach Boys, whole nuther review.

Rush's eigth studio release from 1981 "Moving Pictures" is without question one of the greatest classic/progressive rock albums of all time, as well as the band's best and most popular album to date. I got this cd a couple years back, and it has become one of my favorite classic rock albums that I proudly own and listen to, and I've also have become a fan of Rush lately. Rush are simply one of the greatest bands not just in progressive rock, BUT in rock in general. With top-notch production courtesy of Terry Brown, "Moving Pictures" is a certain album that truly lives up to all the hype, and this album definately deserves it. Every song on here is a true classic in their own rights, from legendary mainstream radio singles "Tom Sawyer" and "Limelight", to the nearly 11 minute epic "The Camera Eye" and the futuristic "Red Barchetta", to the ominous and menacing "Witch Hunt" and the godly, addicting instrumental "YYZ", seriously I don't even recall finding one bad song on this album, they're all boss. Let's not also forget about the band's superb, stunning, and complexed musicianship which is absoultely flat out amazing in all aspects. Geddy Lee's vocals are unique, powerful, and awesome, and he's also known to be one of rock's most talented and best bassists ever. His basslines are just thick, gritty, earthshaking, and downright incredible. I really like the bass tone on here, it's just awesome. Let's not also forget that Geddy knows how to manipulate the keyboards which are also top notch, and really add to Rush's sound on here as well. Alex Lifeson is an awesome guitarist, and he is really on fire here with his solid, hard rocking riffs, and awesome, dazzling solos that shred like a sharp razor blade. Neil Peart's drumming on here is absolutely death defying, perfectly timed, and off the hook. There's certainly no doubt that Neil is and always has been regarded as one of the greatest drummers in rock, and not to mention that he's also Rush's main lyricist, and a brilliant lyricist at that too.

Now let's have a look at the songs.

The first song "Tom Sawyer" is a catchy, majestic, anthemic opener, and of course one of Rush's all time greatest songs which lyrically is a look at a free thinking, modern day warrior, and features catchy, hard crunching guitar riffs including a wickedly shredding solo by Alex, as well as some catchy keyboard parts and great basslines by Geddy, and of course some solid drumwork by Neil including a nice drum solo around 2:32. The next song "Red Barchetta" is about a young man who enjoys joy riding in his uncle's sports car in a future time where gasoline powered sports cars are banned and prohibited by the "Motor Law". This song also features great, subtle drumming by Neil along with more great guitarwork by Alex, and nice bass and vocals from Geddy. Next, we have the godly and addictingly powerful instrumental "YYZ" which is the Toronto airport code, and is highlighted by more of Neil's dominating drumwork especially with some nice crotales played at the beginning which is very cool. Geddy's bass really shines on this song with some wicked, creamy bass soloing, and not to metion that Alex also does some excellent riffage including another great solo around 2:23. This is definately one of Rush's best instrumentals and I DO mean one of their best instrumentals ever.

Up next we have track four "Limelight" which is another one of Rush's all time best songs ever, and my favorite Rush song of all time. This song lyrically deals with Neil's discomfort with fame and success. You just gotta love that opening riff from Alex, and the chorus is just excellent, and we also have another fantastic guitar solo around 2:40 mark. We continue the album with the epic prog rocker "The Camera Eye" which clocks in at almost 11 minutes. This song gives a snap shot look at the perspectives of both New York (first verse) and London (second verse). This is without question one of my favorite Rush songs, as well as one of the best songs on here, words just can't even describe how amazing this song is. The synth riffs are absolutely fantastic, the guitarwork is excellent especially the solo around 9:21, and Neil's drumming once again dominates throughout. Up next we have the ominous and menacing "Witch Hunt" which is another classic song on here, and another one of my favorite Rush songs as well. I like the wind chimes that Neil plays at the beginning, and there's also some catchy, menacing guitar riffs, and ominous keyboard riffs that really add to the feel of this song. And last but certainly not least, seventh and final song "Vital Signs" is a strong reggae influenced closer which features a distinctive part made by Lee's OB-X synthesizer at the beginning which shows the distinct reggae flavor.
Jeremy's song ratings:
1. Tom Sawyer (4:33) - 5/5
2. Red Barchetta (6:10) - 5/5
3. YYZ (4:26) - 5/5
4. Limelight (4:19) - 5/5
5. The Camera Eye (11:01) - 5/5
6. Witch Hunt (4:45) - 5/5
7. Vital Signs (4:46) - 5/5

Bottom Line: If you're looking for a great classic/progressive rock masterpiece, then you don't even have to look no further than Rush's "Moving Pictures" This album is indeed a classic, and like I mentioned before it lives up to all the hype, and rightfully deserves it. Overall, this is a must have for any Rush fan, classic rock fan, progressive rock fan, well you get the picture. This is a gem that should NOT be missed out on. Enjoy!!

I bought this when it came out in vinyl as my first album. This is classic; I can't believe my taste was that good back then. Not a bad song on here. Even the instrumental YYZ is well worth a listen. If you haven't listened to Rush, then I have to warn you there is often something to get you thinking in the lyrics. I personally think this is their best album overall, but I have probably listened to The Trees off Hemispheres more than any other single Rush song.

This item came just as described. Sleeve is in great condition. Record has minor scratching, and caused it to skip a little, but description mentioned that, so all is satisfactory. Keep up the good work!!

"Moving Pictures" marks the equilibrium synthesis of the proggy late-70s era of Rush and the 80s analog-synth heaven that is the 80s era of Rush. This combination makes for one of the best Rush albums ever, and a must-have for all lovers of progressive music, 80s-synth rock, and of any type of rock music in general.

1. Tom Sawyer 10/10 - Proof positive that a catchy radio hit can also be proggy as hell. Delicious smorgasbord of catchy radio rock, prog-rock, and 80s synths. Awesome

2. Red Barchetta 9/10 - Sort of a mini-epic with a science fiction bent, with a beautifully haunting intro of guitar harmonics and synths. Excellent songwriting here.

