RUSH

Many Rush fans criticize this one because it is neither progressive, intellectual, nor graced by Neil Peart's talents. Don't write it off though! Many of the elements that made early Rush great are still here. Geddy Lee howling like a pre-pubescent Robert Plant (in a good way) and supplying tasty bass fills, Alex Lifeson's guitar work already rivaling Jimmy Page in lead and Pete Townsend rhythm, et cetera. Already the band is experimenting with changing tempos, multipart jams as bridges, and acoustic intros to otherwise heavy songs.

What is lacking from from this album is the Neil Peart touch that makes Rush a unique band. The playing could certainly be tighter. Geddy's lyrics, though they suit the music well, are decent at best. No playful stop-and-go action with the rhythm, no giant tom-fills, no Tolkein allegories. But even though here they are not the powerhouse they would become in years to come, they were already a solid hard rock band with their own following. With the right pair of ears, you can hear hints of great works to come.

Standout Tracks: - Finding My Way - Here Again - Before and After - Working Man

3/5.