2112

After the commercially unsuccessful "Caress of Steel", the Canadians were faced with the dilemma of continuing to make the music they felt like, or giving in to the "recommendations" of their record company. And so they decided to risk their skin and embark on the project they believed in. The final result was "2112", their first big international hit.

From a distance and with the perspective that time gives, it is clear that the bet went very well for them. The courage to face such an uncertain situation and stand firm gave a very special vindicatory flavor to Rush's 4th album. "2112" made them climb several steps in general consideration and they began to be considered as a band with a lot to say.

Without neglecting the initial Zeppelian influences, and adding important progressive textures, "2112", the song that bears the title of the album, surprises with a great sample of musical maturity, beginning with the powerful and unbeatable instrumental "Overture", and with a continuous flow between moments of aggressive climaxes and tense calms, until closing with the intriguing message of "The Grand Finale". Geddy Lee's raspy voice adds a special dose of drama; Alex Lifeson's versatility with guitars solidifies the proposal; but undoubtedly the percussion and lyrics (the legendary and controversial dystopian story built around Starman) by the extraordinary Neil Peart, were fundamental to the final result.

Given the buzz of the suite "2112", the additional tracks on the album went a bit under the radar, but it's worth noting the interesting riffs on "A Passage to Bangkok" and the energized "Something for Nothing" which closes the album.

Each band has its decisive moment, the one that makes the difference between taking flight or not, and "2112" led Rush to start flying, high and with good weather.

3.5/4 stars