3. YYZ 10/10 - Easily the most legendary Rush instrumental ever, and with good reason. It opens with some heavy dark riffage and builds into a chord and lead progression with Lifeson at the helm before bursting into a gorgeous 80s synth passage that evokes a skyward view of a big city circa 1981, at least for me. Just a classic.

4. Limelight 10/10 - Like 'Tom Sawyer', this is another deliciously catchy yet proggy classic. Peart's lyrics here reflect on the ups and downs of a life in limbo as a famous musician on a stage so to speak. Another classic.

5. The Camera Eye 10/10 - Easily one of the greatest Rush extended epics ever. This 10-minute monster opens with the sounds of a bustling city in the morning alongside the most delicious retro-80s-synth intro ever recorded in music history. Amazing riffs, motifs, progressions abound in this piece. Easily the best track on 'Moving Pictures'.

6. Witch Hunt 10/10 - A short and sweet masterpiece that feels more like an interlude than an actual song, but it builds up into a simple yet stunningly beautiful chorus that begins with the echo-ey chords of Lifeson ringing into the distant skyline (the "pictures distorted in the flickering light" section) before building into a more powerful reprise replete with more delicious retro-80-synths. So beautiful it feels romantic!

7. Vital Signs 9.5/10 Reggae-influenced rocker closes the album. Another classic track, but not as good as the rest, yet still awesome and highly recommended!

On this record Rush solidified its status as one of arena rock's biggest and best bands. What I like most about this album is that it's loaded with hooks, but it doesn't actually become a pop album. And there still aren't any traditional pop songs on here. (Well, maybe "Vital Signs" comes close.) I am sure that you don't need to read again that "Tom Sawyer" and "Limelight" are great tracks (they are). There are so many other highlights here:

>Just sit and listen to Neil Peart banging away on "Red Barchetta." Not to take anything away from his band mates, but he owns the track. It's one of those 6-minute songs that feel more like a 3-minute song.
>"YYZ" is arguably Rush's best instrumental (it's right up there with "La Villa Strangiata" and "The Main Monkey Business" in my book). I especially love the middle eastern section in the middle. It's a little cheesy, yet still works.
>"The Camera Eye" to me is slightly reminiscent of "Hemispheres," but is a little more succinct and catchier. I used to think this was kind of boring, but I have recently started to dig it.
>"Vital Signs" provides a pretty good glimpse of what Rush would sound like on the next couple of albums (and continues to show the influence that new wave was having on their sound).
>"Witch Hunt" has just the right level of foreboding. Again, it helps point the way toward SIGNALS and GRACE UNDER PRESSURE.

It all adds up to the best album Rush put out during their heyday. I'm still pretty partial to SNAKES AND ARROWS, but this is the record I would tell anyone to buy first, if they wanted to give Rush a try.

This is one of Rush's best albums. I wouldn't have said that after my first or second listen, or even after attending their concert without really familiarizing myself with the album. However, repeated listens have enamored me to most of the songs on this album. "Far Cry," "Armor and Sword," "Workin' Them Angels," "The Larger Bowl," "Main Monkey Business," and "The Way the Wind Blows" are especially strong additions to the Rush song library.

If, like me, you're a decades' long fan and are geared to expect variations on Rush's greatest hits from days of yore, you'll be confounded if not disappointed at first. However, these new songs are musically and lyrically rich, and different enough from their previous materials to be fresh and interesting. I can appreciate the turn Rush's lyrics have taken, as life and world events have made for a darker worldview. My young kids, on the other hand, appreciate the driving rhythms and guitars as well as some of the catchier lyrics. Also, the blend of acoustic and electric guitars for heavy metal rhythms is innovative and sounds great, especially in pieces like "Far Cry" and "Main Monkey Business."

In the end, if you give this album four or five listens, I guarantee that it will rise in your list of favorite Rush albums. It's almost up there with Moving Pictures for me. If you don't give it a chance, you'll be missing out.

Outstanding DVD. I've been waiting for a Blu Ray version of a Rush concert and this one did not disappoint. Very happy!

The Snakes & Arrows tour was different from the other recent Rush tours in that instead of being a night of Rush Greatest Hits, it actually promoted their latest album, Snakes & Arrows. And a good album it is. This cd does an excellent job of capturing this awesome tour, and as far as performances and sound quality are concerned, this cd is my favorite.

Performances: Neil played very well this tour, and is his best since the Vapor Trails tour which left me completely impressed. Tom Sawyer was the best I've ever heard him play it, past or present. His comeback is an inspiration to us all, and he is in top form right now. Alex did awesome as he always does and the intros to Freewill and Spirit Of Radio were tight. Geddy had some rough spots on R30 but he did a great job on this cd. His bass playing was flawless as usual. My only gripe with the performances are the tempos on some of the songs, particularly Witch Hunt and Between The Wheels. Man did they drag. Two great songs that should've been played a little faster.

Sound Quality: I don't know what these studio geeks are talking about saying this doesn't sound good. This cd is crisp, clean, and has the best drum sounds since A Show Of Hands. Guitar tones were generally very good, especially the lead tones (Between The Wheels). Geddy's bass tone on recent tours has been the best I've ever heard it. Those of you who remember the Steinberger years will know what I'm talking about.

Editing: The South Park intro to Tom Sawyer was one of the best moments of the entire show but I understand it wouldn't make much sense without the video so it got edited out. I like the fact this is a straight running concert instead of having the songs fade out like some live albums do. I have no complaints.

Set List: Snakes & Arrows is a good album, but I think the set list had too many songs from it. Far Cry is awesome, no doubt about it, but some of the others (The Larger Bowl, The Main Monkey Business comes to mind) could've been left out as far as I'm concerned. On the other hand, hearing Digital Man was beyond words. Thank you Rush. Entre Nous and Circumstances were also hardcore fan treats.

Overall, one of the best Rush live albums to date. I recommend this cd to anyone, and can't wait for the DVD.

This is probably Rush's best live album! Great sound quality and a good selection of tracks. We get some surprising cuts, so it
is not a greatest hits show, which is good.

1/3 of the songs from the excellent "Snakes and Arrows" album.

This album Rocks !

Awesome sound, great music selection. Great product as expected from one of the best progressive rock bands ever.

