RUSH

3.5 stars. There is definetly a ZEPPELIN feel at times due to Alex Lifesons guitar playing. It's no secret that Mr.Page is his hero and it shows in his playing. It's hard to believe this straight ahead rocker came out when prog was so popular in 1974 but then ZEPPELIN was their prime source of inspiration at this point.

. "Finding My Way" is a great way to start the record with the guitar building in the intro and Geddy screaming, RUSH had arrived ! This is so raw sounding. "Need Some Love" has some good drum work and guitar too, but the lyrics...ouch ! They would really steer clear of these kinds of lyrics for the rest of their careers. "Take A Friend" is all about Mr.Lifeson putting on a show ! Amazing guitar on this one.

"Here Again" is a really good song, sounding kind of bluesy with an incredible vocal performance from Geddy. A fantastic extended guitar solo too. "What Your Doing" is ok, with some catchy guitar melodies. "In The Mood' still gets a lot of air play on FM radio up here. This was their first radio friendly tune and the lyrics are pretty funny. "Before And After" is another one that's just ok, with Alex shining again. "Working Man" is one of my favourite RUSH songs period. The lyrics are meaningful and the intro with the SABBATH-like guitars are great ! A nice little bass solo from Geddy and John Rutsey does a really good job on the kit for this one. When I saw them play this song in Toronto I would have sworn they turned up the volume a few decibels, it was amazing.

Good debut with some memorable songs.