After 30 plus years, Rush is still a great band that can make great music. This CD is great. The lyrics really make you think, however, Geddy's voice has deepened with age. The lyrics are not as "whiny and whaily" as they used to be. Personally, I liked "whiny and whaily" voice, but I guess Geddy cant sing like that any more. He is still a great singer though. The drums are, as always, amazing. The guitar is wonderful and intriguing. The bass binds everything together perfectly, in addition to some nice lines thrown into the mix. This CD is a must have for any Rush fan. If you are new to rush, start off with some of there earlier stuff. But, you can listen to this album if you really want to. Nobody will regret getting this magnificent album.

RUSH! Enough said. What do they owe the music community? Well, absolutely nothing. Rock music is a strange commodity in that it offers Britney Spears, The DeFranco Family, 50 Cent...oops...my mistake on 50 Cent.....no music there. Nonetheless, I am sure that classical, romantic, swing music all had their frauds. Question is: who remains in history and who has been tossed to the scrapheap of nothingness.

RUSH LIVES!! Yep, after 38 years of plugging along Rolling Stone even recognized them (Don't sob too hard....AC/DC was on the cover for the first time a few weeks ago....see what happens when you leave ROCK AND ROLL in the hands of popular culture and a bunch of less than desirables..)

OK..... Let's move forward. "Snakes and Arrows" is a tour de force ranking with any of the great albums that RUSH has made over their illustrious career. For any of the uninitiated this should give you some insight into the broad appeal. I have two sons, one is 13 and the other is 9. One plays bass and the other guitar. Guess what bands they like? Well Cheap Trick, Guns and Roses...oh yeah....RUSH! They love this album and so do I. Why would I even inject this into this review? Here's why.

Rush- Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, Neil Peart- are music icons....yes....music icons. No genre needed. "Snakes and Arrows is an inspired effort that just floored me. Get it. Rock with it, and enjoy the lyrics, or be troubled by them. Whatever the case may be, this is an album that deserves intense attantion. Old fan or brand new, you will not be disappointed.....unless you prefer the DeFranco Family or Britney Spears. No hope for 50 cent fans.

Just respoding to Michael's review. I thought it was a great and thoughtful synopsis and I agreed with almost everything you'd said, with the exception that Good News First and Armor and Sword are my two favorite tracks. It just goes to show the diversity these guys exhibit and with the wide spectrum provided, different people can take away different things away from an album. Merry Christmas!

All I can say is that SNAKES AND ARROWS completely blew me away when I heard it. I hadn't paid any attention to Rush for probably 20 years, but after seeing a few positive reviews, I figured I would check this record out just for old time's sake. The record struck me as a little odd the first time I listened to it but by the third go-round I was hooked.

Well, that's not exactly true....I liked "Far Cry" immediately. It's one of Rush's best openers, full of energy and raw power and emotion. In many ways it speaks to the frustrations and fears that we all feel as we live out our lives ("it's a far cry from the world we thought we'd inherit"). It also speaks to the fact that we all find ways to persevere ("I can get back on"). In as much, "Far Cry" sets the tone for the rest of the record. It won't be an easy ride (these are certainly among Peart's darkest lyrics) but it will be worth it.

And yes, it's worth it.

The first half of the CD contains the big hitters, the anthems. If you're looking for a prog work-out look no further than "Armor and Sword," which is a bit plodding (but, hey, it's a progressive piece), but still kicks enough butt to work. It's theme is one that Peart will re-visit several time throughout the record; that faith can be bastardized to the point that it becomes a source of evil (the sword) rather than good (the armor). It's a bit heavy-handed, but so wasn't stuff like "Free Will" and 2112. "Working Them Angels" is a bit more personal, more of an extension of "Ghost Rider" from VAPOR TRAILS. "The Larger Bowl" is reminiscent of "Half the World" from T4E with its themes of inequality but it's better. The guitar solo on this is just fantastic (as is all of Lifeson's guitar work on the record), if a bit too short. This leads into "Spindrift," which is about as ominous a song as Rush has ever created. My take on the song is that it is about the culture clashes that are inevitable in an age of globalization.

"The Main Monkey Business" lightens things up a bit. It is an instrumental that deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as both "YYZ" and "La Villa Strangiato." "The Way the Wind Blows" closes out the first half of the record in fine form. It has a little of everything. The intro is reminiscent of Cream, there are some fine riffs in the verses, and the chorus has an almost folksy feel. Somehow the shifts in dynamics that this implies work quite well. Again, the theme is dark, reminiscent of "Peaceable Kingdom" on VAPOR TRAILS.

The songs in the second half of the record are a bit more modest in scope, but taken as a whole they pack a real punch. It kicks off with "Hope," which is a lovely short acoustic instrumental featuring a solo Lifeson. It leads off what must be seen as a suite of songs dealing with perseverance in the face of the obstacles presented in the first half of the record. "Faithless" is a real highlight and has become one of my favorite Rush songs. In many ways it can be seen as a companion piece to "Free Will," but it is better constructed and because it is a personal testament on Peart's part, it has a bigger impact. "Bravest Face" is another fine song which reprises some of the issues brought up in "The Larger Bowl." Sure it's pessimistic, but it still has some great moments. I especially like the acoustic guitar in the verses and Lifeson's guitar solo, which is so tasteful. Somewhere along the way he learned restraint. It suits the songs here.

After the second chorus of "Good News First" I was all set to give up on the song. The verses were good (especially Geddy's vocals), but the choruses kept building and never climaxing. Then the bridge swooped in. To my ears it is really stunning. It simply saves the song. After that we have "Malignant Narcissism," which is basically just Rush goofing around and having fun, which is great to hear. It's another exemplary instrumental. The album closes with "We Hold On" which neatly sums up the perseverance theme. It closes the album on just the right note. Plus it provides another showcase for Lifeson.

It's not common for bands to reach a peak artistically after being together for 33 years, but apparently Rush has managed it. MOVING PICTURES may forever be considered Rush's classic, but SNAKES AND ARROWS is right up there with it. In many ways, it is a superior record. Either way, it is an essential recording from one of rock's most under-appreciated bands.

You can't go home again? Don't tell that to these geeky geezers. "Snakes & Arrows" is a keeper -- an 11th hour near-masterpiece that puts awkward, self-conscious recent efforts such as "Test for Echo" and "Vapor Trails" to shame. Tracks like "Good News First" and "The Way the Wind Blows" are both tuneful and touching, while "Far Cry" and "The Main Monkey Business" sound like, well, Rush. Awesome stuff!

The album opens miraculously. Cheesy sci-fi sound effects give way to a staccato guitar attack. There are really too many cool riffs in the Overture to count and it is one of Rush's best hard-rocking instrumentals. "Temples of Syrinx" - with Geddy Lee's vocals heading to the rafters - is just as good, if not better. This is easily the most resounding 7 minutes of music Rush would produce in the 70s. After that there are a few lulls ("Discovery" especially), but they don't bother me too much. One does get the sense that Rush has bitten off a bit more than they can chew. The story is fairly melodramatic, and if anything, the songwriting here isn't pompous or bombastic enough. Queen was always better at melodrama and one can only imagine what Freddy Mercury might have done with "Presentation" and "Soliloquy." These are only minor complaints, however. As a solid chunk of hard rock, the 2112 Suite works quite well and, on its own, it would merit 4 stars.

The main problem I have with the album is that the second half doesn't come close to living up to the first half. "Something for Nothing" is the only track that really stands out here (but the version on ALL THE WORLD'S A STAGE is better). The rest of the songs rate OK at best.

Despite the fact that I am not in love with this album as a whole, I still recommend it for anyone who is just starting to explore Rush's back catalog. (I know, I'm going WAY out on a limb there.) I MEAN IT'S 2112 DAGGONIT!

I was driving home from a friends house and listened to this CD that I had stuck in my console. I remember purchasing 2112 on a whim, as an LP, in 1977( freshman year in high school). I played this over and over and made a cassette recording to play in the under dash player I had mounted in my dad's car. It brought back ALOT of memories of fun times and innocence, a time when there were no cell phones, internet, computers,CD's, high def. etc. Going to second base in the back seat of your dad's car was exciting and dangerous, hiding beers in the woods and lying about whose house you were sleepng at. This was truly played over and over and over, whether it was at a friends house on the turn-table singing along and trying to match Geddy's high notes or copied to a cassette recording handed from one friend to another. If you enjoyed this album in the past... its well worth breaking out again.. :)

Thank you Geddy, Alex and Neil for GREAT music !!

3 1/2

A very decently ambitious classic progressive rock album in my opinion, but largely overrated as one of the flagpoints in the genre. Probably unnecessarily elevated for it's conceptual arch and epic introduction suite, 2112 is still a worthwhile investment for those dabbling in prog via classic rock. The emphasis however does not lie in complex melodic manipulations and challenging time signatures but in fluid, unpretentious rock and roll with a slightly nerdier angle, undoubtedly "enhanced" with these acquired high pitched, in tune shrieks.

I can't believe anyone would give this a 1 star review!! They must be tone deaf!!

"Attention all planets of the Solar Federation. We have assumed control!"

This album, if I may be blunt about it, is a complete and utter flying dog turd. The big hype is the "epic" 20-and-a-half minute self-titled track. I wanted to take it safe and just hear it on Youtube before I considered buying. WOOOOOOOOW am I glad I didn't waste my money on this garbage! Nothing stuck out at all, except for the whiny, annoyingly high-pitched vocals, and that I was completely wasting my time.

Everyone I know on Yahoo! Answers seems to rave Neil Peart's "superior drumming." Where the hell is it? I don't hear nuthin' superior from ANY of the instruments. I didn't even bother to listen to the lyrics, knowing I'd have to try and interpret what the horrendous singer was saying, and I didn't feel like listening. Apparently, it's a buncha cheesy sci-fi crap anyway. I REALLY don't see the inspiration for other prog-rock bands in Rush (except maybe James LaBrie's ear-piercing vocals for Dream Theater). Symphony X and the aforementioned Dream Theater blows these twats out of the water in terms of lyric writing, instrumental talent, and making good, interesting, and enjoyable 20-minute+ compositions.

Of all Geddy Lee's bass work, the bass line in "Making Memories" is my favorite. He continues on from the eponymous debut album with some truly enjoyable work. I skip over "Anthem" and "Rivendell" most times - but that's just my taste, and the rest of the album I find simply outstanding!

Of course a comparison between yesterday's Rush and much of today's "music" is like comparing apples to, well, dirt clods. My thanks to these fellows for giving the world some great music to listen to!

Of course, the self-titled Rush album was first, but Fly By Night sounds like a completely different band. The Rush album is pure heavy metal; Fly By Night is much more mature and developed, although with still a way to go. The band would not put out another album with this many tracks for some time, opting for longer, progressive rock compositions. (Although some, such as the 2112 suite, are merely medleys, or dare I say, 'rock operas.') I really liked this when it was released, and continued to buy Rush albums right up through Hemispheres. The band would continue to develop their craft on Caress of Steel and the hugely popular 2112, but the true peak of the band is preserved on A Farewell to Kings and Hemispheres. Check out Fly By Night for a glimpse of the road that lay ahead.

Fly By Night is Rush's second album and marks the departure of drummer John Rutsey and the beginning of current drummer Neil Peart's time with the band. There is a lot to find on this album from start to finish; Rush's first epic (By-Tor & the Snow Dog), the summary of Neil Peart's outlook on life and the height of his Ayn Rand influence (Anthem), and a song where no percussion is found anywhere but Geddy Lee's voice along with Alex Lifeson's acoustic guitar work together to create a truly beautiful and magical sound (Rivendell).
From the beginning of the album Rush makes listeners take notice with their explosive sound. Lifeson uses a combination of powerful chords, amazing solos, and soft acoustic accompaniment throughout the album. Geddy Lee displays his talent on the bass guitar and microphone, leaving the synthesizers for a later day. And while it would be a fallacy to call this album the height of Neil Peart's talent, his skills as a percussionist can be highlighted by this album just as well as by citing any of the band's later works.
Everything about this album is just plain great. Great music, great lyrics...even the track arrangement makes one think about the musical genius that is Rush. At this time the band had nowhere to go but up; and they knew it. With founding member Alex Lifeson, seasoned bassist/vocalist Geddy Lee, and the band's newest member, Neil Peart, this album goes a long way to silence any doubt as to why Rush is the legendary act they have become.
I'm not a professional review writer (obviously) so I'm just writing this as a tribute to Rush. Fly By Night is one of their best albums, and I hope that current Rush fans and new listeners alike will gain something from my opinions and perspective. That's the only reason I'm writing this. Below is what I think about each song individually. This will explain why I even had to mention that the track arrangement for this album is amazing.
Anthem starts the album and it's loud and in your face. The band makes a statement with this song, in my opinion, that it's important to remember to look out for oneself. Life can be strange sometimes, and while it's good to be selfless and good to one another, sometimes you just need to move on and look out for you.
Next up is Best I Can. The band's youthfulness and rock and roll attitude spill over from their debut self-titled album into this track. Peart's percussion grabs you from the beginning and never lets go. The rhythms he creates and the way they blend with Lifeson and Lee's guitars is sheer classic.
Beneath, Between, and Behind is up next. I really can't say too much about this one because I may be wrong, but to me it seems to be a song about America. The Canada natives express that while America is a beautiful country, it has strayed far from the founding principles the nation was built upon. Great guitar riffs and drum fills galore in this one.
Moving on to Rush's first ever "epic" track, By-Tor and the Snow Dog. Many would come after (The Fountain of Lamneth, 2112, etc.) but this eight minute story was certainly a good jumping off point for the whole epic concept. I've heard it's based on a funny story the band members heard about a friend's dogs fighting. They manage to take such a simple story and turn the characters into mythical creatures engaged in a battle of epic proportions. The guitar effects, the build of the song to the climax, and the lyrics that tell the tale of this struggle make for a truly awesome listening experience.
On to the title track, Fly By Night. This song does a great job capturing the feel of the album in my opinion. Geddy Lee's voice is as high pitched and distinctive as ever in this one. The song is about changes and life taking you different places. Great lyrics along with some of Peart's finest drumming to date make this song an absolute classic worthy of sharing the album's name.
Then on to Making Memories. Once again the youthful air of the band during this time can be felt full force. They're new, they're gaining more listeners and fame everyday, and trying to enjoy the road life is taking them down. Wanderlust and homesickness make for an interesting ride in the limelight, and the band does an excellent job of conveying this message.
Next up is the beautiful, almost haunting track, Rivendell. As mentioned before, Peart's sound is absent, but not necessarily missed in this song. Lee's voice and Lifeson's acoustic guitar make plenty of magic together in this soft fairy tale of a song.
Last but not least (and this is where the track arrangement really shines) is In The End. The song doesn't take the listener through too drastic a transition after the soft and melodic Rivendell. Rather the track starts off slow and soft and eventually leads to a more heavy riff that takes the song into overdrive. Any ideas about the band being young and brash are cleared up upon listening to the lyrics of this song, in my opinion. It's not that the band members don't care what people think, or are young and too cocky, but rather they may just be different from other people. The way you handle things says a lot about who you are, and not all reasoning and actions are black and white.
Well, I don't know how many people read to the end of this. I know it was quite a chore if you did. But as I said before, I'm an avid Rush fan and wanted to reflect upon this album with fellow fans and grant some insight to those of you who may be pondering giving it a listen. Enjoy.

"Listen to my music and hear what it can do
there's something here as strong as life
I know that it will reach you"
-Rush, 2112

I have been a RUSH lover since 1977. I have truly enjoyed their more recent work and tours and after seeing the Snakes & Arrows tour both times, i.e., July 28, 2007, Whiteriver & May 31, 2008, The Gorge, I decided it was time to reconnect to the older albums. I just loved hearing these songs again! Rush has never dissapointed me in all these years and I highly recommend their entire body of work! Enjoy! Rush Girl J

Fly By Night is one of my all time favorite Rush albums.
The energy is absolutley stunning.
This is the first Rush album with Neil, after the departure of John.
I will never stop listening to this album.
This is a must-have album. GET THIS NOW! You won't regret it.

This is the record where Rush officially became a progressive rock band. And of all the Rush albums I have, this one has to be the least consistent, albeit not the least successful. If we ignore the first three records, this one has Rush's most successful (Xanadu) and least successful (Cygnus X-1) extended compositions. It also has one of their most memorable (Closer to the Heart) and one of their least memorable (Madrigal) songs. Add a pretty good opener (the title track) and another average track (Cinderella Man) and you have the definition of a three-star album. I am glad that I got this, because the good stuff makes it worth the price of admission. XANADU in particular is just marvelous and worthy of all the praise I've seen heaped upon it by Rush fans over the years. However, if you're new to Rush, any of the next three records (Hemispheres, Permanent Waves, or Moving Pictures) would be a better place to start.

The title of this album says it all. In this album, Rush finally manages to finally distance themselves from their blatant Led Zeppelin roots heard in previous albums. The Hard Rocking riffs still appear without shame, but here Rush mixes in synth and complex time signatures and inventive song structures. And while they've continued to evolve since this release I still believe this to be their best.
In terms of songwriting this album kills. Xanadu, based on the opium-induced Samuel Taylor Coleridge poem Kubla Khan is in my mind unquestionly the best song this band ever penned. It opens with ethreal moog synthesizer sounds, and builds up into a complex 11 minute rocking tale of the search for immortality. The lyrics are mindblowingly vivid and the musicianship is absolutely stellar. Elsewhere the title track with its crazy solos and classical guitar opener are excellent. Cygnus X-1 has one of the greatest Rush intros ever, and Closer to the Heart and Cinderella Man are both excellent short rockers, something which Rush up until this point struggled with.
While their Early 80s releases where their most popular, most fans of true "progressive rock" actually prefer their late 70s output. And this is probably the pinnacle of Rush's progressive era, even with stiff competition from other LPs like 2112 and Hemispheres

This is not only one of Rush's best albums, but one of the greatest progressive rock albums of all time. The mix & mastering are great, and the songwriting is incredibly creative. You can tell that these guys were really having fun and enjoying their creative work. This album also set the bar high for future works, some of which equal this album, but none surpass it.

Now for the songs:

FAREWELL: Intriguing opening with the classical guitar, great riffs into the verses, and a driving yet catchy chorus. Glad they included this on Chronicles and Different Stages.

XANADU: What can you say? This is the best song on the album, and perhaps their best song, period. It's certainly the best progressive rock song of all time, building from the soft nature setting to some of the best riffs and counter-melodies they've composed. Sparing use of keyboards accents the chorus parts perfectly. You really can't put it into words. It's an essential track for any prog-rock lover.

CLOSER TO THE HEART: Fun little song. Yes, overplayed, but for a reason -- it's great!

CINDERELLA MAN: A really driving song with a neat tempo-change in the chorus, and a really fun instrumental section before the second chorus. Rather experimental for Rush at the time, and they nailed it. Great song.

MADRIGAL: A love-ballad. Hard to tell if it was written to a woman, a homestead, or simply to a previous way of life (or all three!). Great change of pace.

CYGNUS X-1: The most incredible, not-to-be-believed song ever written by these guys. A space fantasy that really works musically (only these guys could have pulled this off so masterfully). The final vocals are so over-the-top, they actually work. Incredibly creative, fun, and never tiring to listen to again.

Progressive rock at its best -- easily 5+ stars.

It's a Rush cd. What else needs to be said. Excellent vocal and music. Perfect for driving or just listening to.

Rush is now on the uprising of their goodness and talent. 2112 was incredible, but what next? Of course they break the boundaries with a mix of good classic sounds and hard rock, A Farewell to Kings is a stirring album, and frankly one of my all time favorite albums. Lifeson on Guitar, Lee on Bass, and of course the acclaimed Peart on Drums. A Farewell to Kings is a blend of hard rock and epic sounding power, such as the beautiful remedy of "Xanadu". With one of their best singles on the album "Closer to the Heart" is a good rendition of awesome guitar while songs like "Xanadu" and "Cinderella Man" and all the other songs on the album shine through with Peart's legendary style this album weaves one of the best renditions of songs anyone could make. Though there are only six songs on the album, all of them make it worth the money and they are Rush's masterpieces. This is my favorite album, I put it even above Moving Pictures, Permanent Waves, and 2112 though those are incredible albums as well! 5/5 to the best Rush album that is flawless in their style. If you want talent in all three instruments check these guys out, powerful drumming, tight bass guitar, and unique cord structure from the guitar you won't be disappointed.

After spending several years conjuring up alien landscapes, doomed space travelers, and Greek gods, Rush got back to earth on this one. Nowhere is this more evident than on on "Spirit of the Radio," which was inspired by listening to rock radio in Toronto. There are tons of good riffs here (even a short reggae-inspired break) and in 1977 or 1978 Rush might have used them to create an extended composition about the battle between an old Norse god and a dwarf. In 1980 they used them to construct a complex, but still concise, catchy rock song warning of corporate rock and arguing for honesty...HONESTY!...in music. It is definitely Rush's calling card (and still sounds vital) even 28 years later.

"Free Will" is the other obvious classic here. It has a catchy chorus, fairly preachy lyrics about how each of us is the master of his or her own destiny, and a middle section solo that kicks some serious butt. What more could you ask for from Rush?

Aside from the classics, you have two progressive pieces, both of which are among Rush's more successful. "Jacob's Ladder" is probably a couple of minutes too long, but otherwise it is a fine listen. "Natural Science," is also great. I especially like the middle part which has an almost new wave feel to it. Loads of fun.

The other two tracks, "Entre Nous" and "Different Strings," are pretty good songs which only pale in comparison to the other tracks on the album. They are still better than most of the album tracks on their earlier records.

All-in-all this is an excellent record, that falls just slightly short of five stars. Let's call it 4.5! If you want to get into classic Rush, this (or Moving Pictures) is as a good a place as any to start. Then start moving forward and back.

The Clear Crisp Sound Of "PERMANENT WAVES" Album....
Terrific Album For The Crisp Clear Quality RUSH Album.....
Will This Sound Ever Come Back On Future RUSH Albums?????
ENJOY THIS ONE FOLKS!!!!!!!! ONE OF THEIR BEST........

I'm only 20 years old, but I've been a die-hard Rush fan ever since I was first exposed to them some 5-6 years ago. That being said, Permanent Waves is my favorite Rush album of them all. It has tracks that are great for the casual listener, some that are great for the blossoming Rush fan looking to get their first album, some that are great for the prog-rock enthusiast, and ALL that are great additions to anyone's music collection.

Any listener of Classic Rock radio will instantly recognize The Spirit Of Radio and Freewill. Two great radio-friendly tracks that are still proggy by Rush standards (check out the time changes in Freewill). Entre Nous is a very beautiful song, along with Different Strings. Jacob's Ladder is mostly instrumental and involves some more prog elements while combining good story-telling, but the album's biggest prog feature is Natural Science, a nearly 10-minute long track written in three parts that has beautiful melodies, challenging part writing, astounding lyrics, and just general great playing from all three members of the band.

Also, this album is at an interesting place in the guitar-synth-guitar timeline of Rush, as the album is definitely guitar-driven with just enough synths and keyboards to add that little bit of flavor and unique touch that only Rush can. Definitely used for icing more than substance.

I hesitate to say that this album is better than Moving Pictures, based on what the average musicophile will argue, but I will say that this album definitely has the characteristics of an incredible music experience.

Permanent waves is Like an Old Friend. You can listen to it over and over and the relationship is always the same, you can fall back on it at any point even if it has been years and everything is right with the world!

Permanent Waves was released in 1980 and followed up the last of the true long suite progressive rock albums Hemispheres while also predating 1981's moving Pictures by one year. Hemispheres is also a modern rock classic but is quite different from Permanent Waves in a number of different ways. First of all the title track of Hemispheres is an entire side of the album like 1976's 2112. Permanent Waves does include a 9 plus minute tune in Natural Science but no instrumentals although sections of Natural Science are fairly long instrumental sections. I would also rank Natural Science as the best track on this great album though there are several excellent tracks here. Natural Science is very relevant today or in any era as our awareness of Climate Change and our "carbon footprint' are very relevant to the theme of Natural Science which discusses humankind's lack of awareness of our effect on the natural world and even hints of genetic engineering or other newer science technologies that we have not fully grasped before unleashing them on an unsuspecting world.

Entre Nous is one of the very few love songs ever penned by Peart, Lee and Lifeson and it is a great one. I am thrilled that they have been performing it live on the Snakes and Arrows tour and am hopeful they will continue to do so as I am slated to see them next month! Different Strings which follows Entre Nous is another excellent love song and is a true ballad, one of the few ever from the group that features some excellent guitar work by Alex Lifeson and it is a gem. I won't discuss Spirit of Radio or Free will because so many others have elaborated on them ad infinitum but I will mention the one clunker here and that would be Jacob's Ladder. This particular song smacks of filler and embodies virtually every cliche' that This Is Spinal Tap so effectively lampooned.

How can I rank an album 5 stars with one out of 6 songs being filler you ask? The remaining tracks are so superb that they overwhelmingly balance out the weak Jacob's Ladder. This one is in the top 5 of all Rush albums to date, highly recommended!

Preordered this CD the minute I possibly could, and was not disappointed! I have all the other MoFi Rush CD's as well and another awesome product. Geddy's bass sounds more lifelike and that Ricky sound really comes through. Alex's guitars sound more spacious and up front, Neil's percussion is cleaner with a wider soundstage. Geddy's vocals also sound like he's in the room with you, the most lifelike I have ever heard. I would love it if MoFi also remastered Caress of Steel and A Farewell to Kings.

So let me get this straight...Cygnus pops out the other side of the black hole finding himself stuck between Apollo and Dionysus with the duty of bringing balance between reason (the mind) and emotion (the heart)? But wait a second, wasn't Cygnus X-1 THE BLACK HOLE? Who exactly is it who brings balance? Is it Geddy Lee? Or maybe Cygnus becomes the the black hole later on? ......Is this a prequel or sequel to Cygnus X-1 Book I? Should I not worry about this and just focus on the music?

Yes.

Rush's previous 2 records each had remarkable moments (the first 7 or 8 minutes of 2112 and all of Xanadu in particular), but both suffered from inconsistency. Hemispheres manages to produce at least one Rush classic, "La Villa Strangiato", and is more consistent to boot. For instance, I don't think the "Cygnus X-1 Book II" suite has as many exciting moments as the 2112 suite, but at the same time it doesn't have the lulls either. Plus the other tracks here are superior to the much of the lesser material on either 2112 or AFTK. "Circumstances" is one of my favorite Rush hard-rock toss-offs and "The Trees" is pretty entertaining as well. I can't quite give this 4 stars, because that would indicate that it is as good as the three records that Rush released at the beginning of the 80's (which it is not), but HEMISPHERES is a very solid record and the best one Rush released before PERMANENT WAVES made them stars.

I think that Hemispheres is Rush's best 70s album, and definatly one of the best records thay ever made. Most people will say 2112 or Kings are better, because they are more recognizable/popular, however I disagree with that assesment. The title track is the finest extended song that band has ever written, the lyrics are really amazing when you read along to the music. It is far more substaintial and better crafted then 2112. Be prepared for a strange trip with Hemispheres, it is the most progressive work of Rush, which sadly would not be approached again after it's release and tour. Circumstances is a short, yet highly sophisticated rocker stuffed with time changes and exotic instruments employed. The Trees is another fan favorite that relies on Neil's fable like story telling to represent social unrest through the aspect of nature. And last but not least there is LaVillStragiato, a 9 minute instrumental which i think spotlights Alex's talent as one of the best guitarists on the planet. I like this instrumental much better then the far more popular YYZ.

Even though it only has 4 songs, this CD reward repeat listenings. Definate must buy, it is one of Rushes finest moments.

This is when Rush got everything really together and still hadn't stopped for too much polishing. An amazing feat as Hemispheres takes you on a great journey through ancient wisdom, impeccable musicianship to perfection. A true rock classic!

Four Songs. For GREAT Songs. For INCREDIBLY Great Songs.

You realize I could go on forever, right? Anyway, Every song on here is a success in every way. From the beutiful instrumentation of "La Villa Strangiato" to the incredible lyrics of "The Trees", this album is a masterpiece. All I can say is Buy It! You WILL NOT be sorry. I hope you guys enjoy it...

As a follow up to Farewell to Kings, Hemispheres is everything it could possibly be. The two albums are linked not only by release dates and progressive creativity, but also by a light thematic link in the "Cygnus" saga. Musically, the boys are again at the top of their game with this release.

It is a testament to this album that it is the ONLY Rush album in their long career from which every song (yes, the entire album) was played on the supporting tour. (Only Moving Pictures eventually saw every song played live, but not on the supporting tour.)

For the songs:

HEMISPHERES: "Cygnus X-1, Book II". A fantastic album-side epic track. It is a coherent whole, both musically and lyrically, and yet is diverse enough to remain interesting throughout. The connection to "Cygnus" from Farewell is not particulary strong (both Books might have stood alone almost as effectively), but the connection is there and I suppose it does add a little to the saga. The song also has some of the most extensive and intense singing of any Rush epic -- lots of lyrics to be sung, and not much instrumental break for Geddy (perhaps one of the reasons it's not done live anymore -- would be quite a marathon to do night after night). In any event, an amazing prog-rock epic trak, and incredibly creative.

CIRCUMSTANCES: A tight little rocker, with some incredible riffs, especially just before each chorus. A bit of a mood change at the beginning of the instrumental section, which builds back up to the power of the song's opening.

TREES: A perennial favorite live, with a classical guitar opening, a nature setting instrumental section in the middle, and some driving rock sections in between. The meaning behind the lyrics has been debated, but the ironic twist at the end is clever regardless.

LA VILLA: Hands down, the best instrumental of all time. It is a multi-movement song that builds, retreats, and builds again through about 9 movements, some of which repeat later to create a chorus feel. Another song that has not grown old, and still makes a grand appearance on most tours.

This album also sees Geddy's last really high-pitched, wailing vocals (except for a brief moment in "Freewill" on the next album), and seems to mark the end of an era for Rush, as they really turn from their epic numbers over the next two albums, before abandoning them altogether. Fortunately, they end that chapter with this incredible album.

If there is one drawback to this album, the cover art is a little goofy. But hey, it's prog rock, and they were having fun.

5+ stars

This might not serve as a great review for this album, as I really just call people out for telling me I should stay away from buying it. It just shows me that half of the people who have an opinion on music don't have a clue. They told me the same thing about Led Zeppelin's Prescence album, and that has become one of my favorites! They told me I wouldn't like Pink Floyd's Animals.. I love it! I think Dark Side of the Moon sounds weak and lazy! They said (when I was getting into Maiden) to wait to buy Killers and try something else first. Wrong! I am a little upset, and I want to talk about it.

I just picked this album up the other day after thinking about the song "Working Man". No matter how much I explore Rush's other work, in the end, I always go back and listen to this song. I like it more than any other Rush song I've heard, and it's a totally different sound than anything else from any other Rush album. I really wanted to hear more of this sound.... and it is awesome.

First of all, stop comparing it to their other albums because that is where you start to sound foolish. This is hardly even the same band as their later work. This album is a straight up rocker and when looked at by itself, it really shines. The bass is thick, the guitar tone is exciting, the drums rock, and the lyrics are about getting lit. It has everything that makes a great listening experience.

The second thing that makes me upset is how people percieve John Rutsy. The mentality is like "he was no Peart, but he did his best." They say everything short of calling him total garbage. He is great on this record and that is compared to any pro drummer. I am going to say it now, after listening to this album, I think Peart kinda ruined Rush! He blew it! They had a great thing going with this debut record and you can only imagine where it would have grown from there had Peart's influence not come about. I can't listen to later Rush the same way after listening to this record. Now that I think about it... if you are anything like me you SHOULD stay away from this album! It will destroy your entire perception of the band.

John Rutsey passed away last weekend , and big props to him. John was Rush's original drummer and can be heard on this album. Without him Rush as we know it now might not have existed. RIP John.

After being dissapointed with listening to Rush's latest plastic frisbee, I've went and revisted this old classic to repaire the hearing damage.

God, I love this album.....

Simply put folks, this is in my estimation Rush's finest moment as a band. Even though it is a debut record, it sure doesn't like it! They are playing with such conviction, hunger and professionalism on "Rush" for (at the time) a young rock band that I feel it is both inaccurate and irresponsible for dim wits to lable this as "immature" or "childish" when comparing it to later works. "Rush" stands out from the rest of the bands later catalog releases in a number of ways that it is almost a completely different band. [...], because we have a man named John Rutsey thumpin' the skins, and he does a great job! No need for 1,543,453,653, piece drum kits or dodgy sci-fi psycho babble, liberal propaganda, 4/17 jazz time changes or Ayn Rand garbage.... just pure power drumming that serves the songs! Geddy Lee is Geddy here, nuff' said. Alex is playing more hard/blues based guitar in the vein of Leslie West and Jimmie Page(love that!), way before he became an Andy Summers rip-off. Chech out those solos on HERE AGAIN and WORKING MAN.

But what about the songs? Yes, the songs are all great Rock 'n' Roll here. Now Rush are not the greatest song writters, that fact is indisputable, but here not only are these songs well written, they are honest and non-pretentious. Here Rush is being nothing more then a rock band, and I love that. FINDING MY WAY is a great opening song. NEED SOME LOVE and TAKE A FREIND might have dumb lyrics, however they are miles better the the tripe Neil would be penning, plus they kick major amounts of @$$es thanks to Alex Lifeson.I really like the heavy romps of WHAT YOUR DOING and IN THE MOOD, which is much like a heavy metal Rush style song.

Then you have WORKING MAN....Holy $ h ! t....... this must be the greatest rock song ever written, with Alex's Iommi-esq tones and 110 + guitar solos stuffed in a 7 minute mind f & * k. This is the song to end all songs.

"...Ooh I Need Some Love......"

Don't let the fans scare you away from this one, it is really one of the finest pure rock records...ever. This is Rush.

This is Rush's debut with the late John Rutsey on the skins not Peart but he's still a great steady drummmer(he plays complex stuff too just listen to Before and After Take a Friend!)Geddy and Alex are of course in great form as always!!! The sleeper classic on this album is Here Again (an awesome slow number that's a treat to listen too!!!) Also includes the classics Working Man,In The Mood,What You're Doing and Finding My Way!!! Rock on Rush!!! Two thumbs up!!! A+

Canadian hard rockers Rush released their self titled debut album initially in Canada in March of 1974 on independent label Moon Records and would not be released in the US until August of 1974 on Mercury Records after the label signed the band because this album got extensive airplay on rock radio in Cleveland thanks to DJ Donna Halper (Hello Cleveland as they'd say in Spinal Tap).
The lineup on this album was bass player and singer Geddy Lee (born Gary Lee Weinrib), guitarist Alex Lifeson (Alex Zivojinovic) and drummer John Rutsey whom were schoolmates and buddies in the Ontario, Canada suburb of Willowdale and formed the group Rush in 1970.
Many critics unjustly called this album Led Zeppelin on acid. This album was a great straight, hard rock record.
This album kicks off with the rocking "Finding My Way", which introduced the world to Geddy, Alex and John in a Zep-inspired mode. The track "Need Some Love" follows and sounds like punk rock, two years before The Ramones came into existence. Other standouts on this album are the epic ballad "Here Again", "What You're Doing", the future show closer "In the Mood" and the seven minute epic closer "Working Man". That track featured stellar guitar work from Alex and great musicianship from the band.
The other tracks "Take a Friend" and "Before and After" are great numbers as well and showed early signs Rush could do epic songs.
Today, this album has aged well but is somewhat overlooked as it was missing a key member whom will be introduced on the next album's review.
Highly recommended!